Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog

Many residents will be cracking open a cold one for the start of the big game on Sunday -- Super Bowl XLVI. Unfortunately, many of these residents will continue to crack them open through the entire game and then they'll get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle and increase the risks of a drunk driving car accident in Illinois.

Officials in Kane County and elsewhere throughout the state are preparing. They recently announced that they will be practicing a "no-refusal" drunk driving enforcement crackdown all day on Sunday, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Our Chicago drunk driving car accident lawyers understand that Super Bowl Sunday is an unofficial American holiday. Unfortunately, it's also known as one of the most dangerous times to be on our roadways. To help combat these dangers, officers will be out conducting no-refusal sobriety stops, which is supplemented by prosecutors and judges who are on call to draft and serve warrants that force those who officers believe to be intoxicated to take a Breathalyzer test or a blood sample if they refuse. The department has recruited a phlebotomist to help with the enforcement efforts to draw blood on the spot.

The warrants are used to try to speed up the booking processes on those who are suspected to be intoxicated behind the wheel. The effort is targeting repeat offenders as well, who try to avoid prosecution by refusing to offer incriminating evidence. Refusing to take a Breathalyzer test is in fact illegal, but refusing to take one can often work to a repeat offender's advantage. With a second conviction of drunk driving, a person faces a five-year driver's license revocation instead of just a three-year suspension for refusing to take the test.

Don't get your hopes up. Those who refuse to cooperate after they've been issued a warrant can face even tougher sentences and a contempt charge.

This is the eighth no-refusal enforcement effort for Kane County. Officials felt that it was necessary to hold one of these enforcement efforts on Super Bowl Sunday because the week before is one of the biggest annual period for alcohol sales -- it's also one of the biggest time for drivers to get behind the wheel after drinking.

"We want people to have fun, to watch the Super Bowl, to rate the commercials and to enjoy the camaraderie of family and friends," said Joseph McMahon, Kane County State's Attorney. "But when the game is over, safety and responsibility are in order. Impaired driving is not an option."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that about 175,000 people across the country have pledged to be a designated driver during the upcoming Super Bowl. We would like to remind residents to either pledge to stay sober or to commit yourself to a friend or family member who agrees to be your designated driver.

Continue reading "Officials Increase Enforcements to Reduce Risks of Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois on Super Bowl Sunday" »

This claim arose out of a Chicago-area car crash which took place on November 4, 2010 at approximately 7:59 a.m.

The plaintiff was driving northbound in his GMC truck on Harlem Avenue approaching Route 83 in Palos Heights, Illinois. The defendant was driving a Mitsubishi gallant, also northbound on Harlem Avenue approaching Route 83, directly behind our client when he came to a stop in traffic. The defendant then failed to stop or slow her vehicle and struck the plaintiff's vehicle. The front of the at fault driver's vehicle struck the rear of our client's vehicle. The force of the impact pushed his car forward.

The Palos Heights Police Department responded to the scene of the accident. After interviewing the parties, they placed the defendant at fault in their report.

We alleged to the defendant's insurance company that their insured failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to stop and/or slow down for traffic, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area, including the Plaintiff.

Following the incident the client had an immediate onset of neck, back, and chest pain. He was taken from the scene of the occurrence by ambulance to Palos Community Hospital’s Emergency Department. A history was taken, he was examined and diagnostic tests were performed.

There he underwent X-rays to his cervical spine, lumbosacral spine, thoracic spine, and chest, as well as a CT scan of his chest and an echocardiogram. He was diagnosed with cervical, back, and neck strain. He also received a cardiology consultation and was diagnosed with chest pain due to musculoskeletal chest discomfort. He was prescribed muscle relaxants and pain medication, instructed to follow up with a physician, and discharged.

The plaintiff followed up with a physician on November 10, 2010. He complained of pain in his lumbar back, pain in his hips into his mid dorsal area, as well as pain in his cervical spine. He struggled with daily activities, including rising from a seated position. He also had headaches and sharp pain across the left side of his chest at the seatbelt site. There was a small bruise on his lumbar area. The doctor diagnosed him with muscle inflammation and instructed him to follow up in three weeks.

Our client returned to the physician on December 1, 2010. He continued to complain of pain and spasms to his lumbar area, pain at his mid dorsal area, and pain across his chest. He obtained minimal relief from his muscle relaxants and pain medication. Additionally, he was having trouble sleeping as his pain prevented him from resting comfortably. The doctor prescribed a course of physical therapy and instructed him to follow up in six weeks.

Per his physician's instructions, the client engaged in physical therapy at Palos Community Hospital’s Physical/Occupational Therapy Division beginning on December 7, 2010. He had pain with activites of daily life, like rising from a seated position, getting out of a car, and walking more than ten feet. His pain was made worse with bending, lifting, sitting, standing, walking, coughing, sneezing, and turning his neck and back. Additionally, he could not pick up his granddaughter because of his injuries. He engaged in seventeen (17) sessions of physical therapy and was discharged on February 8, 2011.
The plaintiff followed up with his doctor again on March 7, 2011 and again on April 18, 2011. While he received some relief from physical therapy, he was still in pain and having troubling sleeping. The physician prescribed valium for him on April 18, 2011, and provided follow up care on May 23, 2011 and June 13, 2011, at which time he was discharged.

As a result of the collision, the claimant struggled with daily tasks. He could not sit, stand, or even walk more than ten feet without pain.

The claim settled for just under $37,000. State Farm Insurance paid on the claim

Continue reading "Chicago car accident attorney reaches $37,000 settlement" »

An Illinois accident attorney at Abels & Annes has resolved a traffic collision case on behalf of one of our clients. The claim arises out of an incident which took place on April 24, 2011, at approximately 12:27 a.m. The plaintiff was injured when the automobile she was driving was T-boned by a vehicle being operated by a negligent driver.

Our client was driving northbound on Broadway at or near 150th in Harvey, Illinois. The defendant was driving her automobile westbound on 150th, approaching its intersection with Broadway. The intersection of Broadway and 150th is a four-way stop. She came to a complete stop at 150th, checked that traffic was clear, and proceeded through the intersection.

The other motorist failed to properly stop at the intersection and proceeded to cross Broadway, striking the rear passenger’s side of our client's vehicle with the front end of her vehicle.

The Harvey Police Department responded to the scene of the collision. After speaking to both parties, the investigating officer placed the defendant at fault for the collision. The negligent motorist admitted to the responding officer that while she crossed the intersection, she looked away from the road and down to the floor of her vehicle, searching for CDs she dropped. She stated that she looked up just as she struck the plaintiff's vehicle. She was cited for disobeying a stop sign. She also failed to yield to traffic.

We alleged to the defendant's insurance carrier that their insured failed to stop and/or reduce her speed to avoid a collision, disobeyed a stop sign, failed to pay proper attention to the road conditions, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area, including our

Following the collision, our client had an immediate onset of neck, shoulder, and back pain.

Shortly after, she sought medical treatment from an orthopedic physician in Chicago. She complained of pain along the right side of her neck and right shoulder, made worse with motion of her neck, as well as lower back pain and a tingling sensation in her right arm and hand. A history was taken, a physical examination was performed and diagnostic tests were ordered. An exam revealed pain on palpation of the paracervical muscles and also of the supraspinatus muscle, increased with motion of the neck. She also had tenderness on palpation of the lumbar area. She was diagnosed with a sprain/strain of the cervical and lumbar spines. She was prescribed pain medication, instructed to begin physical therapy, and ordered to have x-rays of her cervical and lumbar spines taken.

Due to ongoing and increasing pain, the plaintiff returned to her doctor's office for treatment on May 12, 2011. She complained of pain in her lower back which radiated to her left leg, numbness in her right thigh, and pain along her cervical spine. The physician reviewed the x-rays of her cervical and lumbar spine taken on May 6, 2011, which showed no fractures. He diagnosed her with a sprain/strain of the cervical and lumbar spines and ordered an MRI of her lumbar spine.

She next followed up on May 24, 2011. At that time, her doctor reviewed the MRI of her lumbar spine, which was taken on May 13, 2011. The MRI showed disc injuries at more than one level. She continued to complain of sharp lower back pain which radiated to her left leg. On exam, she had pain on palpation with muscle spasms of the paraspinal muscles. Her sensory reflexes were diminished in her left thigh. Her doctor then referred her to an orthopedic surgeon.

On her physician's referral, she sought treatment from an orthopedic physician. At that time, she complained of constant sharp pain at her lower back which radiated caudally into both buttocks, thighs, and calves, as well as neck pain that radiated into both shoulders, arms, and hands. She also had moderate paresthesia. The pain was so severe that it affected her sleeping and prevented her from engaging in her regular activities. The doctor reviewed the MRI which identified disc herniations and diagnosed her with a lumbar disc injury/lumbar radiculopathy. He instructed her to continue physical therapy and to follow up with him for fluoroscopy guided right-sided L2-L3, L3-L4 and L4-L5 selective nerve root block, transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

Our client received the transforaminal epidural steroid injections on June 1, 2011 and interlaminar fluoroscopy guided lumbar epidural steroid injections on June 22, 2011 .

The car accident case settled for the defendant's insurance policy limits of $20,000.

Continue reading "Policy limits settlement reached in Chicago area auto accident claim" »

According to recent studies conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, about one out of every five drivers who are involved in a fatal car accident in Chicago and elsewhere are unlicensed or improperly licensed. Of all of the traffic accidents that occurred from 2007 to 2009, more than 85 percent of drivers who were involved in a fatal accident were properly licensed. Nearly 7 percent of drivers reportedly had suspended or revoked licenses, more than 1 percent had expired or canceled license and about 5 percent were unlicensed.

Of all fatal car accidents from 2007 to 2009, nearly 20 percent of drivers were invalidly licensed. Accidents with these individuals took more than 20,000 lives during this time.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers understand that drivers between the ages of 21- and 34-years-old are the most likely to be behind the wheel with an invalid driver's license. But there are drivers in all age groups guilty of this. With improperly licensed and unlicensed drivers come uninsured motorists. Improperly licensed drivers are plaguing our roadways and are causing legal and financial headaches for all of the responsible drivers in this country. If you have been involved in a traffic accident with an invalid or unlicensed driver, it is critical for you to contact an experienced attorney. Seeking restitution from such drives can be made more difficult if they lack insurance.

Statistics also illustrated that about half of all improperly licensed drivers who were involved in a fatal accident had alcohol in their system at the time of the accident.

If that's not bad enough, more than 50 percent of invalid licensed drivers who were involved in a fatal accident reportedly fled the scene.

Licenses Status of Drivers during Fatal Accidents from 2007 to 2009:

-Valid Licenses: Nearly 132,500.

-Unlicensed Drivers: Nearly 8,000.

-Suspended or Revoked Licenses: Nearly 10,300.

-Expired, Denied or Canceled Licenses: Nearly 2,000.

The number of unlicensed drivers is alarming in the country. With unlicensed drivers come uninsured drivers. With uninsured drivers come headaches and costly bills for responsible licensed and insured drivers.

"On average there is still one needless death every 16 minutes in motor vehicle crashes," AAA President and CEO Peter Kissinger.

Safe and defensive driving habits can help drivers to reduce their risks of car accidents in Illinois and reduce the risks of being hindered by the irresponsibility of unlicensed and uninsured motorists.

To decrease your risks of an accident, AAA is asking drivers to "Make the Resolution to be a Safe Driver." In 2012, drivers are asked to stay sober behind the wheel, to curb the distractions, to abide by all posted speed limits, to rest up before jumping behind the wheel and to always wear a seat belt. These few safety tips are simple ways to help you to stay safe on our roadways and potentially avoid an accident with an uninsured motorist.

Continue reading "Unlicensed Drivers Wreaking Havoc and Causing Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

Residents are urged to dress warmly at to be careful on our roadways over the next few days. The Chicago Sun-Times and other outlets are reporting bad weather in the forecast. Combine that with Friday the 13th, and all bets are off.

Drivers should stay calm on the roadway and avoid braking suddenly as we can expect as much as eight inches of snow in the next few days. It's expected to start Thursday morning and continue on through the evening, leaving some scary road conditions to great motorists on Friday the 13th. Superstitious or not, drivers are asked to be extremely cautious to help to avoid a weather-related car accident in Chicago.

“It’s going to be a shock to the system,” said Ed Fenelon of the National Weather Service. “We’ve been experiencing weather typical of November or March. This is now going to be a punch of January weather.”

Our Chicago car accident lawyers understand that wind gusts are expected to reach 35 miles per hour during this cold weather snap. The cold weather is also expected to remain in town through the weekend, with temps staying in the single digits.

To help you to stay safe in this winter weather, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and safercar.gov are teaming up to provide drivers with some simple safe driving tips.

Safe Winter Driving Tips:

-Check your windshield washer reservoir. Make sure that it's filled with high-quality, "no-freeze" wiper fluid.

-Make sure that your vehicle's windshield wipers are working properly and aren't worn.

-Make sure that the air pressure in your tires is properly filled.

-Check the weather, traffic and road conditions in Chicago before getting into the car and departing.

-If road conditions are dangerous and you don't feel comfortable behind the wheel, pull over and wait it out.

-Keep your gas tank at least half filled. You never know when you're going to get stuck in dangerous weather or in a traffic jam.

-Know where you're headed before you leave to avoid messing with GPS devices or road maps.

-If your vehicle breaks down, stay with your car and don't overexert yourself.

-If broken down, tie a bright colored cloth to the antenna of your vehicle to help passing motorists and emergency responders see you.

-Never rush. Leave with plenty of time to spare.

-Always travel with a charged cell phone.

-In dangerous weather and road conditions, your full attention is required. Curb all distractions and keep your eyes and your mind on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Be extra careful during this expected weather, especially on Friday the 13th. The fear of this day is called "friggatriskaidekaphobia," which means the fear of the number 13. One theory of the haunted day says that it's a modern amalgamation of two older superstitions. One being that thirteen is an unlucky number and the other being that Friday is an unlucky day.

Be careful on our roadways, be careful through the snow and be careful on Friday the 13th!

Continue reading "Wicked Winter Weather Increasing Risks for Car Accidents in Chicago" »

There were at least a dozen car accidents in Geneva on December 29th. Why so many? Most would blame the slippery conditions of the icy roadways. Others would say that it's the driver's faults because they didn't adjust to the weather conditions. On that same day, the commuter train collided with a vehicle at the tracks in West Chicago on Route 38. If you remember, this was also the same day that Geneva officers sent out the Nixle e-blast to warn drivers to be careful on our roadways because of the ice and snow, according to the Geneva Patch.

Our Illinois car accident attorneys understand that there are probably even more car accidents that happened during this time. Accident reports are expected to trickle in after the fact. As we enter winter season in earnest, drivers are urged to use extra caution on the roads. Roadways can get slippery and fatal accidents can result if we're not careful. Start off the New Year with a resolution to be a better driver!

Accident on East Fabyan Parkway:

This head-on collision happened just before 5:30 a.m. near Route 25 when one of the vehicles lost control on an icy bridge, hit the rail and spun out. In an attempt to avoid an accident with the first car, a second car started to slide on the icy roadways and also struck the rail of the bridge. The accident resulted in nearly $2,000 in damage to the vehicles. One driver was transported to Delnor Hospital with injuries.

Accident near Chalmers on Route 25:

This accident happened when a Mustang crashed into a guard rail on the overpass for the Union Pacific Railroad bridge. Reports indicate that the driver lost control of his vehicle because of the ice on the road. Nearly $2,000 in damage was done to the vehicle in the accident.

Accident on South Third Street:

This accident happened just after 10:00 a.m. when a vehicle rear ended another vehicle on the 500 block of South Third Street. There was nearly $2,000 in damage done to one of the vehicles involved in the accident. One driver received a traffic citation for improper backing.

Accident on Randall Road:

A pickup truck collided with another vehicle just after 5:30 a.m. on South Randall Road close to Kaneville Road. One of the drivers was issued a traffic citation for driving too fast for current weather and road conditions.

Other December 29th car accidents in Geneva:

-Accident near Route 25 on East Fabyan Parkway just before 5:00 a.m.

-Car accident on East State Street just before 5:30 a.m.

-Car accident on Fabyan Parkway Bridge at roughly 5:30 a.m.

-Three-car accident on Fabyan Parkway at 5:30 a.m.

-Car collision on South Second Street around 10:40 a.m.

-Single-car accident near Kautz Road on Geneva Drive shortly after 1:10 p.m.

-Car accident on East State Street just before 1:45 p.m.

-Two-car accident on Crissey just before 7:00 a.m.

Continue reading "Icy Roadways Cause More than a Dozen Illinois Car Accidents in Geneva" »

Our Chicago car accident attorneys recently announced that we were launching a new 6-blog series to discuss the dangers we most commonly face on our roadways. Along with the discussion of these dangers, we're asking all residents to stand up against dangerous roadways and to make a New Year's resolution to be a better and a safer driver.

According to the Daily Herald, John Cuneo from Chicago recently won a regional Emmy award for a public service announcement (PSA) that he and a colleague shot at the DuPage County morgue. The PSA received an award from the Chicago/Midwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The PSA was used to help educate drivers about the dangers of driving while distracted and to illustrate the risks for car accidents in Chicago that accompany this dangerous behavior. The PSA will now be aired nationwide.

“If you drive down any road and just watch people — the percentage of drivers looking at their phones is very high,” McHenry County Sheriff's Sgt. Karen Groves said.

Recently, reporters of the Daily Herald reviewed traffic citations for distracted driving in Wheaton, Villa Park, Schaumburg, Rosemont, Palatine, Naperville, Mundelein, Lombard, Lake Zurich, Lake in the Hills, Itasca, Grayslake, Glendale Heights, Glen Ellyn, Geneva, Elgin, Carol Stream, Bensenville, Bartlett, Arlington Heights, Algonquin and Addison. Nearly 310 citations were issued for violating the electronic use law, which prohibits text messaging and the use of other electronic communication devices for drivers. These citations accounted for less than 1 percent of all citations issued. Nearly 600 citations were issued to drivers who were busted using a cell phone while driving through a construction or a school zone. These citations accounted for less than 1.5 percent of all traffic citations.

Our state's distracted driving law comes with some good intentions, but it is tough for law enforcement officers to enforce. The law contains numerous loopholes, meaning that distraction-related car accidents continue to injure and kill far too many motorists on our roadways.

The Daily Herald looked over more than 40,000 traffic citations to determine these statistics. It's clear that distraction-related offenses are not a top priority for most. For this reason, we ask that all drivers take the personal responsibility to curb the distractions. Personal responsibility may be our best defense against dangerous roadways.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were just a little more than 3,000 fatalities that occurred in 2010 because of distraction-related car accidents. While this new statistic proves a decrease in the number of fatalities from these types of accidents, we're still seeing far too many of these preventable accidents. Drivers are still asked to take the responsibility to put away the distractions while operating a motor vehicle.

We would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and ask you to make the New Year's resolution to be a better driver by putting away the distractions behind the wheel. Only aware and alert drivers can help to prevent potentially fatal distraction-related accidents on our roadways.

Continue reading "New Year's Resolutions: Curb Distractions to Reduce Risks of Chicago Car Accidents" »

We can all say goodbye to 2011 and hello to a fresh start. With the New Year come resolutions to make our lives better. Some may have made resolutions to lose weight, to quit smoking or to pursue new business ventures, but we're asking all residents to make New Year's resolution to be a better driver. By making this type of resolution, we can all make an effort to reduce the number of car accidents in Chicago. And to keep family and loved ones safer.

Being a better drive can consist of many different things. Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that being a better driver can mean to pledge to curb distractions, to stay sober at the wheel, to slow down and quit speeding, to be more alert at intersections or even to stay more aware of bicyclists and pedestrians. Whichever most applies to you, we ask everyone to embrace these resolutions and to be more cautious behind the wheel. Safer roadways start with you! This is the start of a new blog series discussing the ways we can all pledge to stay safe at the wheel and to prevent a serious accidents. Happy 2012!

As we start off the New Year and make a conscious effort to be safer behind the wheel, we would like to remind drivers that road conditions can contribute to some serious accidents. According to the Chicago Tribune, icy roadways in the city caused a number of accidents and spinouts. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) was quick on the scene to lay down salt to help drivers keep traction. The ice came with this winter's coldest snap so far.

The first week of 2012 calls for temperatures in the 20s and teen temps in the evening. Winds are expected to gust to 40 miles per hour.

IDOT reports that there were icy and slick roadways along the Bishop Ford Freeway, Eisenhower Expressways and on the Stevenson. There were a number on spinouts and accidents reported on the Dan Ryan and on the Stevenson.

In the early evening, Chicago's Department of Streets and Sanitation let more than 130 snow-fighting trucks loose to take care of the main arterials and Lake Shore Drive. This area was the site of a 10-car accident that ended up blocking the southbound lanes at Randolph Street.

As the winter weather continues, drivers are asked to remain cautious while driving on snowy and icy roadways. This is the first of a blog series where we will be discussing some New Year's resolutions that you and your family can make to help prevent fatal car accidents. You can start by adjusting your driving to accommodate the current weather conditions. We will also be discussing the dangers of driving while distracted, driving drunk, speeding while driving, remaining cautious at intersections and how to help keep our local bicyclists and pedestrians safe, too. We hope you have a safe and happy 2012 and consider making one of your New Year's resolutions to be a better driver and to make our roadways safer for everyone.

Continue reading "New Year's Resolutions: Reducing Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago" »

The federal government announced a final rule to outlaw drivers of trucks and buses from using hand-held cell phones at the wheel, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). This was the most current attempt to curb distracted driving and to reduce the risks of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere. Commercial drivers are already prohibited from texting at the wheel.

"I hope that this rule will save lives by helping commercial drivers stay laser-focused on safety at all times while behind the wheel," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

As we recently reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, officials are at it again. Recently, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) made a recommendation for all 50 states to outlaw the use of all electronic devices by all drivers. Support for this type of law is split. Some support the measure in saying that our roadways are far too dangerous with the number of distracted drivers and a law needs to be enacted to help regulate the dangerous behavior. Others say that this type of blanket ban is overpowering and is restricting the right of motorists as residents of the United States.

Under the law for the truckers and bus drivers, if they're busted driving while using a hand-held cell phone they can face fines of nearly $3,000. A driver's commercial driver's license (CDL) could be suspended after two traffic violations. In addition to penalizing these drivers, the companies that employ these truckers can face an $11,000 fine. This final rule affects roughly four million drivers working in the industry.

As we recently reported, the NTSB is urging all lawmakers to prohibit the use of all devices for drivers, except devices that aid road safety and for emergency use. The NTSB doesn't have the authority to enact any laws, but its recent recommendations have been proven to pull significant weight with federal authorities.

In Illinois, school bus drivers and those who are under the age of 18 are banned from using a hand-held cell phone at the wheel. Drivers within the City of Chicago are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving. All drivers in the state are banned from texting while driving. All of the laws could soon be wiped out and a full-out ban could be enacted if the NTSB's recommendation is adopted by federal and state lawmakers.

As we head into the holiday season, traffic is expected to increase significantly as vacationers from around the country head out to their favorite holiday vacation destinations. The National Safety Council is predicting that the New Year's and the Christmas holiday will see nearly 600 roadway fatalities. Many of these fatalities can be avoided if drivers exercise safe and responsible driving habits. Please be safe on our roadways through the rest of the holiday season!

Continue reading "Officials Continue Efforts to Help Reduce Risks of Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

The Illinois Department of Transportation understands the dangers and risks that accompany roadway travel through the holiday season. This year, the Transportation Department is here to share some useful tips to help you and your family to help you to avoid a potentially fatal car accident in Chicago and elsewhere. By following a few simple driving tips, you can help to ensure a safe and happy holiday season for everyone.

The National Safety Council (NSC) has also recently released a report illustrating just how dangerous our roadways will be over the holidays. In their latest report, the NSC reveals its predictions for roadway fatalities and injuries over these holidays. Every year, the NSC releases this information in an attempt to reiterate the importance of safe driving habits through congested roadways.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the NSC has predicted nearly 300 roadways fatalities to occur over the Christmas holiday. This is the holiday period that takes from Friday, December 23rd until Monday, December 26th. In addition to these estimated 300 fatalities, the NSC is predicting another 28,500 injuries over this time period that will require treatment from a medical professional.

The number of Christmas holiday roadway fatalities has decreased significantly since 2007. In 2007 there were about 455 fatalities, in 2008 there were nearly 410 and in 2009 there were less than 250. While it's promising to have seen a significant reduction in these numbers, they're still all too high.

The NSC is also offering it's predictions for the New Year's holiday period, which is actually more fatal than Christmas. This year, the NSC is predicting that another 300 people will die on our roadways during this time. In addition, the NSC is predicting another 29,500 injuries to require medical attention. In this holiday period, the number of fatalities has actually increased since 2007. In 2007 there were about 390 fatalities, in 2008 there were about 410 and in 2009 there were about 460.

The Illinois Department of Transportation offers these safe driving tips to help you to stay safe on our roadways through the holidays:

-Always wear a seat belt. It's the law and it could save your life.

-If you don't feel comfortable driving in the current weather conditions, don't!

-Your headlights should be on and dim when driving in the rain.

-Your headlights should be on and dim when driving in the fog. Use your fog lights if you have them.

-Stay within the limits of your vision through the weather.

-Make sure your windows are clear of ice and snow. Don't start moving until your windshield is completely defrosted.

-When weather is poor, drive slower and increase your following distance. This will give you more time to react.

-Keep an eye out for slick spots in shaded areas.

-If the roads are slick, brake slowly and gently.

-If you hydroplane, let off of the brakes and steer into the direction your vehicle is going until you regained traction with the road.

-Be cautious around snowplows. Don't pass until you're sure another vehicle isn't coming.

Continue reading "Winter Weather and Holiday Travel Season Increase Risks for Illinois Car Accident" »

A 10-year-old boy was killed and his twin brother was severely injured in a recent intersection car accident in Lake County. Officials believe the driver who hit them ran a red light, causing the accident, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. It was a multi-car accident at that dangerous intersection in Wauconda at Route 12, damaging two other vehicles.

“We have no evidence of anyone being under the influence,” Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys learned that one fifth-grader died and his twin brother and the boys' father were injured. When drivers fail to obey traffic signals, accidents result. There have been numerous studies and preventative measures taken to make intersections safer for everyone. Still, far too many drivers display complete disregard for traffic signals and road signs, and continue to cause serious accidents in our Illinois roadways. All drivers are asked to be courteous and cautious on our roadways during the holiday season. Traffic is expected to increase substantially and so do the risks we face while driving along Illinois' roadways through the congested holiday travel season.

The truck that may have zipped through the red light was a Ford Super Duty loaded with roofing supplies. The large truck slammed into a smaller Lincoln sedan as it attempted to make a left-hand turn in front of the truck. The Ford didn't stop for the red light and slammed right into the Lincoln with the father and two boys inside. The Lincoln was thrown off the roadway and the large truck flipped upon collision. Two additional vehicles were caught up in the collision and suffered minor damages.

All of the occupants in the Lincoln were reportedly wearing their seat belts when the accident happened. One was killed and the two survivors were still banged up pretty badly.

Witness reported to authorities that the large truck failed to stop at the red light at the intersection of Old McHenry Road and Route 12. The speed limit on that road is 55 mph. It's a four-lane divided highway.

The truck driver was treated for injuries, questioned by officers and later released. Currently, there are no charges pending, but officials continue to investigate the accident.

Back in 2009, a motorcyclist was killed at that same intersection after a motor vehicle failed to stop for that red light. The red-light running driver in that accident was later charged and convicted of reckless homicide. Prosecutors determined that the female driver was painting her fingernails at the wheel when the accident happened.

As the holidays approach, our roadways will get more and more congested with residents and visitors off to celebrate the season. Drivers are asked to be extremely cautious at the wheel and to obey all traffic signals to help to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

Continue reading "Driver on Route 12 May Have Run Red Light Causing Fatal Car Accident in Lake County" »

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the 2011 Christmas Day Holiday period is defined as starting on December 23rd at 6:00 p.m. and going until December 26th at 11:59 p.m. Every year, the NSC estimates how many people they believe will be killed in car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere during the busy holiday weekend.

This year, the Council is predicting that there will be nearly 370 fatalities. The NSC further predicts that there will be nearly 29,000 people who will be medically treated for injuries from car crashes over the holiday period.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the holidays are a time for residents and visitors to spend away from work and school and to gather with friends and family members. Unfortunately, this is also a time when we see an increase in the number of fatal accidents on our roadways. An increase in motorists equates to an increase in your risks for a traffic crash, which ultimately leads to an increase in roadway deaths and injuries. Drivers are urged to be cautious, alert and to drive defensively on our roadways to avoid a potentially fatal accident during this year's holidays.

The NSC's Christmas Day Holiday Period Fatality Estimates/Actual Numbers:

-2005: 443/383

-2006: 415/379

-2007: 497/454

-2008: 432/409

-2009: 317/248

According to recent traffic safety studies, seat belts have been proven to be nearly 50 percent effective in preventing fatalities during an accident. According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System's (FARS), more than 100 people may be saved from being killed in a car accident over the Christmas Day holiday period because they were wearing a seat belt. Another 75 people could be saved if everyone were to wear a seat belt.

According to the NSC, the 2011 New Year's Day Holiday is defined as starting on December 30th at 6:00 p.m. and going on until January 2nd at 11:59 p.m. Every year, the NSC estimates how many people will be killed in car crashes during the busy holiday weekend. This year, the Council is predicting that there will be nearly 300 roadway fatalities. The NSC further predicts that there will be nearly 30,000 people will be medically treated for injuries from car crashes during this time as well.

The NSC's New Year's Day Holiday Period Fatality Estimates/Actual Numbers:

-2005: 392/449

-2006: 399/432

-2007: 405/387

-2008: 498/407

-2009: 445/458

The average number of traffic deaths during the six previous New Year’s Day holiday periods was nearly 20 percent greater than similar non-holiday periods. Drivers are urged to be cautious behind the wheel as the traffic heats up during the holiday season. Remember to drive cautiously, to avoid drinking and driving and to obey all road laws to reduce your risks of an accident. Happy Holidays and have a Happy New Year. Please drive safely!

Continue reading "NSC Releases Fatality Predictions for Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere through Holidays" »

We recently experienced one of the latest first snowfalls of the season on record. Unfortunately, this late snowfall contributed to a number of spin-out accidents and contributed to at least four fatalities that day. Three of these fatalities happened because of car accidents in the Chicago metro area, according to The Courier-News.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), law enforcement officers responded to dozens of accidents in the Chicago area. In some of these accidents, vehicles spun out and slammed into walls because of the slick roadways and black ice.

We recently reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog that IDOT is urging motorists to be extremely cautious when traveling through winter weather. As we approach the New Year, these conditions are expected to get much worse. IDOT's not leaving you alone on your roadways. Transportation officials throughout the state will be hitting our roadways with snow and ice removal vehicles to help make your travels as safe as possible. Still, drivers are urged to be extra careful on our roadways during this time of year to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

According to the Chicago Tribune, the first latest snowfall record was on 1965.

Although the snowfall was late, it still produced slick roads and caused a number of accidents. Two of these accident fatalities occurred on Interstate Highway 80 in Will County.

The first accident took the life of a 29-year-old Chicago woman who was heading west on Interstate 80 near Highway 30. She was killed when her vehicle was hit by a passing semi.

Another accident took the life of a 29-year-old as she was heading westbound on Interstate 80. Her vehicle swerved off the road and slammed into a fixed object.

Black ice is something that drivers need to be careful of as we enter the heart of the winter season. Black ice, clear ice or glare ice is used to reference the thin coating of ice on the road's surface. Black ice isn't even black at all. It just reflects the black asphalt of the roadway, giving it a black appearance. Drivers need to exercise extreme cautious around snowy and icy roadways.

Safe driving tips if you're involved in an accident because of black ice, from the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago:

-Drivers should never get out of the vehicle when traveling near black ice. If you're stuck, don't try to get out as you risk developing frostbite and/or hypothermia. Not to mention falling and suffering serious injury.

-If you get stuck, hang a brightly colored cloth out of your window or on the vehicle's antenna to draw attention and for rescuers to see.

-Start up your vehicle and turn on the heat for about 10 minutes each hour. Make sure you vehicle's exhaust pipe is clear so that fumes won't back up in the vehicle.

-As you sit and wait for help, keep your legs and arms moving to help blood to circulate and to keep yourself warm.

-Keep one of your vehicle's windows cracked; the one that's not facing oncoming wind, to allow fresh air to get it.

-Keep a dome light on so that you can be more easily seen by motorists.

Continue reading "Black Ice Threatens Roadways and Increases Risks for Car Accidents in Chicago" »

A recently study concluded that the lives of approximately 2,000 people could be saved every year if every state were to push a comprehensive Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. According to USA TODAY, supporters across the nation are urging lawmakers to enact GDL programs like the one in the state of Illinois.

Effective GDL programs help to thoroughly educate these drivers and can significantly reduce the risks of fatal car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

"We knew that when states pass good laws, lives are saved and a lot of money is saved. We'd just never done the analysis," says John Ulczycki from the National Safety Council (NSC).

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that it takes a lot of time and practice for our young driver to master the tools to become a good, safe driver. Our state has been an example for many GDL programs in the country. In the state of Illinois, teens must practice at least 50 hours of supervised driving with a licensed adult over the age of 21 before receiving a full driver's license. In addition to these requirements, our GDL program places a number of restrictions on these young drivers to make sure they master all driving skills thoroughly before they can obtain an unrestricted license.

In Illinois, nearly 40 lives are believed saved every year because of our effective GDP program.

This new report comes as Congress looks to consider a new transit and highway-spending bill. Those who support the GDL program are looking to get their hands on roughly $25 million a year to use as incentives to get states to buff up their GDL programs.

Car accidents continue to be the number one killer of teens in the county. Drivers ages 16- to 19-years-old are four times more likely to get into a serious accident than any other age group of drivers.

Each state has its own version of a GDL program, which bestows drivers with more driving privileges as they gain experience behind the wheel.

Ulczycki and says there are seven key points to an effective GDL program:

-A minimum age of 16-years-old to get a learner's permit.

-At least 30 hours of supervised driving during the learner's license stage.

-Six months of supervised driving before being able to drive with no supervision.

-A minimum age of 16 1/2 for intermediate driving.

-Placing a curfew of 10:00 p.m. for intermediate drivers.

-Allowing no more than one passenger (non-family) during the intermediate license stage.

-A minimum age of 17 for a restricted license.

Regardless of what the current GDL program requirements are, parents are urged to stay involved in their teens driving career long after they've been granted unsupervised driving privileges. Parents may be some of the most influential individuals in their young driver's lives.

Continue reading "Illinois GDL Program Saves an Estimated 40 Lives from Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

As Chicago recently witnessed its first measurable amount snow fall, drivers are already suffering those dangerous side effects of the slick and icy roadways. The snowfall caused a number of Chicago car accidents, including quite a few spinouts on expressways, two fatal accidents in Will County and another fatal accident on the Eisenhower, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the recent snowfall ties the 1949 record for the fifth-latest date for us to see the season's first measurable snow. The first place date for the latest first snowfall of the season record remains on December 16th of 1965. As we start to see the snow, drivers are urged to be cautious on our roadways. It's best to avoid driving when snow and icy covers the roads, but if you have to, you're urged to alter your driving habits to accommodate the winter weather conditions.

By 6:00 a.m., there was more than a half inch measured at the O'Hare International Airport, which serves as the official reporting station for Chicago.

Before sunrise, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) warned of slick roadways on all of the expressways in the Chicago area. By that time, there had already been several spinout accidents. The Transportation Department already deployed snowplows to handle the mess. Drivers were urged to drive carefully.

According to the Illinois State Police (ISP), there was a fatal accident at Cicero Avenue and Eisenhower at roughly 7:00 a.m. In this accident, a pickup truck and a box truck collided. A passenger of the pickup truck was killed in the accident.

Two more accidents happened on Interstate 80 in Will County because of the winter weather. ISP reported that the roadways were covered with snow and ice.

The first accident happened as a motorist crashed his passenger vehicle into a semi as they were both heading west on Interstate 80 by U.S. Route 30. The driver of the passenger-vehicle was taken to Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet, where he was later pronounced dead.

The second accident happened when a female driver swerved from the roadway, flipper her vehicle and ran into a fixed object.

As we recently reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, officials from the Illinois Tollway, the ISP and the IDOT urge drivers throughout the state to be cautious and to prepare for the upcoming snow fall.

As we get into the heart of the winter season, driving conditions become much more dangerous. Drivers are asked to stay off of the roadways when they're icy and snowy, whenever possible. But when you must venture out, please do so cautiously and be on the lookout for snowplows and other snow removal vehicles. Always driver slowly, cautiously and alertly when driving through the snowy weather. Alter your driving habits to accommodate the weather and to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

Continue reading "First Measurable Snow Fall Highlights Risks for Car Accidents in Chicago" »

In the state of Illinois, drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone at the wheel. In Chicago, all drivers are prohibited from using a hand held cell phone behind the wheel. In the state, all drivers are prohibited from texting, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

Although teenagers may not be allowed to text at the wheel in the state, it doesn't mean they're all listening. Teenage drivers are more likely that any other age group to send and receive texts while driving. For this reason, among many others, car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere are the number one cause of death for teens in the U.S. To help raise awareness about the danger and risks associated with texting while driving, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has launched its "OMG" public service announcement campaign.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that teenagers already face increased risks for a traffic accident. But adding in the distraction of a text messaging devices makes these risks even higher. The USDOT launched its new campaign to reach these drivers and to urge them to put down the phones while they're behind the wheel. In 2010, there were nearly 3,100 fatalities resulting from distraction-related car accidents.

"Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to distracted driving, which is why we are making an extra effort to ensure they understand the dangers," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

There are two PSAs for this campaign. They will be airing on 12,000 gas station pump-top screens, at more than 525 Regal Cinema theaters on more than 6,500 movie screens and on Distraction.gov through December.

The campaign uses some of the shorthand texting lingo that these young drivers use everyday, like "L8R" and "LOL."

Nathan Gill at Outcast's PumpTop TV says that airing these PSAs at gas stations is a good way to spread the word to this on-the-go age group. Those five minutes that these teens spend at the gas pumps watching these PSAs can help to save lives.

Currently, there are 35 states, Guam and the District of Columbia that have prohibited text messaging by drivers. Another nine states have made it illegal drivers to talk on a hand-held cell phone behind the wheel.

It's no secret than teens want to stay connected with their buddies. When schools let out for winter break, teenagers will be hitting the roads in route to holiday gatherings with friends and family members. Before setting out, parents are asked to talk with their teens about the dangers, risks and consequences of distracted driving. Let's keep our teens driving safely through the holidays and well beyond.

Continue reading "USDOT's "OMG" PSAs to Curb Distraction-Related Teen Car Accidents in Chicago, Nation" »

Red light cameras. Speed Cameras. Now a system that prevents other traffic from going when a vehicle is running a red light at an intersection could be the next technology deployed in an effort to save lives.

A new measure that's leading the way for Mayor Rahm Emanuel's red-light speeding cameras was recently approved by a state House committee and later approved by the full House. This measure was already approved by the state Senate. Now, all the measure needs is the signature of Gov. Quinn, according to the Huff Post.

Intersection cameras to catch speeders and red-light runners have been a hot topic of debate in the area for quite some time now. Some say these cameras are effective in helping to reduce the risks of intersection car accidents in Chicago, while others find them to be nothing more than a revenue generator.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys note Arizona is deploying yet another system -- this one prevents lights from changing when a red-light runner is passing through an intersection. Previously, drivers complained about an increase in rear-ending accidents and debatable citations issued by such intersection technologies. This latest technology was recently introduced by Redflex Traffic Systems in Chandler, Arizona. It claims to be able to read traffic flow and can detect when a driver is about to run a red light. To help stop accidents, it adjusts the other lights to hold off traffic for the light-running driver, according to AZ Central.

