Aurora Car Accidents Statistics

Local Injury Lawyers Discuss the Reality of Serious Car Accidents in Aurora, IL

Aurora, Illinois, the second-largest city in the state, experiences a high volume of traffic due to its growing population, commercial hubs, and its proximity to Interstate 88. With this congestion comes an increased risk of car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), intersection-related crashes account for nearly 40% of all traffic accidents in the United States. In urban areas like Aurora, where intersections and highways see heavy use, these risks are even greater.

Data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the City of Aurora, and the Counties of DuPage, Kane, and Will reveal troubling statistics about local roadway safety. Hundreds of car accidents occur annually in Aurora, many resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Understanding these patterns can help drivers stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Aurora Crash Statistics

• Total Accidents: According to IDOT’s most recent crash data, Aurora sees over 3,500 reported crashes per year, making it one of the most accident-prone cities in Illinois outside of Chicago.
• Fatal Car Accidents: The City of Aurora Traffic Report shows that more than 25 fatal crashes occurred within city limits over the past five years, with the majority involving high-speed impacts or impaired drivers.

• Injury Accidents: Nearly 1,200 car accidents per year in Aurora result in injuries, ranging from minor to severe trauma. Among these, over 200 cases involve serious or incapacitating injuries, significantly affecting victims’ lives.
• Intersection Crashes: A significant portion of accidents occur at intersections, with over 40% of crashes in Aurora attributed to intersection-related collisions. High-risk intersections include Route 59 and Liberty Street, New York Street and Farnsworth Avenue, and Galena Boulevard and Orchard Road.
• High-Speed Corridor Accidents: Major roadways, including Route 59, I-88, Farnsworth Avenue, and Eola Road, are hotspots for high-speed collisions, with speeding contributing to over 30% of crashes in these areas.
• County-Wide Data: The counties of DuPage, Kane, and Will report that Aurora contributes a substantial portion of their annual car accident statistics, particularly in high-traffic areas. DuPage County alone reports over 15,000 crashes per year, with Aurora accounting for a significant percentage of these incidents.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Aurora’s urban landscape presents risks to pedestrians and cyclists. Over 150 pedestrian-related accidents occur annually in Aurora, with at least 10-15% leading to serious or fatal injuries. Bicycle accidents are also a concern, especially on roads like New York Street and Highland Avenue, where bike lanes intersect with heavy vehicle traffic.
• Alcohol-Related Crashes: The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office reports that 10-12% of Aurora’s annual crashes involve alcohol impairment, emphasizing the continued danger of drunk driving in the area.
• Time of Day and Seasonal Trends: Data from IDOT and local reports indicate that most crashes occur between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., coinciding with peak traffic congestion. Additionally, winter months see a 20% increase in accidents due to icy roads and reduced visibility, making highways like I-88 and Route 31 particularly hazardous.
• Distracted Driving Accidents: The NHTSA estimates that distracted driving plays a role in nearly 25% of all crashes, and Aurora is no exception. Police reports show that cell phone use and inattention contribute to hundreds of rear-end and intersection crashes annually.

These statistics highlight the serious risks faced by Aurora drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Understanding these trends can help improve road safety and guide legal claims for accident victims seeking compensation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Aurora

Several factors contribute to the high number of car accidents in Aurora, including:

• Distracted Driving: A leading cause of crashes, especially at intersections and stoplights.
• Speeding: High-speed corridors such as I-88 and Route 59 see frequent crashes due to excessive speed.
• Drunk Driving: Despite strict DUI laws, impaired driving remains a factor in over 10% of fatal crashes in Aurora.
• Weather Conditions: Snow, ice, and heavy rain increase the risk of collisions, especially during winter months.
• Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield at busy intersections or pedestrian crossings.
• Reckless Lane Changes: Sudden lane shifts, particularly on highways and high-traffic roads, result in a high number of side-impact crashes.

“Car accidents in Aurora are often preventable, yet they continue to occur at an alarming rate. Whether due to distracted driving, reckless speeding, or impaired motorists, these crashes leave victims with serious injuries and mounting expenses. At John J. Malm & Associates, we are dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve.” – John J. Malm, Aurora car accident attorney

What to Do After a Car Accident in Aurora

If you’re involved in a car accident in Aurora, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and strengthen your injury claim:

1. Check for Injuries: Seek immediate medical attention for yourself and others involved.
2. Call the Police: An official accident report with the Aurora Police Department is crucial for documenting the crash.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
4. Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from the other driver(s).
5. Gather Witness Statements: If possible, obtain contact information from eyewitnesses.
6. Seek Medical Treatment: Even if you feel fine, injuries such as concussions or internal trauma may not be immediately apparent.
7. Contact an Aurora Car Accident Attorney: A skilled Aurora car accident lawyer can help navigate insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Types of Injuries Common in Aurora Car Accidents

Victims of Aurora car accidents often suffer from:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
• Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Broken Bones and Fractures
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
• Lacerations and Burns
• Fatal Injuries Leading to Wrongful Death Claims

Frequently Asked Questions About Aurora Car Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Illinois?
Illinois law requires that car accident claims generally be filed within two years from the date of the crash.

2. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning you can recover damages if you were less than 50% responsible.

3. What should I do if the insurance company offers a low settlement?
Do not accept the first offer. Insurance companies often undervalue claims. An attorney who is experienced in Aurora car crashes can negotiate fair compensation for you.

4. Are rideshare accidents treated differently?
Yes, Uber and Lyft accidents involve unique insurance coverage policies. An Aurora injury lawyer can help determine liability and claim eligibility.

5. What damages can I claim after a car accident?
You may recover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and wrongful death damages if applicable.

6. What if the other driver was uninsured?
You may still recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage under your policy.

7. Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
Even minor accidents can have hidden injuries and legal complications. Consulting a lawyer ensures you receive fair treatment.

Why Hire John J. Malm & Associates for Your Aurora Car Accident Case?

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have over 90 years of combined experience helping car accident victims in Aurora and the surrounding areas. Our firm has recovered over $95 million for injured clients, holding negligent drivers accountable.

• Expert Case Evaluation: We conduct thorough accident investigations and build strong legal claims.
• Aggressive Insurance Negotiation: We fight to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
• No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win.
• Personalized Client Care: We provide one-on-one attention and tailored legal strategies.
• Local Knowledge: Our familiarity with Aurora’s roads, courts, and insurance processes gives us an edge in car accident litigation.

If you’ve been injured in an Aurora car accident, don’t wait. Contact John J. Malm & Associates today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve. With offices conveniently located in Naperville and St. Charles, we’re here to serve you.