IDOT Begins Yellow Dot Program

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By Sam Smith
By Jared Roberts

Story Created: Dec 7, 2011 at 4:46 PM CST

Story Updated: Dec 8, 2011 at 4:22 AM CST

JACKSON CO. - Illinois has a new system meant to save lives on the roads, It's called the Yellow Dot Program. It asks drivers to place key health information in their car, for first responders to use in case of an accident.

The program started in 2002 in Connecticut and is spreading across the country. Now, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is teaming up with health departments and emergency responders to get drivers involved in this state.

After an accident, time is crucial. Health officials call the first hour afterwards the Golden Hour. The Yellow Dot Program is designed to make the most of that time.

"A lot of times we don't know if there's some underlying medical problem with the person; of the medical conditions that they may have. If we have immediate information right there on the scene. I feel that it's a great asset to have that," says Murphysboro Police Chief Jeff Bock.

The program is free to sign up and only requires a few minutes to fill out a form and place a sticker. IDOT Project Coordinator BJ Sanders says there's no reason not to take part.

"It's just basic information about yourself. You'll have your medical conditions, the medications you're on. As well as some emergency contact information," says Sanders.

Chief Bock says the program will let officers relay information faster, especially when tending to victims with preexisting conditions.

"We deal with a few people that are diabetic and a lot of times that will lead to a crash if their blood sugar is very low or very high. It can lead to the crash and then you also have that to deal with," says Bock.

To sign up for the Yellow Dot Program, visit your county health department.

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