"If it is what it appears to be, it is going to save lives," said Chandler Police Lt. Richard Speer, commander of the traffic bureau. "We are hoping Chandler will be one of its test areas."

Intersection car accidents are among the nation's deadliest. Data concludes that roughly 40 percent of the near 6,000,000 accidents that happened in the U.S. in 2008 were accidents that happened in intersections.

A lot of these intersection accidents happened when a car that's making a left turn collides with one that's coming from another direction. These lights could potentially hold other cars from proceeding through the light and thus save lives.

Red-light cameras were first used in Chicago in 2003. As of April of 2011, there are nearly 200 intersections with red-light cameras. Although these cameras only photograph and ticket drivers who run through a red light, the new technology could make its way to Chicago and could potentially alter traffic flow.

The Chicago Department of Transportation handles the installation and maintenance of these cameras, while the Chicago Department of Revenue handles all of the citations.

Chicago Intersections with Red-Light Cameras

Regardless of what technology is deployed at intersections, residents and officials may never be able to agree on what is best for the city. What we all can agree on is that nothing beats driver awareness when it comes to preventing accidents. Please be safe on our roadways and be courteous to other drivers.

Continue reading "New Intersection Technology Could Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago" »

The number of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere throughout the state has increased from 2009 to 2010. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released new statistics that conclude that 2010 was another positive trend in the overall reduction in fatal traffic accidents -- fewer deadly accidents were reported in the United States than at any time since 1949.

"While we have more work to do to continue to protect American motorists, these numbers show we're making historic progress when it comes to improving safety on our nation's roadways," said Secretary LaHood.

Chicago car accident attorneys know that a lot of traffic accident scenarios did in fact decrease from 2009 to 2010. But the truth of the matter is that a number of accident scenarios did in fact increase, including those in Illinois. Fatalities among motorcycle riders, large truck occupants and pedestrians also increased during 2010.

Included in the newly released report from the NHTSA is a new feature that measures the number of distraction-related accidents. In 2010, there were nearly 3,100 fatalities resulting from these types of accidents. There were more than 1,500,000 injury accidents. Distraction-related accidents include drivers that weren't paying attention because they were eating, smoking, playing with the radio, talking on the phone, sending a text message, reading, applying makeup, reading a map, surfing the web, etc.

In 2010, the total number of traffic accident fatalities in the United States reached 33,000. During the year, more than 30 percent of the fatalities were the result of alcohol-related accidents. These types of accidents continue to be alarmingly high despite all of the drunk driving prevention programs throughout the nation.

Although more accidents happened in rural areas in the U.S., the number of these accidents actually decreased from 2009 to 2010. The number of urban accidents experienced an increase.

Throughout the year, a majority of the fatal accidents took place at nighttime, or from 6:00 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.

As we stated before, the number of motorcyclist fatalities increased. Fatalities among riders over the age of 50 increase be nearly 120 while the number of fatalities for those under the age of 50 decreased by more than 80.

Illinois wasn't lucky enough to be one of the states that experienced a decrease in the number of traffic fatalities from 2009 to 2010. In 2009, we experienced approximately 910 fatalities, while in 2010 we experienced nearly 930 accident fatalities. This is an increase of more than 5 percent.

As technology advances, transportation officials are learning how to better track distraction-related accidents. Still, the most common accident-causing distraction was drivers engaging in conversation with other passengers, followed by playing with the radio. With cell phones, GPS devices, palm pilots and smart phones, government officials have a whole new genre of distractions to worry about; the search for effective ways to reduce these accidents continues.

While yes, some types of accidents did in fact decrease, we think it's important to point out that many others experienced an increase and the number of fatalities in our state increased. Drivers are urged to keep fighting for safe roadways. Keep attention on the road and follow driving laws. Driver attention is the one of the ways we can help to decrease these numbers.

Continue reading "NHTSA Releases New 2010 Data for Car Accidents in Illinois and Elsewhere" »

Alcohol-related car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere kill 6,000 teens every year. That's more than all illegal drugs combined. To help combat this problem, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is teaming up with the National Football League (NFL) to raise awareness in teen drivers about the dangers, risks and fatal consequences of driving drunk or riding with an intoxicated driver. The partnership is encouraging all teenagers to not drink before they've hit the age of 21 and to never get into the car with someone who has been drinking.

Teenagers are urged to stand against the dangerous behavior and to sign the MADD Power of You(th) pledge. You can visit the campaign's facebook page where teens can enter to win some official NFL memorabilia. Participants are asked to draft their friends in the fight.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that although teenage drivers aren't old enough to legally drink, many are going to anyways. According to Students Against Destructive Decisions, nearly 30 percent of teens have consumed alcohol in the last 30 days. Nearly 20 percent of these young individuals participated in binge drinking in the last month. That's just the last 30 days. Nearly 75 percent of high school-aged individuals admit to having consumed alcohol at least once by the end of their senior year. Nearly 40 percent of these individuals admitted to doing so by the time they hit 8th grade.

MADD is asking you to join and to take the pledge. Taking the pledge to not drink and drive and to not get into a vehicle with an intoxicated driver enters you to win some pretty cool NFL gear. These prizes are only offered to those who are 13- to 20-years-old. All you have to do is visit the campaign's facebook page and "share" the link to your page or you can "share" the link to your wall by taking the pledge. As long as you're displaying the MADD Props badge on your wall, you're eligible to win the cool gear.

Traffic accidents continue to be the number one killer of teens in America. Drivers age 16 have the highest accident rate among any age group. These young drivers are three times more likely to die in an accident that any other driver. In 2008, there were more than 2,700 drivers between the ages of 15- and 20-years-old who died in a traffic accident.

Alcohol-related accidents accounted for more than 30 percent of the traffic fatalities experienced in this young age group.

With Christmas and New Year's right around the corner, parents are urged to talk with the teen drivers in their lives. The holidays are a time for family gatherings. Even for adults, many of these gatherings involve alcohol. Remind your young driver about the dangers of driving under the influence. It's important to encourage them to be honest with you. If they're at a holiday party where drinking is taking place, have them call you for a safe ride instead of getting in the vehicle with someone who has been drinking. The holiday season already brings about increased risks for an accident. We don't need to throw a tipsy driver into the equation. Be safe -- communicate with your young drivers and Happy Holidays!

Continue reading "MADD Teams Up With NFL to Reduce Risks of Teen Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

Our Chicago car accident attorneys recently discussed the dangers that teen drivers are expected to face on our roadways through the busy holiday traffic. But our older drivers are also at high risk.

The holidays are a time to spend with friends and family and this means our elderly loved ones, too. In many cases, old age comes with deteriorating senses, which can hinder a driver's ability to navigate our roadways safely. Sadly, we often notice this decline in parents or older loved ones while visiting for the holidays. We ask all families to talk with their elderly relatives about staying safe and avoiding car accidents in Chicago.

Ten signs from the AARP that you may need to have a safe driving talk with your elderly loved ones:

-Have many "close calls" or almost-accidents.

-Finding scrapes, scratches or dents on their vehicles.

-Getting lost frequently on roadways that should be familiar.

-Having a tough time seeing or reacting to pavement markings, road signs or traffic signals.

-A slowed response time.

-Have a delayed response time to driving hazards.

-Having a tough time moving feet or hands on the vehicle's pedals or wheel.

-Misjudging gaps in traffic.

-Receiving many honks from other drivers.

-Become distracted easily.

-Having a hard time moving to see around the whole car.

-Getting a lot of warnings or tickets from police.

So, now you know how to spot warning signs in your loved ones, but do you know how to approach the subject with them? Every family is different, but regardless of your relationship with the elderly driver it's important to approach them as if this conversation is about their safety and not looking to rid them of their independence. Reiterate the importance of their safety on our roadways. Consider discussing your concerns with their spouse first. According to a recent study from the MIT AgeLab and the Hartford Financial Services Group, roughly half of married drivers above the age of 50 would rather talk about their driving concerns with their significant others, followed by doctors and then adult children.

If you'd like to start off the conversation, consider discussing factors that everyone can relate to, like the increase is vehicular traffic or the difficulty seeing road signs on such busy roadways. Maybe you could talk about the difficulty you have driving in specific weather conditions. Whichever way you choose, ease into it.

To avoid making them feel helpless and forced to give up driving, consider limiting their driving first. See if your elderly loved ones have a harder time behind the wheel and ask if they'd be comfortable not driving at night. Be accommodating and help them to transition into the change smoothly.

This isn't done to be mean or as a punishment. Aging senses are a part of life and in the spirit of the holidays it's our responsibility to look out for one another. Do your part to keep your loved ones safe on and off our roadways this year and have that conversation.

Continue reading "Elderly Drivers Face Increased Risks for Car Accident in Chicago over Holidays" »

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is celebrating its 5th anniversary of the Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving. In celebration, MADD has released a new report of state rankings. This report ranks each state on its effort towards reducing drunk driving accidents, The nation, as a whole, received a three-star rating on a five-star scale. Also on this report are updated numbers illustrating the costs of these accidents -- more than $130 billion a year.

“The ratings earned by each state show that there is still much work to be done,” said Jan Withers, MADD National President.

Our Chicago injury attorneys and MADD understand that drunk driving accidents increase significantly during the holiday season. This is an excellent time to push this type of campaign and to raise awareness about the dangers on our roadways through the remainder of the year. We would also like to congratulate Illinois for being one of the states that received a five-staring rating. Only five states received five-star ratings, including Utah, Nebraska, Kansas, and Arizona, too. These rankings were determined by each state's use of ignition interlock devices, sobriety checkpoints, drunk driving penalties, "no-refusal" activities and license revocation sentences.

Among the states that received one-star ratings were South Dakota, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Montana. These ratings were based on drunk-driving prevention programs and not on accident numbers.

Every year, MADD asks states to consider enacting tougher drunk driving laws and countermeasures that have been proven to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says that drunk driving is still the deadliest epidemic on our country's roadways. Although we've all made significant strides in the last 30 years to help prevent these accident, we're still experiencing far too many each year.

Drunk driving accidents cost more than $130 billion every year:

-More than $60 billion in monetary costs.

-More than $70 billion in quality-of-life losses.

-The federal covered nearly $5 billion.

-State government covered more than $3 billion.

-Employers covered nearly $11 billion, which includes the near $4 million that were work-related car accidents and roughly $7 billion in off-the-job accidents involving employees and benefit-eligible dependents.

Although Illinois was recognized in this report with five stars, the large decrease in drunk driving accident-related deaths isn't enough considering the state has such a high fatality rate to begin with. The report did however point out that Illinois' high-visibility enforcement efforts and the ignition-interlock law helped the state to achieve such a large decrease. We're not there yet, though.

MADD President Withers adds that there is no debate on the effectiveness of ignition interlocks for those who have been convicted of drunk driving. The proof is in the numbers. He believes that all states should mandate the devices as part of a sentence for a DUI conviction. This measure coupled with high-visibility law enforcement efforts and the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) program can help the entire nation to significantly reduce the number of these preventable accidents.

Continue reading "Illinois Receives Five-Star Rating for Reducing Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

A teenager from Chicago may be facing charges after a recent five-car accident in Illinois, according to the Times. The young Chicago driver could face charges of leaving the scene of a personal injury accident and fleeing and eluding.

When local officers tried to pull the young driver over, he hit four vehicles near the intersection of Michigan City Road and Burnham Avenue. After the accident, the teen jumped out of his vehicle and took off on foot. Officers were able to apprehend him a short while after the incident.

Our Chicago accident attorneys understand that teenage drivers may be overwhelmed with the holiday traffic we see on our roadways during the last couple months of the year. For this reason, parents are urged to talk with the teens in your life about safe driving habits. Millions and millions of residents are expected to make their way to their holiday destination via motor vehicle this year. With the significant increase comes a significant increase in their risks for an accident. Parents should discuss the risks, dangers and consequences of poor driving habits behind the wheel, especially during the holiday season.

Traffic accidents continue to be the number one cause of death for teens in the United States. These accidents account for one out of every three deaths in this young age group. Roughly eight teens died every day in 2009 because of car accidents. Per mile driven, they're at the highest risk for a fatal accident compared to any other age group -- four times more to be exact.

In 2009, there were roughly 3,000 teens who died on our roadways. Another 350,000 were injured. Although individuals between the ages of 14- and 25-years-old only account for less that 15 percent of the U.S. population, they cost the country nearly $30 billion for motor vehicle injuries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these safety tips for parents to share with their teen drivers as we head into the holiday driving season:

-Supervise your teen's driving as often as possible. Provide them with positive feedback to boost their skills.

-Limit the number of passenger. More passengers can mean more distractions and can mean greater risks for a serious accident.

-Set a curfew. Teen car accidents are more likely to happen at night.

-Learn the state's teen driving laws.

-Lead by example. Always exercise your own driving rules when your teen is riding in the vehicle with you.

-Discuss the importance and the reasoning for speed limits, traffic lights, other road laws and why all drivers need to abide by these rules.

-Encourage your teen driver to leave with plenty of time to get to their destination. This will avoid rushing, speeding and aggression.

-Keep an eye on current weather reports and avoid driving in poor weather conditions.

Continue reading "Teen Allegedly Causes Five-Car Accident in Chicago and Flees Scene" »

Drivers are warned, be careful on our roadways over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, roadway travel is expected to increase by nearly 5 percent this year. In 2010, there were about 40 million Americans who traveled during the holiday period, according to the American Automobile Association. Roughly 43 million are expected to travel during the holiday weekend this year, despite the higher gas prices. The increase in travel will be increasing your risks for a serious car accident in Chicago and elsewhere.

In 2010, the average gas price during this time was $2.88 per gallon. This year's holiday average is $3.39 per gallon -- but that's not stopping travelers. Officials say that many Americans celebrated the Labor Day and Independence Day holidays at home because of the struggling economy. The travel on Memorial Day weekend remained the same from 2010 to 2011. According to Bill Sutherland, the vice president of AAA Travel Services, drivers have been staying home for recent holidays but are ready to throw their financial concerns to the wind for Turkey Day.

Chicago car accident attorneys at our office know that residents use the holiday season to venture out to visit friends and family. Unfortunately, since most residents have the same idea, our roads get crowded and risks for accidents increase significantly. Without taking the proper precautions, drivers can find themselves at greater risk. It's important for you to plan out every step of your trip to avoid any mishaps or accidents and to be alert and cautious on our roadways.

"Driving AAA's projected increase in the number of Thanksgiving travelers is pent-up demand from Americans who may have foregone holiday travel the last three years," said Sutherland.

There's no question that most travelers will be driving over the holiday weekend, but forecasts for air travel are questionable. AAA predicts that air travel will increase by nearly 2 percent from 2010. But the Air Transport Association of America says there's going to be a 2 percent decrease.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the Thanksgiving Day holiday period will start on Wednesday the 23rd at 6:00 p.m. and will end on Sunday the 27th at 11:59 p.m. The NSC estimates that this 4.25 day holiday period will produce more than 430 traffic fatalities -- the estimated range is from 370 to about 510 deaths. The Council also estimated about 43,500 injuries in which a medical professional was consulted during this same time.

This year's fatality count is nearly 20 percent lower than the average of the last six year's actual fatalities.

Recent year's estimates and fatality number over the Thanksgiving Day holiday period:

-2004: 556 estimate. 556 actual.

-2005: 610 estimate. 605 actual.

-2006: 555 estimate. 623 actual.

-2007: 564 estimate. 542 actual.

-2008: 479 estimate. 484 actual.

-2009: 447 estimate. 401 actual.

Seat belts are 45 percent effective in preventing death among front-seat occupants. From this information, the NSC estimates that more than 150 lives can be saved over the holiday weekend if everyone wears a seat belt.

The average death rate for this holiday period in comparison to similar non-holiday weekends is more than 10 percent higher. Drivers are asked to travel safely and cautiously.

Continue reading "Increased Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago Expected over Thanksgiving Day Weekend" »

Illinois has been recognized for its efforts to combat drunk driving car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in the state. According to the Belleville News-Democrat, Mothers Against Drunk Driving has named our state "as a national leader in the fight against drunk driving." Jesse White, the Illinois Secretary of State says he couldn't be more thrilled about it.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that car accidents involving alcohol-impaired drivers have decreased by about 40 percent since White stepped into office. State records report that there were more than 700 alcohol-related accident in 1999 and fewer than 400 in 2010. Because of the decrease, Illinois has been recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for the last five years.

Our Chicago drunk driving accident attorneys understand there's not one particular way to target drunk drivers. State officials have to engage in a number of efforts and campaigns to spread the word and to crackdown on these irresponsible drivers. Mothers Against Drunk Driving uses a specific rating system to determine which states are most effective. These efforts include drunk driving campaigns, sobriety checkpoints and stricter penalties for those who drive drunk with children in the vehicle. Although these efforts seem to be helping in getting drunk drivers off of our roadways, we're still experiencing far too many drunk driving accidents. Until we clear our streets of every single one of these accidents, there are too many occurring. Drivers are urged to be extremely cautious for intoxicated drivers throughout the remainder of 2011. The end of the year and the holiday season brings out alcohol-impaired drivers everywhere. By keeping a cautious eye on others on the roadway and being responsible behind the wheel, we can all contribute to a safer holiday season.

According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, nearly 40 percent of roadway deaths were drunk driving-related last year. Compared to 2009 statistics, the number of drunk driving-related fatalities decreased by 10 percent in 2010. Still, these accidents cost nearly $2 million.

In the last five years, there were more than 2,000 people killed in drunk driving-related accidents. All of these fatal crashes cost nearly $11 billion.

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and the remainder of 2011, alcohol-related accidents are expected to increase. The holidays are unfortunately a deadly time on our roadways. Mothers Against Drunk Driving reports that there were about 900 people who died from car accidents with a drunk driver from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day in 2009.

The recent recognition comes as Mothers Against Drunk Driving celebrates the fifth year anniversary of its Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving. Illinois and four other states were recognized for receiving five stars for efforts to halt drunk drivers. Utah, Nebraska, Kansas and Arizona were also recognized.

These states were recognized for adopting the following preventative measures:

-License revocations.

-Harsher punishment for refusing a sobriety test while under arrest.

-Stricter penalties for driving drunk while a child in the vehicle.

-Sobriety checkpoints.

-Ignition interlock devices for drunk drivers.

Continue reading "State Receives Recognition for Combating Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois" »

Illinois car crash attorney David Abels has obtained a $70,000 out-of-court settlement on behalf of a Chicago area woman injured in a collision with a driver insured by Geico.

The Illinois auto accident took place on October 19, 2010, at approximately 8:00 a.m. The client was injured when the automobile she was driving was rear-ended by another motorist.

The plaintiff was driving northbound on I-294 at or near mile post 31.0, Proviso Township, Cook County, Illinois. The defendant was also driving his automobile northbound on I-294, behind our client. She came to a stop in stop-and-go traffic on I-294. The other driver failed to stop and/or reduce the speed of his vehicle and struck the plaintiff's vehicle. The front of the at fault driver's vehicle hit the rear of our client's vehicle in a rear-end type of collision.

The Illinois State Police responded to the scene of the collision. After speaking to both parties, the investigation officer placed the defendant at fault for the collision. The investigating officer determined that he was distracted and exceeding safe speed for conditions at the time of the collision.

The defendant failed to stop and/or reduce his speed to avoid a collision, was driving at an excessive rate of speed, failed to pay proper attention to the road conditions, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area, including our client.

Following the collision, the plaintiff had an immediate onset of neck, back, chest, and shoulder pain.

Shortly after, she sought medical care from a physician. She complained of pain in her mid back and upper back that was worse with movement. A history was taken, a physical examination was performed and diagnostic tests were ordered. She was diagnosed with upper back strain, instructed to rest, and to have a physical therapy evaluation. Her doctor instructed her to follow up in one week.

Due to ongoing and increasing pain, our injured client returned to her physician for treatment on October 23, 2010. She complained of increased pain in her upper back as well as pain in her mid back, arms, and chest. Because of the increased pain, she was unable to obtain the physical therapy evaluation as instructed the physician. A physical examination revealed supraspinous tenderness and weakness in her arms. The doctor diagnosed her with back pain, instructed her to not lift or pull anything heavier than five pounds, and once again ordered a physical therapy evaluation. Her doctor also ordered a CT scan of her chest.

Following her physician's recommendation, she attended physical therapy on October 27, 2010 and November 4, 2010. She complained of pain in her right hip as well as pain in her back and neck. She stated that the pain traveled from her left shoulder through the middle of her back and down to her right hip. The client described numbness in her gluteal region as well as numbness going down to her left hand. She also said she had stabbing pain that started in her back and spread to her check. She was diagnosed with neck sprain/strain, lumbar sprain, and brachial neuritis or radiculitis. During therapy, she engaged in stretching exercises as well as therapeutic exercises to decrease her pain and increase her functionality.

Our client next saw her doctor on October 28, 2010, where she continued to complain of upper and lower back pain as well as pain in her chest. An X-ray of her cervical spine was ordered, which revealed moderate decreased height of the C4-C5 disc space. The doctor instructed her not to lift, push, or pull more than five pounds and referred her to an orthopedic surgeon.

She next treated with a surgeon at the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute on November 3, 2010 for an orthopedic consultation. She complained of pain in her neck, mid back, and low back. She said the pain was sharp, severe, and constant and that it was worse with standing, walking, sitting, lying down, and climbing up stairs. The doctor took a history and preformed an examination. He also reviewed the X-rays of her cervical spine. He diagnosed her with low back pain and cervical and thoracic strain.

The client saw another physician on November 9, 2010, complaining of left arm pain and back pain. A history was taken and she was examined. Based on his assessment, the doctor diagnosed her with cervical radiculopathy and recommended an MRI.

Continue reading "$70,000 auto accident settlement reached by Chicago injury lawyer" »

The Faces if Distracted Driving campaign is going strong through the holiday season to help remind drivers about the dangers, risks and consequences of distracted driving-related car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, this campaign is used to remind drivers that real people around the country are seriously affected every day by distracted drivers. These accidents took the lives of nearly 5,500 people in 2009. Nearly half a million more were injured.

The Faces of Distracted Driving campaign is a compilation of the stories of victims through the country. These public service announcements (PSA) have been viewed more than 100,000 times since being launched back in November of 2010.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that traffic is expected to increase significantly over the next few weeks. During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, nearly 40 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from their home. About 90 percent of these travelers will be using our roadways to get to their destination. The increase in traffic volume greatly increases your risks for an accident. You're asked to be cautious and drive with full awareness over the Thanksgiving weekend and throughout the rest of the holiday season.

A recent story on the Faces of Distracted Driving campaign comes straight out of Illinois. The story is from the family of 56-year-old John Sligting. John was killed in an accident back in 2007 when a teen driver sped through a stop sign and right into his motorcycle. The teen driver was using a cell phone during the time of the accident, taking much of their attention off the roadway.

“I thank all of the families of distracted driving victims who have bravely chosen to share their stories of loss with the world,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

LaHood says main message of this campaign is that talking while driving is not worth the risks.

We invite you to check out the campaign and to share it with your friends. Drivers are four times more likely to be in an accident when using a hand-held phone device. Phones, whether they're hand-held or hands-free, give a driver the same reaction abilities as a drunk driver and we all know who dangerous that is.

In 2009, it's estimated that about 20 percent of car accidents in the U.S. involved a distracted driver. Of the 5,500 fatal distracted driving-related accidents during that year, nearly 1,000 of them reported the use of a cell phone as the type of distraction. Although drivers under the age of 20 are most likely to be in a distracted driving accident, drivers of all ages are surely affected by this dangerous habit.

In the state of Illinois, drivers are prohibited from using a hand-held phone in a construction zone or in a school zone. All bus drivers and drivers under the age of 19 are banned from ever using a cell phone behind the wheel, except in emergency situations. The City of Chicago has banned all drivers from using a cell phone behind the wheel.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, all drivers in Illinois are prohibited from texting while driving.

Continue reading ""Faces of Distracted Driving" Campaign to Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere during Busy Holiday Season" »

The use of speed cameras was recently approved by state lawmakers to help reduce the risks of car accidents in Chicago near parks and city schools. The 64-50 Illinois House vote approved the proposal from Mayor Rahm Emanuel. The measure has already been approved by the Senate and will now be passed on to Governor Pat Quinn, according to CBS Chicago.

Mayor Emanuel has campaigning for speed cameras for some time now. He believes that they should be used to catch drivers who speed within an eighth of a mile of any Chicago park or school. The cameras would cite and ticket any driver who exceeds the speed limit by at least 5 mph in these areas.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the city would have to do a month-long education campaign before using the cameras. Intersections that will be using these cameras will be required to have signs alerting drivers that there are speed cameras present.

"The goal is to change people's behavior. You have education, engineering and enforcement and if you don't have the enforcement, the other two aren't as effective," said the Chicago Department of Transportation's Commissioner Gabe Klein.

The mayor insisted that these cameras were not going to be used to generate cash for the city, but for a part of its plan to keep child pedestrians safe. He says if you follow the law, then you've got nothing to worry about. If you're one of the law breakers, then there's going to be a problem. He's just asking motorists to slow their speed in these areas with young pedestrians.

The mayor cited recent statistics in the city that proved that the number of pedestrian deaths decreased by about 70 percent in areas that has these cameras installed.

The Chicago Department of Transportation conducted a before and after study of more than 100 speed light cameras. Conclusions indicated that there nearly 30 pedestrian fatalities in these areas before the cameras were installed and just six fatalities after they went in.

Not everyone's on board with the camera idea though. A recent study from "The Expired Meter" website illustrated that these speed light cameras could produce even more money for the city than the red-light cameras.

A trial run of seven red-light cameras concluded that more than $100 million could be made if speeding cameras were used in place. The study concluded that speeders are nearly 60 times more common than red-light runners. The $100 million was estimated off of only seven cameras. If Quinn approved the measure, the number of cameras in the area could increase drastically.

Right now, the city has red-light cameras in nearly 80 locations. Emanuel wants to upgrade these cameras to catch speeders, too.

Currently, only 3 percent of the city is covered by intersection cameras. If the bill passes, then nearly 50 percent would be covered.

A speeding motorist caught by one of these cameras would get a ticket in the mail. Photos would only be snapped of the vehicle and not of the driver therefor the vehicle's owner would receive a ticket in the mail. A speeding ticket would cost about $100. Five unpaid tickets could wind up with the revocation of your driver's license.

Continue reading "Illinois House Approves Speeding Cameras Bill to Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago" »

The costs of fatal car accidents in Chicago have increased tremendously in recent years. According to USA TODAY, the average cost of a fatal car accident now runs about $6 million. A newly release report concludes that the cost of these accidents have surpassed the cost of traffic congestion. Traffic congestion costs include motorists' time and the waste of gas while idling. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety recently conducted the study in about 100 urban areas, including Chicago. In these areas, the cost of accidents are now at least three times higher than the cost of congestion, nearly $300 billion compared to about $100 billion.

AAA got its accident information from data collected by the Federal Highway Administration. These figures include costs pertaining to medical bills, lost earnings, property damage, legal costs, administrative costs, lost time at work, vocational rehabilitation, travel delays, emergency services, loss of household activities, pain, suffering and lost quality of life.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the costs for these accidents sat at around $3.25 million in 2005. During this time, injury accidents cost only about $68,000. The cost has nearly doubled since then. For many families, even those who don’t realize it, an accident can be among the biggest threats to their financial well-being. Medical complications can last years or take years to present themselves. If you've been in an accident, do you and your family a favor and consult an attorney to review your case.

This new study was conducted to help push the issue of transportation policies within Congress, which is currently considering a long-term highway funding bill, according to Chris Plaushin, AAA's director of federal relations.

"We wanted to raise the profile and raise the awareness," says Plaushin. "Right now, it's jobs, it's construction, it's economic growth that are being talked about. This is part of our effort to bang the drum about safety."

He says that it would be nearly impossible to attack congestion without affecting accidents and vice versa. Usually, highly congested areas have more reports of traffic accidents. Recent studies have concluded that roughly 40 percent of congestion is the result of accidents and weather and not from road conditions.

These traffic accidents continue to be the number one cause of death for people age 5- to 34-years-old in the United States.

The study also makes recommendations on how to reduce the costs associated with these accidents. These suggestions include investing more in roadway safety measures, including rumble strips, roundabouts in place of rumble strips, cable barriers, etc. Officials also recommend putting more laws into effect to help curb distracted driving, drunk driving and aggressive driving. All of these behaviors can be regulated with stricter enforcement.

"We know what's effective," said AAA spokesman Troy Green. "Tough laws. Stricter enforcement. Strict penalties. And targeted messaging and public education campaigns are effective, and we need more of those."

Continue reading "Fatal Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere Cost Residents nearly $300 Billion" »

A recent banquet, hosted by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), took the time to honor members or the Illinois State Police who took their DUI enforcement efforts to the next level. The ceremony was held at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. There were six Troopers from the ISP who were nominated for their efforts in fighting to prevent drunk driving car accidents in Illinois.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand how important DUI enforcement is, especially as we approach the end of the year and the holiday season. Each year, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s increase everyone's risk of being involved in a drunk driving accident. These drivers take the lives of innocent motorists year after year.

Troopers recognized at the MADD banquet:

-Daniel Erickson of District 7.

-Marvin Wagle of District 7.

-Marc Baker of District 14.

-Jason Czub of District 15.

-Jeffrey Nichols of District 17.

-Mark Nelson of District 22.

All of these troopers were recognized for their contributions and dedication to keeping our roadways safe for everyone. DUI enforcement and trooper involvement in the community are the effective ways to help to reduce the number of fatalities our roadways sees.

Some of the recognizable efforts of these troopers include helping to prevent underage drinking and various drunk driving prevention programs within their own communities. A number of state troopers were recognized for their efforts in racking up a significant number of DUI arrests in their districts.

Between Wagle and Erikson, there were nearly 240 DUI arrests made in 2010. The arrests by these two officers accounted for nearly 50 percent of the DUI arrests made throughout the entire year in District 7. Nichols was also recognized for the number of DUI he made in 2010, placing more than 80 drunk drivers behind bars and accounting for nearly 40 percent of District 7’s DUI arrests for the year.

“There is no greater satisfaction as a police officer than to realize your accomplishments are making a difference in the community you serve,” said Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau.

Grau went on to recognize the Trooper’s commitment to improving roadway safety for everyone in Illinois. He says he is not only proud, but is sure that these enforcement efforts helped to save lives on our roadways.

Drunk driving remains a significant safety issue. Every year, there are thousands of innocent people who die because of drunk driving accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were nearly 11,000 people killed because of these traffic accidents that involved an alcohol-impaired driver in 2009. Illinois witnessed nearly 400 fatalities from these incidents and that number could have been much higher if it wasn’t for the hard work of law enforcement and public education campaigns like those sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Continue reading "MADD and Our Chicago Car Accident Attorneys Recognize ISP's Fight Against Drunk Drivers" »

With snowfall snarling traffic in New York and New England, it is unfortunately not too soon for us to start talking about winter driving. When winter comes along and brings its wicked weather, motorists face an increased risk for a serious Chicago car accident. There are a few simple safety tips that every motorist can follow to help prevent a snowy accident on our roadways.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the end of the year brings out a ton of dangers for motorists on our roadways. Kids are getting out of school for winter break, residents are venturing out on holiday vacations, and traffic is reaching a crescendo all while snow and ice return to our roadways. With snowy conditions, drivers struggle to clear foggy windshields and to clear snow and sludge. Some of the snow-clearing clearing techniques can get pretty creative.

Sgt. Jim Jenker with the Illinois State Police says that he's even seen drivers reach out of their vehicle with an ice scraper to clear their windshield -- while they're driving!

"The worst case was the kids who used a rope tied across the windshield to manually operate the broken wipers," said Jenkner.

Winter driving tips:

-Make sure your tires are winter weather worthy.

-Make sure your car is equipped with enough windshield wiper fluid.

-Be sure to have a winter fluid in your wiper fluid reservoir with freeze protection of at least -25 F.

-Give your engine time to warm up. This will allow time for the oil pan to heat up to help protect your engine. About 10 minutes is good warm-up time.

-Keep a De-icer on hand. A De-icer can reduce freeze and can be used to melt snow. Ice Scraper, etc.

-Make sure that your vehicle's heating-defrosting system is working properly and has no blockages.

-Put together an emergency breakdown kit, including food, water, hand-warmers, blankets, road flares, flashlights and colorful sweatshirts to wear when near the road.

-Keep a full tank of gas. You don't want to run out in the middle of a snowstorm.

"Drive defensively, keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, reduce your speed, make sure you have good visibility," said John Mitchell of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

Driver's skills are just as important as keeping your vehicle in good working condition during the wicked winter weather.

Safe winter driving habits:

-Slow down. There's no need for speed when winter conditions leave deteriorating roadways. Stopping is much more difficult on slippery, slick roads that are covered in snow and ice.

-Keep your windshield clear at all times to increase your visibility.

-Stay in your lane. Only change lanes if you absolutely have to.

-Be super careful on ramps and bridges. These roadways ice up quickly.

-Allow snow plows the right-of-way. IDOT will use more than 300 snow removal vehicles on the expressway after snowstorms.

You're urged to check out the National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office's forecast for Chicago before heading out during any serious winter weather.

Continue reading "Wicked Weather on East Coast: Warning Upcoming Winter Season and Risks for Chicago Car Accidents" »

Illinois is making headlines again when it comes to teen driving safety! Our Chicago car accident attorneys would like to congratulate Illinois resident Judy Webber-Jones for being one of the winners of the National Safety Council's (NSC) 3rd Annual Teen Driving Safety Leadership Award.

This award is supported by safe driving advocates around the county, the NSC and the General Motors Foundation. The leadership award was presented to supplement National Teen Driver Safety Week, which takes place every year in October.

This award is presented to those who the NSC feels dedicate their time to reducing the risks of teen car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere and to saving lives on our roadways. Car accidents continue to be the number one killer of teens in the U.S. This cause of death takes more lives than the next three top killers combined for that young age group.

The NSC also awarded Kaylen Larson from Minnesota with this prestigious award.

“They have worked in ways that NSC believes have the strongest impact, such as engaging with elected officials and educating teens about the benefits of Graduated Driver Licensing – a method proven to reduce teen driver crashes,” said Janet Froetscher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council.

Weber-Jones knows much about the dangers that these young drivers face on our roadways. She was a driver's education teacher for over 25 years. She was recognized for her creation of a safety campaign that helped teens in the area and around the country to learn beneficial and lifesaving driving skills. That's not all though. Judy was also able to get a bill passed in Illinois that prohibits all drivers from using any kind of cell phone in a construction or in a schools zone.

Judy was able to increase fines for drivers who were busted speeding. For nearly three years she works alongside Rep. Bill Black and Gloria and Chuck Wilhelm to pass Matt's Law. This is a law that was created for Wilhelm’s son who was killed in a car accident with a distracted driver. Matt's Law prohibits drivers from text massaging behind the wheel in Illinois. She also conducts seminars and lectures about safe driving habits.

Organizations Judy has worked with to help push safe driving habits:

-Andy Pilgrim Foundation

-Illinois Teen Safe Driving coalition

-Shriners Hospitals for Children

-State Farm Foundation

-The Allstate Foundation

-Illinois Department of Transportation

-Illinois Secretary of State’s office

-Families Against Chronic Excessive Speed

Teen drivers are at serious risks for car accidents because of their driving inexperience. Providing young drivers with a thorough driving education is one of the best tools we can deploy to keep them safe on our roadways.

Both of the winners will be recognized and presented with their awards during the NSC Defensive Driving Awards Banquet. This event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 29th in Philadelphia.

Continue reading "NSC Recognizes Illinois Resident for Efforts in the Fight against Teen Car Accident in Chicago" »

Red-light cameras may be used for more than just catching drivers who drive through red lights. If Mayor Rahm Emanuel gets his way, the City of Chicago could use these cameras in the sky to bust speeding drivers in school zones, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Administrators believe that this kind of enforcement would help to keep children safe and would help prevent car accidents in Chicago. But critics of the technology say it's just another way for the cash-strapped city to reel in some dough.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that speeding contributes to far too many fatal accidents on our roadways. Speeding is especially dangerous when done through school zones and through residential zones with young pedestrians.

Officials claim that this strategy would help everyone to get the best of both worlds as City Hall, who is already on a tight budget, can earn extra cash while helping to keep pedestrians safe. Not everyone's buying it.

"The jury is still out on whether the red-light cameras are effective in terms of safety. ... So then it really becomes a revenue-raising tool, rather than a public safety tool, and I think there are more honest ways of raising money," said Ald. Joe Moore, 49th.

The transportation commissioner, Gabe Klein, is backing Emanuel's request for the cameras. Currently, Chicago has a number of red-light cameras scattered throughout the city, but they're not able to catch speedy drivers --only those who run red lights.

To allow these cameras able to catch speeding drivers, all officials would have to do is install a strip on the roadway to calibrate a vehicle's speed as they travel through an intersection. These devices will be able to provide an accurate speed reading that is concrete enough to hold up in court.

Klein says that the idea of the cameras isn't to bust a lot of speeders, write a bunch of tickets and collect the fees and fines; it's about getting people to slow down in the areas that are dangerous.

The proposal was recently presented by Michael Madigan of Chicago, the Democratic House Speaker. He says that these cameras would only be used in areas where safety measures need to be heightened, including college and university campuses, park districts and other school zones.

Before these cameras could be installed and used, officials would be required to install cautionary signs to warn drivers about the monitoring of their speed.

Emanuel's administration is pushing this proposal hard. City officials are armed with a plethora of information to back up their request. Through countless accident reports, the administration concluded that pedestrian accidents in Chicago are most commonly cause by a motorists who fails to yield. A pedestrian's risks of death increases nearly 10 times when a car is traveling just 10 mph over a 20-mph speed limit.

Back in 2003, red-light cameras hit Chicago after Mayor Richard Daley approved the measure. In 2008, they generated about $45 million in ticket fines. In 2009, nearly 800,000 drivers in the city were ticketed by these cameras.

Ald. Edward Burke questions their deterrent effect however. With so many tickets he wondered, are these cameras really stopping anyone from flying through these intersections?

Klein hasn't put an exact number on how many cameras the administration would like to see used to catch speedy drivers. But he reiterated that the money collected from these lawbreakers would be used to help fund infrastructure and transportation safety projects.

No one's sure how Springfield will feel about the proposal. Back in 2010, Springfield lawmakers passed a weak reform package that made it easier for drivers to appeal red-light camera tickets after local government received several complaints about the eyes in the sky.

If this proposal gets signed into law, it would be effective on July 1st of 2012.

Continue reading "Emanuel Proposes Cameras to Bust Speedy Drivers to Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago" »

A girl was seriously injured in a recent Illinois teen car accident, according to The Herald-News. A teen driver was in his pickup truck when he slammed into the female pedestrian who was walking along Bell and McEvilly Roads in Minooka where there are no sidewalks. The girl was taken to Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet and then later to Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

“The crash is being investigated and no charges have been filed at this time,” said Police Chief Justin Meyer.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand the dangers that teens face on our roadways and the dangers they present to other travelers. For this reason, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has released a new study to determine exactly what these dangers are and effective ways to reduce them. The new study determined that teen drivers are roughly 50 percent more likely to get into an accident in the first 30 days of driving than they were after having a year of unsupervised driving experience. And nearly twice as likely as they are after two years behind the wheel.

The recent study looked at teen drivers in North Carolina and noted the three most common driver errors among newly-licensed drivers:

-Failing to reduce speed.

-Driver inattention.

-Failing to yield.

In the first month of a teen's driving career, these three causes of accidents accounted for nearly 60 percent of traffic accidents in which teen drivers were at least partially responsible.

