Despite statewide attempts at increasing driver and vehicle safety, injuries and fatalities appear to be on the rise on Illinois roads. Attempts to get to the bottom of why the increase in driver and passenger injuries and fatalities on Illinois roads have turned up a few clues. However, what this means for all passengers on Illinois roads is unclear and should make those who have been involved in car accidents question the nature of their accident.
Since 2014, the incidences of car accidents, fatalities and injuries have been on the rise. State-wide initiatives, like Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, Don’t Text and Drive, and Click It or Tick It, aimed at reducing these initiatives have appeared to be unsuccessful in terms of reducing car accident injuries and fatalities. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recently shared their findings of car accidents both their causes and results. 2016 was a very dangerous and impactful year in terms of car accidents.
In 2016, IDOT revealed that there were a total of 1,080 traffic-related deaths with 1,001 being fatal crashes in Illinois. Cook County registered the highest number of motor vehicle fatalities in which 136 people got killed. These accidents were for a range of reasons, including intoxicated drivers, distracted drivers and aggressive driving. Most often, rear-end collision was the type of car accident most experienced by car accident type.
What is most alarming about these car accident statistics is the instances of car accidents that could have otherwise been prevented. Distracted driving and intoxicated drivers could have made other choices behind the wheel. Aggressive driving and speeding also find themselves as top reasons behind car accidents injuries and fatalities. Seeking the assistance of an experienced attorney can be helpful for those who have been affected by these situations.
