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MACOMB, ILL. -- If you had trouble on the roads Thursday...remember to slow down.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police are teaming up to help you drive safe this winter.

Temperatures below freezing will be around for at least the next week...and so will ice and snow .

We've seen the first snow accumulation of the season but you might not be accustomed to driving on slick roads just yet. You see cars on the side of the road during the winter, but someday it could be you. Dress for the weather and not your destination, even if you're going on a short trip.

"Even if you're unable to dress in coveralls and snow boots, have that stuff in the vehicle with you. Have a blanket, some snacks, have some extra water in there because if you're traveling and you become stranded, that might be a life saver," said Illinois State Trooper Ed Howard.

Prepare your vehicle for the winter as well. Make sure your windshield washer fluid level is full.

"This is the time of the year when every time you pass someone you get that road spray when you meet somebody on the roadway. You get that road spray on your windshield so you have to keep that window washer fluid full to keep that windshield clean so you can see and be safe out there.," said Trooper Howard.

Plan ahead.... allow extra travel time and increase the distance between you and the car in front you. Typical following distance is about three seconds. You should add a second for bad weather, and and another second for snowy conditions.

"About 30% of crashes involving our vehicles last year were because of people following too closely so it can be dangerous certainly for the drivers but it can also be very dangerous for you in your car. You do the math and these vehicles are much heavier than cars and collisions with them are not a good thing," said IDOT spokesman Brian Williamsen.

Also, make sure you tell people where you're going. If you do get into an accident and go missing, police and family will know where to start looking.