Researchers also studied various types of accidents in correlation with how long a driver had been licensed. The study concluded that the number of accidents that were experienced at fast-traveling speeds reduced as the driver gained more experience and time behind the wheel.

The study required the installation of in-car cameras to peek in on teen drivers as they were learning to drive with parents and guardians and then for six months without supervision. Researchers concluded that teens who obtained a learner's permit drove most of their time on routine trips on familiar roads in simple driving conditions. Once a driver could travel without supervision, that's when the mistakes started happening. The study concluded that these drivers experienced a number of close calls as a result of simple driving mistakes, which they attribute to driver inexperience.

In addition to the inexperience-related mistakes, teens oftentimes committed the following:

-Texting while driving.

-Horseplay and other interactions with passengers.

-Red-light running.

According to Kissinger, this study reiterates the fact that parents need to stay involved in their young driver's habits behind the wheel.

The AAA study continues to push the following suggestions to parents:

-Allow plenty of driving practice time. More experience behind the wheel may be your child's best protection against a traffic accident.

-Limit passengers. The risks for teen car accidents multiply when other teen passengers are present in the vehicle. Set limits with your teen driver and enforce them!

-Limit nighttime driving. In these driving conditions, a teen's risk for an accident increases because of the extreme reduction in visibility.

-Stick to your parent-teen driving contract! Make sure your contract covers driving rules for cities, highways, interstates, weather conditions, curfews and passenger limitations.

Continue reading "AAA Studies Teen Driver Risks to help Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Illinois, Nation" »

Our Chicago car accident attorneys have recently discussed the unfortunate number of impaired-driving accidents that our area sees every year. Many innocent motorists are killed because of the irresponsible decisions of others.

To help reduce the risks of these accidents, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working with vehicle manufacturers to create features that can test your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) before you're able to turn on your car. The NHTSA has partnered up with The Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS) and the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) to help make this vision a reality, according to Market Watch.

This device would not only help to prevent drunk driving-related car accidents in Illinois, but it has the potential to save lives on roadways around the world. To help with production of this device, the NHTSA has awarded TruTouch Technologies and Takata with more than $2 million in funding.

As the end of the year draws near and the holiday season approaches, we can assume from the trends of recent statistics that we will see an increasing number of alcohol-related accidents. Technology like this would be able to prevent these accidents and fatalities.

"As a company solely dedicated to automotive safety, we are excited with the contract from DADSS/ACTS to develop the TruTouch sensors for use in automotive, commercial vehicle and heavy equipment applications," says Kirk Morris, Vice President of Business Development of TK Holdings Inc.

Morris goes on to say that he wants to see a product that is able to test driver's BAC level without doing so in an intrusive way.

The TruTouch technology is a system that is able to detect a person's level of intoxication by just using infrared light. To test your BAC, all you have to do is touch your finger near or on one of the system's sensors. It's them able to analyze the alcohol concentration in a person's body.

This system has been proven to provide an accurate reading within just a few seconds. The feature also has a biometric system built into it so that no one is able to tamper with it. The companies hope that this technology will be accepted by drivers worldwide so that we can all see safer roadways. The product requires no operator assistance and requires no training for users.

In-car technology continues to advance. Drunk driving accidents are 100 percent preventable and if it takes a vehicle-safety feature to help prevent them, then so be it. It's clear that impaired drivers aren't going to hand over their keys any time soon.

According to the NHTSA, there were nearly 11,000 people killed in drunk driving car accidents in the U.S. in 2009. These accidents accounted for nearly a third of all traffic fatalities during the year. During this time, Illinois witnessed nearly 400 alcohol-related traffic accidents.

Continue reading "NHTSA Funding Technologies to Prevent Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Illinois, Nation" »

A recent car accident in Jasper County on Interstate 65 in Indiana surprised a Chicago resident as she sat on the side of the road with her disabled vehicle. The Chicago driver told officers that she pulled the car over because smoke started seeping out from underneath the hood. According to officers, the accident happened when a passing semi-truck struck the disabled vehicle and caught on fire.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that sometimes vehicle malfunctions happen and there's nothing we can do to completely prevent them. There is a way though that we can handle these situations to help keep everyone in the vehicle safe. There are certain safety tips that motorists should remember and exercise if they're ever stuck on the side of the road with a disabled vehicle.

The accident report stated that the Chicago driver and the 24-year-old passenger got out of the vehicle after they pulled it off to the side of the road. As the two were out examining the engine, a tractor-trailer merged over from the right-hand side of the roadway and hit the disabled car.

Since the two were standing in front of the car when the semi hit, they were injured. One motorist received a number of skull fractures and a gash on his head. The other motorist was thrown into a nearby ditch and suffered from a broken leg.

The driver of the semi told officers that he didn't see the disabled vehicle because there were no hazard lights activated.

The police report went on to state that the semi struck the vehicle, swerved to the left, flew into the median and struck the barrier cables. The fire started when the semi collided with the cables. The driver was able to escape the truck safely.

Both of the injured motorists were transported to Saint Anthony’s Hospital in Crown Point.

Follow these safety tips provided by Pep Boys if your car breaks down:

-Try to pull the car over as far away from traffic as possible. If there's an emergency lane, use it. If there's a grassy area near the lane, use that.

-If you're stopped because you've got a flat tire and there's no safe place to pull over, drive on the rim until you find a place. Ruining a rim is much less significant than losing a life.

-Make sure you always have warning devices with you, including triangles and flares. These should be placed a good distance from your car. The rule of thumb says that you should have three warning devices, placed at 25, 50 and 100 yards from your vehicle.

-Activate your hazard lights.

-Always travel with a cell phone.

-If your car is not stopped in a safe area, get out of the vehicle and move away from it. Otherwise remain inside with the doors locked and passengers buckled.

-If you have to walk to a phone, make sure all vehicle occupants walk together.

-Open the hood on your car.

-Tie a white cloth to your antenna.

-If someone asks you if you need help, remain in your car with the doors locked and ask them to call for help.

-Keep water, nonperishable food items and warm clothing in your car for scenarios like this one.

Continue reading "Disabled Cars Oftentimes lead to Car Accidents in Chicago" »

Since the beginning of the economic downturn, authorities are seeing fewer drunk driving accidents in Illinois and elsewhere, according to FOX News. A recently released federal study, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), surveyed more than 450,000 people and reported the lowest recorded number of drunk driving incidents since 1993.

The survey reported that we've seen a 30 percent drop since 2006, which was the peak period of these incidents.

According to the CDC there were 112 million drunk driving episodes last year. Many experts believe that the economy was a large contributor to this dip. Still 112 million drunk drivers on our roads is a far cry from clear sailing.

Our Chicago drunk driving accident attorneys understand that we could potentially see a whole lot more drunk driving accidents in the state with the holiday season approaching. Many residents and visitors head out over Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's to visit friends and family members. Unfortunately, a lot of these gatherings involve alcohol. And a lot of these events can turn deadly when it's time to call it a night and many of these impaired individuals get into their vehicles to drive home.

One important finding in the survey is that there was not a significant drop in the amount of alcohol that Americans were drinking. According to the survey's results, nearly 2 percent of the country's population reported to have driven at least once while intoxicated in the last 30 days.

“The four million adults who drink and drive each year put everyone on the road at risk,” said Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, CDC director.

Other findings in the CDC's survey:

-Men accounted for more than 80 percent of the country's drinking and driving accidents.

-Men ages 21- to 34-years-old accounted for more than 30 percent of all drinking and driving accidents even though in 2010 these individuals made up approximately 10 percent of the country's population.

-Binge drinkers are much more likely to drive after drinking.

-In the U.S., residents of the Midwest region were the most likely to drink and drive as they reported the most confessions.

According to the CDC, there were nearly 11,000 people who were killed in alcohol-related traffic accidents in 2009. These incidents accounted for roughly a third of all roadway fatalities during that year.

During the holiday season, we can expect to see more DUI checkpoints and more patrolling officers on our roadways to help combat the problem. We're asking all residents to celebrate responsibly throughout the rest of the year.

If you think you've spotted a drunk driver on our roadways, the Illinois State Police ask that you give the nearest State Police Headquarters a call. Make sure you have the location of the vehicle and the direction it's traveling, a description of the driver if possible and the make, model and color of the vehicle. Officers would appreciate the license plate number, but ask that you stay away from the vehicle to avoid an accident.

Continue reading "Fewer Chicago Drunk Driving Accidents Good News, But Awareness Key Heading into the Holiday Season" »

For the third year in a row the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is asking that all drivers put down the distractions during the "Heads Up Driving Week" campaign.

This year's event is taking place from October 2nd to the 8th. During this time, and throughout the rest of the year, drivers should place their full attention on the roadway to help prevent distracted-driving car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

AAA asks that you give it a whirl for just a week to see if your driving abilities improve. While you're at it, ask your friends and family members to try it too!

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that there are about 8,000 accidents that occur every day because of distracted drivers. All of these traffic crashes are preventable with a little more attention. Distracted driving doesn't only include the use of a cell phone. It can also mean eating, applying makeup, listening to music too loudly and interacting with passengers while driving. Numerous studies have been conducted on this dangerous driving behavior and the conclusions have all been the same -- distractions increase you risks for a fatal accident.

Distracted driving facts:

-More than a million people have been killed because of car accidents in U.S. in the last 25 years. Nearly 34,000 of these lives were lost in 2010.

-Studies reveal that drivers spend more than half of their driving time engaging in a distracting behavior.

-You are four times more likely to be involved in a car accident when engaging in distractions.

-Distractions can also include rubbernecking, eating, smoking and playing with the radio and they are just as dangerous as playing with a hand-held communication device.

-The number one reported distraction has been other passengers. Children are four times as distracting as adults and infants are at least 8 times as distracting.

According to a recent survey, more than 90 percent of drivers think that emailing and texting behind the wheel is unacceptable. Nearly 90 percent say that they support law prohibiting reading, typing or sending text messages while driving. Even with these viewpoints though, roughly a third of surveyed drivers reported that they had engaged in the dangerous driving behavior at least once in the last month.

It's no secret that each of us have a lot on our plate and a lot to get done before the end of the day. But we need to keep a car accident off that list. Drivers should focus all of their attention on the roadway when behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. These types of accidents are completely preventable and only take a little discipline and a little responsibility to avoid. Please participate in the week-long campaign and urge your loved ones to get involved as well. Paying more attention behind the wheel can help to save lives on our roadways. Get involved!

Continue reading "Heads Up Driving Week Aims to Help Prevent Distracted Driving-Related Car Accidents in Illinois, Nation" »

“You want a mix of country driving and urban driving, with different kinds of roads, with different kinds of weather," said Diana Horton of the Tri-County Driving School based in Kane County.

She's talking about young drivers and their experience through the Graduated Drivers Licensing (GDL) program in Illinois. This program is used to help educate teens to drive though a number of stages. The program aims to reduce the risks of teen car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

Our Chicago teen car accident attorneys understand that teens who participate in a GDL program typically experience a 26 percent decrease in the number of teen driving accidents. Unfortunately, CNN reports that older teen drivers are not seeing the same decrease -- another reason why parents should remain involved in their teen's driving through high school and even college.

The GDL program in Illinois, according to Cyber Drive Illinois:

15-year-old drivers, Permit Phase:
-Must be enrolled in a driver education course that has been approved by the DOT.
-May not drive from Sunday through Thursday between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
-May not drive on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
-Must pass a written and a vision exam.
-Must hold this permit for at least nine months.
-Must complete at least 50 hours of practice driving time with a licensed supervising adult.
-Can only have one front seat passenger and the number of seat belts in the back seat.
-All vehicle occupants under 19 must wear a seat belt.
-Drivers may not use a cell phone.

16- and 17-years-old, Initial Licensing Phase:
-A parent must certify that the driver has completed 50 hours of supervised driving.
-A parent must be present to obtain this license from the DMV.
-Must have completed the driver education course.
-May not drive from Sunday through Thursday between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
-May not drive on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
-Cannot have a traffic conviction with six months before applying for next license.
-All vehicle occupants under 19 must wear a seat belt.
-Can only have one passenger under the age of 20 at a time.
-Cannot use a cell phone while driving.

18- through 20-years-old, Full Licensing Phase:
-No previous restrictions pertain to this driving phase.
-Cell phone use by drivers under the age of 19 is prohibited.

Researchers are finding that it is when drivers complete the restricted phases of this system that they face an increased risk for a serious car accident. Many believe it's because they're finally handed total freedom behind the wheel and are oftentimes overwhelmed.

"The expectation was that older [teen] drivers wouldn't be affected much one way or the other, so this is a new thing to think about," says Anne McCartt, Ph.D., vice president for research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

According to The Beacon-News, there were nearly 150 teenagers killed in Illinois as a result of a traffic accident in 2007. Secretary of State Jesse White says that the number of teens that died in 2009 was half that, at less than 75. He continues to stick by his GDL program, saying that the recent increase in the restrictions within the GDL program has helped to drop this number.

Safe driving advocates continue to worry about our young drivers after they graduate from this program. Regardless, parents and guardians need to stay involved in their young driver's time behind the wheel. Keep safe driving as a frequent topic of conversation within your household.

Continue reading "GDL Program Risks for Car Accidents in Illinois for Graduated Drivers?" »

Bad cab drivers are frequently let off the legal hook -- leaving them behind the wheel and increasing your risk for a Chicago taxi cab accident.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers have watched as the government has waged a number of high-profile campaigns against unsafe commercial drivers this year. Commercial bus drivers and truck drivers have come under increasing fire. Cab drivers are often overlooked, however, despite the risk to passengers and other motorists.

The Chicago Tribune reports that Cook County judges have dismissed the vast majority of tickets given to cabbies. In one case, a cabbie was ticketed 34 times since 2008 -- violations included driving twice the posted speed limit, blowing through stop signs and causing at least three crashes before striking a pedestrian crossing Michigan Avenue.

But almost all the tickets were wiped from his driving record, permitting him to renew his license to drive a cab, year after year. The Tribune study found that chauffeur's licenses are routinely renewed -- even after a cabbie causes an accident that seriously injures or kills a pedestrian.

The city has a three-ticket-per-year limit for flagging dangerous cabbies. It uses a two-prong process to identify bad cabbies -- traffic court and citizen complaints. However, the Tribune review found cabbies faced few consequences for current violations. A review of 28 heavily ticketed drivers found two-thirds of violations were dismissed -- or about double the dismissal rate for the average motorist.

"When you have these repeat offenders who are still on the road, that's creating a lot of danger and a lot of unsafe conditions," said Ethan Spotts of the Chicago advocacy group Active Transportation Alliance. "People shouldn't be afraid to walk."

Safety advocates have a right to be frustrated. We continue to point out efforts to increase bicyclist and pedestrian safety within the city. No driver should be permitted to remain licensed with a deplorable driving record -- the fact that it is being permitted among drivers for hire is an outrage.

Meanwhile, the cab industry says drivers are ticketed more frequently because they spend so much more time on the road; and dismissals are likely high because they are more aggressive when it comes to combating the tickets and saving their jobs.

Continue reading "Lax Enforcement May Increase Your Risk of a Chicago Taxi Cab Accident" »

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) recently released a summary of the affects and consequences of distracted driving. The organization is giving the information to states, which are encouraged to make changes.

The information was taken from nearly 400 papers written between 2000 and 2011 about driver distraction. According to distraction.gov, more than 5,400 people were killed in 2009 because of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere that involved a distracted driver. Approximately 448,000 people were injured because of these incidents.

Out Chicago personal injury attorneys understand that distracting diving habits can oftentimes produce fatal consequences. Distractions affect a driver's ability to react to road hazards and could be involved in as many as 30 percent of all traffic fatalities. The new report, "Distracted Driving: What Research Shows and What States Can Do." aims to determine which countermeasures can be taken by state officials to help reduce the risks of these types of accidents.

The study was funded by a grant from State Farm. The report also illustrates exactly what distracted driving is, how a distraction can impact a driver's abilities, how often motorists are distracted behind the wheel, and what the crash risks are for these types of accidents.

“Despite all that has been written about driver distraction, there is still a lot that we do not know,” said GHSA Executive Director Barbara Harsha.

The distracted driving report made the following findings:

-Distractions significantly affect a driver's performance.

-Drivers have been found to drive while distracted about half of the time they're behind the wheel.

-Drivers have the ability to adapt. Drivers are able to focus more of their attention on driving and reduce the attention focused on a distraction in a risky driving scenario.

-Texting behind the wheel is much more dangerous that using a cell phone while driving.

States, according to the report, should consider the following countermeasures to combat the problem:

-Continue low-cost road measures, including centerline rumble strips. These strips alert drivers that a vehicle is drifting out of the lane.

-Consider enacting a texting ban for all drivers.

-Consider enacting a complete cell phone ban for all drivers. This ban is most effective when hands-free devices are included in the law.

-Keep a record of all distracted-driving accidents. This information will help officials to evaluate any current distracted driving laws or programs.

-Conduct research before enacting new distracted driving-related laws. Government officials should research areas in which the desired laws are already in effect to determine how they could potentially affect local traffic.

-Continue to enforce current distracted driving-related laws.

-Encourage all employers to create and enforce an anti-cell phone policy in the workplace. This is especially important for employees who drive on the job.

In the state of Illinois, all drivers are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving through a school zone or in a highway construction zone. All school bus drivers and those who are under the age of 19 are also prohibited from using a cell phone while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. All drivers in the City of Chicago have been banned from using a hand held cell phone while driving. No driver is the state is allowed to text while driving.

Continue reading "Study Focuses on Countermeasures to Reduce Risks of Distracted-Driving Car Accidents in Illinois and Elsewhere" »

National Passenger Safety Week is taking place from September 18th to the 24th. During this time, the Illinois State Police (ISP) will be continuing its efforts to help keep child passengers safe in the event of a car accident in Chicago or elsewhere in the state. During the 2011 safety campaign, the Department of Human Services will be joining the ISP to conduct a number of events and child seat inspections to help parents to learn how to properly buckle a child in a motor vehicle.

ISP Trooper Mindy Carroll says that all parents and guardians are encouraged to attend these events and to have their child's car seat inspected by a certified technician. During this time, parents will be taught how to properly buckle in a child's car seat. Recent statistics show that roughly 75 percent of child seats are improperly installed into motor vehicles.

Our Illinois child injury attorneys ask that all parents do their part to help keep our children safe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were nearly 1,500 children who were age 14-years-old or younger who were killed and another 180,000 who were injured in motor-vehicle accidents in 2009 in the U.S. We would also like to point out that nearly 250 child lives ages 4 and younger were saved in 2008 because they were properly buckled in their child seat. When these seats are used properly, they can reduce the risk of death by more than 70 percent for infants. The seats have the ability to decrease the risk of death for toddlers aged 1- to 4-years-old by more than 50 percent. Booster seats can reduce the risk of injury for children ages 4- to 7-years-old by nearly 60 percent.

"It's very important the car seat is secured properly inside the car and the child is secured properly inside the seat," says Carroll.

According to Carroll, the ISP follows the most recent child car seat recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Carroll goes on to instruct Illinois parents to keep all children that are under the age of 13 in the back seat. She also suggests that you keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as they're within the seat's height and weight limits as set forth by the manufacturer.

Illinois has enacted the Child Passenger Protection Act to further its efforts to keep our child passengers safe. This Act holds parents and guardians responsible for keeping children under the age of 8 safely and properly restrained in a child-safety seat. If you're busted with a child passenger who is not properly restrained, you can face a $75 fine for the first conviction. Illinois will waive the fee if you can prove that you have purchased or received an approved child seat and have had a technician properly install it into the vehicle.

Continue reading "Child Passenger Safety Week Kicks Off to Help Save Children in Illinois Car Accidents" »

Rain may have delayed the Geico 400 until Monday, but nothing takes away from the fact that the state of Illinois recently celebrated its 5th NASCAR race weekend. And this year, the weekend face opened up the 10-race Chase for the Championship.

From September 15th through the 18th, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) joined forces with Chicagoland Speedway and NASCAR to help raise awareness about the importance of safe driving habits. The event promoted both the "Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk" and the "Buckle Up America" safety campaigns in an effort to reduce the number of car accidents in Chicago, both on race weekend and through the upcoming holiday season.

“This productive relationship and popular racing venue has helped us deliver a positive message and dramatically impact driving behavior,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys understand that our state is the very first to team up with NASCAR to promote safe driving habits. Included in the event was prize drawings and a pledge for participants to make to drive safely on our roadways. Outreach programs were held in Champions Park, on the main Concourse, in the Midway and in the KidsZone. Child passenger safety was also a hot topic of the event. Drivers were urged to keep an eye on their speeds and to beware the dangers of potential driver distractions.

The vice president of public affairs and multicultural development, Marcus Jadotte, says the he and NASCAR were thrilled to be able to join efforts with IDOT and the Chicagoland Speedway. He says that this event was an excellent example of how the partnership continues to send a positive message to motorists, communities and NASCAR fans.

IDOT also invited a number of NASCAR racing teams to this year's event. With them came corporate sponsors and a number of drivers. Everyone joined together to support the cause.

NASCAR drivers in attendance at this year's event:

-Carl Edwards

-Clint Bowyer

-Reed Sorenson

-Trevor Bayne

-Stanton Barrett

-Colin Braun

-Cale Gale

-Kurt Busch

-David Ragan

-Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

-Travis Kvapil

-Johnny Benson

-Erik Darnell

One of the tops causes for car accidents in our area is driver inattention. We can all do our part to help reduce the risks of these accidents by just focusing some of our attention inward and correcting our own driving deficiencies. Some of these poor driving habits include driver fatigue, driver distractions, impaired driving and speeding. These are all poor habits that come with simple fixes.

In Illinois, there were nearly 290,000 traffic accidents in 2010. About 89,000 people were injured in these accidents and nearly 930 were killed. Although this is the lowest number of traffic accident-related deaths that have been recorded since 1921, we're still experiencing far too many. These numbers can be significantly reduced with safe, cautious and alert driving habits.

Continue reading "IDOT Teams with NASCAR to Reduce Risks of Car Accidents in Chicago " »

Your teen driver may be learning to drive in a vehicle that has some of the worst safety ratings. The Chicago Tribune looked into the matter in an attempt to figure out which cars our young drivers are learning in and the results are frightening.

A large number of Chicagoland schools are putting our teens in the driver's seat of vehicles that would likely not adequately protect them in the event of a Chicago car accident.

Our Chicago injury attorneys understand that the type of vehicle that a motorists drives has a significant impact on occupant safety in the event of an accident. Motorists are asked to consider crash and safety ratings before selecting a vehicle to purchase. The make and model of your car can mean the difference between life and death.

After examining the vehicles of 50 schools in the area, the Chicago Tribune discovered the following about driver's education vehicles:

-Safety is hardly ever a top concern for Illinois officials and schools district leaders when selecting a vehicle for students to drive throughout a driver's education course.

-The safety rating of a vehicle in a driver's education program varies widely according to the location of the school.

-Virtually no agency keeps track of the kind of vehicles and the safety rating of the course cars.

-Few regulations govern the selection process and the use of these vehicles.

Cars.com examined vehicles that were used for driver's training programs during the 2010 school year and discovered that many of the vehicles completely failed on crash-test scores.

The bottom 10 districts for driver's education vehicle safety:

1.) Chicago Public Schools. Grade: F

2.) Elgin, Ill., U-46. Grade: F

3.) (tie) Township District 214 Grade F

3.) (tie) Vernon Hills, Ill., District 128. Grade: F

5.) Romeoville, Ill., Valley View District 365U. Grade: F

6.) (tie) Hinsdale, Ill., District 86. Grade: F

6.) (tie) Woodstock, Ill., District 200. Grade: F

8.) Warren Township District 121. Grade: D-

9.) (tie) Elmhurst, Ill., District 205. Grade: D+

9.) (tie) Palatine, Ill., Township District 211. Grade: D+

Chicago Public Schools, operated the largest driver's education course in the state. This district reportedly uses vehicles with poor safety ratings. Most of the vehicles used in this program are older than the students.

The top 10 districts for driver's education vehicle safety:

1.) (tie) Bloom Township District 206. Grade: A+

1.) (tie) Orland Park, Ill., Community High School District 230. Grade: A+

3.) Niles, Ill., District 219. Grade: A+

4.) (tie) Lyons Township High School District. Grade: A

4.) (tie) J. Sterling Morton School District 201. Grade: A

6.) Naperville, Ill., District 203. Grade: A

7.) Community High School District 218. Grade: B

8.) Rich Township District 227. Grade: B

9.) (tie) Proviso Township District 209. Grade: B

9.) (tie) Thornton Township District 205. Grade: B

"You don't want these young drivers in cars that don't have air bags or that are 10 or 15 years old and frankly are unsafe," said aid Sen. Susan Garrett, D-Lake Forest.

The average age for vehicles that were used in the 2010 and 2011 school year for these programs was slightly newer than 5-years-old. More than half of the vehicles were purchased after 2009. Nearly 70 percent of the vehicles were purchased by districts after 2006. More than 80 percent of these vehicles we purchased after 2001.

Safety should be a top concern of all district officials. Student drivers need to be equipped with vehicles that have the ability to save a life in the event of an accident. Poorly maintained and aging vehicles are unacceptable for our inexperienced drivers who are already at a high risk for a car accident.

Continue reading "Driver's Ed Vehicles Could Be Endangering Teens in Chicago Car Accidents" »

There are a few simple steps that motorists can take on our roadways to help save lives in the event of a car accident in Chicago. Some of the simplest steps include wearing a seat belt and ensuring that all child passengers are properly buckled up as well.

According to a recent study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, some of the oldest safety precautions outweigh the benefits of new-car technology. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there were more than 32,750 people killed because of traffic accidents in 2009 in the United States.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that seat belts are one of the biggest lifesavers in the event of an accident. As a matter of fact, it's reported that more than 12,700 lives were saved in 2009 because of the use of seat belts. Estimates conclude that nearly 3,700 child lives over the age of four could have been saved if parent's would have properly buckled them in.

Seat belt usage is up a significantly from just 10 years ago. Many safe-driving advocates credit this increase to high-visibility enforcement efforts from law enforcement agencies and the increase in the number of states to enact primary seat belt laws. The national seat belt usage rate was about 85 percent in 2010.

Primary seat belt laws make it okay for officers to pull over a motorist simply for not wearing a seat belt. More than 30 states, including the District of Columbia currently have primary belt laws.

A parent can also help to save their child's life by properly buckling them up during all trips in the car. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently made some changes to its child safety seat recommendations, asking parents to keep their children in rear-facing car seats until they're 2-years-old or until they've reached the seat's height and weight limitations. Once a child has exceeded the limits for their rear-facing car seat, parents are urged to make the switch to the front-facing car seat.

Unfortunately, properly fastening these seats to the vehicle's seat is no easy task. As a matter of fact, more than 70 percent of parents misuse their child's car seat. CarSafety.org offers you a list of instructions on how to properly buckle in your safety seat. The website also provides you with reviews on popular car seats.

Once your child has outgrown their current front-facing car seat, it's time to advance them to a booster seat. Ideally, you want to place your child in a booster seat once they turn 13 or once they're 4 feet 9 inches.

“Any restraint is better than none, but to be most effective, it’s important that the restraint fits both the child and the vehicle,” says Institute senior vice president for research Anne McCartt.

Some of the best prevention measures rest in the hands of drivers. Motorists are urged to remain cautious and focused at the wheel at all times. Safe driving habits and proper restraints can help to keep you, your family and other motorists safe in the event if a car accident.

Continue reading "Simple and Old-Fashioned Tips to Prevent Injury in a Chicago Car Accident" »

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one of its recently conducted studies revealed that about 5 percent of drivers have fallen asleep at the wheel at least once in the last 30 days. The CDC conducted this study to truly illustrate the dangers of drowsy driving and the number of car accidents in Illinois and elsewhere.

Other studies reveal even more alarming statistics. The National Sleep Foundation also conducted a similar study that determined that about a third of all drivers have fallen asleep while driving over the last year. Another 13 percent of drivers from that study reported falling asleep while driving at least once over the last 30 days.

Our Chicago car crash attorneys understand that these statistics are likely much, much higher. Not all drivers will willingly report to an officer that they were fatigued or drowsy during a traffic accident. For this reason, no true number can be recorded. There's no equivalent to a Breathalyzer to monitor someone's level of sleepiness.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are approximately 100,000 motor-vehicle accidents that happen every single year that are caused by fatigued drivers. These types of accidents kill approximately 1,550 people and injure 71,000 more. These accidents result in nearly $13 billion in losses every year.

Some studies even conclude that about a fourth of all traffic accidents involve a drowsy or fatigued driver, according to Automotive Industry Today.

Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Both scenarios significantly reduce a driver's ability to respond to traffic challenges and road hazards. The Centre for Sleep Research, which is based out of Australia, concludes that a driver that has been awake for about 18 hours has the same reactions as someone with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05. A driver that has been awake for an entire day, or 24 hours, has the same abilities as a driver that has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10. In Illinois, a driver is legally drunk when they've hit a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08.

One of the most ineffective ways that a driver can try to "cure" their sleepiness is to just pull through it. Many drivers believe that they can just drink some caffeine, open the windows or turn up the music to wake them up. These are only temporary fixes and won't last long, putting you right back into serious risks for a car accident.

Tips to prevent fatigued driving accidents:

-Schedule driving breaks. A driver should stop every three hours. Use this time to get out of the car and stretch.

-Get enough regular sleep. Drivers who get an average of six or seven hours of sleep each night are as much as twice as likely to be involved in an accident as a driver who regularly gets eight hours of sleep. Drivers who average five hours of sleep are five times as likely to be involved in an accident.

-If you feel tired behind the wheel, pull over and rest or switch with a passenger. Never continue to drive if you feel sleepy at the wheel.

Continue reading "Fatigued Drivers Contributing to Risk of Car Accidents in Chicago" »

A 23-year-old driver could potentially face some serious criminal charges after failing to appear in court regarding a fatal distracted-driving car accident in Illinois. Radio 720 WGN reports that the accident happened when a woman was driving down Illinois Highway 53 as she was looking through her cell phone. Officials say that she crashed her vehicle into a pickup that was parked on the side of the highway. The 39-year-old owner of the pickup was outside of the vehicle changing his tire. After the accident, he was pinned and later died.

The female driver has been cited for improperly using the lane, texting while driving and driving on the shoulder of the roadway. Prosecutors are saying that with continued research, they could potentially file more serious charges against the driver, especially now that the victim has died.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand just how dangerous distracted driving can be. As we recently discussed on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, approximately 5,400 people died in 2009 because of accidents in the U.S. that reported the involvement of a distracted driver. There are a number of distractions that a driver can engage in, including the use of a cell phone, sending text messages, reading maps, interacting with GPS devices, talking with other passengers and listening to music too loudly. All of these distractions are preventable as are accidents that are caused by distracted drivers.

The day after the Illinois accident, the young driver confessed to looking through her phone's contact list just before the accident happened. She also said that she put her phone down just before her vehicle hit the truck. She says she was forced to swerve to avoid the accident. Instead, she overcorrected her turn, hit a semi and then slammed into the man's pickup truck.

The family of man fatally injured in the accident has filed a personal injury lawsuit against the young driver. They seek more than $50,000 in damages. The family states that they're merely seeking justice for the death of their family member.

The hearing has been scheduled for the 13th of October. Unfortunately, the judge was unable to issue a warrant for the defendant's arrest because she has only been cited for mere traffic violations.

"I have absolutely nothing I can do at this time," said the judge to the family.

According to Illinois state law, no driver is allowed to use a cell phone while driving through a school zone or a work construction zone. Drivers under the age of 19 have been banned from using a cell phone while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. All drivers in Chicago are prohibited from using a cell phone. Drivers throughout the entire state are prohibited from text behind the wheel.

Drivers using a cell phone are four times more likely to be involved in a motor-vehicle accident. Cell phone use gives a driver the same reaction time as a driver who is legally drunk with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08.

Distracted driving-related accidents are 100 percent preventable with proper driver awareness. If you absolutely need to take a call or respond to a text message, you're urged to pull over and deal with your business then. No one's life is worth losing over a phone call.

Continue reading "Fatal Distracted-Driving Car Accident in Chicago Could Result in Serious Criminal Charges" »

We can now say goodbye to the summer season. Unfortunately the risks of drunk driving car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere will not diminish as we head into football season and the year-end holidays. With the holiday season approaching, more and more drivers head out to local hot spots to celebrate good times with friends and family, according to KTTC.

To help reduce the risks of these drunk driving accidents, Pete McMurray, the morning show host for Chicago's 97.9 The Loop and NBC Chicago's "24/7" television show, uses his time on the air to raise awareness in drivers of the effects of driving while intoxicated. He uses his shows to educate his listeners about the dangers and the consequences that motorists face when sharing the roadways with an irresponsible and intoxicated drivers.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys understand that a large number of motorists are injured and killed by intoxicated drivers every year. To help combat this number, the Illinois State Police recently conducted a "Wet Lab Experiment." As we recently discussed on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, a wet lab experiment requires participants to consume an amount of alcohol that would place them at a legally drunk level (.08 blood alcohol concentration). They are then asked to complete a number of tasks that a normal drunk driver would if they were stopped by an officer, including a DUI arrest and Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs). McMurray was also a part of the demonstration.

McMurray participated in a wet lab experiment live during The Pete McMurray Show on 97.9 The Loop. The experiment took place late last month.

"It is important for people to know what effect even a single drink can have on your abilities and judgment. Even at 6am when we're starting the show and certain third shift socialites are just hitting their favorite pub," said McMurray.

Jane Monzures, the host of "Living Healthy Chicago" of WGN, also joined McMurray for the drunk driving awareness demonstration.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 300 people that were killed because of traffic accidents that involved an intoxicated driver in 2009 in Illinois. Our state reports that about 50,000 people are arrested every single year for driving while intoxicated.

After the experiment, members from the Chicago, Police Department, The National Transportation Safety Administration, the Illinois Department of Transportation, the media personalities and a number of other state officials participated in a press conference to discuss the findings of the wet lab.

It's no surprise that drinking and driving is a dangerous habit, yet far too many motorists continue to endanger innocent motorists on our roadways. With increased enforcement efforts and more conscious driving habits, we can all contribute our efforts to help make our roadways safer during the upcoming holiday season and year round.

Continue reading "Local Celebs Participate in Demonstration to Raise Awareness of Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois" »

Chicago has some of the worst drivers in the nation, according to Allstate Insurance.

Chicago was ranked 157th (out of 200 cities) on the safe driver list. Our area may have moved up 10 spots since last year, but ranking in the bottom quarter is no reason to celebrate. We are experiencing way too many car accidents in Chicago and a bulk of the blame is being placed on negligent drivers.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that there are a host of issues that make for dangerous driving, including distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, drowsy driving and aggressive driving. According to the study, a Chicago driver is involved in an accident every 8 years. The number of serious car accidents in our area can be greatly reduced with more aware driving efforts by motorists statewide.

The insurance company doesn't mean to alarm drivers with these statistics and these rankings. It releases these findings to encourage drivers to discuss and focus on safe driving habits. The company hopes that these rankings will encourage and inspire drivers to pay a little more attention behind the wheel.

“We don’t want drivers in Chicago to be discouraged by their ranking," said the Allstate Territory Sales Leader in Illinois, Judith Dodd. "Instead, we want the report to challenge drivers in Chicago to make positive changes to their driving habits that will in turn make the city a safer place to live, work and raise families.”

Allstate has been conducting this survey for the last 7 years. The study aims to figure out the likelihood drivers in America's biggest cities will be involved a traffic accident compared to the country average. Data from a two-year period is analyzed to ensure that outside causes, including weather and road construction do not alter the totals. For this report, a traffic accident is classified as an accident that resulted in a property damage claim. Allstate handles about 10 percent of all of the auto policies in the country. Its large representation makes this survey an accurate snapshot of driver's abilities in the country.

Allstate compiles traffic information regarding accident frequency to determine the rankings of the 200 cities. Only accidents in which significant automobile damage was sustained is included in the tallies, not mere fender benders, according to the Huff Post.

"Human behavior is the biggest cause of accidents. It is vital for us to educate American drivers about safe driving behaviors they can demonstrate on the road that will help make our roadways safer," said Mike Roche, executive vice president, Allstate's Claim Organization.

A passenger vehicle is a motor vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were approximately 10,111,000 vehicles that were involved in police-reported traffic accidents in 2008 in the United States. About 94 percent of these vehicles were passenger vehicles. Nearly 80 percent of these fatalities occurred to occupants of passenger vehicles. Another 2.35 million people were injured because of these incidents.

The NHTSA reports that nearly 750 occupants of passenger vehicles died as a result of motor-vehicle accidents in Illinois in 2008.

We encourage all motorists to remain focused on the roadway, regardless of which state you may be driving in. Safe driving habits may be the most beneficial way to help reduce the risks of the being involved in a serious car accident.

Continue reading "Windy City Drivers Among the Nation's Worst -- Chicago Car Accidents Often Result" »

An Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) construction worker was recently hit and killed in a work zone by a Grand Marquis driven by a 67-year-old man, according to the Chicago Tribune. The Illinois car accident happened around 8:30 a.m. as the driver took a left-hand turn from Route 47 onto the westbound lanes of Route 14 in Woodstock.

The IDOT worker was transported to Woodstock Centegra Hospital by paramedics from the Woodstock Fire Rescue District. He was later pronounced dead. Charges against the motorists are currently pending. The city is awaiting the results of a drug and alcohol test.

Our attorneys recently reported, on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, that a number of state organizations and law enforcement agencies unveiled a National Work Zone Memorial Wall. The Memorial was available for viewing at the Illinois State Fair. The Illinois State Police, the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) and the Associated General Contractors revealed the memorial to help recognize the employees that have been killed in our state's work zone. The wall also aims to raise awareness about the importance of safe and cautious driving habits within construction areas.

"This unfortunately is a tragic reminder of the dangers of driving through work zones. We'd like to take this time to urge motorists when they're driving through and even approaching work zones to be especially aware and alert because lives truly are at stake," said IDOT spokesman Guy Tridgell.

According to IDOT, there were approximately 1,000 traffic accident fatalities in both 2009 and 2010 in our state. While this number may still seem alarmingly high, this is the lowest-recorded two years since 1921.

IDOT has been focusing much of its efforts on keeping our roadside workers safe. There have been a number of safe-driving campaigns, including "See Orange. Slow Down. Save Lives," to help raise awareness about the dangers that construction workers face in our work zones. The IDOT has also focused on making changes to help keep a safe flow of traffic through these areas. Improvements include automated work zone speed limit enforcement, safety engineering, signing enforcements and infrastructure improvements.

“The National Work Zone Safety Memorial symbolizes the collective efforts and commitment of all states for the ongoing challenge to prevent work zone crashes,” said Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

More efforts are needed however to combat the number of fatal traffic accidents that we're seeing in Illinois. As of August 23rd, more than 560 people have died because of car accidents in Illinois.

Many accidents in construction zones occur because drivers are not paying attention. As the speeds and traffic patterns change frequently in these areas, it's important to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel at all times. It is especially important to curb all distractions when traveling through a work zone. Distracted driving is one of the top causes for car accident-related accidents in the construction industry. We would like to take this time to remind you that Illinois state law prohibits drivers from using a hand-held phone while driving through a construction zone.

Continue reading "IDOT Worker Involved in Illinois Work Zone Car Accident Pronounced Dead" »

As often the case, holiday weekends in the Chicago area can result in serious auto accidents, and this weekend was no exception.

