Sit Tight Choose Right
Sit Tight. Choose Right.
The “Sit Tight. Choose Right.” safety campaign by the Illinois Tollway focuses on reducing secondary roadway incidents by helping drivers make informed, life-saving decisions when stranded on the highway. Addressing the reality that nationwide, approximately 500 people die annually in secondary crashes—half of whom exited their vehicles believing it was safer—the campaign targets drivers aged 16 to 70 to combat the dangerous instinct of stepping out into active traffic lanes.
Clear decision-making guidance that instructs motorists to exit their vehicle only in life-threatening scenarios like smoke or fire and call 911, while dialing *999 for non-emergency Highway Emergency Lane Patrol (H.E.L.P.) assistance for flat tires or empty gas tanks.
By teaching drivers that traffic moves faster than perceived and that staying buckled in their seat is almost always the safest choice. Click the button below to share:
- Activate your hazard lights.
- Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on—the safest choice is the seat you're already in.
- Avoid active traffic lanes.
- Call *999 for non-emergency roadside assistance (H.E.L.P.).
Dial 911: Reserved for immediate, life-threatening emergencies, such as smoke/fire, a crash with injuries, or a medical emergency. Exit the vehicle ONLY if fire or smoke is present.
Dial *999: For non-emergency situations, such as a popped tire, running out of fuel, or needing vehicle fluids.
Nearly 500 people die in secondary crashes annually, and half of those victims exited their vehicles believing it was safer.
Traffic moves faster than drivers perceive, and moving vehicles may not stop for a stalled car.
Sample Social Post #1
“Traffic moves faster than you think. If you’re pulled over, stay in your car and dial *999 for H.E.L.P. #SitTightChooseRight”
Sample Social Post #2
“The safest place to be during a roadside stall is in your seat. Stay buckled and avoid active lanes! #SitTightChooseRight”
