The ban usually goes into effect swiftly and automatically when the clock strikes 3 a.m. Dec. 1 — as cars parked on 107 miles' worth of major Chicago roadways are towed.

Nearly 250 vehicles were towed yesterday on the second day of Chicago's winter parking ban, officials reported.

"It's 'Crook County.' What do I expect?" said Luis Garcia. Two of his family's cars were towed from outside their home on Division Street near Karlov Avenue.