In one Illinois motor vehicle crash, a motorist has been charged with DUI after driving his SUV off the roadway and hitting a tree on the Eisenhower Expressway on Labor Day morning around 5:20 AM. The incident occurred around Kostner Avenue and both he and his passenger were seriously injured, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Both the Illinois State Police and the Chicago Fire Department responded to the scene of the accident. Both the driver and passenger had to be removed from the vehicle by rescue personnel. Both were taken to area hospitals serious condition, but luckily their injuries were reportedly not life-threatening.

Several lanes of the interstate were closed for a few hours for the investigation. Police have not released the name of the alleged intoxicated driver, nor has it been reported what facts lead investigating officers to believe the driver was DUI.

In another Chicago area single car crash, a 16-year-old teenager was killed in a 17-year-old was seriously injured, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Both were from North Chicago, Illinois. Police believe the vehicle the 16-year-old was driving was traveling at a high speed when it drove off the road and hit a tree in the area of 942 Fulton Ave., Waukegan early Wednesday morning.

Government officials stated the impact cut the vehicle in half. The rear half of the car ended up against the front of a house and the front half was upside down in a nearby yard.

The driver was partially ejected from the car. An autopsy revealed he sustained multiple internal injuries from deceleration in a high-speed collision.

The passenger was taken by ambulance to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, Illinois with non-life-threatening injuries.

The collision is being investigated by the Waukegan Police Department's major traffic accident unit. Police say there were no witnesses and the incident is still being investigated. Police received a call about the crash around 2:45 AM.

In yet another deadly incident, a toddler was killed in an Illinois pedestrian accident, according to ABC news. The driver involved, 45-year-old woman, has been charged with failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

The collision occurred on Saturday on the South Side of Chicago in the West Pullman neighborhood. The victim, 23 months old, was rushed to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oaklawn where she was pronounced dead a short time later.

The child and her grandmother were reportedly within a crosswalk when they were hit by a van.

It has not been reported if a Chicago injury lawyer is involved in any of the above cases yet or if a civil lawsuit has been filed.

Continue reading "Labor Day weekend sees a series of dangerous Chicago-area car crashes" »

Many residents use the Labor Day holiday weekend to celebrate one last time before saying goodbye to summer. This is also a time when we see an increased number of drunk driving accidents in Illinois. To help combat the problem and to keep motorists safe, the Illinois Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies across the state will be on the hunt for intoxicated drivers. To help get the word out about the dangers and the potential consequences of drunk driving, law enforcement conducted a "wet lab" demonstration. The demonstration is all a part of the state's “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign for the upcoming holiday. Officers will be on the lookout for all impaired drivers from now through the first week of September.

“The demonstration today illustrates how devastating alcohol impairment is on a person’s judgment, control and ability to operate a vehicle,” said Acting Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that most residents will be using the long Labor Day weekend to get out of the house and to have some fun with friends and family. Unfortunately, what's not factored into weekend plans are the dangers motorists who are expected to be on our roadways. To help reduce these dangers, police across the state will be enforcing traffic laws and busting motorists who fail to consider the safety of others.

Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Hiram Grau says that he just wants everyone to make it to where they're heading safely this weekend. He warns motorists that there will be a number of areas that will be targeting speeders, distracted drivers, motorists not wearing a seat belt and those who are driving drunk. Officers are targeting these four violations because ISP says that they are the four riskiest driving behaviors. If you're busted for violating any of these laws, you could face a number of fines and potentially wind up in jail.

During a wet lab demonstration, a person is asked to consume an amount of alcohol that would make them legal drunk. Those watching the demonstration can get a feel for exactly how alcohol affects a person's ability to drive and their judgment. They get to see how the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) work and how an arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) goes down.

They also get to see what an ignition-interlock device is and how it works. Illinois was one of the first states in the country to require that first-time DUI offenders install an interlock device on their vehicle. These systems require that a driver pass a breath-alcohol test before the vehicle can be turned on. The device also requests random tests throughout a drive to ensure that it's the driver who is interacting with the system.

In the two and a half years since the state started installing these in the vehicles of first time offenders, the number of participants has jumped from just 3,000 to approximately 12,000 annually.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys would like to ask everyone to be safe over the holiday weekend and to avoid drinking and driving at all costs. If you spot a driver that you believe to be intoxicated, you're urged to contact local authorities. Your phone call can help to save someone's life.

Continue reading "Officers Crackdown on Intoxicated Drivers to Prevent Fatal Car Accidents over the Labor Day Weekend" »

As our teens head back to school for another year, officials head back to the drawing board to figure out ways to help keep our teen drivers from being involved in a car accident in Illinois. In another effort to keep our young driver safe, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recently teamed up with the Illinois Secretary of State and Illinois State Police (ISP) to kick off the fifth year of the Operation Teen Safe Driving (OTSD) program.

“Whether the issue is texting, speed, or distracted or impaired driving, the program is successful because teens are directly educating their peers about the hazards of irresponsible driving behavior, and the messages continue to resonate with one another,” said Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand the number of risks that our teen drivers face on our roadways. Their inexperience behind the wheel leaves them extremely vulnerable to serious traffic accidents. With the proper driving education and with the help of parents, teens can be taught the skills necessary to help keep them safe.

Currently, the state of Illinois requires that's its newly licensed drivers complete a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. This is a system that allows teen drivers to learn how to drive through a three stage process in which they must abide by a number of restrictions.

Illinois GDL program:

-15-year-old drivers: Drivers in this age group must always ride with a licensed parent or guardian. They must also be enrolled in a driver's education program and must pass the exams. They're not allowed to drive Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. On Thursday and Friday these drivers can drive until 11:00 p.m. A driver must hold this license for a minimum of nine months and complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving with 10 hours of the 50 occurring during the evening hours. Drivers that are 15-years-old are not allowed to use a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.

-Drivers Age ages 16- and 17-years-old: Driving is prohibited from Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. for drivers in this age group. They're allowed to drive until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Drivers must maintain a conviction-free driving record for the six months before they turn 18 before they can graduate to the Full Licensing Phase. All drivers in this age group must wear a seat belt while driving and can only have one passenger in the front seat. Drivers in this age group are prohibited from using a cell phone.

-18- to 20-year-old drivers: A driver can now drive with normal unrestricted license privileges provided they've passed all of the other licensing stages. No driver under the age of 19 is allowed to use a cell phone while driving unless they're using it for emergency purposes.

"Teen drivers who are educated and informed, develop safe and responsible driving habits as adults - and that is a safety goal OTSD is already achieving," said ISP Col. Robert Haley.

More than 100 local high schools participated in the fifth year of the Operation Teen Safe Driving program in an attempt to help educate young drivers. These students participated in a number of school assemblies, accident enactment seminars, fatal accident simulations and other informational events.

Each school was able to fund the program through a $2,000 grant from the participating organizations. Each school then participated in a contest to determine who led the best and most effective peer-led teen safe driving program. Winning schools received prize money to help them fund post-prom events aimed at encouraging kids to stay sober this school year.

They were also invited to participate in the Ford Motor Company Fund’s Driving Skills for Life Ride and Drive event.

As teens head back to school this year, parents are urged to speak with the young driver's in their life about the importance of safe driving habits.

Continue reading "As the School Year Begins, Officials Focus on Preventing Teen Car Accidents in Illinois" »

Distracted driving has become a critical safety issue in recent years with the continuous advancement in technology and is now a contributing factor in a great number of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in the world.

Now, Car Talk has totaled the costs of distracted driving, according to the Chicago Tribune. According to the National Safety Council, each distracted driving traffic accident costs about $1,130,000 if there's a fatality, approximately $61,600 if there's a resulting injury and about $7,500 per accident resulting in property damage. Nearly 30 percent of all traffic accidents involve a distracted driver. These are accidents that can all be prevented.

The occurrence of these accidents is expected to be even higher than statistics conclude because many are not reported. In 2009, there were approximately 5,400 people killed in traffic accidents that reported the involvement of a distracted driver. Another 450,000 motorists were injured in these accidents. Experts also estimate that the number of these preventable accidents has increased by as much as 10 percent just in the last 5 years.

Our Chicago car crash attorneys understand how dangerous it is to drive distracted. Nowadays, distractions include other passengers, mobile devices, music, eating at the wheel and grooming, to name a few. No driver should participate in any of these activities while operating a motor vehicle as the results can oftentimes be deadly. Distractions can either take your mind or eyes of the road and your hands off the wheel.

An insurance company recently paid out more than $30 million in a settlement for a deadly car accident that was caused by distracted driving, according to Jesse White, the Secretary of State.

Illinois roadways are dangerous enough as it is without the involvement of distraction. According to recent statistics, our state experiences more than 700 traffic accidents every day. This means that we see nearly 240,000 motor-vehicle accidents every year.

Here are some other Illinois traffic accident facts:

-Accidents resulting in injury: more than 197,000.

-Alcohol-related accidents: more than 20,000.

-Drug-related accidents: nearly 2,000.

-Pedestrian accidents: nearly 8,500.

-Motorcycle accidents: nearly 9,000.

-Teen accidents: nearly 25,000.

-Bicycle accidents: almost 5,000.

Currently, drivers in the state of Illinois are not allowed to be on a cell phone if they are driving through a construction zone or through a school speed zone or if they're under the age of 19 and have a learner's permit. No driver in the state of Illinois is allowed to text message while driving. This is a primary law, meaning that an officer can pull you over for the offense if they witness you in action. The text messaging law went into effect back in January of 2010. You will receive a $75 fine if you're busted.

Our state will continue to campaign about the danger of distracted driving through public campaigns, including the “Drive Now. Text Later” campaign.

Continue reading "Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Chicago Believed to be underestimated" »

Drunk drivers are the target of a new campaign headed by a number of local police departments and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The campaign, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” will include a two-week enforcement effort consisting of roughly 350 sheriff's offices and police departments across the state. The enforcement efforts will continue through the first week of September in an attempt to bust drunk drivers before they cause a potentially fatal car accident in Illinois.

“Impaired driving is a serious crime plaguing our society, and affecting the lives of innocent, law abiding motorists on a regular basis,” said Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

Our Chicago drunk driving accident attorneys understand how dangerous these drivers are and how important it is to set up tough efforts to stop them. Through this new campaign, enforcement agencies throughout the state are prepared to take on these careless and reckless drivers.

Officials are also looking to crackdown on drivers that are not wearing a seat belt.

Through the enforcement period, the state of Illinois will conduct more than 200 roadside safe driving checkpoints. There will be hundreds of seat belt and intoxicated driving saturation patrols.

According to IDOT, both impaired driving and drivers not wearing a seat belt are a big problem that officials witness mainly during the evening hours. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drivers are at the most risk for a car accident during 12:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. in the state of Illinois. This time period also reports the lowest seat belt usage and the highest percentage of drunk drivers.

“Violating these laws can result in fines and possible jail time and will be treated as criminal acts by the police and court system,” said ISP Director Hiram Grau.

Illinois accident statistics conclude that there are more than 300 fatalities each year that result from traffic accidents that involve an impaired driver. Hundreds more are injured in the incidents.

During the 2010 Labor Day weekend, which is calculated from 6:00 p.m. from the Friday before the holiday to 11:59 p.m. of Labor Day, more than 10 people were killed in traffic accidents. One of these deaths involved an intoxicated driver. Nearly 800 people were injured on our roadways during the 2010 holiday weekend. There have been roughly 70 deaths from traffic accidents from 2006 to 2010 on holiday weekends. Nearly 40 percent of the fatalities were caused by car accidents that involved an impaired driver.

Local police ask that you help with the efforts by doing the following if you suspect that a driver is drunk:

-Take note of the make, model and color of the vehicle that the alleged intoxicated driver is operating.

-Call local authorities with the information. Include the location of the vehicle and the direction it's traveling. If possible, give them the license plate number but don't get too close to the vehicle to get it. If you can see the driver, provide officials with that information, too.

-Back off. Don't try to stop the driver. Doing so can put you and your vehicle's occupants in a compromising situation. Leave the rest of the job in the hands of officers.

Continue reading "Law Enforcement Steps Up Efforts to Reduce Risks of Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois this Holiday Weekend" »

Two people have died in an Illinois car crash caused by a man who drove his red Porsche the wrong way down an Illinois tollway. The man had allegedly been arrested for DUI twice in the past, the Chicago Tribune is reporting. Police are still trying to figure out why the man was driving recklessly and why there was U.S. currency flying out of the care before the accident.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the collision occurred near Lisle, Illinois on I-88, in between I-355 and Route 53, during the early evening on Saturday. The 43 year-old driver of the Porsche was heading east when he used an emergency vehicle turnaround to enter the westbound lanes, and continued to head east. Soon after, the Porsche collided with a 2004 Toyota Corolla carrying three people, killing two and placing one in critical condition.

Illinois State Police identified the two victims as a 37 year-old woman and her 74 year-old father. A 42 year-old passenger is in critical condition. The family was on their way to a mosque when the crash occurred, and other family members headed to the same destination were close enough to hear the collision and make an attempt to pull the victims from the wreckage.

The Chicago Tribune later reported that witnesses saw money flying out of the Porsche as it was driving down the road. One witness said that when she passed by the driver, she saw the man grab a handful of cash from his passenger seat and throw it out the window. She also saw multiple cars pull off to the shoulder of the road in what she assumed was an effort to pick up the ejected money.

The man’s previous DUI arrests were drug, not alcohol related, the Tribune article stated, although he was convicted in 2010 for transporting open alcohol containers after police found three empty beer cans in his car. The man had been a practicing dentist in Naperville, Illinois, but had quit around a year ago because he said he was losing money. On July 28 of this year, his mortgage company filed foreclosure documents on his Naperville, Illinois home.

No matter how many precautions you may take while driving, there are always factors beyond your control that can cause serious injury or death, such as the wrong way motorist in this accident.

It has not been reported if a Chicago injury lawyer is involved in this case yet or if a civil lawsuit has been filed.

Chicago car crash attorneys have reached a settlement on behalf of a Cook County resident that was injured by an inattentive driver who rear-ended him as he was preparing to turn into a shopping mall parking lot. The victim suffered injuries to his neck and back.

On September 24, 2009, our client was traveling southbound on 25th Avenue in Bellwood, Illinois when he turned his right turn signal on and began to slow down to an appropriate turning speed. Before he could attempt the turn, a 1994 Chevy Lumina failed to yield to the victim and rear-ended his 2006 Honda Ridgeline. The Bellwood Police Department responded to the scene and after a brief investigation, they placed the driver of the Honda at fault.

Immediately following the collision, the victim had an onset of back and neck pain that required him to be taken to Loyola University Medical Center by ambulance. The hospital performed a series of diagnostic tests and initially diagnosed him with a cervical strain and thoracic spine pain. He was placed in an aspen collar, prescribed pain medication, and instructed to seek follow up treatment with an orthopaedic doctor.

Six days after the accident occurred, ongoing and worsening pain in the victim’s neck, right arm, and left arm necessitated a trip back to the hospital emergency room. After more tests, doctors found that he had tenderness in the paraspinal musculature and instructed him to begin physical therapy and seek further treatment if necessary.

After an examination by an orthopedic physician in October, the doctor ordered an MRI as he believed the plaintiff may have sustained a herniated disc in the accident. The MRI results showed plaintiff sustained a disc bulge with at C3-4 level, peripheral right sided neural foraminal encroachment and impression upon the thecal sac, a right sided posterolateral disc herniation at the C4-5 level, encroachment of the exiting nerve root zone, and proximal right neural foramen, and a disc bulge at the C7-T1 level and peripheral neural foraminal encroachment bilaterally.

The doctor recommended that he receive a cervical spine epidural injection if his radicular symptoms continued. Our client completed fifteen sessions of physical therapy, but the pain of the injury continued, limiting his ability to conduct daily life activities.

Illinois injury attorneys at our office obtained the defendant's $20,000 insurance policy limits. The case against the at fault driver resolved without having to commit to a time-consuming and expensive lawsuit. That being said, attorneys at our office believe the value of his injuries are greater than $20,000, so we are now pursuing an underinsured motorist claim against the plaintiffs own auto insurance carrier to recover an additional amount.

You may be entitled to compensation for your auto accident injuries if they were caused by the fault of another. Contact the lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation case evaluation and see what your options are. Call (866) 99-ABELS.

A recent three-car accident in Illinois seriously injured two children. The traffic accident took place at Illinois 15 and 74th Street. According to Police Capt. Don Sax, an 11-year-old girl and a 9-year-old boy were transported to a St. Louis hospital and both were listed in serious condition, according to Belleville Daily News.

The accident happened when the driver of a van slammed into the back of the vehicle that the child passengers were in as the light changed to green and the family's vehicle started to pass through the intersection. Officials did not see any skid marks left from either of the vehicles, which indicates that the mini wan was traveling at full-speed, or at about 55 mph. The family's vehicle was pushed into an SUV that was in front of them.

We can expect to see an increased number of car accidents on our roadways throughout the rest of the month as August has been repeatedly proven to be the deadliest month on all U.S. roadways. According to MSN Money, more accidents have occurred in the month of August than during any other month since 1994. Our Chicago auto accident attorneys understand that one of the top contributors to this trend is the increase in traffic during August. This is one of the busiest months on our roadways and many residents are out taking summer trips, running errands and venturing out on vacations.

More specifically, August has a death rate of 1.09 per 100 million miles traveled. The second deadliest month is September with a death rate of 1.08. The safest month to be on our roadways is March as it has a death rate of 0.94.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there was an average of 93 people killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. every day in 2009. That equals one traffic fatality every 16 minutes. Through extensive research, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has concluded that 7 of the deadliest 25 days occur in the month of August.

Residents typically have more time for travel in August. For the same reason, we experience more traffic-accident fatalities on weekends rather than on weekdays. Weekends are also a time when we witness more drunk driving.

Saturdays are the deadliest of the weekend days. In 2009, Saturdays averaged about 123 deaths a day. Sundays averaged about 107 deaths a day, followed by 103 deaths on Fridays.

Here are the week's remaining average daily roadway fatalities for 2009:

-Mondays: 79 deaths.

-Wednesdays: 78 deaths.

-Thursdays: deaths 84.

"A large proportion of crashes happen in late afternoon and early evening in general, but especially in August," says Russ Rader, a spokesman for the institute. That's when the roads fill up both with commuters and vacationers.

The Institute reports that more than 33,800 people were killed in traffic accidents on U.S. roads in 2009:

-Those ages 13 to 15 accounted for 2 percent of all traffic fatalities.

-16 to 19: 9 percent.

-20 to 34: 31 percent.

-35 to 49, 23 percent.

-50 to 69, 22 percent.

-70 and up, 12 percent.

Continue reading "Two Children Injured in a Three-Car Accident in Illinois" »

Connected cars could soon be flooding our roadways in an attempt to reduce the risks of Chicago car accidents. But wait! Safe driving advocates are worried that the technology within the new smart cars will require complex interactions between multiple software and service providers, according to Forbes. As drivers purchase vehicles in the coming years, they will be directed to configure their vehicle via the Internet. This configuration will offer the vehicle a number of enhancements and alterations, including desktop and mobile Web portals and smartphone apps. Through this update, drivers would integrate their smartphone with their vehicle system and will be provided with a safety-focused link for driver services.

This system comes with some expected complications as services become more complex. Safe driving advocates cite the range of entertainment and information services that can be accessed through the smartphone as potential driver distractions. It's no surprise that drivers are already engaging in these activities as these devices have become expressions of our digital selves. They have the ability to capture and communicate our trips and travels and the success of this technology is reflected in the rate of accidents caused by distracted driving.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that many motorists anticipate the new technology; it can be used to reduce unwanted service trips and increase gas mileage. These smart cars will also come with additional safety services, such as crash notification and roadside assistance. But all these features serve as potential distractions to drivers.

While self-driving vehicles aren't in our immediate future, they sure are on their way. Some believe that this emerging vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure technology could be the key to preventing accidents.

That form of technology uses wireless communication between vehicles, traffic signals, speed detection radar and smartphones to detect when other vehicles are dangerously close and may cause a serious accident. When the technology senses these dangers, it warns drivers so that they're able to avoid the collision. The vehicle can even activate brakes automatically if the driver fails to respond.

"I just don't think the America public is ready for a driverless car," says National Highway Traffic Safety Association Administrator David Strickland. "I've ridden in Google's car and it is fantastic, but it is not foolproof."

To get the technology to our roadways as quickly as possible, the U.S. Department of Transportation is conducting extensive research on the systems. They estimate that the technology could prevent up to 80 percent of potential accidents.

"We are extremely encouraged by the research, analysis of the safety data, and the ongoing work that all point to vehicle-to-vehicle as the next major safety breakthrough," said Strickland.

Until driverless vehicles become the norm, drivers will no doubt welcome the new smartphone features. When the car is in park, the vehicle will enable full smartphone access. During this time, a driver can interact with apps and cloud services via vehicle resources, including a smart display screen and knobs. Upon moving, the vehicle will turn off screen images that cause distraction. It will take it even one step further though, by shutting down all touch controls and requiring voice commands while in the vehicle is in motion.

While manufacturers continue to push new technology for safer roadways, we must remember that there is nothing safer than alert and focused driving habits as computer systems and other technological advancements are not free from malfunctions. Keep your eyes and ears on the road and curb potential distractions to help avoid a fatal car accident.

Continue reading "New Technology Aims to Curb Driver Distractions and Prevent Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

A number of lanes on the outbound Eisenhower Expressway near Austin were shut down because of a fatal SUV accident in Chicago that happened during early morning rush hour, according to NBC Chicago.

The accident occurred just before 4 a.m. on I-290 just west of Austin. The 18-year-old driver of the SUV was thrown from the vehicle when he lost control of his SUV, crashed into the median and flipped over. The young driver was killed in the accident, according to Illinois State Police. The teen driver was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident and speed might have been a factor in the crash.

Just a few days later, all of the lanes of the inbound Stevenson Expressway were closed for approximately six hours because of a fatal car accident with a dump truck, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand the dangers of driving on interstates and highways. High speeds often contribute to serious or fatal injuries. And morning and afternoon commutes are rife with distractions -- including cell phones, breakfast, grooming and an array of assorted tasks best left outside the vehicle.

Here is the most recent data regarding Illinois Fatal Crash Data for year-to-date 2011 (August 11), provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT):

-There have been 460 fatal traffic accidents.

-Fatal accidents took the lived of 509 people.

-Fatality numbers for 2011 year to date was 518.

-We have experienced 9 less fatalities year to date from 2010.

Follow these safe driving tips to help prevent a fatal expressway car accident:

-Don't tailgate. Make sure you keep a safe following distance by using the “3 second rule.” This means you should keep 3 seconds of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. You are able to time this by finding a fixed object on the side of the road and measuring the amount of time between when the car in front of you passes the object and when you pass that same object.

-Look ahead. You are urged to keep your eyes on the roadway ahead of you so that you're able to detect upcoming changes in speed or obstacles before you reach them. By looking ahead, you will have ample time to react to changing highway conditions.

-Abide by the posted speed limit. Speeding can increase your chance of a fatal accident.

-Be aware of your blind spots. Be aware of your surroundings at all time. Check blind spots before changing lanes.

-Always use your signals. Signaling before making any change in direction increases your predictability and decreases your risks for a serious collision.

-Keep to the right. The left lane on a divided highway is not a "fast" lane but more of a passing lane.

-After you pass someone, move into the right lane once you've safely cleared the vehicle.

-Carry a cellular phone in case of emergencies.

Continue reading "Expressways Experience Frequent Fatal Car Accidents in Chicago" »

A teenage driver and a private in the Illinois Army National Guard lost their lives in a single-car accident in Illinois. It happened when the vehicle left the road, spun out into a ditch and then struck a tree, according to the Woodridge Patch. The two later passed away at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

The type of vehicle your teen drives can mean the difference between life and death in the event of an accident, but how do parents select a vehicle that is both safe and affordable? Our Chicago car accident attorneys are parents, too! We understand there are a lot of questions that need answering before purchasing a vehicle. You may be even more confused when selecting a vehicle for your newly licensed teen. You may be wondering things like: Should I buy them a used or a new car? What type of car should I get them? Which ones are the most reliable?

"Having a car is not a birthright," says Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, who raised four children. "Today's teens seem to think that they should have a car waiting for them in the driveway when they return home from the Motor Vehicle Department with their driver's license. If that's right for your family, fine. But don't be held hostage to peer pressure, and by that I mean from other families who are buying their teen a car."

We're going to help our children out no matter what, so here goes. First you will need to determine if you're going to get a new or a used vehicle? If you've got a budget, as most of us do, you're almost always better off getting a used car. A certified pre-owned car will be able to provide you with the advantages of a new-car like warranty. You might be able to get better financing rates too!

"A first time driver doesn't need a new car, but of course they want one," says Lori Mackey, president of Prosperity4Kids. "The depreciation, probability of fender benders and the price tag [means new] is not the most logical way to go."

New cars will have all of the latest features, but late-model used cars will still come with anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, airbags and reasonable power and performance. You're going to want to select a car for them that has a responsive chassis, making sure it handles well, has quick steering and has a good brake system.

So once you've figured out whether you're going to go new or used, you've got to start thinking about what kind of car you're going to go for. At this point it is important for you to take their safety into consideration. You can check out safety ratings and other crash-test information from a number of organizations including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. You're also urged to look at J.D. Power and Associates for reliability and other quality ratings.

"I see these young, inexperienced drivers in Mustangs, BMWs, and large SUVs. These automobiles are big, powerful and difficult to control for even experienced drivers. In the hands of a new driver, they can be deadly weapons," says LeeAnn Shattuck, co-owner and chief car chick with Women's Automotive Solutions.

Remember that you don't want to go too small. The smaller the car, the less likely it will be to protect your teen in the event of a front-end accident.

"Your teen is safest in a mid-sized sedan with a four cylinder engine, airbags and a good crash test rating," says Shattuck.

No matter what way you go about it, selecting a car for your teen is going to take a lot of time and a lot of research. This may be one of the most important decisions you'll have to make in your teen's life.

"Don't feel you have to buy the first car you see," says Jack Nerad, executive editorial director for Kelley Blue Book.

Continue reading "Teen's Car Can Help Keep Them Safe in Event of a Chicago Car Accident" »

The first comprehensive overview summarizing and analyzing distracted driving research for state officials was released last month by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). The report looked into research from more than 350 scientific papers published between 2000 and 2011. The report, Distracted Driving: What Research Shows and What States Can Do, looks into the habits of distracted drivers and their influence on car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in the United States. It also looks into creating countermeasures to reduce the risk involved with distracted driving.

“Despite all that has been written about driver distraction, there is still a lot that we do not know,” said GHSA Executive Director Barbara Harsha, who oversaw the report’s development. “Much of the research is incomplete or contradictory. Clearly, more studies need to be done addressing both the scope of the problem and how to effectively address it.”

Our Chicago car accident attorneys would like to share with you some of the hard facts associated with distracted driving:

-Distractions limit driving performance.

-Texting likely increases accident risk more than cell phone use.

-Drivers are distracted as much as half the time they spend behind the wheel.

-Drivers are able to adapt to some extent. They are able to pay more attention to driving and reduce their distracting activities when presented with a risky driving situation.

-Distractions are involved in traffic accidents an estimated 15 to 25 percent of the time.

-Cell phone use increases traffic accident risks.

This report asks that states implement the following countermeasures:

-Continue to leverage effective, low-cost roadway countermeasures like edgeline and centerline rumble strips. These features alert motorists when they are drifting out of their driving lane.

-Keep track of distracted driving influences in accident reports so that the information can be used to evaluate distracted driving laws and programs.

-Implement distracted driving communication programs.

-Monitor the impact of existing hand-held cell phone bans before looking into enacting new laws. A number of states that have yet to pass handheld bans should wait until more definitive research and data is available on the effectiveness of these laws.

-Look into other distracted driving laws and programs. Evaluation of these programs will provide the information that states can use to decide which countermeasures are effective and which are not.

-Create and enforce a texting ban for all drivers. Include a complete cell phone ban for novice drivers.

-Enforce all existing cell phone and texting laws.

-Assists employers in developing and enforcing distracted driving policies and programs.

“While distracted driving is an emotional issue that raises the ire of many on the road, states must take a research-based approach to addressing the problem. Until more research is conducted, states need to proceed thoughtfully, methodically and objectively,” says GHSA Harsha.

High-visibility enforcement for texting and hand-held cell phones is important in enforcing current laws. Enforcement efforts are an effective way to help change motorist behavior.

“Our report includes the preliminary results of these cell phone crackdowns, which have prompted dramatic declines in hand-held cell phone use and texting behind the wheel. The final results are expected shortly and should be considered as states move forward with education and enforcement initiatives,” says Harsha.

Continue reading "New Report Focuses on Causes of and Solutions to Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere " »

"Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for all Americans ages 5 to 34. And the annual highway death toll costs our nation over $230 billion a year," said Jacqueline Gillan, vice president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. "Too many people are needlessly dying because states have been slow to enact laws to protect teen drivers, keep drunk drivers off our roads and ban the dangerous and deadly practice of texting while driving."

Democratic leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation recently introduced legislation to improve the safety of motor vehicles, to advance traffic safety laws in states and to enhance consumer information, according to Automotive Industry Today. These measures are aimed at reducing the number of fatal car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere. The proposed law is sponsored by Senator Mark Pryor (D-AR), Senator John D. Rockefeller (D-WV). It would fund safety programs and activities of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the federal agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for auto and traffic safety.

Our Illinois car accident attorneys note the proposed law (the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2011 (MVHSIA), or Mariah's Law) is named after an Arkansas teen killed in a traffic accident involving a texting driver. It aims to address teen driver licensing, improve motor vehicle safety standards, halt distracted and impaired driving, tighten up child passenger safety regulations and enact safety defect and consumer information reforms.

"As a parent and a lawmaker," said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), "I want to take every reasonable safety precaution to ensure that our teen drivers are safe and well-prepared for the serious responsibility that comes with getting a license. This legislation will give young drivers better education and more experience before they get out on the roads, keeping us all safer and saving lives."

This proposals include the Safe Teen And Novice Driver Uniform Protection (STANDUP) Act. This is the legislation, introduced by Senator Gillibrand and co-sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), that includes a $22 million grant program that will be used to encourage states to adopt a number of teen driving laws. The laws will phase in driving privileges as a teen gains more experience at the wheel. For a state to qualify for these grants, it would have to create and enforce laws that would restrict the number of teen passengers that a young driver drive ride with, initiate a ban on cell phone use and limit nighttime driving.

"As the mother of a teenager, I know firsthand how important it is to keep our roads safe," said Senator Klobuchar. "These measures will provide states with effective guidelines to help ensure drivers' safety and prevent risky behavior – especially among teen drivers. I will continue to fight to strengthen protection for drivers and make our roads safer for everyone."

This bill would direct the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to issue a standard that would ensure the reliability and performance of electronic systems that operate and control vital vehicle safety systems. It would also require the Administration to create some way for consumers to have better access to government information about recalls, defects and other safety-related data. This proposal comes after many lost faith in the current recall system -- many consumers were never notified about malfunctions regarding their vehicle.

"This bill is about saving lives," said Senator Mark Pryor, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance. "We've strengthened programs designed to stop dangerous driving behavior, and we've stepped up vehicle safety so that families are protected by strong safety standards and devices when an accident does occur."

Continue reading "Proposed Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Legislation Aims to Reduce Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

The Illinois car crash attorneys at Abels & Annes have recently settled two cases on behalf of motorists involved in collisions. Both clients were injured and required multiple visits to healthcare professionals before their symptoms were under control.

In one case, on March 23, 2010, our client was the victim of an Illinois hit and run accident. She was traveling southbound on Oakhurst Drive in Aurora, Illinois when she came to a stop in the left turn lane. When the light changed to green, she proceeded to turn left onto New York Street when a 1999 Chevy Blazer traveling westbound disregarded their red light and T-boned the woman’s 1999 Honda Accord. The at fault driver immediately fled the scene.

The Aurora Police Department responded to the scene and began to interview witnesses who confirmed that the victim was obeying all traffic laws when the hit and run driver ran the red light and crashed into her. Police soon found the vehicle involved in the crash, but the driver had left and the registered owner could not be located. The police report described that victim as dazed and confused when they arrived, and she was transported to Rush Copley Hospital for an examination.

At the hospital, the plaintiff complained of left-sided rib pain and right knee pain. After diagnostic tests and x-rays were administered, she was diagnosed with a left rib contusion and a right knee sprain. She was prescribed pain medication and instructed to follow up with her primary care physician.

The victim sought follow up medical treatment on March 25, 2010 due to ongoing and increasing pain, especially in her left ribs. She was diagnosed with a severe left rib contusion and ordered to refrain from heavy lifting and to stay off work for several weeks. She was also instructed to seek further medical attention if the pain persisted.

After the rib pain did not subside, the woman sought additional medical treatment on April 9, 2010. An x-ray of her left ribs found non-displaced fractures of her left fourth, fifth, and sixth ribs. She was ordered to continue to refrain from heavy lifting and to stay off work until after April 26, 2010. The pain was still persistent when she visited a doctor again on May 14, 2010, and she complained that the injury was aggravated with movement, which made sleeping very difficult. Finally, on June 11, 2010, the victim reported that her condition was improving.

Her inability to work due to the injury resulted in a lose of income. In addition, the lingering pain made it difficult for her to conduct simple tasks in her daily life.

Our law firm pursued an uninsured motorist claim against our client's own insurance carrier due to the fact that the at fault driver fled the scene of the crash. We were able to negotiate a settlement of $20,000 to compensate the plaintiff for her expenses and lost wages, as well as her pain and suffering.

In the second case we settled, a woman was driving northbound on Winfield Road in Winfield, Illinois when she stopped for a red light at the intersection with Highlake Road. Another motorist traveling in the same direction failed to stop for the red light and crashed into a car idling at the intersection, which in turn rear-ended the victim’s car. The man admitted to Winfield Police officers that he did not notice that the vehicles in front of him had stopped because he was lost at the time and not paying attention.

Following the collision, the victim had an immediate onset of pain and received initial medical treatment at the scene by Wheaton Fire Department EMTs. She later sought follow up medical treatment due to ongoing and increasing pain. She complained of left shoulder pain, chest pain, headaches, and neck pain due to whiplash. The doctor prescribed her pain medication and recommended physical therapy, which she completed 15 sessions of.

The case settled for $8,500 pre-litigation.

Continue reading "Chicago injury attorneys settle pair of cases involving negligent drivers" »

According to a number of studies, summertime is the deadliest days for teens on our roadways. More teens die because of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere during July and August alone.

We recently covered this topic on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog. We reported that car accidents are the number one cause of deaths for those ages 15- to 20-years-old in the United States. Drivers are most likely to die during their first year and first 1,000 miles of driving.

The Indiana Traffic Safety Report is one of the most recently released studies involving teen accidents during the summer months. So let's see what our friends and neighbors have to say. This report shows detailed information on accidents, fatalities and the various factors that increase the likelihood of a crash, such as drunk driving and speeding, according to the Pharos-Tribune.

The report shows that the number of fatal accidents, which sat at 631 in 2009, showed a decrease of 12.6 percent from 2008. Unfortunately, that number jumped back up by 11 percent in 2010. The numbers in Illinois are expected to mirror these trends.

In an attempt to help keep teens safe on our roadways during the next few months, the Illinois Department of Transportation's Operation Teen Safe Driving will be continuing its efforts in making a difference in the lives of Illinois teen drivers across the state. This program encourages teens to wear a seat belt, abide by posted speed limits, avoid driving distractions and avoid drinking and driving. For the last 5 years, the program has pushed efforts to the max and has successfully witnessed a near 50 percent decline in teen deaths in Illinois from 2007 to 2010.

Operation Teen Safe Driving works hand in hand with the Ford Motor Company Fund, The Allstate Foundation, Governors Highway Association, Governor Pat Quinn, Secretary of State Jesse White, Illinois State Police, Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Division of Traffic Safety.

According to the most recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, nearly 5,500 drivers age 15- to 20-years-old were involved in deadly car accidents in the United States in 2009. In these accidents, nearly 2,500 young drivers were killed. Another 196,000 drivers from these age group sustained injuries from these accidents. This means that more than 10 percent of all drivers that were involved in fatal accidents in 2009 were between 15- and 20-years-old. During that same year 1,077 teens died because of drunk driving accidents.

In 2009, Illinois witnessed nearly 150 traffic accident fatalities of those in this young age group.

“Driver behavior plays a critical role in safety, particularly for new, inexperienced drivers,” said Mike Robinson, vice president, GM Environment, Energy and Safety Policy.

For this reason, parents are urged to get involved in their teen's diving habits over these summer months. Know where they're going and when they'll be home. Make sure that they follow all roadway rules, laws and regulations. Try enacting a parent-teen contract to get your young driver to agree on and abide by some important and safe ground rules.

Continue reading "July & August -- Deadliest Months for Teen Car Accident in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

A single-vehicle car accident in Chicago left one woman dead and two others critically injured. The accident happened in the Hyde Park neighborhood on the South Side. The vehicle left the roadways and slammed into a tree near the intersection of Midway Plaisance and South Cornell Avenue, according to My Fox Chicago.

One woman was thrown 25 feet from the vehicle. She was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition. Two other vehicle occupants had to be extricated from the car. One was later pronounced dead at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The other passenger was taken in critical condition to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County. The police Major Accident Investigation Unit is investigating.

In an effort to reduce the number of serious and fatal car accidents nationwide, a new two-year study will be conducted to observe driver's actions and reactions to varying traffic conditions. Researchers then plan to use this information to aid the development of safety improvements in road design, cars and driver training programs. Our Chicago car accident attorneys recognize the significance of this type of study. Crash avoidance research may usher in a new wave of technology that will one day have the ability to save thousands of lives on our roadways.

“Collision prevention is the central goal of the study” said Ken Campbell, chief program officer overseeing safety for the Strategic Highway Research Program, which is part of the non-profit Transportation Research Board. “And the driver is the key to prevent collision.”

The two-year study will install special equipment into the vehicles of 3,100 participants. This equipment consists of four cameras and a data box. The four cameras will record forward and rear views along with the driver’s face and hands. This data will be held in the storage box, which will be kept in the vehicle's glove box. Researchers will be collecting the recorded data every four to six months, according to Forbes.

“You can’t just look at collisions or near collisions to know what risk factors are. It’s that comparison with what the driver is doing when there is not a safety-related event that tells you what the risk factors are,” says Campbell.

In previous studies, researchers generally focused on countermeasures that protect drivers and passengers after collisions, like seat belts, airbags and crash-worthy vehicles. This is one of the few studies that takes it a step farther and focuses on avoiding the crashes altogether. Car accidents that happen at intersections and accidents where the driver runs off the road will be initial focus areas of this study

The Transportation Research Board is looking for volunteers to participate in Buffalo, Seattle, Tampa Bay, Durham, central Pennsylvania and Bloomington. Every driver that participates in the study will be rewarded with $500 for each year.

“We are particularly interested in people under 25 and over 65” Dr. Campbell said. Both groups represent a small percentage of all drivers and have high collision rates.

To participate, you'll be required to have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and an approved vehicle. Participating vehicles are subject to a brief inspection. More than half of all vehicle makes are eligible.

“This study is long overdue and has the potential for providing the most comprehensive look at why highway crashes occur,” said Peter Kissinger, president and chief executive of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a nonprofit research and educational organization that provided technical advice for the study. “It is unprecedented in its scope and approach. It will be a wonderful supplement to other ongoing and planned traffic safety research efforts. My only disappointment is that the transportation research community didn’t initiate the study several years ago.”

Continue reading "New Study Aims to Stop Car Accidents in Chicago Before They Happen" »

The Illinois Injury Lawyers at Abels & Annes have reached a truck accident settlement on behalf of a client who was rear-ended on the highway due to the inattentiveness of a truck driver. The woman sustained several injuries to her neck and back that required medical care.

