State police offer tips to stay safe on side of road

Posted on March 30, 2018
State police caution that pedestrian deaths are at a 25-year high. (WJBC file photo)

By WJBC Staff

SPRINGFIELD – Pedestrian fatalities are on the rise and the Illinois State Police have some tips for staying safe if you’re stuck on the side of the road.

Sergeant Mike Link said if you are involved in a crash or are stranded, the safest place to be is usually in your car with your seatbelt on. Link said you should resist the urge to immediately get out of the vehicle.

“Sometimes people like to get out and try to wave down traffic, or cross to the other side of the expressway or interstate,” Link said. “If you have to get out of your car, keep your eyes on traffic, don’t turn away from traffic and get away from the road as best as possible.”

Police urge motorists to do their part by following the move-over law and switching lanes if there is a car alongside the road, reducing speed and letting police know.

“A good idea is to turn your hazards on and open your hood,” Link suggested. “A lot of times that will get passersby to call 911 and report the situation.”

The governor’s Highway Safety Association says pedestrian deaths are at a 25-year high. Three out of four fatalities occur after dark.

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