Chicago has a complex grid system that can be difficult to navigate. And on top of that, it requires to be constantly on the lookout against certain high-risk behaviors and vehicles, which can contribute to the city’s most devastating collisions: only in 2024, there were over 1800 serious accidents reported in the city. There are some specific dangers that stand out as primary contributors to serious injuries and fatalities.
Commercial vehicle traffic
Chicago is one of the most important cities in North America. Its status as a global logistics hub means that heavy freight vehicles are constantly moving throughout the streets and highways. A crash with one of them can be far more dangerous than one with a passenger car. And because of the many commercial vehicles moving through the city, a mistake by a truck driver can turn into a pileup.
Impaired drivers and the nightlife scene
Chicago has a renowned nightlife scene, but it also increases the risk of impaired driving. When someone drives home after drinking, they can cause serious accidents, as alcohol and substances significantly slow reaction times. Besides the risk, there can be important legal consequences for convicted drivers, such as fines up to $25,000 and jail time up to one year.
Driving and using a smartphone
In the last years, there has been a growing dependency on smartphones in our society, and motorists are not exception, even if it is considered distracted driving by state law. Whether using the GPS to navigate the city or taking calls on the road, many drivers take their eyes off the road to look at their phones, which can cause serious accidents.
Understanding these risks is the first step toward staying safe, but if an accident happens, be sure to contact an attorney so they can analyze your case.