On May 25, 2010, the woman was driving northbound on I-55 through Bolingbrook, Illinois when a commercial Freightliner semi slammed into her 2008 Honda Accord as she reduced her speed to match traffic conditions. The Illinois State Police responded to the accident and conducted an investigation which placed the truck driver at fault. The report stated the driver had failed to exercise due care by reducing his excessive speed because he was admittedly not paying attention.

Unfortunately, the victim had an immediate onset of neck pain, and was transported by ambulance from the scene of the crash to the Emergency Department at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital for examination. Upon her arrival, doctors performed a host of diagnostic tests and x-rays to determine the source of her substantial pain, and she was diagnosed with a cervical strain and cervicalgia. The doctors prescribed pain medication and instructed her to seek treatment if her pain continued. The pain did not subside, however, and she was forced to seek further medical attention for her low back pain, muscle spasms, and a radiating pain in her left shoulder caused by the pain in her neck.

She was then treated at a chiropractic office in the Chicago area where she was diagnosed with cervical and lumbar sprian/strain, myalgia, and muscle spasms. Her treatment plan consisted of conservative chiropractic spinal correction and manipulation therapy, and physical therapy. She required 16 separate session of chiropractic treatment before she was finally discharged.

A lawyer at our office negotiated a $12,000 settlement without having to file a lawsuit, saving our client the cost of litigation.

Accidents between cars and commercial trucks happen fairly frequently on highways, and the attorneys at Abels & Annes settled another case recently involving an inattentive truck driver colliding with a passenger vehicle.

On October 20, 2010, a man and his passenger were traveling in the right lane going east on I-80 when a commercial tractor-trailer merged into their lane and collided with their 1994 Pontiac Bonneville. The truck’s front bumper struck the driver’s side door of victim’s automobile, causing the car to fishtail out of control before coming to a rest on the opposite side of the highway.

The Illinois State Police Department’s investigation determined that the truck driver was at fault for the incident. They cited him for an improper lane change, as he was traveling at an excessive speed for the conditions and failed to exercise due care in ascertaining whether a lane change could be made safely. The driver admitted that he did not see the victim until after contact had been made.

Shortly after the collision, our client began to experience stiffness and radiating pain in his left leg due to back pains sustained in the crash. The increasing pain forced him to seek medical treatment at St. James Hospital where various tests were administered. The x-rays showed a significant decrease in vertebral body between C3 and C4 and he was diagnosed with a sciatica on his left side, a neck sprain/strain, and a muscle strain/sprain.

After the prescribed pain medication did not improve his condition, the victim sought treatment from a neurologist for his neck and back pain, as well as pain and a limited range of motion in his left shoulder. The doctor noticed a bruising on his left shoulder and had the impression that he had suffered a sacroiliac and lumbosacral strain.

On December 21, 2010, the victim returned to the doctor and indicated he was still having pain and limitations in his lumbar spine region. The doctor recommended that he continue physical therapy and return in a month. He was discharged by the doctor on February 1, 2011 after completing 12 sessions of physical therapy at a chiropractic office.

The Illinois Injury Lawyers at Abels & Annes negotiated a $13,500 settlement pre-litigation, once again saving our client court costs.

Continue reading "Chicago truck accident attorney reaches settlements in 2 cases" »

Six traffic violations were handed to an 82-year-old woman accused of causing a serious car vs. pedestrian accident in Chicago this past weekend. The woman was allegedly driving the wrong way on the Magnificent Mile and struck two pedestrians, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The woman was cited for driving over the median, negligent driving, disobeying a red light and for striking the pedestrians in a crosswalk, according to Chicago Police Officer John Mirabelli.

It's a part of life. One day we're all going experience a loss in eyesight, hearing and hand-eye coordination. Many of us will fight these aging symptoms. It is important to keep an eye on our parents, grandparents and other elderly loved ones to make sure that our friends and family members are not facing increased risks of being involved in a serious car accident. Our Illinois car accident attorneys encourage all residents to speak with their parents about aging and driving. It may be tough and you may not want to do it, but it's important.

Police have yet to determine why the woman was driving the wrong direction when the accident happened. The pedestrians were injured just after 5:00 p.m. Friday evening. Both were taken to the hospital, according to Huffpost Chicago.

Currently, elderly drivers account for about 20 percent of all motorists on U.S. roadways, according to the Government Accountability Office. That number isn't expected to shrink any time soon. Those who make up the first wave of the baby-boom generation celebrated their 65th birthdays this year.

"The number of older drivers on the road is definitely a concern, and their number can't help but increase in the years ahead, due to the aging of the population," said Lisa D'Ambrosio, a research scientist at the MIT AgeLab.

If you're worried about your parents driving abilities, you're not alone. The Hartford and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's AgeLab, reports that nearly 1 out of every 10 adults are concerned about an older family member's driving.

An Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) study determined the following about drivers and intersection accidents:

-Nearly 60 percent of drivers 80-years-old and older neglect to yield at intersections.

-Nearly 40 precent of those age 70- to 79-years-old fail to yield at intersections.

-Only 26 percent of drivers that are age 35- to 54-year-old don't yield at stop signs.

"We know that having that first conversation with an older parent is going to be a difficult one, because driving is so intrinsic to our sense of independence and autonomy," said D'Ambrosio. "So many of us are dependent on driving, especially in regions where public transportation does not exist, or is inconvenient, or runs irregularly. There is also a concern about what the transportation alternatives might be if an older person has to stop driving."

Should you ask your parent turn in their keys for good. MSN recommends you ask yourself these question. Yes answers means you should talk with you parent:

-Have they suffered a stroke, heart attack or diminished eyesight?

-Have they experienced any difficulty negotiating sharp turns and intersections?

-Do they hesitate over right-of-way decisions?

-Are they oftentimes surprised by the sudden presence of other vehicles or pedestrians?

-Are they getting lost on familiar routes?

We understand that talking with your loved ones about when they need to stop driving may be hard on you, but it is important that you do this for their safety. If you avoid the conversation, you're only putting them at an increased risk for experiencing a car accident that could potentially end their life prematurely.

Continue reading "82-Year-Old Driver Injures Two Pedestrians - Are Your Parent's at Risk for a Car Accident in Chicago?" »

Two women have been killed in separate Chicago area car crashes this month, with alleged DUI drivers being responsible for both accidents.

On July 3, a 39-year old Carol Stream man was driving in the early hours of the morning with a 30-year old woman when he failed to stop at a train crossing in Itasca, Illinois, drove through the lowered gate, and struck the engine of a passing train. According to the Chicago Tribune, the man had a blood-alcohol content of .183, more than twice the legal limit of .08. His passenger died of her injuries soon after the crash.

The man has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol, and is being held on $500,000 bail.

A week later, a 43-year old woman returning home from her job as a 911 dispatcher when a 16-year old driver, who was drunk and high on drugs, plowed into her car. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the young driver, who was an honors student and two-sport athlete at his high school, was being pursued by police at the time of the accident.

The youth had just left a party near Old Town, where he got “drunk and high,” when he saw a man leave his SUV idling on North Michigan Avenue while he went to pay for parking. The youth stole the car and fled police after they attempted to pull him over after he ran a red light. During the pursuit, the youth ran a stop sign at the intersection of Armitage and Hoyne Avenues in Bucktown and hit the 911 dispatcher, causing her to careen into a fire hydrant. The youth escaped on foot, but was soon apprehended. Police say the teen had a blood-alcohol content of .186 and was also high on marijuana and ecstasy at the time of the crash.

The youth has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder, felony burglary, misdemeanor DUI, and two traffic citations. His bond is set at $1 million.

Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Each year, thousands of innocent people are killed in alcohol-related crashes. A brief look government statistics from 2009 illustrate this grim reality:

• Out of the 33,808 driving fatalities nationwide, 10,839 of them were alcohol-impaired driving fatalities (32%) – That is roughly 1 every 48 minutes

• 1,077 teens died drunk driving crashes

• 70% of drivers involved in fatal drunk driving crashes had blood-alcohol levels above .15, and the median level was .17

• 44% of the drivers involved in fatal crashes had at least 1 prior DWI conviction

• 1.4 million people were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Out of the 911 driving fatalities in Illinois, 319 of them were alcohol-impaired driving fatalities (35%)

Sources:
- 2009 NHTSA Traffic Report
- NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS)
- 2009 Century Counsel Report- Drunk Driving Fatalities in America
- CDC Stat sheet

Continue reading "Pair of fatal auto accidents in the Chicago area highlights dangers of drunk driving" »

A fatal Illinois auto accident that occurred early Sunday morning in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood has resulted in a 16-year-old minor being charged with first-degree murder, the Chicago Sun-Times is reporting. The teenager crashed a stolen Range Rover while being chased by police, striking and killing a Chicago 911 dispatcher who was driving home from work.

The minor is being charged as an adult with first-degree murder, burglary, DUI, failing to stop at a red light, and disobeying a stop sign. The teen's name is not being released.

The tragic incident started when officers conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of W. Blackhawk St. and Elston Avenue around 6:15 AM for a red light violation occurred at Elston and Webster. When police got out of their vehicle, the driver reversed towards the officers and hit a police supervisor's vehicle.

Chicago police then pursued the Range Rover, which was a stolen vehicle that is owned by a resident of Bellwood, Illinois. The driver sped north on Elston, then turned onto W. Cortland St., turned north on N. Ashland Ave., and next went west on Armitage to Damen Avenue.

The driver made a few more turns and then collided the victim when he disregarded the stop sign at North Hoyne Avenue and Armitage. The police chase lasted between 1.5 to 2 miles.

The victim, a 42-year-old woman, was later identified as a 911 dispatcher who was heading home from her place of employment at the time of the crash. She was rushed to Illinois Masonic Medical Center where she was pronounced dead less than an hour after the accident. An autopsy is scheduled to take place on Monday.

Accident witnesses are stating that the 911 dispatcher's car hit a fire hydrant after the impact with the Range Rover. The SUV hit a parked car after the first impact. The teenage driver tried to flee the scene of the accident through an alley, but was caught by police and arrested.

The minor was taken to an area hospital after the collision, and will remain in police custody. Witnesses report the teenager sustained a head injury in the accident.

There were no passengers in either vehicle, and no one else was injured.

The investigation is being handled by Grand Central Area detectives and the Major Accident Investigation Unit of the Chicago Police Department. The defendant is to appear in criminal court on Monday at Branch 66, 26th and California.

Click here to read the story as reported by NBC news and Fox news.

Continue reading "16-year-old boy faces murder charges after causing deadly Chicago car crash" »

Those who oppose red-light cameras argue that the only thing they're good for is to generate revenue for struggling towns and cities, according to MSNBC. Advocates for the red-light cameras argue that these devices are used not to make a quick buck, but to increase motorist safety on roadways nationwide. With the threat of a possible ticket, drivers are likely to pass through these intersections more safely and your risks for a car accident in Chicago and elsewhere decrease.

More than 500 cities and towns in roughly half of all U.S. states currently have red-light cameras. These intersection watchers snap pictures and take video of drivers who run red lights. As contract for early adopters begin to run out, many wonder if cities are going to keep them around.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys note that guidelines through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) make revenue an invalid justification for the use of the these intersection cameras. Still, our 400 red-light cameras in Chicago generated more than $64 million in 2009 alone. Safety advocates continue to insist they have made intersections in the city and its suburbs significantly safer.

Because most red-light cameras are contracted out to private companies, they get a large percentage of each fine. This is where oppositional parties argue that there is a danger of “vendor overreach” in increasing the number of citations to generate more money for the contractor. Complaints in Chicago have ranged from targeting busy intersections regardless of accident statistics (and therefore maximizing revenue) to shortening yellow lights in an attempt to increase the number of offenders.

As we recently discussed on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, the NHTSA reported that more than 4,500 fatal accidents were at intersections or were intersection-related. Regardless of the presence of red-light cameras, nothing can replace safe driving skills.

Chicago started red-light camera enforcement back in 2003. Our city initially started the pilot program at two intersections, Peterson and Western and 55th and Western. Those locations were chosen based on crash data, according to The City of Chicago. As of May 1, nearly 200 intersections have been equipped with red-light cameras.

There have been a number of large studies over the past 10 years that have all concluded that these red-light cameras reduce accidents and injuries. The most recent study, published in February by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, analyzed 10 years of federal traffic data 99 of the largest U.S. cities. Nearly 15 percent of them have installed red-light cameras. The Institute calculated that had all 99 cities installed the devices, more than 800 lives could have been saved from 2004 to 2008.

"We still have thousands of people who die," said Adrian Lund, the Insurance Institute's president. "We look at where and how that's happening, and one of the most dangerous (locations) is intersections."

The U.S. Conference of Mayors recently approved a resolution that would endorse nationwide adoption of red light cameras.

These red-light cameras oftentimes lead to fines and, depending on the jurisdiction, can lead to costly points on drivers' records. A number of these consequences result from borderline infractions like neglecting to come to a complete stop at an intersection before making a right turn.

Another recent study from the Insurance Institute found that there has been a significant decline in deaths from red-light accidents in cities that have installed these cameras. A number of researchers write off the cameras as the contributor to the decline because deaths from U.S. roadway accidents of all sorts have decreased significantly during the study period.

The City of Chicago offers drivers a map of red-light camera intersections throughout the city.

Continue reading "Red-Light Cameras in Chicago - Saving Lives or Stealing Money?" »

Secretary of State Jesse White has been an advocate for safe teen driving for quite some time now. Back in 2008, he continued to voice his opposition to raising the driving age in our state after the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety announced its support for raising the driving age nationwide to at least 17-years-old. He opposed this move because he believes it's not the age of the driver that affects their road safety, but the experience and knowledge that they possess.

He continues to argue that safe teen driving won't come with an increase driving age, but rather by working to better prepare young, novice drivers, regardless of their age, and with increasing parental involvement. Once teens are properly taught effective driving habits, we will then begin to see reduced risks of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere throughout the state.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys would like to reiterate that car accidents are the number one cause for teen deaths in the United States. In a car accident that involves a teen driver, anyone and everyone is at risk. In an attempt to raise awareness about the importance of educating our teen drivers, the National Safety Council recently announced that it is currently accepting nominations for the 2011 Teen Driving Safety Leadership Award. This award, sponsored by General Motors and the Illinois-based safety organization, aims to recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant advances in protecting our young drivers.

“My office initiated a new teen driver safety law, effective January 1, 2008, that gives Illinois one of the strongest graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs in the nation,” said White. “The new law better prepares teen drivers by tripling the length of the permit phase, increasing parental involvement, limiting in-car distractions, and strengthening penalties.”

White’s office has also initiated another key law that allows parents of teens that are under age 18 to view their teen’s driving record free online.

“By giving parents access to these driving records, we are helping them stay even more
involved in their teenagers' driving patterns as they proceed through the GDL program,” said White. “Parental involvement is a key component to any successful GDL program.”

The Council is looking for individuals or organizations that have participated in some of the following safe teen driving efforts:

-Advocacy.

-Enacting legislation based on proven safety methods.

-Demonstrating a consistent commitment to teen driving safety leadership.

-Leadership or coordination of an effort to adopt best practices.

-Enhancing public understanding of teen driving safety issues and prevention methods.

“General Motors has a longstanding affiliation with NSC and the Teen Driving Program,” said Mike Robinson, vice president, GM Environment, Energy and Safety Policy. “Driver behavior plays a critical role in safety, particularly for new, inexperienced drivers. We are pleased to support this recognition program and the awareness it gives to developing and maintaining safe driver habits.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 2,500 15- to 20-year-old drivers lost their lives in traffic accidents in the United States in 2009. Another 196,000 of these young drivers suffered injuries from these incidents. During that year, Illinois lost more than 50 young drivers because of motor-vehicle accidents on our roadways.

“Recent studies have shown that the most comprehensive GDL programs can reduce traffic fatalities for 16-year-old drivers by as much as 21 percent. While Illinois' GDL law already contains many of the components that are believed to reduce traffic fatalities for these young drivers, we want to make sure that we take every reasonable step possible to save more lives," White said. "These young people are our future leaders and we want to protect them so they have the opportunity to grow up and fulfill their aspirations.”

You can access our Illinois Graduated Driver License Program's Parent-Teen Driving Guide to help educate all parties of the learning process to help reduce the risks of traffic accidents on our roadways.

You are encouraged to submit your nomination for the 2011 Teen Driving Safety Leadership Award through August 5, 2011. Keep in mind Secretary of State Jesse White and all he's done to help ensure the safety of our young drivers when filling out those nomination forms.

Continue reading "National Safety Council Takes Nominations for 2011 Teen Driving Safety Leadership Award - Many Nominate Secretary of State Jesse White" »

Illinois is already one of the states in the United States that has banned the use of cell phones by drivers in school and work zones and has banned all drivers from text messaging in an attempt to reduce the frequency of distracted driving car accidents in Illinois, according to the Governors Highway Safety Administration. While many motorists ignore these safe driving laws, they may soon have another force fighting their distracted driving habits. A proposed federal law. Introduced by Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., aims to federalize driving and cell phone usage. These types of laws are currently managed by individual states-- and sometimes even cities as is the case with Chicago's cell phone ban.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys hope that this proposed legislation will one day serve as additional ammo in the fight against distracted drivers. The proposed bill would direct the U.S. Department of Transportation to set up a standard for the entire country that would prohibit hand-held cell phone use while driving.

“Driving while making a phone call, texting or using apps can be as dangerous as driving drunk, and much more common,” Rep. McCarthy said. “With some basic commonsense rules that are already in place in some parts of the country, we can reduce injuries and save lives in America.”

There are a few exclusions to this proposed law. Drivers would still be allowed to use voice-operated, vehicle-integrated devices, as well as voice-operated GPS systems. Even though there are cognitive distractions still present with hands-free devices, they pose a much less serious problem than using a hand-held device.

Under the proposed bill, the Department of Transportation would be required to conduct a study on distracted driving. This study would be required to focus on the issue of cognitive distraction and the impact of distraction on newly licensed, young drivers. Within two years of the completed study, the DOT would then be required to report its findings to Congress. Recommendations for revising the minimum distracted driving prohibitions and penalties must accompany this report. These newly proposed minimum distracted driving prohibitions would be mandatory for all states. Each state would then be allotted two years to comply with the law or lose a quarter of their federal highway funding.

Currently, each state is able to create their own laws regulating cell phone and texting use. Some states offer strict laws to prevent distracted driving while others have absolutely no restrictions at all. A majority of states ban teenagers from using cell phones while driving. Texting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle is forbidden in some 30 states. If this proposed bill becomes law, the entire country would be put under a seamless law that would require all motorists to follow it or face the consequences.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5,500 people died because of car accidents that involved a distracted driver in 2009. These accidents accounted for roughly 1 in 6 of all motor-vehicle accident related fatalities that year.

Continue reading "Safe Driver Act of 2011 Could Increase Distracted Driving Laws in Illinois" »

An Illinois injury lawyer at Abels and Annes has agreed to help a motorist that was recently injured by another driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

The Chicago-area car crash occurred earlier this month in Aurora, Illinois around 4 AM. The plaintiff was driving his 1999 Honda Accord home from work on Farnsworth Street. At that time the defendant, who was driving a 2007 Mitsubishi Gallant in the opposite direction, fell asleep at the wheel and crossed the center line, striking our client's vehicle head-on.

The Aurora Police Department responded to the scene of the accident. After the investigation, they placed the defendant at fault on the police report.

Unfortunately, our client was seriously injured in the accident. He was taken by ambulance to Provena Mercy Medical Center with significant internal bleeding in his stomach. There he had to undergo emergency surgery. He was also having breathing/lung issues, right shoulder pain and low back pain. Due to the surgical procedure, he has a 8 to 10 inch wound which has been closed up with staples. He is expected to have a large permanent scar. He is also going to have to have follow-up medical care with several different specialists.

Our law firm has been brought in to pursue a claim against the at fault driver and his insurance carrier.

This accident is a good example of the dangers of drowsy driving. According to statistics gathered by the National Sleep Foundation, in the year 2005 approximately 60% of drivers (168 million drivers) stated that they had driven drowsy over the past 12 months, and 37% of those drivers had actually fall asleep at the wheel. Of those who fell asleep, 13% admitted that it happens to them around once a month. 4 percent, which is around 11 million motorists, said they were involved in a crash or a near collision due to drowsiness.

On the foundation's website, DrowsyDriving.org, they go on to state that the federal government estimates that there are around 100,000 accidents each year caused by drowsiness. These accidents result in over 1500 deaths, 71,000 injuries and a financial cost of over $12 billion. These statistics are taken from police reports..

The foundation also speculates that these 100,000 accidents could be just the "tip of the iceberg" because it is often difficult to determine that sleepiness caused a collision for the following reasons:

– Police have no test to determine drowsiness (unlike DUIs where officers have many different tests).

– States have no consistent practice as to how to report crashes caused by sleepiness.

– Data from overseas (England, Finland, Australia and other European nations) where there are more consistent accident reporting methods compared to the USA, have statistics that show driver fatigue causes anywhere from 10 to 30% of all accidents.

The website also reports that many motorists are drowsy as they commute to and from work. Around 71% of Americans drive to their places of employment. 27% of those commuters admit to driving drowsy several days per month, 12% did it a few days a week, and 4% admit driving drowsy almost every day.

Drowsy driving accidents occur most with younger people, shift workers, and adults with children. The worst sleepy offenders are adults ages 18-29 who represent 71% of drowsy motorists, as compared to people ages 65 and over who represent a much lower 19%.

When you are behind the wheel, here are some warning signs that you are sleepy and that you should get off the road:

– You are yawning a lot
– Blurred vision
– Your head starts to nod and your eyelids droop
– You have trouble remembering the last few miles driven, or you miss an exit or traffic sign
– You drive off on the shoulder, drift from your lane or tailgate
– You feel restless and irritable

Like drinking and driving, drowsy driving slows down your reaction time, impairs your judgment and increases your risk of being involved in an accident.

Continue reading "Chicago auto accident attorney takes on drowsy driving case" »

AAA has launched a teen driver website specific to all 50 states in an effort to help young drivers and their parents put the emphasis on driver safety. Keys2Drive: The AAA Guide to Teen Driver Safety, comes with state-specific information to help us to educate our teens and to help to reduce their risks of car accidents.

According to this customizable website, car accidents take the lives of more teens than suicide, homicide and cancer combined. Recent research from safe teen driving advocacy groups concluded that when teens ride with siblings, teenage neighbors and friends, they are at substantially higher risk risk of being involved in a car accident in Chicago or elsewhere. This is proven true even with the brightest of teens behind the wheel. One of the biggest saviors is experience, which will only come with time and practice.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys ask that parents get involved in their teen's learning experience -- especially through the long summer months. Encourage them to do things like wear their seat belt, abide by speed limits and to only drive during the daytime hours. These three characteristics have been proven to greatly reduce the risk of an accident. Talk to your teen about these safe driving rules and explain to them the responsibility of safe driving habits and the consequences of irresponsible driving.

It's no secret that teens are at an increased risk for accidents on our roadways. Although teen drivers, those between the ages of 15- and 20-years old, only make up 7 percent of the entire licensed population in the United States, accidents that involved a teen driver made up roughly 20 percent of all of the traffic accidents. As a matter of fact, motor-vehicle accidents are the number one killer of teenagers. Based on total miles driven, teen drivers are involved in roughly three times as many deadly traffic accidents compared to any other age group.

We agree with the AAA Foundation in saying that turning your teenage driver into a safe driver in indeed a complex task. There are two major parts of this learning experience. A teen driver must learn the rules of the road and they must learn how to safely operate a vehicle. Many safe driving advocates urge that these new, young drivers participate in a driver education and training program in order to learn both aspects. It is never too early to start this learning process. A good driver education program can help your young driver to develop safe driving habits, to improve hazard recognition and explain how to manage time, space and visibility in traffic.

What can you do, as a parent, to help your teen become a safer driver?:

-Always obey road laws when your child is in the vehicle with you.

-Always wear your seat belt and encourage your young soon-to-be driver to do so as well.

-Get involved and be interactive. Talk to your kids about road signs, pedestrians and other vehicles. Explain every aspect of driving to them so they're left with no questions or confusion.

-Ride with your teens. Illinois requires that parents and their teen drivers conduct at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice. This includes at least 10 hours of night driving. AAA recommends at least 100 hours of supervised driving time.

-Talk to them about driving during different moods or emotions. Angry or tired driving is distracted driving and increases risks for an accident.

-Although your teen may not be of legal age to drink alcohol, it doesn't mean that they won't. Talk to you teen about the dangers and the consequences of driving under the influence.

To get a license in Illinois, teens must complete a three-stage process that allows them to gradually gain exposure to different driving situations. This allows them to ease into driving over a period of time. Two of these steps include the instruction permit and initial driver’s license. After these steps they are eligible to receive their full driver's license. The GDL program has been proven to better educate teen drivers.

Parents are urged to create and enact a parent-teen driving agreement as well in an attempt to set down some ground rules for driving that everyone can agree on.

Continue reading "Website Dedicated to Teen Driver Education and Reducing Teen Car Accidents in Illinois" »

Traffic fatality statistics for 2010 will be released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration later this summer. Meanwhile, the agency has recently released comprehensive state-by-state data for 2009. Statistics show car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois declined 13 percent. Still, Illinois experienced more than 900 fatalities resulting from traffic accidents in 2009.

As that number is still relatively high, law enforcement and safety advocates continue their push to urge drivers to drive safer on our roadways and to abide by driving laws during the busy summer driving season and throughout the remainder of the year.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys believe that through a conscious effort from all residents we can maintain a significant decrease in these numbers. This decrease will have to result from more alert driving, less distracted driving, the monitoring of drunk driving and more awareness for on-foot travelers and cyclists.

In our state, nearly 1 death occurs for ever 100 million vehicle miles traveled. It is also estimated that there are almost 9 deaths for every 100 million registered vehicles or nearly 11 deaths for every 100 million licensed drivers.

Illinois has witnessed a numbers of years in which the number of fatalities resulting from car accidents has decreased. The steepest decrease occurred from 1975 to 2009 when we saw a decreased of 55 percent. In 1975, we saw more than 2,000 traffic accident fatalities, compared to 911 in 2009. During these 34 years, we experienced a 76 percent decrease in the number of fatalities per vehicle miles traveled.

The numbers aren't all positive, however. From 2000 to 2009, we saw a near 5 percent increase in fatalities from car accidents that involved a drunk driver. During 2009 alone, nearly 40 percent of all fatal traffic accidents involved a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher.

Speeding was also a common factor in many of these accidents. Of the 911 traffic fatalities in 2009, 325 of them were the result of an accident that involved a speeding driver. Most of these accident occurred in an area with a set speed limit of 55 mph.

Passenger cars suffered the most fatal accidents as they accounted for nearly half of all deadly crashes. Light trucks followed behind, accounting for 32.9 percent of all fatal crashes.

In an attempt to reduce these numbers, Illinois enact a seat belt law for all front seat passengers. If you're busted not wearing your seat belt, you could face an immediate $30 fine. This law went into effect back in 2003. Consequently, more than 90 percent of motorists wear their seat belt. More recently, the state has enacted a law banning drivers from text messaging or using a cell phone in school zones and construction sites.

Just by looking at this data, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of being in an accident. It may not seem like rocket science, but believe it or not, many residents refuse to follow these few precautionary steps. Residents are urged not to drink and drive as it greatly increases your chances of being involved in an accident. All motorists are urged to wear their seat belt, not only because it's the law but to help save your life in the event of an accident. And lastly, you're urged to abide by the speed limits. Increasing your speed increases impact upon a collision which increases the severity of injuries.

Continue reading "NHTSA Releases Stats for Car Accidents in Chicago and Elsewhere" »

Two teenagers were killed and three other occupants injured in a tragic Western Illinois car accident when their attempt at “hill hopping,” or driving over a hill at high speeds to get airborne, ended with their car rolling multiple times and striking a tree. According to WGEM.com, the crash occurred just outside Carthage, Illinois in the 1600 block of North Hancock County Road. The 18 year-old driver lost control of her vehicle as it landed and she was killed along with a 16 year-old passenger.

Locals say the area, known as “Butterfly hills,” is a popular destination for teens looking for thrills, and hill hopping at the location is a common occurrence. Teens often set out for the specific reason to drive over the hill at speeds of 90-100 miles per hour. Police said this was not the first crash at the hill.

“I would have died too,” said a friend of the victims, “it’s not easy to know your friends died doing something that everybody has done.”

Police said there were no drugs or alcohol involved in the crash, and both victims were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.

While these types of accidents aren’t common, there are incidents throughout the country of teens being killed or severely injured after unsuccessful hill hopping attempts. The Chicago Tribune reported a similar incident that occurred in Long Grove, Illinois in 2004 when two teens decided to go hill hopping on a rural stretch of road. The car was traveling 90 m.p.h. when it hit the crest of the hill and sent the automobile careening out of control until it was stopped by a tree. The driver was ejected from the vehicle and survived, but his best friend was killed in the wreck.

The driver, who later pled guilty to reckless homicide, now gives speeches to teens about the dangers of reckless joy-riding. He explains how the invincibility that teens often feel is an illusion, and how by the time he realized this, he had to live with the guilt of killing his best friend.

Another similar incident happened just last year in Ohio when three teens between 15 and 16 years-old were severely injured after their car lost control and overturned during a hill hopping incident described as “horrific.” None of the occupants were wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, and two of the occupants were ejected from the car.

Like the incident outside of Carthage, the crash occurred at a spot frequented by local teens looking to have fun. In fact, a 16 year-old was killed in a hill hopping attempt seven years prior at the same Ohio location. The victim died after crashing into a tree, the same tree the latest victims grazed as they lost control of their vehicle, the Dayton Daily News reported.

Unfortunately, this is not trend likely to go away anytime soon and it has been going on for a long time. I recently discussed this accident with a 40-year-old attorney who said that when he was a teenager back in the 1980s, he could recall hill hopping on several occasions with his friends.

Click here to read the story as reported by The Daily Gate City.

Continue reading "Hill hopping accident in Illinois claims the lives of two teens" »

Drivers are urged to check their tires early and often this summer, according to a recently released consumer advisory from the U.S. Department of Transportation. All motorists are asked to inspect their tires to make sure that they're properly inflated and to check for signs of tread wear and damage. It is important for drivers to do so during this time of year, as the weather has warmed up and motorists now face an increased risk of a tire-related car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere throughout the state.

This consumer advisory was released just in time to coincide with National Tire Safety Week. It is during the next few summer months that motorists are at highest risk.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys ask that all residents take a look at this consumer advisory and carefully follow the recommendations as these safety precautions can help to keep you safe on our roadways. Old, under-inflated tires and the heat of the summer can have deadly consequences.

"As the weather warms up, it's especially important for drivers to ensure their tires are properly inflated," Secretary Ray LaHood said. "For your safety and the safety of others on the road, inspect your tires regularly and maintain the proper inflation."

According to the Department's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the most recent data reports that roughly 3,400 people died from 2005 to 2009 because of tire-related accidents. Another 116,000 were injured in these preventable incidents.

"While it's true improperly maintained tires can contribute to a crash at any time of year, it is particularly critical for motorists to check tires during hot weather, when families and luggage often overload vehicles for long vacation trips," NHTSA Administrator David Strickland warned. "Underinflated tires spinning on hot asphalt for extended periods of time can be a recipe for disaster."

Motorist are urged by the DOT to check the tire pressure in all four tires regularly, but especially before venturing out on long car trips. They are also urged to keep an eye on the wear and tear of their tires. Old, aging tires are more susceptible to heat stress and can cause a deadly accident. This risk only increases if your old tires are not properly inflated.

Motorists can take a peek at their tire sidewall to judge the age of their tires. You can also check with the vehicle's owner's manual or with the tire manufacturer to see how often you should be changing your tires.

Keeping your tires up to par will not only help to keep you safe on our roadways, but it can help to keep you from wasting your money at the pump. According to the Department of Energy, tires that are not properly inflated can lower your vehicle's gas mileage by nearly 0.5 percent for every 1 PSI (pound per square inch) drop in pressure. This means that if your vehicle gets an average of 30 miles per gallon and you vehicle's tires require 35 PSI then a drop in just a quarter of tire pressure would mean you're losing almost 9 percent in fuel economy. This equals about 3 miles per gallon!

Continue reading "Properly Inflate Your Tires to Prevent a Car Accident in Chicago" »

The death rate for SUV drivers has dropped nearly 70 percent. Safety advocates credit the installation of electronic stability for the increased safety, according to USA Today. This new technology uses the SUV's brakes and the power of the engine to keep these vehicles on all fours, decreasing the risk of death during a car accident in Chicago and elsewhere throughout the United States, according to a recent report released by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Our Illinois car accident attorneys understand that SUV drivers are now among those that are least likely to die in a traffic accident. These drivers are now much safer than passengers in smaller cars. The recent high rollover rate for these larger vehicles may have been the reason that this new technology was introduced more quickly in SUVs than in cars. Either way, SUV drivers have one less thing to worry about.

Previously, before the introduction of this technology, the death rate for SUV drivers was 82 per million vehicles in the 1999 to 2002 models. Now, with the new safety measures, SUVs have a driver death rate of only 28 per million vehicles in the newer 2005 to 2008 models.

Drivers of cars weren't so fortunate with the release of new car models. These vehicles went from a driver death rate of 110 per million in the 1999 to 2002 model to a driver death rate of 72 per million in the 2005 to 2008 models. While still a decrease in deaths, it doesn't compare to the reduction of the SUV rates.

"The rollover risk in SUVs used to outweigh their size/weight advantage, but that's no longer the case," says Anne McCartt, the institute's senior vice president for research. "It's a dramatic change and a testament to the incredible effectiveness of electronic stability control."

Here are the top 15 safest SUVs, according to ABC News:

-Audi A6 4-door 4WD

-Mercedes E-Class 4-door 4WD

-Toyota Sienna

-Ford Edge

-Nissan Armada

-Land Rover Range Rover Sport

-Land Rover LR3

-Honda CR-V

-Jeep Grand Cherokee

-Acura MDX

-Mercedes E-Class 4-door

-Lexus RX 400h

-Lexus GX 470

-Mercedes M-Class

-Saab 9-3 4-door

"The rollover risk in SUVs used to outweigh their size/weight advantage, but that's no longer the case, thanks to ESC," Anne McCartt, the Institute's senior vice president for research. “It's not just weight that gives SUVs an advantage. It's also their height and other factors. When cars and SUVs of similar weight are compared, the SUVs have lower death rates.”

According to the IIHS report, drivers of smaller vehicles are nearly three times more likely to die in a motor-vehicle crash than in a rollover. Stability control has not been widely introduced in these types of passenger cars.

"For years, small cars have represented the low end of the economic spectrum and received fewer safety and enhanced design features," says Sean Kane of Safety Research & Strategies, which advises plaintiff lawyers, government and auto suppliers. "Undoubtedly, that has an effect."

Last year, there were nearly 12 million vehicles sold in the United States. Nearly 6 million of these sales were SUVs, pickups or vans while the remaining 5.6 million were cars.

"This report explains why Americans equate size with safety, even though small cars today are safer than ever before," Newton says.

Many safety advocates suggest that more focus needs to be placed on the safety of smaller car occupants in the event of an accident with a larger vehicle.

"The trend from the reported data is clear: The lighter the vehicle, the higher the likelihood that its driver will be killed in a collision with another vehicle," says Mukul Verma, a veteran auto industry safety official

Here are the top 10 vehicles with the worst driver death ratings:

-Nissan 350Z

-Nissan Titan crew cab

-Chevrolet Aveo

-Chevrolet Cobalt

-Nissan Titan extended cab

-Kia Spectra

-Chevrolet Malibu Classic

-Hyundai Tiburon

-Nissan Versa

-Chevrolet Colorado extended cab

If you were to compare vehicles using their most recent death rates, you would find that minivans are by far the safest with a driver death rate of 25. SUVs were right behind with a score of 28 followed by pickups with an average of 52 driver deaths per million registration years. In last place were cars with an unfortunate average of 56.

It is still important to point out that large cars perform better than small ones. Smaller four-door cars have a death rate of 82 while their larger four-door members have a death rate of 46.

Continue reading "You may now be safer than before in a Chicago Car Accident if You Drive an SUV" »

Manny's Delicatessen, Petterino's, Gold Coast Dogs, multiple Starbucks locations, and most recently the Wilmette Public Library and the Glenview Post Office. Those are just a few of the local businesses that have been hit by cars in the Chicago area. Further, there has been several homes that have been the victims of Chicago auto accidents.

A Wilmette, Illinois library employee was recently hurt after a 56-year-old female driver lost control of her car and drove through a glass and brick wall on the North side of the building, according to Tribune Local. She apparently hit the gas instead of the brakes by mistake and accelerated into the library. The motorist was uninjured, and there was no evidence to suggest that drugs or alcohol played a role in the incident.

The vehicle crashed into a staff room where books are organized to be placed back on shelves. A library employee was working in a desk when the accident occurred, and her desk was moved by the collision impact.

The worker was taken by ambulance to Evanston Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. She was treated and released the same day. No one else was injured in the accident.

In a situation like this the library worker could potentially have two separate personal injury claims. First, due to the fact that she was injured on the job, she would have the right to pursue an Illinois workers' compensation claim. Further, due to the fact that she was injured by a third-party, she will also have the right to pursue a negligence claim against the at fault driver and her auto insurance carrier.

The Wilmette Police Department handled the crash investigation.

The most recent automobile vs. building crash took place on Tuesday in North suburban Glenview around 8:40 AM. There an elderly woman hit the front entrance to the post office with her car, causing $35,000 in damage, that according to the Glenview Patch.

The motorist was driving a 2011 Toyota Avalon in the parking lot at 1400 Patriot Blvd. At that time the vehicle accelerated for unknown reasons and drove over a curb and sidewalk before colliding with the building.

The Glenview police and fire department responded to the accident. The driver was transported to Glenbrook Hospital for medical attention, but the exact nature of her injuries were not reported.

Luckily, no pedestrians or post office customers were injured.

According to Tribune Local, the driver was 84 years old. Due to the woman's condition after the accident, police were not able to interview her at the scene or at the hospital.

So, if you're ever sitting in a restaurant or library, or any other type of establishment and a car drives in and hits you, call the injury lawyers at our office for free case evaluation. I know it sounds silly, but you wouldn't be the first person to have called us.

In the past we have represented a restaurant patron that was injured while sitting in a downtown eatery. An elderly driver lost control of his vehicle, crashed into the restaurant and struck several customers. The case recently settled after litigation involving our client, several other injured restaurant patrons, and the driver's insurance carrier.

A couple weeks ago model Irma Sabanovic drove into her watery death during a car accident in Chicago that left her car submerged in the Chicago River on the 1100 block of West Blackhawk Street, according to My FOX Chicago.

Now, victims and safety advocates are searching for somewhere to rest the blame and the City finds itself the focus of that wrath. The city has placed a number of reflectors and barricades in these areas in an attempt to warn motorists of the water dangers.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that the water around our city, and the river running through it, pose a threat to motorists in the event of an accident. Knowing what to do in the event of a submersion accident can mean the difference between life and death.

Sabanovic reportedly neglected to notice the end of the road meeting the beginning of the river as she drove her car directly into the water. She was reportedly submerged in the water nearly an hour before she drowned.

The family of the model filed a lawsuit against the city. They claim that the city of Chicago neglected to place barricades or any significant warning signals near the scene of that accident to warn motorists of the dangers. Reports indicate that there was no signage at the site aside from one "No Outlet" sign. Abels & Annes is not affiliated with any of the parties to the lawsuit.

"(The street) was well-lit, there was a 'No Outlet' sign prominently displayed at the entrance to the street and there was an 8-inch curb at the end of the street, which is four times higher than the average city curb," spokeswoman for the city's Law Department Jennifer Hoyle said.

