Highway Accidents in Illinois

Award-Winning Accident Attorneys for Victims Injured on Chicago Area Highways

Highways in Illinois are vital arteries for commerce and daily travel. Unfortunately, they also have a high number of serious car accidents each year because of the volume of vehicles that travel on highways. These crashes often lead to devastating injuries, fatalities, and significant financial burdens for victims and their families. Understanding the causes, legal implications, and steps to take following an accident on the highway is crucial for protecting your rights and getting compensation for your injuries.

At John J. Malm & Associates, our dedicated Illinois accident lawyers understand how difficult a collision on the highway can be. At our firm, our goal is to guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise, helping you seek justice and financial recovery.

The Scope of Highway Accidents in Illinois

Statistics on Highway Accidents

Illinois highways are among the busiest in the Midwest, with major interstates such as I-55, I-90, I-80, I-88, I-94, and I-294 handling millions of vehicles daily. Unfortunately, this high volume of traffic leads to a substantial number of accidents. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT):

• In 2021, Illinois reported 1,334 motor vehicle traffic fatalities, with 1,210 fatal crashes.
• Approximately 32.1% of these crashes were speed-related, resulting in 449 fatalities.
• Alcohol impairment was a factor in 28.3% of fatal accidents.
• Over 30,000 people suffered injuries in Illinois highway accidents in 2021.

These statistics underscore the risks posed by speeding, impaired driving, and other factors that contribute to highway collisions.

High-Risk Highways

Certain sections of Illinois highways are more prone to accidents due to high traffic volumes, complex interchanges, or poor road conditions. Some high-risk areas include:

• Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/I-94): Known for heavy congestion and high speeds, especially during rush hours.
• Kennedy Expressway (I-90/I-94): Frequent lane changes and merging traffic create hazardous conditions.
• I-55 (Stevenson Expressway): High truck traffic and frequent construction zones increase the likelihood of crashes.
• I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway): A major commuter route with a high incidence of accidents near downtown Chicago.

Common Causes of Highway Accidents

Highway accidents can result from various factors, often involving driver behavior, road conditions, or mechanical failures. The most common causes include:

1. Speeding: Excessive speed is a leading cause of highway accidents. High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of collisions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding accounted for nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in Illinois in 2021.

2. Distracted Driving: Texting, using navigation systems, or adjusting in-car controls can divert a driver’s attention from the road. Even a momentary distraction at highway speeds can lead to catastrophic accidents.

3. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drug impairment significantly affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. In Illinois, nearly 28% of fatal crashes involved drivers under the influence.

4. Aggressive Driving (Road Rage): Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and road rage are forms of aggressive driving that frequently lead to highway accidents.

5. Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can make highways slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the risk of collisions. In the winter, Illinois experiences severe weather conditions, which contribute to accidents.

6. Fatigued Driving: Drivers who are drowsy or fatigued are less alert and more likely to make critical errors. Long stretches of uninterrupted driving on highways often lead to driver fatigue.

7. Mechanical Failures: Tire blowouts, brake failures, or other mechanical issues can cause sudden loss of vehicle control, leading to accidents.

Legal Implications of Highway Accidents in Illinois

1. Comparative Negligence: Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a victim can recover damages as long as they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, the compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the victim. For example, if a victim is found 20% at fault, their total damages will be reduced by 20%.

2. Duty to Stop and Render Aid: Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401), drivers involved in an accident resulting in personal injuries or death must stop at the scene and provide reasonable assistance, such as calling emergency services. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, including felonies in severe cases.

3. Reporting Requirements: Accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 must be reported to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) within 10 days. Failure to report an accident can result in penalties, including fines and license suspension.

4. Statute of Limitations for Highway Accident Claims: Victims of highway accidents in Illinois generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is generally five years. Missing these deadlines can bar victims from recovering compensation.

Steps to Take After a Highway Accident

1. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location, if possible, and check for injuries. Use hazard lights to alert other drivers.

2. Call Emergency Services: Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. A police report is essential for documenting the incident, gathering information, and making an insurance claim.

3. Exchange Information: Share contact, insurance, and vehicle details with other involved parties. Gather names and phone numbers of witnesses, if any.

4. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial for your case.

5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, consult a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal damage, may not manifest immediately.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company right away, but avoid providing a detailed statement until consulting an attorney.

7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced Illinois car crash attorney can protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you seek fair compensation.

Compensation for Highway Accident Victims

Victims of highway accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship or support due to injuries.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

Preventing Highway Accidents

While not all accidents are avoidable, adhering to safe driving practices can significantly reduce risks. Here are some tips:

• Follow Speed Limits: Adjust your speed according to road conditions and posted limits.
• Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road and avoid using your phone while driving.
• Use Seat Belts: Ensure all occupants are buckled up.
• Maintain Your Vehicle: Regularly check brakes, tires, and other critical systems.
• Plan for Weather: Drive cautiously during adverse weather conditions and allow extra travel time.
• Stay Alert: Take breaks on long trips to avoid fatigue.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Highway Accident Case?

At John J. Malm & Associates, our top-rated Illinois highway accident attorneys have a proven track record of securing settlements for accident victims. Here’s why clients trust us:

• Experience: Our attorneys specialize in highway accident cases and understand Illinois laws inside and out.
• Resources: We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators to build strong cases.
• Compassion: We understand the emotional and financial toll of an accident and are committed to providing personalized support.
• Results: Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a highway accident, contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Highway Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a highway accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact the top-rated Illinois car crash attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. We will fight tirelessly to hold reckless drivers accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. Call us at 630-527-4177 or fill out our online form to get started.