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Illinois Department of Transportation

Winter Driving Tips

Winter weather can be unpredictable in Illinois, so preparation is a key part to staying safe when traveling. Throughout the winter, especially during adverse conditions, motorists should practice basic winter driving skills and build extra time into their schedules. As part of IDOT’s “Winter Weather – Get it Together” campaign, all travelers are encouraged to follow some simple rules and tips during the winter months.

Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to make a trip, check Getting Around Illinois for the latest on road conditions and weather radars, and make sure someone is aware of your travel route. Consider taking public transportation if it is an option.

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  • Prepare an emergency kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit.
  • Remove snow and ice from your vehicle before driving - it's the law. Snow can limit your view while driving or fly off and hit another vehicle. You could be held liable for damages or face a fine. 
  • Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency.
  • For a list of suggested maintenance for your car, visit National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s winter driving.

Before traveling, drivers are encouraged to check GettingAroundIllinois for continually updated information on winter road conditions, weather radars, road and bridge closures and other traffic-related information. 

  • Always wear a seat belt. It’s the law in Illinois.
  • If it's snowing, turn your headlights on. 
  • Slow down. Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking all are required in winter driving conditions.
  • Drop it and drive. Put down the handheld devices – it, too, is the law in Illinois.
  • Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
  • Avoid using cruise control in snow and ice.
  • Watch out for black ice on roads that appear clear but can be treacherous.
  • Be especially careful approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas. All are prone to icing.

Caution: Snow plows move slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes and exit the road frequently. 
  • De-icer spread by the snow plow could hit your vehicle.
  • An operator's field of vision is restricted. If you can't see them, they can't see you. 
  • Snow clouds thrown up by plows can reduce visibility to zero and conceal other vehicles or hazards. 
  • The road behind an active snow plow is safer to drive on. Stay behind it and use caution when passing. 

  • Call for help. 
  • Stay with your car and don't overexert yourself.
  • Be seen – display an emergency marker and turn on interior lights
  • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning – clear the exhaust pipe and run your car just enough to stay warm. 

For the 2025/26 winter, IDOT has more than 1,900 trucks available for deployment to plow almost 45,000 lane miles of road statewide. That's the equivalent of driving from New York City to L.A. and back about eight times.

For the 2024/25 winter, IDOT spread more than 312,000 tons of salt statewide.

Stay updated on winter travel conditions by following IDOT on social media.

View the Winter Weather Flickr album