This accident mirrors the 1992 death of Rick Roman, Director of Improv Olympic Theatre, in which he plunged into the same river, according to the Chicago Tribune.

According to SafetyIssues.com, more than 300 motorists die from submersion accidents each year. More specifically, they drown in their vehicles. This means, more than one person dies every 29 hours from these accidents.

Safety advocates still rely on the POGO Method as the best tool to help you escape a submerging vehicle:

-Pop off your seat belt, and everyone else's seat belt in the vehicle.

-Open the window. Break it open if necessary.

-Get everyone out of the vehicle.

-Out. Once you're out of the vehicle, assess the water currents. Be sure to swim with the current to safety. Swimming against currents can only tire you and put you at a greater risk of drowning.

Continue reading "Model's Death in Chicago Car Accident Highlights Risk of Submersion" »

Streets and Sanitation Commissioner Tom Byrne was given strict orders from Mayor Rahm Emanuel earlier this week to tighten up city enforcement of road laws, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. This order comes after a pedestrian accident in Chicago, allegedly caused by a city employee driving drunk.

We previously reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog that eight people suffered injuries after a city worker allegedly lost control of his truck in the Gold Coast community. The city worker is being accused of driving under the influence at the time of the accident.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that intoxicated motorists are frequently responsible for the serious and fatal accidents that occur on our roads. It's particularly egregious that a city employee is involved.

“One of the things I said to Commissioner Byrne was I want to know what steps need to be taken so, in the future, this does not occur again — both at the level of management and at the level of employees,” Emanuel said.

The 61-year-old city worker reportedly had a blood alcohol concentration of more than twice the legal limit. Termination proceedings have already been started by the city against that employee. The mayor wants more done though. He says firing the worker isn't enough to suffice for these types of tragedies that affect the lives of the injured and cost the city millions.

Prosecutors report that the city worker plowed through the group of pedestrians in a city vehicle, a Ford F-150, with a bottle of brandy in his cab. The driver is being held of a $400,000 bond and is facing charges including four counts of felony aggravated DUI and two counts of misdemeanor DUI. He was also cited for negligent driving, failing to reduce speed and transporting open alcohol in a vehicle.

“You take these moments, you deal with them and there are lessons learned for future. And I’ve directed Commissioner Byrne to come back with recommendations,” said Emanuel.

Currently, city employees that hold a valid driver’s license are subject to random drug and alcohol tests. The employee that took out several pedestrians earlier this week was not a part of these random screenings. He was a worker assigned to empty garbage cans and to collect stray debris throughout the city.

“Streets and Sanitation is conducting its own internal review into all aspects of this incident, including supervision, to determine if any policies and procedures should be changed to prevent such incidents in the future,” Smith said.

Employees that have jobs similar to this city employee are only subjected to drug and alcohol tests after being involved in an accident. This worker was tested earlier this year, in March, after an on-the-job accident that resulted in property damage. His previous test came back with negative results.

“Random drug [and alcohol] testing for laborers would have to be negotiated with the union. The city cannot implement the tests unilaterally,” Smith said in an e-mail response to the Chicago Sun-Times.

All motorists are asked to both keep a watchful eye out for pedestrians and to refrain from drinking and driving. This city worker reportedly had neither in mind and in turn injured a number of innocent residents. The city reports to have upped its efforts to keep an eye on their employees to reduce the risks of such accidents in the future.

Continue reading "Mayor Calls For Stricter Rules after City Employee allegedly caused Chicago Pedestrian Accident" »

The Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes wish each of you a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend. Whether on the road, on a boat or elsewhere with friends and family, please stay safe and celebrate responsibly.

Local law officials recently unveiled their plans to help reduce the risk of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will be operating hundreds of additional seat belt enforcement zones. They'll be enforcing seat belt regulations as the "Click It or Ticket" campaign celebrates its 10th anniversary. They will also cracking down on intoxicated drivers -- one of the primary causes of motor vehicle accidents during this summer kickoff weekend.

“Memorial Day is a special time dedicated to the remembrance and reconciliation of those in armed forces who gave their lives to protect our values, freedom and democracy,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “The holiday weekend serves as an historical, symbolic and solemn time, often spent with family and friends, and shouldn’t be tainted by impaired drivers or other law violators. If Illinois motorists plan to travel over Memorial Day weekend, we strongly encourage them to continue to drive sober and buckle up, every trip, every time.”

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that drinking and driving is a primary threat over any holiday weekend. If you're busted you can face jail time, a number of fines, license revocation, criminal charges, insurance rate hikes and much more. Drunk driving accidents frequently change lives -- or end them.

"The Illinois State Police is committed to making this summer as safe as possible through directed enforcement initiatives,” said Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau, “We are encouraged by the increase in the number of motorists who are wearing seat belts, and are optimistic the combination of awareness, seat belt compliance and enforcement will help reduce fatalities on Illinois roadways.”

Estimates, from 2010 data show that the 12:00 a.m. to 2:59 a.m. time period resulted in nearly 100 motorist deaths on Illinois roadways. The 3:00 a.m. to 5:59 a.m. time period was the second most deadly time for traffic accidents.

Nearly $2 million in federal funds has been made available to the Illinois State Police, the IDOT and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Police for the increased patrol. In addition to these funds, more than 500 local law enforcement agencies will be stepping up their efforts to keep motorists safe this weekend to enforce impaired driving patrols for the next two-weeks.

More than 50 percent of these patrol units will operate late-evening hours (11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.). The state should expect to see more than 60 roadside impaired driving enforcement safety checks.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were nearly 11,000 fatalities from traffic accidents involving a drunk driver in 2009 in the United States. These accidents made up more than 30 percent of all traffic accident fatalities for the year. The state of Illinois saw nearly 400 fatalities from traffic accidents that involved an impaired driver in 2009.

Continue reading "Memorial Day Weekend a Dangerous Time for Chicago Car Accidents" »

Baby Boomers fuel a new safety system used to help save those involved in a car accident in Chicago and elsewhere in the country.

The Yellow Dot program will now help drivers to alert first responders to vital personal information in the event of a traffic accident. The system will provide authorities with the vital information within the first 60 minutes, often called the "golden hour", after a serious accident, according to USA Today. This time period can make the between life and death for accident victims.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that, as simple as this new system is it is also extremely effective. Here's how it works. Participants in the system will have a yellow dot to put on their rear window. This sticker tells emergency responders that there's a folder in the glove box that is marked with this same yellow dot. This folder should contain a picture of the motorist, prescription information, medical conditions and other necessary information. The free program started in Connecticut in 2002 and is now being used in 27 different countries.

States that are currently using the Yellow Dot programs include Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Virginia, Alabama and New York. Georgia is currently considering the implementation of the program. While each state relies on a slightly different variation of the system, the main goal in each area is the same -- to save lives.

"It is very nice to see innovative programs to address the unique risks associated with older Americans and car crashes," says Peter Kissinger, president and CEO of AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "Since older individuals tend to have more medical conditions, are on more medications and are generally more fragile, this sounds like a well-justified program, especially in light of the growing number of older Americans."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that roughly 10,111,000 passenger vehicles were involved in police-reported traffic accidents in 2009. Of these, nearly 50,500 of them were involved in fatal accidents resulting in an estimated 25,000 deaths. In the same year, a reported 2.35 million vehicle occupants were injured.

Baby boomers will face an even greater risk of injury or death on our roadways. The NHTSA reports that those motorists over the age of 65 saw nearly 5,500 fatalities, and another 187,000 injuries, as a result of traffic accidents in 2009. Motorist fatalities in this age group made up more than 15 percent of all traffic deaths and another 8 percent of all motorist injuries.

Illinois saw nearly 300 fatal traffic accidents with drivers above the age of 55 in 2009.

"It's a promising approach," says Jonathan Adkins, spokesman for the Governors Highway Safety Association. "Actually, this is one of the goals of automated crash notification systems. Eventually, when there is a crash, these key data such as medication needed will automatically be available to EMTs. The Yellow Dot program may be a system that can be helpful in the meantime."

Continue reading "Seeing Yellow Dots? Emergency Info can be a Lifesaver after a Chicago Car Accident" »

An Illinois injury attorney at Abels & Annes has entered into an agreement to represent a Chicago woman that was injured in a May, 2011 car crash. The incident took place in the area of Milwaukee Avenue & Austin. The plaintiff's vehicle was rear-ended by another car in traffic.

The collision was actually witnessed by a Chicago police officer who happened to be in the area. That officer handled the investigation.

Our client had an immediate onset of neck and low back pain after the accident. She was seen a short time later at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. There she was diagnosed with neck and back sprain/strain.

Over the coming days the plaintiff's pain only increased. She sought follow-up treatment with both her primary physician and a chiropractor. The chiro started her on a course of therapy.

Unfortunately, the treatment did not help relieve her pain and she is now under the care of an orthopedic medical doctor in the Chicago area.

Our office will be pursuing a negligence claim against the at-fault driver and her insurance carrier.

If you've been hurt in an Illinois auto accident, contact a Chicago personal injury lawyer at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation. Contact us online or call 312-399-8988 to speak to a attorney directly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a report this month that found half the cost of car accidents in the U.S. are in 10 states.

Car crashes in Illinois contributed $1.32 billion to the $41 billion annual cost of traffic accidents --enough to rank the state 8th costliest in the nation. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers know most people think of medical bills and the cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle. However, other common costs are lost wages and future medical complications.

"Deaths from motor vehicle crashes are preventable," said CDC Director Thomas R. Frieden. "Seat belts, graduated driver's license programs, child safety seats, and helmet use save lives and reduce health care costs."

Release of the new data coincides with the United Nation's launch of Decade of Action for Road Safety, a worldwide program aimed at reducing the nearly 2 million deaths per year on the world's roads.

The report found nearly half of the nation's costs are in 10 states, which account for $20.4 billion in medical and work-loss costs.

CDC's data analysis found that the 10 states with the highest medical and work loss costs were:

-California ($4.16 billion)
-Texas ($3.50 billion)
-Florida ($3.16 billion)
-Georgia ($1.55 billion)
-Pennsylvania ($1.52 billion)
-North Carolina ($1.50 billion)
-New York ($1.33 billion)
-Illinois ($1.32 billion)
-Ohio ($1.23 billion)
Tennessee ($1.15 billion)

The CDC reports the cost of crashes involving teens is nearly $1 billion.

"It's tragic to hear that anyone dies on our nation's roads. But it's especially so when the person who loses his or her life is a child or teenager," said Linda Degutis, director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. "Child passenger safety laws and comprehensive graduated driver licensing laws are proven to protect young lives. We encourage states to strengthen and enforce these laws to help keep more of our young people safe."

The following strategies are recommended for reducing costs:

-Primary seat belt laws. Seat belt use reduces the risk of death by about half for those seated in the front seat.

-Strong passenger safety policies, including age-appropriate safety seats. As we reported earlier this year on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, the federal government has released revised recommendations for keeping your child safe in the vehicle.

-Comprehensive graduated driver's licensing programs. As we have previously reported, Illinois is a leader in this area. GDL programs have been shown to reduce accidents involving 16 year olds by up to 40 percent.

-Motorcycle helmet laws. Helmets reduce the risk of death by one-third and reduce the risk of brain injury by 69 percents.

"These preventable costs are a reflection of the terrible suffering of American families whose loved ones are killed or injured on the roads," said Norman Mineta, chairman of Make Roads Safe North America and the longest serving Secretary of Transportation in U.S. history. "It is time for all of us to take action to save lives at home and around the globe."

Illinois' $1.32 billion costs break down as follows:

-$15 million medical costs

-$1.31 billion work loss costs.

-$615 million (47 percent) motor-vehicle occupants.

-$135 million (10 percent) motorcycle costs.

-$24 million (2 percent) bicycle accident costs.

-$168 million (13 percent) pedestrian accident costs.

Continue reading "Illinois Car Accidents 8th Costliest in Nation" »

An Illinois car crash on the Northwest Side of Chicago has claimed the life of two people and injured four others on Sunday morning, according to WGN news. The collision involved to vehicles crashing into a PLS Check Cashiers store.

The victims fatally injured in the accident were a 57-year-old man from Elmwood Park and a 57-year-old woman from Streamwood. Both were taken by ambulance to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center and pronounced dead a short time later. The two were on a cleaning crew that were finished working downtown and on their way home.

The two vehicles involved in the accident were a beige Hyundai and a black Honda. The Honda hit a streetlight pole before both vehicles struck the store. The cause of the deadly Chicago accident has not been reported.

Rescue personnel rushed to the scene around 5:25 AM, with everyone listed as seriously to critically injured. Six ambulances were sent to the accident location.

Two of the injured were taken to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, one to Cook County Hospital and one to our Lady of Resurrection Medical Center.

Read the story in the Chicago Tribune here.

Active Transportation Alliance continues to offer resources to bicyclists and pedestrians and their families -- including support groups for injury victims, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Our Chicago accident lawyers understand that bicyclists and pedestrians are most vulnerable to suffering serious or fatal injuries in an accident.

The Tribune reports that 34 people were killed and 503 were severely injured in Chicago pedestrian accidents in 2009. Chicago bicycle accidents killed six riders and seriously injured 165 that same year.

The Alliance offers support groups that meet once a month in the conference room of the organization's downtown office -- it is perhaps the only group of its kind in the country. The organization is dedicated to biking and walking safety. The support group is facilitated by personnel from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

The organization also operates a crash support hotline, which it started in 2010.

The group was instrumental in pushing for the tracking of bicycle accidents caused by dooring, as we reported recently on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog.

The Alliance is sponsoring the Ride Lake Shore Drive event on May 29, one of spring's most popular cycling events.

The group is also promoting the Bike Commuter Challenge June 11-17

Continue reading "Alliance Support Group Offers Help to Victims of Chicago Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents" »

A Chicago area auto accident in 2010 has led to a man from Aurora, Illinois been sentenced to 4 years in prison for aggravated DUI with bodily harm, a class 4 felony, according to the Kane County Chronicle. The defendant was sentenced earlier this month by an Associate Judge.

The DUI accident took place on July 30, 2010 around 4 PM. The 40-year-old defendant was driving a 2002 GMC Sierra pickup southbound in the right lane on Route 31 in North Aurora. As the driver approached Airport Road, he swerved into oncoming traffic in an attempt to avoid a vehicle that slowed to make a right turn in front of him.

When the defendant crossed the center line, he hit a 2000 Mazda MVP minivan that was stopped in the northbound lanes waiting to make a left turn. The DUI driver then fled the scene on foot, but was later located and taken into police custody.

A vehicle data recorder later taken from the defendant's vehicle showed that immediately before impact his vehicle was going 65 mph in a 35 mph zone. Testing revealed the defendant had a blood-alcohol concentration of .151, nearly twice the legal limit.

The DUI accident victim sustained multiple fractures and is still going recovery from her injuries.

It is not been reported if an Illinois personal injury lawyer is involved in the case or if a civil lawsuit has been filed on behalf of the victim.

While some are calling for less government, a recent report found many citizens are in support of additional laws to improve highway safety, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. A recently released survey, put out just as the United Nations kicks off its ‘Decade of Action on Road Safety' campaign, illustrates Americans' desire for more enforcement to help decrease the risks of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere across the United States.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers support the global campaign to help reduce the number of highway injuries and deaths.

“Despite shrinking federal and state transportation budgets and a public debate over the most appropriate role of government, it’s clear that a majority of Americans want government officials to do more – not less – about highway safety,” said AAA President and CEO Bob Darbelnet. “From passing and enforcing laws about teen drivers and distracted driving to programs that improve the safety of our roadways and add safety equipment to vehicles, there are many steps government can take reduce crashes, injuries, and deaths in the U.S.”

Car accidents continue to rank as one of the leading causes of death in the United States.

Numerous countries and public institutions have all jumped on board with the campaign and are actively endorsing the Decade of Action.

“At a time when more and more U.S. highway safety agencies are adopting “Toward Zero Death” goals, it is very heartening to see motorist support for more, not less action by government to make our roads safer,” added J. Peter Kissinger, President of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, that commissioned this survey.

There were more than 10,111,000 vehicles that were involved in police-reported accidents in the United States in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association. More than 90 percent of these reported accidents involved passenger vehicles. Nearly 50,500 of the crashes resulted in fatalities, and nearly 80 percent of the fatalities occurred to the occupants of passenger vehicles. In total, more than 25,000 of those involved in passenger vehicle accidents lost their lives in that year. Additionally, another 2.35 million occupants suffered injuries.

The Global Action Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety can be found on the United Nations Road Safety Collaboration website.

-62 percent of Americans say the U.S. needs more laws to prevent dangerous behavior on the road -- only 17 percent disagree.

-57 percent of Americans say their state needs to do more to make the roads safer -- only 11 percent disagree.

-86 percent believe all new drivers should be required to complete a driver's education course.

-A majority of Americans believe the responsibility for making cars safer rests with both manufacturers and the government.

Worldwide car accident statistics:

-1.3 million motorists die on the world's roads each year.

-3.5 million are injured.

-Road deaths are projected to rise to 1.9 million by 2020.

-By 2015 road deaths will be the leading health burden for children.

Continue reading "U.S. Agencies Join Global Action to Reduce Car Accidents in Illinois and Elsewhere" »

A Chicago area car crash that occurred in March, 2011 and caused the death of a 56-year-old Lake Barrington woman has now resulted in reckless homicide charges being filed against a 40-year-old man from downstate Illinois, according to Tribune Local.

The victim was getting into her vehicle at a car wash back on March 24 when a car being operated by the defendant southbound on US Route 12 left the roadway in the area of Honey Lake Road and crashed into the woman and a second vehicle. The second vehicle was then knocked into a third parked in front of it.

The victim and two other people were taken by Lake Zurich Fire Department ambulances to Good Shepherd Hospital. She later died from injuries sustained in the accident.

The defendant has been charged with reckless homicide and three counts of driving under the influence of drugs, all felonies. He allegedly had cannabis in his system at the time of the accident.

The defendant was arrested by the Lake Zurich Police Department last Thursday and is being held on a $1 million bond. Both the Lake County State's Attorney's Office and the Major Crash Assistance Team of Lake County assisted in the investigation. The state's attorney's office approved the criminal charges.

The Carmi Times is reporting that the defendant was traveling around 67 mph at the time of the accident. Further, police recovered marijuana from within the vehicle.

It was not reported if a civil lawsuit has been filed or if an Illinois personal injury lawyer is involved in the case.

Click here to read the story as reported by the Republic.

Criminal charges have been filed against an driver that allegedly caused a Chicago area DUI car crash involving for vehicles, according to the Northbrook Star. The collision took place on Wednesday at 4:45 PM on the Edens spur ramp near Northbrook and left the at fault driver and three others injured.

There was a traffic backup on the expressway and the motorist, who was driving a red 1999 Honda Accord, was reportedly speeding and did not stop. He rear-ended the vehicle in front of him, causing a chain reaction crash involving four vehicles in total.

The occupants of the vehicle initially rear-ended were the most seriously injured. The driver sustained a spinal fracture and the passenger has a ruptured spleen. Both were taken by ambulance to Evanston Hospital.

The at fault driver was also seriously injured and taken to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Another driver involved was also injured and taken to Highland Park Hospital.

The defendant, a 24-year-old Chicago resident, has now been charged with DUI drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

Seven ambulances went to the scene of the accident, and a flight for life helicopter was on standby but not used. Firefighters from Northbrook, Glenview, Northfield, Glencoe, Highland Park and Skokie all responded to the accident.

The Illinois State Police handled the accident investigation.

Illinois car crash attorneys at Abels & Annes have agreed to represent a Chicago man that was injured in a traffic collision in May, 2011. The incident occurred at Clark and Jackson in the Loop.

The plaintiff was sitting at a red light when a pickup truck slammed into the rear his car. The pickup then fled the scene, driving away going westbound on Jackson Street, which is an eastbound one-way street.

After the accident, both our client and witnesses were able to take down the hit and run driver's license plate number. The Chicago Police Department responded to the scene of the collision and ran the license plate number, identifying the owner.

The next day the plaintiff called the defendant, who surprisingly cooperated, admitted involvement and gave his auto insurance information. It is unclear if he will now face criminal charges for fleeing the scene.

In my experience, a fact pattern like this is uncommon. Typically drivers that flee the accident are uninsured.

The plaintiff sustained neck and back, shoulder, and right elbow injuries in the crash. He was treated at Stroger Hospital after the crash.

In the days following the incident his pain only increased. He is now under the care of a medical doctor in the Chicago area.

The plaintiff's vehicle sustained heavy damage in the accident and was totaled.

If you have been hurt in an Illinois car accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation. Call us at 312-924-7575.

WLS is reporting that several people were hurt and taken by ambulance to area hospitals after an Illinois auto accident on the Elgin-O'Hare Expressway Tuesday morning. None of the injuries were supposed to be life-threatening.

The collision occurred just before 7:30 AM when a westbound 2003 Honda crossed over the median and drove into the eastbound lanes for reasons unknown. This caused a five vehicle collision in the eastbound lanes, including a 2000 Lincoln pickup truck, a Toyota Camry, a 2000 Cadillac and a 2007 Chevy SUV. One of the vehicles rolled over in the accident.

Those hurt in the accident were taken to Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Elk Grove Village, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The Illinois state police responded to the accident scene. It was not reported if traffic citations were issued, but police were talking to victims for clues as to why the vehicle crossed the center of the highway.

The eastbound lanes were closed for about an hour and traffic was rerouted while debris and the rolled over vehicle were cleared.

The Roselle Police Department and the Cook County Sheriff's Department assisted in the investigation.

Illinois car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes signed on to represent a father and son that were injured by a distracted driver in the northern suburbs of Chicago. The crash occurred on Illinois Route 173 in the area of Grimm Road in Antioch, Illinois in April, 2011.

The plaintiffs were traveling eastbound on 173 when a westbound driver crossed the center line and hit them. After the accident, the at fault driver admitted that just prior to impact she was sending a text. She then looked up, saw the traffic had stopped, and swerved into oncoming traffic to avoid striking the vehicle in front of her.

The Antioch Police Department responded to the accident site. After interviewing the parties involved, police issued the defendant several moving violations.

The plaintiffs were taken by ambulance to Aurora Medical Center in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The father had sustained abdominal bruising, neck, hip and bilateral knee injuries in the crash. His son sustained bruising, muscle spasms and was generally sore all over.

Since the accident, the father has had to undergo further treatment with a physician in Northern Illinois, and his son has had appointments at a children's medical center.

As Chicago personal injury lawyers from our office recently reported, distracted driving continues to be a significant danger on Illinois roads.

-Approximately 20% of all injury related auto accidents nationwide were caused by distracted driving in the year 2009.

-According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5500 people were killed and 448,000 were injured in distracted driving accidents in 2009.

-Around 18% of distracted driving accidents causing death involved the use of cell phones at the time of the incident.

-Motorists are four times more likely to be involved in a serious injury accident when using a hand-held device at the wheel.

-Using a cell phone while driving arguably gives you the same reaction time as a legally drunk driver.

-Drivers under the age of 20 are most likely to drive while distracted. Approximately 16% of these young drivers who were involved in fatal accidents were distracted at the time.

Contact the car crash lawyers at Abels & Annes if you've been injured by a distracted driver in the Chicago area. Call us at 312-924-7575 for free consultation.

Illinois auto accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have agreed to help North Side resident that was recently injured in a collision. Our client was riding as a backseat passenger in a multiple vehicle crash.

The accident occurred in the area of Belmont and Kolmar Street in Chicago at the beginning of May, 2011. The plaintiff's car was traveling behind a truck in a line of traffic. At that time, the truck slowed and stopped for emergency vehicles immediately ahead of them.

The plaintiff's vehicle stopped in time, however her vehicle was rear-ended by the automobile directly behind them. The car that did not stop in time was then rear-ended by another vehicle, creating a second impact.

The Chicago Police Department responded to the scene and handled the crash investigation.

The plaintiff sustained back and neck injuries in the accident. She was seen shortly after the accident at Illinois Masonic Medical Center. There she was examined by ER physicians, x-rays were taken and she was prescribed a medication. She was diagnosed with neck and back sprain/strain.

Over the next several days following the collision our client's pain increased substantially. She is now under the care of an orthopedic physician in Chicago.

If you have been hurt in a traffic collision, contact the Illinois injury attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation. Call 312-924-7575 or click here to fill out a contact form. There is no attorney's fee unless a recovery is made on your behalf.

Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers previously reported that a 75-year-old man was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver at the intersection of Kimball Avenue and North Avenue on April 1. Now comes word that a 38-year-old West Side resident has been charged with a felony count of leaving the scene of accident causing death, according to ABC news.

The charge was announced by Chicago police officials on Wednesday. Fox News is reporting that the hit and run driver had previously been cited for driving without insurance, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and failure to give information.

The pedestrian victim was crossing the intersection in the Humboldt Park neighborhood just after 8 PM when he was fatally hit. Police later located the defendant and the vehicle and the 4700 block of W. Washington Blvd.

An autopsy determined the victim died from multiple injuries in the collision. The death was ruled an accident.

The hit-and-run driver was scheduled to appear in bond court on Thursday.

It has not been reported if a pedestrian accident attorney is involved in the case or if a civil lawsuit has been filed.

Read the story in the Chicago Tribune here.

A head-on collision on the West Side of Chicago has claimed the life of two people and injured nine others, according to the Chicago Tribune. The collision occurred in the 1200 block of S. Kostner Ave. in the Lawndale neighborhood on early Saturday morning.

Reportedly a 2003 Mazda SUV that was northbound on Kostner crossed the centerline and struck a 1995 Ford Probe. The impact caused the Mazda to flip over, injuring all 11 people inside. Two of those occupants died. The victims were a 19-year-old Chicago resident and a still unidentified woman in her 40s. One of the victims died at the scene, and the other passed away a short time later at a hospital. Two others remain in critical condition at Mount Sinai Hospital.

The driver of the SUV, a 39-year-old Chicago woman, has now been charged with several counts of aggravated DUI. The specific evidence of intoxication was not reported. The driver was charged with a total of 10 felonies.

Click here to read the story as reported by ABC news and the Chicago Sun-Times.

The school year is winding down and many students are looking forward to attending prom and graduation. Unfortunately, this is typically the time when alcohol-related traffic accidents spike among teens.

The number of alcohol-related fatal accidents involving drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 years old dropped 37 percent from 2000 to 2009. Even with the decrease, alcohol-fueled road accidents remain the leading cause of death in that age range according to a recent article in the Chicago Sun-Times.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers understand that our teenage students are excited during this time of year as they have prom, graduation and summer break approaching. Parents are urged to keep a close eye on their teens as student will be hitting the road in large numbers.

Research shows that 70 percent of high school upperclassmen expect their peers to consume alcohol and drive on prom night. Although schools rely on lockdowns of hotel and school venues, bloody mock DUI scenes, drug-sniffing dogs and random breath alcohol testing to keep students from drinking on prom night, measures oftentimes fail as students can consume alcohol at parties, before and after the chaperon supervised event.

“Most parents do not keep parties dry. More often than not, I’ve run into ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ situations, where parents stay upstairs, out of the fray,” said John G. Duffy, a clinical psychologist who has worked with high schoolers in the Chicago area.

Causing more than 2,300 fatalities in 2009, motor vehicle accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for young drivers between the ages of 15 and 20. In addition to the thousands of deaths, nearly 20,000 teen drivers were injured in the same year.

Here are some teen safe driving tips to discuss with your student prior to their prom, graduation and summer break:

-Keep the number of passengers to a minimum. Passengers can provide a great deal of distraction to your young driver. Limit the number of passengers you teen is allowed in the vehicle.

-Buckle up. Seat belts save lives. Encourage you teen to wear one every time they drive.

-Follow the rules. Explain to your young driver that road signs are posted for a reason and encourage them to follow all stop signs, speed limits and traffic lights.

-Be sure they never drive impaired. Whether intoxicated with street drugs, prescriptions drugs, over the counter medications or alcohol, make sure your teen understands the consequences of driving in an impaired state.

Parents are urged to sit down and talk with their children about the dangers of drinking and driving. Discussing and signing a parent-teen driving contract can also help you to enforce your rules.

Continue reading "Teens Urged to Be Safe During Prom Season to Avoid Risks of Chicago Dunk Driving Accidents" »

Chicago auto accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have signed on to represent a local resident that was injured in an April, 2011 collision. The accident occurred in the 3500 block of Montrose Avenue. Our client was driving westbound in a 2000 Dodge Neon when she was rear-ended by the driver of a 1995 Subaru that was also moving westbound.

Immediately after the accident the plaintiff started experiencing neck pain and headaches. She was seen shortly there after at the Resurrection Hospital emergency room. There she was examined by emergency room physicians. The ER doctors diagnosed her with acute neck sprain, prescribed pain medication and instructed her to follow-up with a physician.

Since the date of the accident her pain has only increased and she is now treating with orthopedic doctors in Chicago.

The Chicago Police Department handled the crash investigation.

A Chicago car crash has resulted in injuries to a police sergeant and two others, according to the Chicago Tribune. The collision occurred when a motorist ran a red light, striking a police car that was then knocked into another car.

The crash occurred on the South Side just after 9:40 PM on Tuesday at Stony Island and 83rd Street. The at fault driver was traveling in a 2006 Audi southbound on Stony Island when she failed to stop at a stop light and struck a marked Chicago police car that was moving westbound 83rd St. The squad car was then knocked into a 1992 Mercedes.

The driver of the Audi, a 32-year-old woman, was taken by ambulance to Jackson Park Hospital. The sergeant was taken to Advocate Trinity Hospital and later released. The Mercedes driver was taken to South Shore Hospital. The exact injuries of each motorist were not reported.

The Audi driver was ticketed for driving to fast for conditions and driving without insurance. The Mercedes driver was ticketed for operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license.

A Chicago man struck by a distracted teen driver dies after suffering severe brain injuries from the accident, according to The Chicago Tribune.

The teen driver was reportedly downloading ring tones on her cell phone when the accident occurred. The rider was reported to have been taking all the necessary safety precautions while riding his bicycle that afternoon. He was wearing his helmet and riding on the shoulder of the road, but that wasn't enough to save him from the deadly Chicago bicycle accident.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers urge drivers to be extra observant on the roadways as cyclists, motorcycle riders and pedestrians take to the street in large numbers this spring.

Distracted driving reports show that inattentive drivers are responsible for an increasing number of accidents in the Unites States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5,500 people were killed, and an additional 448,000 injured, in motor vehicle accidents involving a distracted driver. Of the thousands killed, roughly 1,000 of the accidents reported cell phone usage as the form of distraction. This means cell phones contributed to nearly 20 percent of the distracted driving-related accidents.

As we recently discussed on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, Illinois is making every attempt to help reduce the risk of bicycling accidents. Twenty riders were killed in bicycle accidents in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Through spring, Chicago is hosting various distracted driving awareness events to help reduce the risk of these accidents.

Distracted driving needs to be addressed not only to help protect cyclists and pedestrians but to help protect other motorists as well. Illinois recently kicked off National Distracted Driving Awareness Month with the Illinois Distracted Driving Summit, presented by the National Safety Council & FocusDriven. The Summit was used to engage key groups to determine how best to reduce crashes involving distracted drivers.

"Still, too many of our friends and neighbors are killed in preventable roadway tragedies every day. We will continue doing everything possible to make cars safer, increase seat belt use, put a stop to drunk driving and distracted driving and encourage drivers to put safety first," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

The NHTSA offers this list of potential in-car distractions you should avoid:

-Cell Phones. This includes both hand-held and hands free phones.

-Computers. With the convenience of laptop computers, it is easy to access them while at the wheel.

-Distractions caused by other passengers.

-Your radio. Changing the station, changing the CD or messing with your MP3 player all requires you to take your eyes, and attention, off the road.

-GPS Systems. Use these features only when pulled over and stopped on the side of the road.

Continue reading "Distracted Driving Greatly Increases the Change of Chicago Motor Vehicle Accidents involving Pedestrians, Bicyclists and Motorcyclists" »

Illinois car crash attorneys at Abels & Annes have agreed to represent a woman who was injured in an April, 2011 collision that occurred at 150th St. & Broadway in Harvey, Illinois. The plaintiff was northbound on Broadway, proceeding through the intersection after stopping at a stop sign. At that time, the defendant, who was westbound on150th St., failed to stop at the stop sign and T-boned our client's vehicle.

The Harvey Police Department investigated the accident. The defendant driver admitted to what happened and was issued a citation for failing to stop at the stop sign.

Shortly after the crash, our client developed neck and back pain, right shoulder pain, and right arm pain. Since then, she has started with an orthopedic physician in the Chicago area.

Contact the Illinois injury attorneys at Abels & Annes for free, no obligation consultation you've been hurt in a Chicago area traffic collision. Contact us online or call 312-924-7575.

Illinois personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes have recently settled an auto accident claim against a driver insured by Geico.

The first case arises from an accident that occurred back on May 26, 2010 at 9 AM, in the City of Chicago. Our client was driving a 1995 Mazda Protege northbound on Cottage Grove Avenue approaching 88th St. when the defendant, who was operating a 1992 Chevrolet Van southbound on Cottage Grove, attempted an illegal U-turn at the intersection of 88th and Cottage Grove. As the defendant attempted to U-turn he struck our client's vehicle.

The Chicago Police Department came to the scene of the accident. After interviewing the drivers, the investigating officer ticketed the defendant with making the illegal U-turn.

The plaintiff sustained back injuries in the crash. She was seen at the Jackson Park Hospital emergency room shortly after. x-rays were taken she was diagnosed with ace thoracic sprain. She was also prescribed pain medication.

The plaintiffs pain became worse in the days following the accident. She also developed neck pain, shoulder pain and headaches. She sought follow-up treatment with a chiropractic physician. The doctor prescribed course of physical therapy the consisted of electrical stimulation, therapeutic exercises, neuromuscular reeducation, heat treatment, manual therapy, mechanical traction and ultrasound therapy. She attended physical therapy on 15 occasions through August, 2010.

The case settled for just under $8,500. No lawsuit had to be filed. This is the second case we resolved with Geico Insurance over the last few weeks.

In the other claim against Geico, our client was the victim of a hit-and-run auto accident. He was stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of 71st and Michigan in Chicago when he was rear-ended. The at fault driver then fled the scene.

The plaintiff sustained neck, shoulder and back injuries in the accident. He was seen in the ER at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital and then had follow up treatment with an orthopedic in Chicago.

Our client had hit-and-run / uninsured motorist coverage with Geico. The case settled for just over $6,000.

If you've been injured in a traffic collision, contact the Chicago auto accident attorneys at Abels & Annes for free consultation. Call 312-924-7575.

Single vehicle Illinois auto accidents that took place this month in the southwest suburbs of Chicago illustrate the need to avoid distracted driving. The Beacon News is reporting that one of the accidents occurred in Aurora and the other in Kendall County. Both accidents occurred due to drivers reaching for devices in their cars instead of watching the road.

One crash occurred back on April 6, 2011 in the afternoon near the intersection of Shorline and Baybrook in Aurora. The driver was looking down trying to locate his ipod and struck a tree. The car then rolled over. There were two passengers in the car, but police have not disclosed if anyone was injured. The driver was charged with failing to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

The second happened several hours later just after 12:00 a.m. on April 7. It was again a single car accident. It occurred in 400 block of North Johnson Street in Newark, Illinois. Two people were hurt in the crash when a 30-year-old driver lost control of her car after reaching for a CD player and driving off the road.

The car struck a phone pole. The driver and passenger were taken by ambulance to Valley West Community Hospital. The severity of injuries have not been reported. The driver was charged with failure to reduce speed to avoid the collision.

These accidents occurred as a Chicago car accident lawyer at our firm is in the middle of negotiating an injury claim on behalf of a pedestrian that was injured by a distracted driver. The motorist was driving in Chicago when his cell phone rang. He lost control of his vehicle while trying to grab the phone, drove up onto a sidewalk and struck our client.

Illinois drivers need to remember that when they drive while distracted, they are putting their lives and the lives of others at risk.

As we previously reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Throughout the entire month, the National Safety Council (NSC) and FocusDriven are teaming up to urge drivers to curb distracted driving by putting away their cell phones and other forms of distraction. The NSC estimates that, each year, roughly 30 percent of all motor vehicle accidents -- -- 1.6 million crashes -- involve a distracted driver.

The National Safety Council will be holding webinars throughout the month to help inform the general public about the dangers of distracted driving. They will also be covering ways to decrease your risk of being involved in a distracted driving accident in Chicago or elsewhere in the U.S.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers frequently deal with accidents caused by some form of driving distraction. Hand-held cell phones have been illegal for drivers to use inside the city limits of Chicago for years. And all drivers have been prohibited from text messaging since a state law went into effect last January. Still, both are common causes of car accidents.

The first webinar, The Ripple Effect of Distracted Driving Crashes, will be aimed at helping viewers to understand why these new technologies are posing such a threat to the safety of everyone our roadways. This webinar will include stories from families who have been directly affected by these dangerous driving habits. The main focus of this session is to help drivers to better understand how the mind is distracted behind the wheel and what you can do to regain control on the road.

The second of these webinars, Do You Really Know What's Going on in Your Fleet?, will focus more on the frequency and the main causes of distracted driving accidents. This webinar will bring to light the risk for drivers and employees.

These webinars are made possible by the support of various advocates for safe driving, DriveCam Inc. and FirstGroup. Both companies are proud sponsors or National Distracted Driving Awareness Month 2011.

Distracted Driving research provides us with the following statistics:

-Distracted driving was a factor in nearly 5,500 deaths in car accidents and caused more than 448,000 motor-vehicle accident injuries in 2009.

-Drivers under the age of 20 are most likely to be involved in an accident caused by distracted driving. Nearly 20 percent of all their fatal accidents were caused by a distracted driver.

-The use of a cell phone while driving delays the reaction time of a drive to that equivalent of a drunk driver, testing with a BAC of .08 or higher.

-Roughly 20 percent of all accidents reported in 2009 involved distracted drivers.

-Of the near 5,500 deaths caused by distracted driving, almost 1,000 of them reported the use of a cell phone as the form of distraction.

-Cell phones make drivers four times more likely to be involved in an accident resulting in significant injury.

Continue reading "Distracted Driving Webinars may help reduce risk of Chicago car accidents during awareness month" »

An Illinois auto accident in suburban Northfield has claimed the life of a 22-year-old Chicago woman, Winnetka Talk is reporting. Another person was seriously injured in the collision that occurred on Friday.

The accident occurred at 2220 Willow Road. Northfield police are stating that the woman was eastbound on Willow when she crossed the center line for unknown reasons and struck a westbound driver head-on.

The woman was taken by ambulance to Evanston Hospital and pronounced dead hours later. The driver of the other vehicle, a 63 year old Glenview man, was also taken to Evanston Hospital. He was in critical condition.

The Northfield Police Department is being assisted by the Major Crash Assistance Team, which is a joint operation run by several suburban departments. The collision is still under investigation and it has not yet been reported if drugs or alcohol played a role.

The Glenview Patch is reporting that the accident occurred around 8 pm and that Willow Road remained closed due to the accident late into the night.

Click here to read the story as reported by WGN tv.

A Chicago area accident has resulted in the death of a woman, and criminal charges against an alleged drunk driver, the Chicago Sun-Times is reporting. The accident occurred on Monday just after 5 AM at Balmoral Park Racetrack in Crete, Illinois.

Will County prosecutors allege a 41-year-old man was intoxicated when he drove his truck into a horse on the track, killing a woman that was riding it. They allege the motorist drank approximately five or six shots while at a barn at the track prior to the collision.

The victim, age 25, died from head injuries, while another woman riding on the horse, age 21, sustained a fractured leg which required surgery to repair.

