This notice is from the city of Aurora, but it holds true for most municipalities in Kane County.

First, slow down when it gets snowy or icy on the roads. I’ve been collecting police blotter information for the better part of the past four years now, I can tell you, every time there’s a first major snow event, the number of accidents skyrockets. Any vehicle can become involved in an accident when the snow gets worse. This is why it is good to look into getting the correct insurance from a company like one sure insurance. Whether you are a car driver or a lorry driver, having insurance is essential to protect you from anything that may happen. It’s as if people forget how to drive in slippery road conditions and have to learn all over again.

Second, in order to keep roads clear, snow plows need access to the roads … and that means doing all you can to avoid parking your vehicle in the street during snow events. The National Weather Service says we’re expected to get 2 to 4 inches of snow between 8 p.m. and midnight Monday.

With the arrival of winter weather and the possibility of several inches of snow in the forecast, Aurora Police are reminding motorists that driving at this time of the year requires extra precautions behind the wheel— especially slowing down and driving defensively.

Police say that speed reduction in the ice and snow can go a long way in cutting down the number of accidents that typically accompany bad weather. Motorists should pay special attention on bridges, overpasses, and intersections, where slick spots may form. They add that headlights and windshield wipers should always be used, and that windows should be cleared of snow, ice, and frost before driving a vehicle. In addition, a professional mechanic should inspect vehicles regularly to assure they are in good driving condition.

Aurora police are also reminding residents of the city’s snowfall ordinance which was enacted to assure safe and effective snow plowing. It dictates the ticketing and possible towing of any vehicle parked on a public street or alley during or after a snowfall of two inches or more. Failure to comply can lead to a ticket and vehicle tow that will cost a minimum of $150.00, plus applicable storage and release fees, depending on the time of the infraction.

City streets and alleyways are not considered plowed until the lane of traffic nearest the curb has been cleared. Police also remind motorists to be extra careful when interacting with snow plows on city streets. Drivers should stay a minimum of 75 feet behind the plows and should never attempt to pass them.

Winter weather also tends to spike the number of vehicles that are stolen while left running unattended. Police say these present a prime opportunity for thieves who have the ability to steal the vehicles in a matter of seconds. Although it may be inviting to make sure a car is warm before leaving home, police ask motorists to use common sense and to not leave the vehicle running unattended — whether or not the doors are locked. They point out that, even with the doors locked, a window can easily be broken giving a thief access to the running vehicle.

Police say that, frequently, stolen cars and trucks are used in the commission of other crimes such as drive-by shootings and hit-and-run accidents. They also say that many insurance companies will not cover losses due to the negligence of the owner— including leaving a vehicle running unattended. Police officers can also issue citations if they come across an unattended, running motor vehicle on public property.

SOURCE: City of Aurora