Recently, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) launched a new Yellow Dot program to save lives on state roadways. This program is a life-saving, safe-traveling program that is used to provide emergency responders with important emergency information for those who have been in a serious car accident in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the Illinois Department of Aging (IDOA) and IDOT are all teaming up with health departments statewide to raise awareness about this program and to push participation. The program is both federally funded and voluntary, but everyone is encouraged to join.Our Chicago accident attorneys understand that the Yellow Dot Program can help to save lives in the event of traffic accidents as it easily allows certified individuals to access emergency information for individuals who may be incapacitated by injury. The first hour after an accident can be the most crucial time in making life-saving decisions. With important emergency information available, decisions can be made easier and faster. This hour immediately following an accident is oftentimes referred to as the “Golden Hour.”
When an accident happens, paramedics, police officers and firefighters are called to the scene. When these officials arrive, they would normally only know where the accident happened, how many victims were involved and not much more. With the Yellow Dot Program, these responders can have much more useful information upon arrival.
In the Yellow Dot Program, participants get a yellow dot decal for their vehicle. This dot corresponds with a folder labeled with a yellow dot that’s located in the vehicle’s glove box. In this folder is important information, including the driver’s name, a recent photo, medical conditions, medications, allergies, recent surgeries, physician information, emergency contact, etc. With this information, responders can make decisions on how to best treat the victim at the scene and at the hospital.
Time is critical in a serious accident. If responders are aware of the condition of the victim or of any other information in that folder, then they’re unable to make decisions regarding necessary treatments to save lives. This information can mean the difference between life and death in a serious accident.
You can sign up for the Yellow Dot Program by visiting any of the participating locations. It only takes a few moments and it could save your life. Once you’ve signed up for the program and have received your decal, you’re to place the yellow dot sticker on the rear windshield on the lower, driver’s side. All participating vehicles will place the decal here to make it easy to locate for emergency responders but inconspicuous to passing motorists.
The program was first launched back in 2002 in Connecticut and it is now funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, the personal injury attorneys and wrongful death lawyers at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.
More Blog Entries:
State Receives Recognition for Combating Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 21, 2011
“Faces of Distracted Driving” Campaign to Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere during Busy Holiday Season, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 16, 2011