The driver allegedly had a blood-alcohol level of 0.147, almost twice the legal limit. He has been charged with four counts of aggravated DUI. A Will County Judge set the defendant's bond at $500,000 and he faces up to 14 years in prison.

It is also being reported that the defendant may have been engaged to the victim, however the victim's family has stated that is not true.

Click here to read the story as reported by the Chicago Tribune and NBC News in Chicago.

It has not been reported if a civil lawsuit is been filed or if a Chicago personal injury lawyer is involved in the case yet.

Illinois officials and federal leaders are joining forces to determined the best way to reduce accidents involving distracted driving, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). Illinois officials will be joined by various leaders from the medical, education, researched and traffic safety communities at a distracted driving summit planned for later this month. The focus will be on tackling the increase in distracted driving accidents in Chicago and the surrounding areas.

“I first met several of the founding members of FocusDriven at our Distracted Driving Summit, and I’m deeply impressed by their commitment to turn these tragic events into positive actions that will help save lives,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Their stories are not just heartbreaking; they’re also a clear and compelling call to action.”

Our Chicago car accident lawyers understand the severity of the issue. Few accidents are accidents in the strictest sense of the word; many are caused by a driver who simply fails to pay attention. We urge all motorists to help keep the roads safer for everyone by avoiding distractions behind the wheel.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that, at any given moment, 9 percent of drivers are talking on their cell phone. This type of driving makes drivers four times more likely to be involved in a car crash, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.

“FocusDriven is an important organization that puts faces and names to the tragedies caused by cell phone use while driving,” said National Safety Council President Janet Froetscher. “The members of FocusDriven have powerful stories to tell about their loved ones. We hope their stories will help people realize the dangers of using cell phones while driving.”

The Government reports the following distracted driving trends

-Those between the ages of 15 and 20 have the highest proportion of distracted drivers involved in fatal accident.

-7 percent of drivers were reported to be distracted during the time of the accident in 2005, that number has now increased to 11 percent.

-Nearly 5,500 people were killed in accidents involving a distracted driver in 2009 -- 16 percent of fatalities. Another 448,000 were reportedly injured under these conditions.

-Of the 1,517,000 accidents resulting in injury, an estimated 20 percent reportedly involved distracted driving.

The Illinois Distracted Driving summit offers online registration for this free event on the NSC website.

Continue reading "Illinois Distracted Driving Summit aims to Reduce Risks of Distracted Driving Accidents" »

More than 100 schools statewide were selected to participate in the Operation Teen Safe Driving Program. Schools were asked to use their imagination and creativity to develop programs to help educate their peers about the importance of safe driving.

The Illinois Department of Transportation funds the program along with Ford Motor Company, the Allstate Foundation and Illinois State Police (ISP). This is the fourth year the program has been offered to our Illinois students. The program is offered in our region to help reduce the risks of teen driving accidents in Chicago and the surrounding areas.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers understand the importance of these driving programs as they may have affected the recent decrease in Illinois teen motor-vehicle fatalities. Records show that teen driving fatalities have significantly decreased since the program began back in 2007.

“When I established the Teen Driver Safety Task Force the goal was to improve Illinois’ graduated driver licensing (GDL) law and, even more importantly, to save lives,” said Secretary of State Jesse White. “I am encouraged that teen driving deaths have dropped by 50 percent since the law took effect January 1, 2008. This law, in conjunction with the Operation Teen Safe Driving initiative, is having the intended impact on teen driving safety. My congratulations to the winners as well as to all schools that participated in this important program. Working together, we can save more lives and make Illinois roads safer for all of us.”

Thirty-five schools have been invited to join Ford Motor Company in Springfield for their Driving Skills for Life, “Ride and Drive” events. These events offer hands-on experiences with speed/space management, hazard recognition/accident avoidance and handling/skid control.

Students will be able to jump behind the wheel to complete rigorous driving exercises. In addition to event participation, the top five schools in each of our seven regions will receive cash prizes between $500 and $2,500 to host a post-prom event.

"The proper education of our teen drivers is a crucial component in the short and long term reduction of traffic crash fatalities," said ISP Interim Director Patrick Keen. "The partnerships formed between public and private entities, and the accomplishments achieved by the students in the program, are a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in the Operation Teen Safe Driving program. The ISP is encouraged by the ongoing dialogue and commitment of these young adults who share their time, talents, and energy to promote awareness and safe driving practices."

Car accidents are the leading cause of death in those 15 to 20 years of age. In the U.S., nearly 2,400 young drivers died in car accidents and roughly 196,000 were injured in 2009, showing a 15 percent decrease from 2008. Illinois suffered more than 130 fatalities from car accidents involving young drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 in 2009.

Ford's Driving Skills for Life offers parents with this safe teen driving interactive toolkit to help educate their young drivers on how to travel safer on our roadways.

Continue reading "The Operation Teen Safe Driving Program aims to help reduce risk of Illinois car accidents" »

An increasing number of Chicago Heights car accidents are being caused by distracted drivers, according to The Patch.

Our Chicago injury lawyers continue to report on the dangers of distracted driving, particularly text messaging and hand-held cell phone use behind the wheel.

So far, authorities don't believe any fatalities have resulted from text messaging, but the fire department has seen an increase in distracted driving accidents, beginning with a 2008 crash in which a vehicle was struck by a motorist tuning the radio. The accident claimed the life of an 8-year-old boy.

Still, texting is a big problem in the village, despite the Illinois texting ban, which went into effect in January 2010. The law makes it illegal to text while driving and also prohibits the use of hand-held cell phones in school zones and construction sites. Using a cell phone while driving is prohibited inside the city limits of Chicago by separate city ordinance.

Chicago Heights Police Chief William Joyce wants motorists to eliminate all forms of distracted driving. “Five seconds to text, five seconds to do a radio scan, five seconds to discipline your kids," Joyce said. "It only takes a second to travel the length of a football field when you are driving 40-45 mph. And you are driving a 2,000 to 3,000 pound weapon (while doing so).”

The Chief will be making several presentations through spring, with an emphasis on warning teenagers about the dangers of distracted driving. He uses a video from AT&T titled "The Last Text" and photos of accident scenes involving drunk drivers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 5,474 people were killed and 448,000 were injured in accidents caused by distracted drivers.

Continue reading "Chicago Heights concerned about increase in car accidents caused by distracted driving" »

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced this week it is delaying a mandate that all new vehicles be equipped with backup cameras, which had been aimed at reducing Chicago parking lot accidents and accidents involving vehicles backing over victims in driveways.

Chicago personal injury attorneys understand the tragic consequences of such accidents, which frequently occur around the holidays and often involve a relative who strikes a small child or a child or older adult who is run down in a busy parking lot.

As we reported in December on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, the government had been set to require some new vehicles be equipped with the cameras next year, with the goal of having the cameras installed in all new vehicles by 2014.

In a carefully worded statement the NHTSA said it will now seek to have a permanent rule by the end of this year, following a public hearing on the issue, at which it apparently got an ear full from the auto industry. Automotive World reports the new rule will be postponed after the NHTSA indicated it needs more time for analysis and comments.

"Every year, nearly 300 people are killed and 18,000 more are injured when someone, often a parent or grandparent, backs over them," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "To put an end to these tragedies, we have proposed a new safety rule and are seeking further public feedback."

The goal of last week's hearing was to permit industry groups and other interested parties a chance to comment.

"Safety is our top priority and the steps we are proposing, with the public's help and input, will reduce back-over fatalities and injuries not only to children, but to the elderly, and other pedestrians," NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said.

U.S. News & World Report referenced a study that indicates the new rule could cost the industry about $2.7 billion a year.

Continue reading "Feds delay rule aimed at preventing backover accidents in Chicago, elsewhere" »

The National Safety Council has announced a three-percent decline in fatal motor vehicle accidents last year with a report that estimates 34,700 people died in traffic accidents in 2010. The Illinois-based safety organization is the first to report fatality figures from last year -- the federal government will release its statistics through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration this summer.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers have reported before that much of the reduction has been attributed to the downturn in the economy and the high levels of unemployment -- fewer visitors and fewer people going to work during the morning and afternoon rush hours equates to fewer fatal Chicago car accidents.

The data bears that out as the NSC reports a slight increase in fatalities during the fourth quarter of last year.

“As encouraging as it is to see fatalities decreasing on our nation’s roads, the 2010 rate of decrease is less than a third of the previous year’s decrease,” said Janet Froetscher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. “We must remain vigilant in addressing roadway safety issues where the greatest impact can be made, such as distracted and teen driving. As miles traveled start to rise again from recession lows, we want to ensure the continuance of this downward trend.”

January - March saw reductions of 13 to 14 percent, while September saw just a 1 percent year-over-year drop and October to December saw a 2 percent increase in the overall number of traffic fatalities nationwide. As we reported in February on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, Illinois recorded fewer than 1,000 traffic deaths for the second year in a row -- nearly matching 2009's total, which was the lowest since the 1920s.

The estimated cost of traffic accidents last year, including lost wages and productivity, medical bills and property damages, was $236.6 billion -- also a decrease of 3 percent compared to 2009.

Continue reading "Illinois Safety Organization says number of Chicago car accidents could rise with economic recovery" »

An auto accident in the north suburbs of Chicago has resulted in the death of a high school student, according to the Chicago Breaking News Center. The teen victim was riding as a passenger when the vehicle he was riding in lost control on a curve and ran into a tree.

The deadly Illinois accident took place early Thursday morning in Arlington Heights around 12:40 AM when a Hyundai moving south 400 block of S. Windsor Dr. lost control and left the road. The vehicle was only moving slightly above the 25 mph speed limit, but police say the street was wet from a recent snow.

The Arlington Heights Police Department responded to the scene of the accident, and they reportedly had to cut off the roof of the vehicle in their attempt to rescue the passenger. The16-year-old was transported to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital with life-threatening injuries. The news story does not report when the teenager passed away.

The driver of the vehicle, also age 16, sustained minor injuries in the crash. Drugs and alcohol did not play a role in the accident. Both of the teens were wearing seatbelts and the vehicle's airbags properly deployed.

The teenage victim is an Arlington Heights resident.

A multiple vehicle car crash in Southern Illinois has caused the death of one person and injured four others, according to CBS news. The collision occurred Wednesday afternoon just before 3 PM on Interstate 57 in Union County, Illinois.

Local officials are saying that a 56-year-old man from Anna was pronounced dead at the scene. He was riding as a passenger in a pickup truck.

Illinois state police are stating that the accident occurred when a Camaro struck a cattle trailer from the rear around mile marker 39. The truck lost control, separated from the trailer and ended up in the median.

The truck was occupied by a driver and two passengers, one of which was killed. Another passenger, age 74, was transported by helicopter to a Cape Girardeau hospital for medical attention. The nature of that passengers injuries have not been reported. The 50-year-old driver of the rear ended truck was seriously injured and taken to an area hospital.

The Camaro driver and his three-year-old passenger were taken to an area hospital with no serious injuries. Illinois state police ticketed the 26-year-old driver with failing to reduce speed to avoid an accident, speeding, driving with a suspended license, failure to wear seat belt, and failure to secure child in a car seat.

It has not been reported if an Illinois personal injury lawyer is involved in the case yet.

Children should remain in car seats for twice as long -- until the ages of 2 instead of 1 -- according to new recommendations issued this week by the federal government. MSNBC reports children younger than 13 should ride in the back and those as old as 12 should ride in booster seats.

“Parents often look forward to transitioning from one stage to the next, but these transitions should generally be delayed until they’re necessary, when the child fully outgrows the limits for his or her current stage,” said Dennis Durbin, MD, FAAP.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers urge parents to take the new, updated recommendations seriously. The Beacon-News reports that children should now remain in rear-facing car seats until they're 2-years-old, or until they've reached the maximum height and weight requirements of the seat's manufacturer. Previously, the recommendations were for children under a year old.

Once a child has reached the age of 2, or has outgrown their current seat, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) now recommends a booster seat until a child is 8-years-old or reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches, whichever comes later. The government recommends children stay in the backseat until they're 12, according to the report in the Los Angeles Times.

The new car seat regulations come after new research found that children are actually safer in rear-facing car seats. The research, conducted by Injury Prevention, found that children under the age of 2, who are seated in rear-facing car seats during a car accident, are 75 perfect less likely to die or suffer a severe injury.

We frequently report that Chicago car accidents are a leading cause of serious and fatal injuries to children over the age of 3. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 34 children under the age of 14 died in Illinois car accidents in 2009 -- 19 of those were under the age of 7.

According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 184,000 children were severely injured in car accidents last year -- more than 1,300 died.

"Parents are always looking for the next stage of development because in every other scenario, that's a good thing. With car safety seats, however, that's often not the case," said Ben Hoffman, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.

An instructional pamphlet about car seat recommendations for children is available for you from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Continue reading "New Car Seat Regulations to Increase Child Safety in Chicago Car Accidents" »

Chicago bike accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have worked on several "Dooring" cases over the past few years.

Advocates are now pushing for officials to include "dooring" statistics when tracking the number of serious and fatal bicycle accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois, according to a report in The Tribune.

Our Chicago bicycle accident lawyers remind motorists that a new Illinois law permits criminal penalties for motorists who cause an accident by not allowing three-foot of clearance between a vehicle and a rider. The Journal Standard reports that the law also created the "Share the Road" license plate.

The 3-foot rule has been on the books since 2008. Now motorists convicted of intimidating a cyclist could face up to a year in prison and a fine of $2,500; the law took effect on Jan. 1.

However, vehicles that are not moving are involved in one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Chicago: Motorists opening car doors into the path of a cyclist. Because they do not involve a moving vehicle, crash statistics are not tracked by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The mother of a 22-year-old Chicago man, who was killed in an accident on La Salle Street when an SUV door opened into his path, is among those pushing for the change in how bicycle accidents are counted. The Active Transportation Alliance is launching a campaign to increase public awareness about the danger of bicycle accidents caused by open car doors. The group said the issue is the most prevalent threat facing cyclists on the street.

A survey by the group indicates half of cyclists have been doored at least once. However, the lack of official state statistics makes it difficult or impossible to apply for grant money or take other steps to improve safety. IDOT reports as many as 27 cyclists have been killed in Illinois bicycle accidents in each of the last five years and an average of 3,300 are injured.

Chicago police reports 76 dooring accidents last year and 62 in 2009. A 2008 city law carries a fine of up to $500 for opening a door into a cyclist's path. However, the Tribune reports no tickets have been issued under the law. Police did issue 161 tickets last year and 106 in 2009 to drivers who were driving, standing or parking in bike lanes.

Bicyclists and drivers can contact IDOT with questions or comments via the agency's website or by phone at 217-782-7820. IDOT's address is 2300 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62764.

Continue reading "Group wants 'Dooring" tracked as cause of Chicago bicycle accidents" »

An Illinois auto accident that occurred Friday afternoon around 5 PM on Route 66 just south of Pontiac, Illinois has resulted in the death of one person and injuries to several others, according to visitpontiac.com. The accident was a head-on collision between an SUV and a car.

When emergency personnel arrived on the scene, three of the four injured were unconscious. There were 3 occupants in the SUV and one in the car. The driver of the car was helicoptered to OSF in Peoria. The others were taken by ambulance to OSF St. James Hospital in Pontiac.

An accident reconstruction unit from the Illinois State Police has been sent to the scene for an investigation. Pontiac Police, Pontiac Fire, Duffy Ambulance, Livingston County Sheriff's Police, Illinois State Police, Saunemin Fire and SELCAS Ambulance all responded to the scene of the accident.

Pantagraph.com is reporting that the victim that died in the accident was a backseat passenger in a northbound vehicle.

Click here to read the story as reported by the Pontiac Daily Leader.

An Illinois pedestrian accident has claimed the life of a man in his 30s on Thursday night, according to the Chicago breaking news center. The pedestrian victim was killed while standing on the side of Interstate 55 Near Damon Ave.

Police have located the hit-and-run vehicle but have not stated whether they are questioning anyone in connection with the accident. The Illinois State Police are handling the crash investigation.

The pedestrian accident occurred just after 10 PM as the victim was standing on the right shoulder near his vehicle in the northbound lanes. He was transported by ambulance to Mount Sinai Hospital and pronounced dead a short time later.

It is not been reported if a Chicago pedestrian accident attorney is involved in this case yet. Unfortunately, in hit and run accidents, even if the driver is located, in my experience most of the time they are not insured. The Illinois personal injury lawyer that gets involved in the case could very likely pursue a hit and run / uninsured motorist claim against the driver's own policy.

An Illinois auto accident has injured five people, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The crash happened during rush hour on Tuesday when a vehicle lost control, flipped over several times and then struck a fence and tree. The incident happened on the Tri-State Tollway.

It was a single vehicle accident that occurred around 5:25 PM in the southbound lanes of Interstate 294. Illinois state troopers responded to the accident which occurred about a mile north of the Willow Road exit in the area of Northbrook, Illinois.

It is being reported that the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control while attempting to change lanes, rolling over three times. The car took out approximately 40 feet of a fence when it left the roadway.

Five occupants in the vehicle were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver that loss control was ticketed, but the nature of the charge was not reported.

In a single car accident such as this one, the injured passengers typically will have a good claim against the at fault driver who lost control the vehicle. It has not been reported if an Illinois auto accident attorney is involved in the case yet.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is teaming up with Consumer Reports to warn parents and teenagers about the dangers of distracted driving.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers urge parents to have a serious talk with their teens as spring approaches. With spring break, prom and graduation, teens will have plenty of chances to be out late on the road and may face peer pressure when it comes to underage drinking, drinking and driving and drug consumption.

In short, the next few months are among the most dangerous when it comes to the risk of Chicago car accidents involving teenagers.

“Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on America’s roads, and teens are especially vulnerable because of their inexperience behind the wheel and, often, peer pressure,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Behind the statistics are real families who have been devastated by these tragedies. We’re pleased to be working with Consumer Reports to raise awareness and help communities fight this problem.”

A free guide of "Distracted Driving Shatters Lives" is being made available at the Department of Transportation's website www.distraction.gov as well as the website for Consumer Reports. The National School Safety Coalition is also distributing copies to schools and volunteer groups.

A public service announcement is set to begin airing on television nationwide and a Consumer Reports video will air in retail stores in April.

“It only takes a moment of distraction to cause a tragedy. No text or call is worth a life," said Jim Guest, the president of Consumers Union, the publisher of Consumer Reports. "We know that educating people about the risk of distracted driving works. This partnership is devoted to spreading the word about the dangers of distracted driving and specific steps you can take to make a difference.”

A new survey by Consumer Reports highlights the dangers faced by young drivers:

-Two thirds of those under the age of 30 reported using a hand-held phone while driving at some point during the last month; one-third of them admitted to text messaging.

-Only about one-third of those under the age of 30 said they were very concerned about distracted driving. About the same number felt it was dangerous to use a hand-held phone while behind the wheel.

-Two-thirds reported seeing another driver texting using a hand-held phone within the last month.

-Nearly all young drivers had seen another driver talking on the phone in the past month and more than half had seen a dangerous situation related to distracted driving.

-Four out of five said they had reduced or stopped distracted-driving behavior. Two-thirds said they did so after hearing about the dangers.

Parents can assist teens in making good driving decisions by:

-Establishing ground rules forbidding texting or the use of cell phones while driving.

-Talking about the dangers with family and friends.

-Setting a good example by not using a phone while driving.

-Talking to teens about the risks and responsibilities of driving.

-Having your child sign a pledge not to use a cell phone while driving and agreeing on the penalties for violating the pledge.

Continue reading "Chicago car accidents a serious threat to teen safety as new study highlights dangers of distracted driving " »

Thursday is St. Patrick's Day and the beginning of a long three-days of celebrating with friends for many. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers urge you to celebrate responsibly, designate a driver, and avoid drinking and driving.

A public holiday in Ireland and an official religious holiday since the 17th Century, the Irish don't seem to have much on the Americans when it comes down to some serious celebrating. The Chicago River was dyed on Saturday during the 56th Downtown Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade, according to the Chicago Tribune, leaving little doubt that the celebration will be a week-long event this year.

St. Patrick -- who legend has it used the Shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish -- died in 461. While once largely a religious holiday, St. Patrick's Day has become a secular celebration of Irish culture.

Few know that the original color of St. Patrick's Day was blue. However, the use of green and of shamrocks dates back at least to the 17th Century. By 1991, the U.S. Congress had proclaimed the entire month of March Irish-American Heritage Month.

And, getting to our point, it is one of the leading days for alcohol consumption in the United States and is one of the busiest days of the year for bars and restaurants. As a result, state and local authorities are prepared for extended celebration and an increased risk of Chicago car accidents during the upcoming three-day weekend.

“We hope the St. Patrick’s Day holiday continues to be the popular and joyous celebration it has become, without being spoiled by impaired drivers,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “For those thinking about drinking and driving, the message is clear. Don’t do it. Designate a sober driver before the party begins or risk arrest, a DUI charge or even worse. Nothing good can come from drinking and driving.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 10,839 people were killed in drunk driving accidents in 2009 --or about one death every 45 minutes. Alcohol was involved in 381 of the 911 people killed in Illinois car crashes.

The Naperville police are among those reporting an increase in enforcement, according to the Naperville Patch.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports 15 people have died and 1,261 have been injured in St. Patrick's Day car accidents in Illinois during the last 5 years.

"The Illinois State Police and local law enforcement will increase patrols during the St. Patrick's Day celebrations in an effort to prevent alcohol-related tragedies," said Interim Illinois State Police Director Patrick Keen. "Individuals who drive impaired will be arrested. If alcohol will be part of your celebration, designate a sober driver. As always, motorists are also reminded to buckle-up to ensure safe travel."

From March 11 to March 17, officials will use about $800,000 in highway safety dollars to conduct roadside safety checks in Illinois, as well as saturation patrols and other impaired driving countermeasures.

Party Hosts:

-You can be held liable and prosecuted for serving alcohol to someone who is involved in a drunk driving crash.

-Make sure all guests have a sober ride home.

-Serve lots of food as well as non-alcoholic drinks.

-Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy and take the keys from anyone who is thinking about driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

For Partygoers:

-Designate a sober driver before the festivities begin.

-If you don't have a sober ride home, ask a friend, call a cab, or stay where you are.

-Never let a friend drive impaired.

-Always wear your seat belt.

Continue reading "St. Patrick's Day celebrations increase risks for Chicago accidents" »

Our Chicago car accident lawyers encourage those who have been in a serious accident to gather as much evidence at the scene as possible. This often includes photos taken by you or a relative, which can be invaluable in fighting for your rights long after a crash.

Now you can record video in real time ... just in case. As we continue to report technologies impact on driving safety -- both the good and the bad -- the story of a Knoxville man who used a cell-phone app to help track down a hit-and-run driver is certainly out there on the cutting edge.

Nic Bender's vigilance might be a bit extreme, but it certainly proves the technological point. He had just dropped his kid off at daycare when he was sideswiped by a passing sedan that didn't stop. Other drivers might have been flummoxed. But not our Nic. He had decided to use a smartphone application called Daily Road Voyager ... just in case.

His cell phone attaches to the car windshield and the application records his commute. Knoxville police say the resulting video is legitimate evidence that will be used as part of the investigation.

"Technology is changing, so we do expect to see more of this in the future," Knoxville Police spokesman Darrell DeBusk told NBC10 News. "It is getting to the point where you cannot go out into public without the possibility of being recorded by someone."

We're not sure Chicagoans are going to record their vehicle's every move just in case they are involved in a fender bender -- but we are not so sure the technology won't be standard equipment installed by car makers in the not-too-distant future.

As a general rule, motorists in an accident should take pictures of the scene whenever possible. Such evidence can prove useful if a lawsuit results. Road conditions change. Weather changes. Vegetation may grow or be trimmed back. Buildings may be constructed or torn down. Street signs or signals may be removed or added.

Gathering as much information from the scene -- including the names and contact information of any witnesses -- is always a good idea.

Nic's just a step ahead of the rest of us.

Continue reading "Taking pictures after a Chicago accident always a good idea, but before? " »

A Chicago area car crash has claimed the life of a 49-year-old man from Elgin, according to WGN. The accident occurred on Monday and involved multiple vehicles in the area of 500 block of East Lake Street in Streamwood, Illinois.

The crash occurred around 2:15 pm. The victim was taken by ambulance to Saint Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates where he was pronounced dead around 6:15 pm.

When police responded to the accident scene, they found 4 vehicles had been involved and there were several victims with injuries. Some involved had to be extricated from their cars. A part of Lake Street had to be closed in both directions for a period of time after the crash.

The Streamwood police are handling the investigation and the cause of the accident has not been reported yet.

In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported over 4,500 fatal crashes were at intersections or intersection-related. This is disturbing considering design changes of intersections have been on-going for the last 25 years.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers have followed the debate over the affects of red light cameras, and whether they can reduce the number of Illinois car accidents that occur each year at intersections.

The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration summed it up best when the feds said that intersections are the most complex traffic situation drivers encounter on a daily basis.

Even with resources dedicated to intersection safety from AAA, FHWA, the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and the NHTSA, nearly 21% of all traffic fatalities are still occurring at intersections.

NHTSA reports that Illinois is at its lowest total of intersection related fatalities in 5 years. With roughly 200 intersections having red light cameras installed throughout the city, fatal intersection crashes are decreasing but the less severe rear-end collisions have increased. These can still lead to serious or even fatal injuries.

It is clear that conventional intersection designs can't handle the volume of traffic we have today. The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration in April 2010 released the Alternative Intersections/Interchanges: Informational Report that explains 4 alternative designs for intersections.

Though these alternative designs are very different from each other all have one goal in mind: The elimination of left turn lanes, which many safety advocates believe is the key to making intersections safer. These designs eliminate at least one left turn lane. In the days when vehicle speeds were slower and the volume of traffic was not as heavy, the idea of turning left in front of oncoming traffic wasn't as dangerous. These days it is downright treacherous to make a left turn at many intersections in the city and the statistics prove it. Not only are motorists at high risk but left turns substantially increase the risk of a Chicago pedestrian accident or bicycle accident.

Decreasing the number of left turn lanes will also mean shorter waits at traffic signals and an increased volume of traffic getting through the intersection.Until then, only in NASCAR is turning left a no-brainer.

Intersections are a challenge to any motorist. Regardless of their design, nothing replaces safe driving skills. Please make it a point to use extra caution at intersections this spring and use special care in watching for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcycles.

Continue reading "Intersections a dangerous place for Chicago car accidents" »

The recovering economy is likely to lead to more car accidents in Chicago and other large metro areas that are already dealing with the consequences of congestion, CNN reports.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers have frequently reported on the link between the drastic reduction in fatal car accidents and the economic downturn of the past few years. In January, we reported on out Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog that Chicago ranked worst in the nation in terms of traffic congestion.

Not even motorists in New York City or Los Angeles face more traffic during their commutes; Chicago motorists waste 70 hours a year waiting in their cars -- more than twice the national average and about four times more than the 18 hours we were wasting in 1982.

We also reported on the increase in fatal Illinois car accidents last year. And, while the state recorded less than 1,000 traffic fatalities for the second year in a row, many think the dozen more motorists killed on the roads last year signals the beginning of the economic recovery.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports 128 motorists have died on the roads thus far this year, just four fewer than during the same period a year ago.

Spring will bring with it an increased risk of Chicago pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents. And spring break, prom and graduation bring a trifecta of dangers for teen drivers, who are already the most vulnerable motorists on the road.

Drivers are urged to use caution as Northern Illinois shakes off the final weeks of winter. Give your fellow motorists a little room and a little respect. Safe driving tips include:

-Avoid aggressive driving: This includes speeding, changing lanes without signaling, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights and disobeying traffic control devices.

-Watch your speed and remain extra caution at intersections.

-Don't drink and drive. Drunk drivers are responsible for one-third of the state's fatal traffic accidents.

-Don't drive distracted. It is illegal to text and drive in Illinois. Hand-held cell phone use by drivers is illegal within the City of Chicago. Regardless of the law, no phone call, text or e-mail is worth being in an accident.

-Speak to your teens about the importance of making good driving decisions.

-Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles, particularly as the weather warms.

Continue reading "Do your part to avoid Chicago car accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, as spring nears" »

Illinois auto accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have reached a $50,000 insurance policy limits settlement on an uninsured motorist claim. The case stems from an accident that occurred on June 18, 2010 around 5 PM.

Our client was hurt when his vehicle was T-boned by a vehicle being driven by an uninsured motorist at the intersection of S. Jeffery Blvd. and 68th St. in Chicago, Illinois. Our client was traveling northbound on Jeffrey approaching 86th Street when the uninsured defendant drove his vehicle eastbound, going the wrong way on 86th Street (a one-way westbound street). Further, our client had no stop sign in the right-of-way, while traffic on 86th Street (traveling in the proper direction) had a stop sign.

As the plaintiff went through the intersection the front side of the defendant's vehicle struck the driver's side of our client's car. The force of the impact caused the plaintiff's vehicle to roll over.

Following the collision, the client had an immediate onset of severe back pain, neck pain and chest pain. He was transported from the scene of the collision by ambulance to Christ Medical Center.

At Christ, the client complained of back pain, neck pain, and chest pain. A history was taken, he was examined, and diagnostic testing was performed. CT scans showed several fractured vertebrae in his spine, as well as a left posterior 3rd rib fracture, cervical soft tissue contusions, and paraspinal hematomas. He also received treatment for a tongue contusion, left hand abrasion, and medial knee abrasions.

He had to undergo several months of follow-up treatment with medical doctors in the Chicago area due to injuries sustained in the accident.

If you have been injured in a collision, contact the Chicago car crash attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free consultation. Call 312-924-7575. There is no attorney's fee unless you win.

Eleven people have been injured in two separate Illinois auto accidents on the southbound Dan Ryan that occurred on Sunday morning, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The crashes occurred only around 30 minutes apart, leaving police asking what caused the accidents, as the road conditions were good.

The first crash occurred just after 8:30 AM around 33rd St. in the express lanes. Five people were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

The second collision occurred just after 9 AM in an area between the local and express lanes near 26 Street. Six people were taken by ambulance to the hospital and the collision involved nine vehicles.

Five ambulances responded to the scene of the second crash. Two of the injured were taken to Mercy Hospital and Medical Center, two were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and another was taken to St. Anthony Hospital. Nine others involved refused medical care.

According to Illinois State Police, the accident in the area of 26th Street occurred when a driver traveling too fast for conditions rear-ended another vehicle.

It has not been reported if Chicago injury attorneys are involved in either accident yet.

Chicago injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, working as co-counsel with the Elman law group, have filed a lawsuit against a drunk driver for his involvement in an April, 2009 auto accident. The collision took place in the 9100 block of S. Jeffery Blvd. in Chicago.

The plaintiff was driving southbound on Jeffrey when the defendant, who was traveling northbound in a Mercury Tracer, crossed the centerline and struck our client's Ford Explorer. The accident was witnessed by a Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief who verified the above version of events.

After the accident, the Chicago Police Department came to the scene. They charged the defendant was driving under the influence of alcohol.

The plaintiff was taken by ambulance to Jackson Park Hospital for back, neck, shoulder and left knee injuries sustained in the accident. She later had additional medical treatment at a family health center in Chicago.

The DUI driver was taken by ambulance to Northwestern Memorial hospital. At that time blood was taken from the defendant which showed he had a .324 blood-alcohol level, over four times the legal limit.

If you've been injured in an accident involving an intoxicated driver, contact the Illinois personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation. Call 312-924-7575. There is no attorney's fee unless you win.

Illinois car crash lawyers from Abels & Annes, working in conjunction with the Elman law group, have filed a lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Cook County stemming from an accident that occurred back on April 14, 2009. The accident occurred at the intersection of Division Street and Leamington in Chicago, Illinois around 10 PM.

At that time, the plaintiff was driving a 2005 Mercury Sable eastbound on Division Street. As he was passing by Leamington, the defendant failed to yield coming out of a stop sign and caused a collision in the intersection. The plaintiff had no stop sign, and therefore had the right-of-way.

Our driver sustained low back and left knee injuries in the accident. He was seen shortly after Rush Oak Park Hospital.

Over the next several days the plaintiff's pain only increased. He sought follow-up treatment with a physician in Chicago. The doctor prescribed a course of physical therapy that our client attended over the next several months.

A lawsuit was filed in this matter to maximize the value of the case on behalf of our client.

If you've been injured in a Chicago auto accident, contact the Illinois personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free consultation. There is no attorney's fee unless a recovery is made on your behalf. Call 312-924-7575 to speak directly to a lawyer now.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers strongly support Illinois House Bill 231, which could increase minimum liability coverage to $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.

Current limits of $20,000/$40,000 are woefully inadequate in the event of a serious Chicago car accident. A trip to the hospital in an ambulance and the emergency room bill alone may exhaust coverage. The bill would also increase the property damage minimum to $100,000 from $15,000. Think about the price of a new car today and you will quickly realize who antiquated and woefully inadequate Illinois' insurance minimums have become.

Back in July 2009, we wrote on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog
when Chicago Injury Lawyer Dave Abels was interviewed about a new law making it a criminal offense not to carry auto insurance. That law makes it punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine to not carry the required auto insurance. At the time, Abels said the current minimums were hopelessly outdated and did little to protect motorists in the wake of a serious accident.

The proposal is being sponsored by Rep. David R. Leitch, R-Peoria.

The issues has been particularly critical during the economic downturn; a study by the Insurance Research Council found 15 percent of those surveyed had either reduced coverage or increased their deductible in order to reduce the cost of premiums. Another nine percent canceled or did not renew policies for economic reasons.

Continue reading "Proposed law would mandate more insurance coverage; benefit victims of Chicago car accidents " »

For the second year in a row, Illinois has recorded fewer than 1,000 fatal car accidents, a two-year mark not seen since the 1920s, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

However, as our Chicago personal injury attorneys expected, the number of overall fatalities in Illinois has increased as the economy began its tentative recovery in 2010.

As we reported on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Blog, there were a dozen fewer fatal Chicago car accidents recorded last year, but the overall number of fatalities statewide increased for the first time in recent years.

IDOT reports 923 people were killed on Illinois roads last year, compared to the 911 killed in crashes in 2009.

“IDOT is encouraged by this historic accomplishment, but understands that continued perseverance and hard work are essential to maintain or decrease the number of traffic fatalities in years to come,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “In recent decades, the goal of achieving fewer than 1,000 roadway fatalities in a state of this size was considered impossible, but now it is reality. We commend the efforts of our partners, as we spotlight the numerous effective programs administered by IDOT’s Division of Traffic Safety and our partner agencies. We also applaud motorists’ continued efforts to drive safely and comply with highway safety laws in Illinois.”

Many believe the economic downturn and high gas prices has had a major impact on the number of serious and fatal traffic crashes in Illinois and throughout the nation. However, the state has implemented a number of safety initiatives in recent years, including a ban on text messaging by drivers, which took effect Jan. 1, 2010. Additional safety programs have targeted teen drivers, motorcycle riders, drunk drivers, work zone safety and large commercial trucks.

"The Illinois State Police is proud to continue its partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies to help reduce traffic crash fatalities. We remain committed to improving safety on Illinois roadways, and will utilize all available resources to provide safety education programs which promote safe driving habits," said Interim Director Patrick E. Keen. "Although it is difficult to attribute the reduction of traffic crash fatalities to a single factor, there is no doubt that the combined efforts of law enforcement personnel, the Illinois Department of Transportation and our private partners have significantly contributed to saving lives. With the continued support and cooperation from the motoring public, we can help keep the momentum going for years to come.”

Safety officials also report seat-belt use reached an all-time high of 91.7 percent in 2009 and was bested in 2010 with 92.6 percent.

Prior to 2009, the last time the state recorded fewer than 1,000 traffic deaths was in 1921.

Continue reading "Fewer than 1,000 Illinois car accidents with fatalities in 2010" »

The Ford Motor Company is investing another $1 million in the fight to prevent teen car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere, the Governors Highway Safety Association reports.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers frequently report that Illinois is at the forefront of the teen-driving issue. By utilizing a Graduated Driver's License system and other tools, the number of teens involved in serious and fatal accidents continues to decline.

Still, teenagers are at highest risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident. More than 5,000 are killed each year in crashes and 40,000 motorists are injured. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers.

Now Ford has announced a major expansion of the program that began in Chicago. The Ford Driving Skills for Life program will receive an additional $1 million and be available to teens in 15 states. The award-winning program provides interactive tools and hands-on training to teach teens about the importance of making good driving decisions behind the wheel.

“Inexperience is the leading cause of crashes in young drivers, and this program delivers the key skill sets that will increase their knowledge, confidence and, ultimately, their safety,” said Ford Executive Sue Cischke. “Ford is passionate about helping young drivers learn the rules of the road, better manage distractions behind the wheel and help make America’s roads safer for all of us.”

This year the program will be expanded to high schools in Birmingham, Little Rock, Harford, Orlando, Tallahassee, Atlanta, Shreveport, Portland, Boston, Jackson (Miss.), Manchester, Albany, Raleigh/Durham, Providence, Charleston and Burlington.

The Ford program concentrates on driving skills in four areas, including distracted driving, speed and space management, hazard recognition and vehicle handling. Research shows those four areas are involved in more than 60 percent of all car accidents involving teenagers.

“This new commitment will bring Ford DSFL into many more communities. State highway safety offices will be able to use this program to complement ongoing laws and programs,” said GHSA Chairman Vernon F. Betkey Jr. “While teen driving safety is a key priority, too often our communities lack the resources to conduct these types of hands-on, high-tech trainings. We are grateful to Ford for helping fill these critical gaps.”

Continue reading "Ford expands teen program aimed at reducing risk of Chicago car accidents" »

The family of a man killed in a Chicago pedestrian accident blames a driver who was allegedly updating her Facebook page at the time of the crash, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers frequently write about the hazards associated with distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 5,474 people were killed and 448,000 were injured in crashes caused by distracted driving in 2009.

As we reported recently on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, Illinois has recently launched the campaign "Drive Now. Text Later. You Can't Do Both." The campaign aims to remind people that texting and driving has been illegal in the state of Illinois since Jan. 1 2010. Hand-held cell phone use has been illegal for Chicago drivers since 2005.

Along with texting, the law also forbids reading or sending e-mails, surfing the Internet and, of course, updating your Facebook account while driving.

In this case, the 70-year-old was in a minor car accident on Dec. 7. His family claims he was outside his vehicle, exchanging information with the other driver, when a vehicle southbound on Ewing Avenue ran into the victim, partially severing his leg and causing him to bleed to death.

Both that driver, and the other driver in an accident with the victim, claimed sun glare was a problem.

It's not the first time Facebook has made the news in connection with distracted driving, nor will it be the last. Last fall, the USA Today reported that General Motors' OnStar system would allow drivers to dictate Facebook posts and have their text messages read aloud.

The New York Times reported such services were coming under increased scrutiny during the nation's second annual Distracted Driving Summit, held last fall in Washington, D.C.

Please note that while our law firm works on distracted driving cases, we are not involved in the case discussed in the Chicago Tribune article. Further, the lawyer representing the victim's family was not named in the Tribune article.

Continue reading "Driver on Facebook blamed for fatal Chicago pedestrian accident" »

Teens in Northbrook, Illinois are among those at 300 high schools that signed a pledge to fight distracted driving. As we continue to report, teens are at high risk of Chicago car accidents caused by text messaging, talking on a cell phone and other forms of distracted driving.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers frequently report on the risks and encourage parents to make safe driving a regular topic of conversation with their teens. As we reported recently on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, a nationwide contest aims to encourage teens to develop public-service announcements warning of the dangers.

Now the News Blaze reports the Allstate Foundation and Channel One news are sponsoring the "X the TXT" pledge last week. When all the pledges are in, the winning school will receive a $10,000 grant. Rising music star Ashlyne Huff will also perform a concert at the winning school.

