Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – With frosty mornings and snow creeping into the forecast, Illinois officials are reminding drivers: “Winter Weather – Get It Together.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Police (ISP), and Illinois Tollway have spent months preparing for winter, and now they’re asking you to do the same.

Top Tips for Winter Driving:

  • Slow down and allow extra time: Even clear roads can hide black ice.
  • Pack an emergency kit: Include jumper cables, blankets, food, water, and a phone charger.
  • Inspect your vehicle: Battery, tires, lights, and fluids should all be winter-ready.
  • Don’t crowd the plows: Conditions are always better behind the plow than in front of it.
  • Follow the law: Buckle up, put down the phone, and move over for stopped vehicles.

ISP Troop 6 Commander Josh Adcock said “Distractive driving is a huge issue no matter what time of the year.  Speed is always a factor and obviously, whenever it’s winter, weather, and the roadways are covered with snow, we want you to slow down and give enough room.”

IDOT will deploy nearly 1,900 trucks to clear 45,000 lane miles this season, with 542,000 tons of salt ready to go.

For more tips and updates, follow IDOT on Facebook and X, and watch their winter driving video.