Road accidents are an unfortunate reality of modern life. They are not only a major cause of injury, disability, and death but also result in significant financial losses for individuals, businesses, and communities. In the state of Illinois, car crashes are common, and some of them are fatal. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 1,059 traffic fatalities in Illinois in 2020. In the same year, there were also 319,146 crashes, including 77,920 injury crashes. While there are several reasons for crashes, some causes are more prevalent than others.
Berg & Robeson PC, a legal firm based in Springfield, IL, has been representing clients injured in accidents for over 50 years, and our results speak for themselves. As an experienced personal injury firm, we have seen first-hand how devastating the consequences of accidents can be for victims and their families. We have also observed that certain factors are more likely to cause accidents on Illinois roads than others.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents in Illinois, and the leading cause of distracted driving is the inappropriate use of cell phones. Drivers who take their eyes off the road to text, check social media, or make a call are more likely to cause a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving was responsible for 171 fatal crashes in Illinois in 2020, resulting in 193 deaths. Nationwide that same year, distracted driving was the cause of a total of 3,142 deaths, making Illinois well above the average of fatalities per state.
Speeding
Driving at an excessive speed can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle, particularly in adverse weather conditions. In Illinois, speeding contributed to 34% of all fatal crashes in 2020. It is highly advised that responsible drivers adhere to the posted speed limits and drive more slowly and cautiously when traveling in unfavorable weather conditions. The goal should always be to arrive at your destination safely rather than quickly.
Drunk Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Illinois. Alcohol and drug impairment contributed to 26% of all fatal crashes in Illinois in 2020. It is essential to remember that impaired driving puts the driver at risk and endangers other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road. Driving under the influence is a lawsuit waiting to happen. You do not want to cause an unnecessary accident or injury or become the victim of one. That is why being an alert and competent driver every time you get behind the wheel is so important. You’re not the only one on the road—you need to be prepared for other drivers to be impaired, and the best way to do that is to ensure you are always capable of driving safely.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving, which includes behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic signals, is a common cause of crashes in Illinois. Reckless driving was a factor in 22% of all fatal crashes in Illinois in 2020. Even if you identify as a risk taker, those kinds of high-stakes gambles have no place on the road. Driving recklessly for cheap thrills or to rush to your destination is irresponsible and only puts your passengers and yourself in danger, as well as every other driver on the road you may encounter.
Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions such as snow, sleet, and rain can make driving more challenging, particularly for inexperienced drivers. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and other weather-related factors can also cause accidents as well. If you realize the conditions are not favorable, but you still must make the drive, exercise extreme caution. Make sure your headlights are on, and your windshield wipers are functioning. Most importantly of all, drive at a slower, safer speed.
Improper Lane Changes
Changing lanes without checking for other vehicles can cause collisions. Drivers who fail to signal their intention to change lanes or change lanes too quickly can also cause accidents. You must use your turn signal to indicate your intention to change lanes. If there is someone in your blind spot, they can signal you with their horn, warning you that it is not safe to change lanes and potentially preventing an accident from occurring.
Running Red Lights
Running red lights is a serious offense in Illinois and is a common cause of crashes. Drivers who fail to stop at a red light can collide with other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, causing severe injuries or fatalities. We all rely on stoplights to indicate when it is safe to cross an intersection. If someone ignores those lights, it can very quickly result in devastating accidents or even fatalities. Please respect the rules of the road and the lights designed to keep us all safe.
If You’re Injured in One of These Instances, contact a Professional Law Firm to Represent Your Case
While the above list is not exhaustive, it provides insight into the most common causes of crashes on Illinois roads. It is essential to note that the factors that cause crashes can overlap, making accidents more likely to occur. For example, a driver who is speeding and distracted is more likely to cause an accident than a driver who is only speeding.
At Berg & Robeson PC, we understand that being involved in an accident can be a life-changing experience. Victims of accidents may suffer from serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, which may require long-term medical care and rehabilitation. In addition to physical injuries, victims may experience emotional trauma, loss of income, and other financial losses. For more information about how to handle a legal case if you have been involved in an accident on the road, please get in touch with our team.
Our legal firm has been helping accident victims in Springfield, IL, and surrounding areas for over 70 years. We will happily represent you and your case. Call 217.525.1917 today for a consultation.