"By harnessing the power of positive peer influence, these students are leading the charge against the texting epidemic to make roads safer now as well as for the next generation of drivers," said Allstate spokeswoman Joan Walker. "Public awareness campaigns like Allstate's X the TXT movement, SAVE 11 and Family Driving Challenge have helped fuel the conversation on distracted driving and educate America on the power of uniform, enforced graduated driver licensing laws to protect our youngest drivers from dangerous driving situations."

The Allstate Foundation has found that about half of teens admit the being distracted by text messaging behind the wheel. Yet 82 percent still admit to using a cell phone while driving.

This is the third year for the pledge competition.

Those seeking more information on the pledge or on teen safe driving can visit www.keepthedrive.com.http://www.daveabels.com/

Continue reading "Northbrook teens looking to reduce risk of Illinois car accidents" »

An Illinois pedestrian accident has caused serious injury to 2 women, and the Chicago Police Department is now asking for help in locating the hit-and-run driver, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The accident happened on Tuesday night in the 100 block of South State Street.

A southbound SUV struck the women as they were walking across the intersection with the right-of-way. The pedestrians were both hospitalized after the accident.

The hit-and-run vehicle is being described as a silver Mitsubishi Montero sport with an Illinois license plate of X76 5013. The SUV is registered to a woman from Sauk Village, Illinois and police in that southern suburb are now assisting in the investigation.

Anyone with information regarding the Illinois hit-and-run pedestrian accident should immediately contact the Chicago Police Department's major accident investigation unit at 312-745-4521.

The Chicago Tribune is reporting that one of the women, age 53, sustained fractures to her pelvis and a serious laceration on her left leg. The other pedestrian, age 70, sustained a fractured collarbone and ribs, and also injured a knee. One of the women is hospitalized at Northwestern and the other at Loyola in Maywood.

The at fault SUV was reportedly speeding and ran a red light. After the collision driver never slowed and fled southbound on State Street.

Is has not been reported if a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer is involved in the case yet.

A nationwide contest is challenging teenagers to create a public service announcement warning of the risk of distracted driving car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers frequently report on the dangers teens face behind the wheel. Car accidents are the leading cause of death among teens ages 15 to 20, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The Business Journals reports the contest is being sponsored by the National Road Safety Foundation and the National Student Safety Program. The winner will have his or her message played nationwide during National Youth Traffic Safety Month in May, will receive a $1,000 scholarship and will win a trip to Honolulu for the national youth conference in July.

The U.S. Department of Transportation reports more than 5,000 teenagers are killed in car accidents each year.

"A quarter of all teens admit to texting behind the wheel and, in 2009, the highest proportion of distracted drivers in fatal crashes was under the age of 20," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "We know we have to engage teens in order to put an end to distracted driving. With their help, we can educate teens and adults about making smarter choices that will save lives."

The "JST DRV" Radio PSA contest seeks 15- or 30-second entries form teens ages 14 to 18. Three runners-up will also receive $500 scholarships and Bluetooth devices.

The contest "hopes to engage young people in communicating important messages about distracted driving in their own voice," said Michelle Anderson, operations director of the National Road Safety Foundation.

Deadline for entry is March 25, 2011. More information is available at www.nrsf.org or www.adtsea.org/nssp.

Continue reading "Contest aims to warn teens of risk of distracted driving car accidents in Chicago, elsewhere" »

It is being alleged that the Clerk of Lynwood was driving while intoxicated when he caused an accident while driving the wrong way on Route 394, and now an Illinois car accident and wrongful death attorney has filed a lawsuit on behalf of a victim's family.

The defendant's vehicle reportedly struck two cars while driving the wrong direction on Illinois Highway 394 last Friday, which resulted in the death of a 32-year-old mother of 4 children from Chicago. The lawsuit alleges the clerk was careless and negligent when he drove a 2008 Ford Taurus the wrong way.

The victim's family is being represented by Attorney Joe Vitu of Chicago. The lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County.

The Illinois State Police have reportedly charged the defendant with DUI and disobeying a traffic control device. No additional charges have been filed yet by the Cook County States Attorneys Office, however it is very possible that the criminal charges will be upgraded to felonies.

Click here to read the story as reported by CBS News and NWI.com.

When it comes to Chicago car accidents caused by distracted driving, there are many causes. But with each new model year, the number of distractions built right into your automobile is of increasing concern.

As we reported recently on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, some safety advocates are urging the government to focus on something other than cell phones when it comes to driver distraction and motorist safety.

Some of the cases handled by our Chicago personal injury lawyers and wrongful death attorneys involve some form of driver distraction. Common distractions include eating, drinking, talking to passengers, smoking, applying makeup and, of course, using a cell phone.

But, as the USAToday reports, technology is playing an increasing role when it comes to distractions built right into your vehicle: Dashboard navigation systems, touch-screen climate control, GPS, satellite radio with 100s of channels, and even DVD systems built into headrests.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is expected to issue its first set of guidelines on the issue later this year. Meanwhile, there is no set standard. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which includes most major car makers except Honda, has its own procedures to reduce distraction caused by "information and communication systems." Meanwhile, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers reports that its members make their own decisions.

Recently, Consumer Reports found the new touch-screen computer in many Ford models (which controls the radio, temperature and navigation) is so complicated and potentially distracting that it dropped cars equipped with the system from its recommendation list.

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood took General Motors to task last year when its OnStar communications system began allowing people to verbally update their Facebook or Twitter status while driving.

When it comes to in-car technology, it's a brave new world. Regardless of new features, regulations by the government, or voluntary moves on the part of automobile manufacturers, motorists are best served by using common sense. Focus on driving, your life or the life of someone else could very well depend on it.

Continue reading "In-car distractions an increasing cause of Chicago car accidents" »

An off duty Bolingbrook police officer was killed in a Chicago area car crash this past Sunday, according to Tribune Local. The collision occurred in Oswego, Illinois while he was on the way to religious services with his wife around 8:30 AM

The officer was riding as a passenger at the time of the accident and his wife was driving. The car lost control and left the roadway, hitting a tree and rolling over. The victim was ejected from the vehicle. His wife only sustained minor injuries.

The officer was taken by ambulance to an Aurora hospital and pronounced dead a short time later.

The incident took place in unincorporated Oswego near Stewart and Woolly roads. The Kendall County Sheriff's Department is handling the crash investigation. What caused the vehicle to leave the road and crash has not been reported.

Illinois authorities are launching a new campaign, "Drive Now. Text Later," aimed at reducing the risk of distracted car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys frequently post on the dangers of distracted driving, both here and on our sister site, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog. As we reported last January, Illinois' texting law went into effect Jan. 1, 2010, making it illegal to text while driving. The law also prohibits the use of hand-held cell phones in school zones and construction sites.

Hand-held cell phone use by drivers has been prohibited within the City of Chicago since 2005. Nationwide, an estimated 5,000 motorists are killed and 500,000 are injured each year in accidents caused by distracted driving.

However, a recent online survey indicated 4 in 10 tollway customers did not know that it is illegal to text or e-mail while driving. The new campaign is being launched by the Illinois Department of Transportation in conjunction with Illinois State Police, The Illinois Secretary of State and AAA Chicago.

“We were surprised to learn that so many of our customers were simply not aware that texting while driving is illegal in Illinois,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Kristi Lafleur. “This campaign is intended to remind us of the potentially deadly consequences that go along with texting while driving. Our customers need to focus on safe driving and remember that they can’t do both.”

The campaign will include posters on tollbooths, as well as at rest stops, driver's license facilities and elsewhere. Television and radio announcements are also planned along with bumper stickers and road-side message boards.

“With the increased use of technological devices, distracted driving has become a serious issue in our state and in the nation,” said Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White. “That’s why in 2009 we initiated the no texting while driving law in Illinois. No driver has any business text messaging while they are driving. Additionally, we initiated the ban on talking on cell phones in school zones and construction zones. By working together, we can educate the public on these life-saving laws and make the roads in Illinois the safest ever.”

You can visit the website for "Drive Now. Text Later" TV and radio announcements, the campaign logo and posters.

Continue reading "Campaign aims to reduce Chicago car accidents, distracted driving crashes statewide" »

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers published information here about winter driving safety to start the winter driving season. Earlier this month we posted Chicago winter driving tips on our Car Accident Lawyer Blog. And in December, we posted safety tips regarding the dangers of black ice in Chicago.

This winter is shaping up to be one of the toughest in recent memory in Illinois, throughout the Midwest and on the East Coast. On Monday, the Illinois Department of Transportation issued a disaster declaration ahead of what is expected to be the worst storm yet this season.

“The entire Midwest region of the country is expected to be hit with a serious winter storm over the next few days, and it is important that we are prepared so that Illinois residents are safe and warm in the days ahead,” said Governor Pat Quinn. “We will be increasing efforts to make sure that our roads are clear and that our most vulnerable residents are staying indoors and staying warm.”

The state has activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Springfield, which will be manned around the clock for the storm's duration. Those who do not have to travel are encouraged to help reduce the number of Chicago car accidents and emergency calls by staying put and remaining indoors.

“We’re working closely with local emergency management officials throughout the state to monitor conditions and be ready to provide whatever assistance they may need,” said Joe Klinger, interim director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). “But it’s also important that people prepare themselves for this storm by stocking their homes with food, water, flashlights, radios and other necessities.”

Motorists can check the conditions of Interstates by calling 1-800-452-4368 or by visiting www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on Winter Road Conditions.

Neighbors and friends are also encouraged to check on older adults. The Illinois Department of Aging and the Illinois Department of Human Services will also be working around the clock.

Continue reading "Disaster Declaration issued in advance of winter storm; high risk of Chicago car accidents" »

An Illinois pedestrian accident has resulted in a 58-year-old woman losing a leg and a 21-year-old hit and run driver being held in police custody, according to the Chicago breaking news center. The collision took place on the south side of Chicago when a driver, who resides in the 6500 block of South Claremont, drove a 1993 Buick onto a sidewalk and hit the pedestrian who was waiting for a bus. The vehicle struck a bench and a light pole.

The incident took place at the intersection of 69th and State Street on January 26 just before 4 PM. The pedestrian suffered severe injuries and was in critical condition. She lost her right leg, her left leg was fractured and she lost vision in one of her eyes.

After causing the accident, the 21-year-old driver fled the scene. The news story does not report exactly how she she was caught, however police are giving praise to community members for distributing more than 500 pamphlets regarding the incident and canvassing the area.

The motorist has been charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, damaging public property, driving without a license, driving without insurance, failing to render aid to an injured person, failing to reduce speed to avoid an accident and negligent driving. On Saturday a Cook County Judge ordered the defendant's bond be set at $100,000.

As far as a civil claim is concerned, no amount of money will be able to make this pedestrian victim whole again. That being said, the defendant in this matter is uninsured. Once a Chicago personal injury lawyer gets involved in the case, he or she will look into whether the victim has auto insurance and if an uninsured motorist claim can be pursued.

Click here to read more about Illinois hit-and-run claims.

Read the story as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times here.

An Illinois car accident has left a 17-year-old Iraqi refugee dead, according to the Chicago Tribune. A Chicago resident has been arrested and charged with a felony after his involvement in the early Sunday morning collision.

The at fault motorist was driving north on Artesian Avenue near North Shore Avenue in an SUV when he allegedly failed to obey a stop sign, according to Chicago police. The SUV hit a Nissan Maxima traveling west on North Shore Avenue. The SUV continued north, struck two parked cars and hit a tree before coming to a stop.

The passengers included the 20-year old driver, 17-year-old victim, and four other teenagers. All of the passengers in the SUV had to be removed from the vehicle by responders to the scene and all were injured.

The teen fatally injured was pronounced dead at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge a short time later. The driver of the Maxima was not hospitalized after the car crash.

The SUV driver was charged with one felony count of aggravated driving under the influence/accidental death as well as a misdemeanor DUI charge. He also received a citation for failing to stop at a stop sign.

The teenage victim, an Orthodox Christian, fled from Iraq to America with her family to avoid religious persecution about five years ago.

It has not been reported if a Chicago accident lawyer is involved in the case yet or if a civil lawsuit has been filed.

Read the story as reported by ABC News and WGNtv here.

An Illinois auto accident has been caused by a Chicago man that allegedly drove his vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .425, approximately 5 times the legal limit of .08, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The driver was traveling north on McCormack Boulevard near Oakton Avenue in Skokie on January 14. He allegedly crossed the double yellow center line and crashed head on into a southbound Toyota.

The driver of the Toyota reported that he saw the other vehicle, an Audi, coming at him and not slowing down. He said that all he could do was brake and wait for an impact because there was no way to avoid the collision.

The Audi driver was arrested at the scene and charged with driving under the influence and other traffic violations. He was transported to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston for treatment where allegedly he was combative and had to be restrained. The driver of the Toyota was also injured.

The at fault driver is due in traffic court on February 24, 2011 at the Skokie Courthouse. The arresting Skokie officer reportedly stated at the scene that “if you drink and drive you’re going to be caught.”

It has not been reported if a Chicago injury lawyer is involved in the case or if a civil claim is being pursued.

It's not recognition we would wish for, but our Chicago car accident lawyers were not surprised to see we were ranked as Number One in road congestion.

The Breaking News Center reported the Urban Mobility Report, released by the Texas Transportation Institute found that commuters in Chicago waste an average of 70 hours on the road each year.

The congestion alone is enough to increase the risk of a Chicago car crash. It also increases the risk of other dangerous driving behaviors, including aggressive driving, distracted driving, running red lights and even speeding, when and if a motorist can break out of the gridlock.

The report of the traffic issues in Chicago comes even as some other major metropolitan areas are seeing some relief when it comes to heavy rush hour traffic, if only because of high unemployment and the struggling economy.

The 70 extra hours spent behind the wheel each year by Chicago drivers was more than twice the national average of 34 hours. Chicago had ranked No. 2 and No. 3 in the past. Chicago motorists spent an extra 64 hours behind the wheel in 2008, compared to 55 hours in 1999 and 18 hours in 1982.

Los Angeles had previously held the top spot.

All that extra time behind the wheel comes with a price. On average, congestion cost each commuter $1,738 last year. In all, the nation spent $115 billion on congestion, wasted an additional 4.8 billion hours behind the wheel and consumed just shy of 4 billion extra gallons of fuel.

The study looked at 439 urban areas and found the issues associated with congestion would have been even more acute without mass transit, which saved 785 million man-hours and 640 million gallons of fuel.

And, unfortunately, all this could amount to the good news. Congestion is expected to get worse as the economy recovers.

Continue reading "Chicago congestion ranked worst in nation - increases risk of car accidents" »

A downstate Illinois car crash lawyer has received an $8 million Court of Claims award for the family of two sisters killed in a 2007 collision, according to the Chicago Tribune. It is being reported that this is possibly a record award for a tort claim against the State of Illinois.

The victims, ages 18 and 13, from Collinsville, were killed when an Illinois state trooper, allegedly driving 126 mph while using email, slammed into their car, causing it to burst into flames. The Illinois traffic accident took place on Interstate 64 near Fairview Heights.

The auto accident lawyer representing the family asked for $46 million, however the family believes that justice was done through the $8 million decision. Four million dollars was awarded for the death of each girl. The mother of the victims stated Tuesday at a press conference that she hopes this award deters negligent behavior in the future.

The ruling still must be approved by the Illinois Legislature in a special bill. These bills generally are introduced near the end of April.

The family was represented by Thomas Q. Keefe Jr., P.C. of Belleville, Illinois.

The police officer was injured in the crash and resigned from his position last year. He has also pleaded guilty to two counts of reckless homicide and was sentenced to 30 months probation.

Click here to read the story as reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the Belleville News-Democrat.

Illinois personal injury lawyers Abels & Annes have reached a settlement in a Cook County auto accident lawsuit. The case involved a collision that occurred on Roosevelt Road near Ridgeland Avenue in Berwyn, Illinois. Our law firm worked with co-counsel from the Elman Law Group in representing the plaintiff.

Our client was in her vehicle and stopped at a red light when the defendant failed to stop in time and rear ended the plaintiff’s car. The Berwyn Police Department responded and determined the defendant caused the crash by exceeding safe speeds for conditions.

The plaintiff incurred neck, back and chest injuries in the Chicago car crash. She was treated at Mt. Sinai Hospital a short time later.

Over the next several days our clients pain did not resolve and only got worse. She received additional medical care from a neurologist who prescribed physical therapy. The plaintiff underwent physical therapy the consisted of electric stimulation, therapeutic exercise, heat and cold treatments, joint mobilization, and ultrasound therapy.

A complaint was filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County and alleged that the defendant was negligent in failing to yield the right of way, failing to keep a proper and sufficient lookout, driving too fast for conditions, and failing to keep his vehicle under control. The parties settled the lawsuit prior to going to trial for $12,000. Allstate insurance is paying on the claim.

If you have been hurt in an Illinois car accident, contact a Chicago injury attorney at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation. Call 312-924-7575 to speak to an attorney now.

Whether Illinois car crash attorneys will exist years down the road is starting to become a legitimate question. Recent advances in automotive technology are indicating that cars may drive themselves in the not so distant future. While there will still be accidents and injuries, they may occur much less frequently.

Google recently announced that, in an effort to reduce traffic collisions, they have developed the technology necessary for cars to drive themselves. They believe this will also free up people's time and reduce carbon emissions.

Google states that as of October, 2010 its automated cars (occupied by trained drivers) have been in use in various parts of California and have been driven for over 140,000 miles. The vehicles use video cameras, radar sensors and lasers to navigate traffic. The system also uses detailed maps made possible by Google's data centers.

The company says they have made safety its first goal in the program. The cars are always manned by a safety operator who can disengage cruise control at any time. They also have a computer software technician riding as a passenger to monitor the vehicle. As an extra precaution, Google also alerts police when operating the vehicle in any given area.

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 1.2 million people die each year in motor vehicle accidents. Google believes its new program has the potential to reduce that number in half. Further, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation estimates that the average person spends 52 minutes a day traveling to work. Google states that self driven vehicles will have the effect of giving that time back to commuters.

Google does not give an estimate as to when the program could become a reality for motorists. Due to the amount of lives lost in accidents and serious injuries incurred by countless others, hopefully they can push the program and make it available sooner rather than later.

In the meantime, until a future where everyone's car is driving on its own, if you have been hurt in an Illinois auto accident, contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free consultation. Call 312-924-7575 to speak directly to an attorney now.

Click here to read about other technology for vehicles that drive themselves as reported by CNN.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration apparently got the memo because it finally posted safe winter driving information on its website this week as the season shapes up to be one of the toughest in recent memory.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that snowy conditions were at least partly responsible for 4,289 Chicago car accidents in 2009, injuring more than 900 motorists. Nearly 130 were injured in accidents where sleet, wind and hail were a contributing factor and almost 3,600 motorists suffered injuries in accidents involving rain.

Just last week, the Associated Press reported a woman was found dead a month after wandering into a snowy field following a Chicago car accident.

Our Chicago injury attorneys remind motorists to allow extra time to reach their destination and to practice other safe driving habits to reduce your chances of being involved in a serious or fatal auto accident.

The government offers a number of safety tips for winter driving in Chicago, including:

-Have your car serviced now. Complete routine maintenance and have hoses, tires and belts checked for repair or replacement.

-Check your battery. Cold weather requires more power to start your vehicle. Battery should be checked for sufficient voltage and charging system should be inspected.

-Cooling system should be serviced. Improper mixture can cause coolant to freeze and can severely damage your engine.

-Keep windshield washer fluid filled with "no freeze" fluid. Buy an extra bottle to keep in your vehicle.

-Check wipers and defrosters.

-Pay particular attention to tires. Keep a pressure gauge in your vehicle.

-Practice cold-weather driving. After snow, practice driving in an empty parking lot in daylight before tackling main roads.

-Drive slowly.

-In the event of a skid, stay calm, apply firm pressure if your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, otherwise pump gently and steer into the skid until you regain control.

-Properly plan winter travel. Check traffic and road conditions. Don't rush.

-Keep gas tank close to full.

-Avoid driving in hazardous conditions whenever possible.

-Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including shovel, broom and ices scrapper, sand or kitty litter for traction, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blanket, food and necessary medicine.

-Travel with a fully charged cell phone.

-If stranded, don't overexert yourself. Stay with your car. Tie bright cloth to antenna or window. Don't run car for long periods to avoid carbon monoxide.

-Always wear your seat belt.

When it comes to talking to your teens about the dangers of being involved in a Chicago car accident, advice cannot come too early or too often.

Our Chicago accident attorneys note the new program being launched by Safe Kids USA, which is aimed at teenagers ages 13 and 14. The Countdown2Drive program aims to arm young teens with safe driving and passenger knowledge so they can protect themselves as they become more independent.

"Our goal is to educate young teens, as they begin to transition from passengers to drivers," said said Safe Kids CEO John Formisano. "Our research shows teen pre-drivers are eager to learn, and they are focused on the freedom a driver's license and access to a car can provide."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers, both those ages 15 to 20 who are old enough to drive, and those 13 and 14 who are anxiously awaiting the day they can get behind the wheel. Nationwide, nearly 6,000 teen drivers were involved in fatal crashes in 2008. A total of 516 motorists lost their lives in Illinois car accidents involving young drivers that year.

"By preparing them to be good passengers, Countdown2Drive can help decrease the number of crashes and injuries that occur during their first and most dangerous year of driving," said Formisano. "Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of teens, with driver inexperience and distractions among the main causes of teen crashes."

Teens are four times more likely to be involved in a crash than other drivers. Those ages 13 and 14 have twice the risk of dying in a car accident than younger children and that risk continues to grow as a teenager gets older. Teens are at risk for all types of poor driving habits -- among the most serious is distracted driving and the high number of teenagers who use cell phones or text message while behind the wheel.

"Texting and talking on cell phones may feel like second nature to a tech-savvy generation, but the truth is, no one can talk or text while driving safely," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Driving distracted is a dangerous and deadly practice, which is why we need to reach teens early on - before they get a permit and a license to drive."

Continue reading "Program targets young teens in effort to prevent Chicago car accidents" »

As our Chicago car accidents lawyers reported last year, we have come a long way since the debut of the "car phone" in a Chrysler K car at Soldier Field in the 1980s. Gone from marketing efforts are any mentions of "car" and "phone" in the same sentence as companies increasingly distance themselves from the liability of driving while using their products.

An effort to form a lobbying group of cell phone makers to push back against anti-texting laws in Congress even failed last year for lack of participation on the part of the phone companies. Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports some 5,000 people are killed each year and another 500,000 are injured in accidents caused by distracted driving. Cell phones and text messaging are high on that list of blame.

Text messaging and driving is now illegal in Illinois, as is using a hand-held cell phone in a school zone or construction site. Hand-held cell phone use is illegal everywhere in the City of Chicago. But those laws do not stop thousands of motorists feom endangering themselves and others each day.

At particular risk are teenagers -- who are more likely to text message and more likely to drive distracted than any other age group.

AT&T is launching "It Can Wait," a campaign meant to combat the dangers. The 10-minute documentary features a teen killed the day before her high school graduation and another who killed a bicyclist while texting "lol."

“This documentary is a raw look at the reality and hazards of texting while driving, and we hope it will make wireless customers think twice before pulling out their cell phones in the driver’s seat,” said AT&T spokeswoman Cathy Coughlin. “As a global telecommunications company, it is our responsibility to bring these risks to light.”

In May, Sprint joined the Oprah Winfrey Show to educate drivers about the risk of distracted driving.

And a Florida company has even developed an app for that. The Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel reports the $29.99 PhoneGuard app uses GPS to prevent a cell phone from texting, e-mailing or surfing the web when traveling more than 10 mph.

The device can also alert parents or employers when a vehicle travels more than 65 mph by sending a text with a locator map of the vehicle's speed and location.

Continue reading "Phone companies pushing anti-distracted driving message to reduce risk of Chicago car accidents" »

A Chicago car crash that occurred early Monday morning has left several people injured, the Chicago Sun-Times is reporting. The collision involved two vehicles and occurred on the Northwest Side around 1:40 AM on the Kennedy Expressway.

Police reported that several people were hurt and taken by ambulance to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. The nature and extent of the injuries has not been reported.

The expressway's left lane was closed following accident, but reopened around 2:20 AM.

The Illinois State Police are handling the accident investigation. No traffic tickets were issued immediately after the accident, however police remained at the hospital as of early Monday morning.

What caused the two vehicle Illinois car crash has not been reported.

A Central Illinois car crash has caused significant injuries to five people on Saturday afternoon in Schuyler County, according to the Quincy Herald Whig. The collision occurred when a 1997 Chevy SUV driven by a 61-year-old resident of Versailles was traveling westbound on Illinois 103 near Sugar Grove Road when he lost control of the vehicle and ran off the road. The vehicle then came back on the highway, crossed the center-line and struck a 2010 Hyundai head-on that was being driven by a 66-year-old man from Beardstown.

There were three passengers traveling in the Hyundai, two of which were children ages eight and four. All parties involved in the accident were taken by ambulance to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield. The specific injuries sustained have not been reported.

The Illinois State Police are handling the investigation, which is ongoing. It is not been reported what caused the motorist to lose control and cross the center-line.

The following entities reportedly assisted at the scene of the accident: Schyler County Ambulance, Schuyler County Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Beardstown Ambulance, Air Evac and the Schuyler County Sheriff's Department.

The holidays are generally about gift giving and making resolutions so this year should be no different. Health and safety are two common things that I think we can all ask for this year. If everyone were to make their New Year’s resolution to be safer on the roadways in 2011, it’s possible that Chicago car accidents would decline thus leading to less fatalities next year.

Though there are many variables that can lead to increased holiday traffic fatalities such as increased volume of traffic, inclement weather, driving under the influence and distracted driving, the most common causes of accidents are as deadly throughout the year as they are during the holidays.

Drunk driving, speeding, distracted driving and aggressive driving account for the vast majority of all serious and fatal car accidents in Illinois and elsewhere in the United States.

We all tend to view holidays as a special time of year. Traffic is at a high volume due to the holiday shoppers, holiday parties, and family gatherings that take place this time of year. Drivers tend to get distracted during the holidays because they have so much on their mind and so little time to get everything accomplished successfully by their own standards.

The chances you will be faced with a drinking-and-driving decision are much greater due to the number of holiday parties and family gatherings that we are attending during the holiday season. But the truth is that the holidays mostly exacerbate our poor driving habits. If we drive while talking on the phone, we do it more during the holidays. If we are prone to stopping for happy hour and driving home, we do it more during the holidays. If we speed, tailgate or drive aggressively, we do it more during the holidays.

Stay safe by adding the following possible New Year’s Resolutions for 2011:

-Make notes and plan your schedule far in advance so that you are sure to allow plenty of time to accomplish everything on your to-do list.

-Don’t drive if you have had something alcoholic to drink. You always have other options so resolve to do the right thing.

-Set aside time each week for reflection and relaxation. A little deep breathing never hurt anyone.

-Set a goal to pick up holiday gifts throughout the year by having 80% of your shopping done by Labor Day weekend rather than wait until the last minute. This can help save money with sale purchases as well as provide an opportunity to feel less stressed during the holidays.

-Recognize the dangers of speeding, aggressive driving and distracted driving and vow to do something about your part in contributing to those risks in 2011.

Continue reading "New Year’s resolutions for Chicago drivers: Safer driving, fewer accidents" »

More people will die in Illinois car accidents this year than last year, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation, which is pushing for safe driving through the upcoming New Year's holiday.

While it appears to be a safe bet that fewer fatal Chicago car accidents will be recorded -- 129 were recorded through Wednesday, compared to 141 during the same period a year ago -- the number of motorists killed in accidents statewide has already surpassed last year's all-time low.

Our Chicago injury lawyers wish each of you a safe and enjoyable New Year's holiday and encourage you to stay safe and don't drink and drive.

Last year, 911 people were killed in Illinois traffic accidents -- the fewest in almost a century of reporting. With the rebounding economy comes an increased risk of car accidents. So far this year, 916 motorists have been killed. The state is putting a positive spin on the increase by noting that it will likely be only the second time since the early 20th century that fewer than 1,000 traffic fatalities have been recorded in Illinois during any given year.

The New Year's weekend will see a continuation of the statewide "Click it or Ticket" and "You Drink & Drive. You Lose" campaigns. Hundreds of late-night roadside safety checks, safety belt enforcement zones and saturation patrols are also planned.

“IDOT continuously partners with state and local police to ensure motorists who choose to drive impaired are caught, arrested and removed from Illinois roadways,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “Unfortunately, New Year’s Eve can be one of the deadliest and most dangerous times on Illinois roads due to an increase in impaired driving and fewer people buckling up. We advise motorists to please make the right decision every time by designating a sober driver before celebrating and always buckling up.”

Particular emphasis will be put on increased enforcement during the deadly evening and nighttime hours.

"The Illinois State Police is fully committed to using every resource possible to make Illinois roads safer,” said Acting Illinois State Police Director Jonathon Monken. “Although the loss of even one life is one too many ... we are optimistic our holiday enforcement efforts will help Illinois conclude its second straight year with fewer than 1,000 fatalities.”

Last year, six people were killed on Illinois' roads during the four-day New Year's Holiday and nearly 500 were seriously injured.

IDOT offers the following safety tips:

-Plan ahead.

-Designate a sober driver.

-Use community programs designed to get you home safely.

-Report impaired drivers.

-Buckle Up.

Continue reading "Fewer Chicago car accidents this year but more motorists killed statewide " »

A 25-year-old female passenger has been killed in an Illinois auto accident that occurred early Sunday on the near west side of Chicago, according to the Sun-Times. The single car crash took place in the 1600 block of West Harrison Street around 1:50 a.m.

The accident occurred when a 23-year-old male driver hit a tree. The driver is in critical condition at Stroger Hospital and another passenger, a four-year-old boy is in stable condition at University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital.

The female passenger that was fatally injured was taken to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and pronounced dead less than an hour later.

The Chicago Police Department's Major Accident Investigation Unit is handling the investigation. Charges are reportedly pending against the 23 year old driver.

The female that died in the accident is a resident of Fargo, North Dakota.

It has not been reported if a Chicago personal injury lawyer is involved in the case.

Click here to read the story as reported by the Chicago Tribune and WGN TV.

An Illinois auto accident has caused the death of a woman from Tinley Park, according to the Chicago Breaking News Center. The Chicago area motor vehicle accident took place on Wednesday in the 18800 block of South Oak Park Avenue. Details as to what caused the crash of not been reported.

The woman, age 30, who resides in the 16800 block of S. Cicero Ave. passed away around 8 PM on Thursday at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office. An autopsy was scheduled to take place on Friday morning.

It has not been reported if a Chicago injury lawyer is involved in the case yet.

In other Illinois accident news, SJ-R.com is reporting that 15 people were injured in a downstate bus versus semi truck accident on Interstate 55 in Montgomery County early Wednesday morning. The bus driver, a 56-year-old Chicago man, was ticketed for failing to reduce the to avoid an accident. The bus driver and 13 passengers received medical treatment at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.

The Illinois State police are handling the investigation. They are reporting that the truck was merging onto Interstate 55 southbound when the bus hit the back of the trailer.

The National Safety Council is partnering with the Allstate Foundation to form a safe teen driving coalition in Illinois and nine other states in an effort to reduce the risk of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere.

Our Chicago accident lawyers frequently report on the high risks faced by teen drivers on the road and we urge you to speak to your teenager about the importance of safe driving habits as we enter the start of the winter driving season and the holiday travel season.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers ages 15 to 20. In 2008, a total of 5,864 teens in that age group were involved in fatal crashes. In Illinois, 164 people were killed in accidents involving teenagers, including 80 young drivers. Teens are at high risk for virtually every poor driving habit, including cell phone use and text messaging, distracted driving, speeding, failure to wear their seat belts, drunk driving and riding with too many young passengers in the vehicle.

“While our roads have never been safer, car crashes remain the No. 1 killer of all people from 1 to 34 years old, with teens crashing four times more often than any other age group. We must act now to create new social norms behind the wheel starting first with our youngest drivers,” said Joan H. Walker, senior vice president, Allstate Insurance Co. “With its long legacy of building safety coalitions, NSC is the ideal organization to lead new state efforts to change the teen driving culture.”

Coalitions are also being established in California, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas. Participants will include law enforcement, public health officials, members of the media, teen and parent leaders and the family and friends of crash victims. The goal will be to identify and implement ways to change teen driving behaviors and attitudes.

Formation of the coalitions comes in the wake of the NSC's first Forum to Keep Teen Driver's Alive, which was held last month in Chicago.

“Funding from The Allstate Foundation allows NSC to develop a coordinated strategy for building effective state coalitions,” said Janet Froetscher, NSC president and CEO. “The coalitions will mobilize state leaders to find unique solutions to the teen driving issue and save young lives for generations to come.”

Continue reading "Teen driving coalition aims to reduce risk of Chicago car accidents involving young drivers" »

About one-eighth of the driving public drove drunk last year and 1 in 25 drove high on illegal drugs, according to a new report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Our Chicago car accident lawyers continue to report on the dangers of accidents involving drivers under the influence, which were responsible for 42 percent of all fatal crashes in Illinois last year, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The USA Today reports more than 30 million drivers drove under the influence of alcohol. Another 10 million drove under the influence of drugs.

“Thousands of people die each year as a result of drunk and drugged driving, and the lives of thousands of family members and friends left behind are forever scarred,” said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. “Some progress has been made in reducing the levels of drunk and drugged driving through education, enhanced law enforcement and public outreach efforts. However, the nation must continue to work to prevent this menace and confront these dangerous drivers in an aggressive way.”

As we reported recently on our Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog, the government is growing increasingly vocal about the risk of impairment caused by drugs, whether illegal narcotics, prescription medication or over-the-counter products.

“While we have understood for some time the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, much less is known or discussed about drivers under the influence of other drugs,” said Gil Kerlikowske, Director of National Drug Control Policy. “This new data adds to other emerging research revealing that there is an alarmingly high percentage of Americans on our roadways with drugs in their system. At a time when drug use is on the rise, it is crucial that communities act today to address the threat of drugged driving as we work to employ more targeted enforcement and develop better tools to detect the presence of drugs among drivers.”

Among Illinois drivers over the age of 16, some 14.7 to 16.9 percent have driven drunk in the past year, according to the study. That puts Illinois and nine other states in the second-worst category. About one-fourth of drivers in 10 other states admitted to driving drunk during the past 12 months.

The report did find the overall rate of drunk driving declined slightly during the last decade, from 14.6 percent to 13.2 percent. Drugged driving declined from 4.8 percent to 4.3 percent.

"We can be pleasantly surprised that the numbers are going down," says Peter Delany, director of the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. "That doesn't mean that they're great, but the numbers are going in the right direction. But it's not where we can rest on our laurels."

Continue reading "Holidays bring high risk of Chicago car accidents involving drugs or alcohol" »

Our Chicago injury lawyers urge you to use extra caution when the temperature drops even if snow isn’t falling because not all winter dangers are easily detectable.

Winter weather has arrived so it’s that time of year to drag out the shovels, grab the boots, and check the treads on the tires. As the temperature drops in the Midwest you need to prepare for those winter conditions that are likely to occur as a result. One danger of winter weather is the possibility of black ice. Chicago car accidents caused by black ice are particularly prevalent during the morning commute, when the roads may be clear but iced over from the long, cold night.

CBS Chicago reported that black ice began causing accidents in November. True to form, the black ice caused numerous crashes and road closures in the Chicago area. Black ice is so dangerous precisely because it is so difficult to see and can make treacherous roads that appear clear and safe for travel.

Black ice typically occurs when the temperature gets below 40 degrees. Road surfaces become cool and the frost or precipitation lying on the surface generates an icy texture which makes the conditions slippery. If you are driving in black ice conditions be extra careful if the snow begins to fall. Snow conditions are difficult enough to manage but adding ice underneath is almost sure to cause an accident if you aren’t careful.

Helpful driving tips for avoiding black ice accidents in Chicago include:

-Listen to the local weather and traffic to see what the conditions are in your area.

- If you see vehicles sliding ahead of you for no apparent reason, downshift and/or slow down before you get to them because they are probably experiencing black ice.

-Be particularly cautious on bridges and overpasses, which are frequently the first to freeze.

-If you start to skid, remain calm and go with the direction you are skidding rather than jerk the steering wheel around the other direction. When you feel the tires grip, slowly inch back in the other direction. Do not slam on the brakes as this may put you in an uncontrolled skid.

-Before winter approaches check the tread on your tires. The thicker the tread is the more traction gained so it may be advantageous to have a set of tires only used during the winter time.

-Don’t fall victim to the myth that SUV’s are top performers in all bad weather because no vehicle drives well on ice – slow down, especially if you own an SUV.

Continue reading "Black ice hard to detect in Chicago weather-related accidents" »

A 21-year-old Chicago resident was killed in a car crash that occurred in Rock County, Wisconsin on Sunday afternoon, according to JSOnline. The woman was riding as a passenger in a car being driven by a 48-year-old Chicagoan on Interstate 39. The motorist was allegedly driving too fast for weather conditions, drove into a median and then hit some trees.

The traffic accident occured just before 2 PM and the interstate was reportedly very icy at the time of the accident. The 21-year-old Chicago victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and another passenger, age 17, were taken to Mercy Hospital in Janesville for medical treatment. Their injuries are supposed to be non-life-threatening.

The Wisconsin State Patrol handled the accident investigation

State authorities in Wisconsin urged motorists to stay off the highways if possible on Sunday because of hazardous travel conditions. Several highways were closed in different parts of the State due to severe winter weather. There was a seven car accident on I-94 that shut down the interstate for 3 1/2 hours.

The results are in for the 2010 Traffic Safety Culture Index, which is published each year by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys publish the results of the report each year, as it offers a glimpse into how the general public feels about important safety issues, such as drunk driving and distracted driving. This year's report opens with the most sobering statistic of all -- more than 1 million motorists have been killed in traffic crashes in the United States in the last 25 years. Car accidents are the leading cause of death for those under the age of 34.

This is the 5th year of the cultural index, which has given safety advocates an enlightened view of the opinions of the general public, which have not always shown concern for some of the pressing safety issues of the day.

"On the other hand, this survey also highlights some aspects of the current traffic safety culture
that might be characterized most appropriately as a culture of indifference, where drivers
effectively say 'do as I say, not as I do,'" the report states. "For example, substantial numbers of drivers say that it is completely unacceptable to text message or talk on a cell phone while driving, yet admit to doing so anyway."

Among the findings:

-Half of Americans have been involved in a serious crash or have had a relative or friend who has been involved in a serious crash.

-More than half of all drivers report feeling less safe than five years ago -- up 17 percent from last year. Nearly half cite driver distraction as the main reason for feeling less safe.

-Drivers view drinking and driving as a primary threat and fewer than 2 percent admit to drinking and driving in the last month.

-More than two-thirds of Americans support ignition interlock devices for first-time DUI offenders and there is almost universal support for requiring the devices for repeat offenders.

-Two-thirds of drivers admit to talking on their phone while driving in the last month.

-Most driver view texting and emailing while driving as a serious threat to their personal safety, however, about one-fourth of drivers admit to texting and driving.

-Two-thirds support restricting hand-held cell phones while driving.

-Nearly half of drivers admit to driving 15 mph or more over the speed limit on the freeway in the last month. One-third consider it acceptable to do so.

-Most drivers view running red lights as unacceptable but about one-third admit to doing so in the past month.

-Most drivers view drowsy driving as a serious threat, yet 1 in 4 admit to driving while so tired they could barely keep their eyes open at some point in the last month.

-Two-thirds support primary seat-belt laws. Three-quarters of motorists say they always buckle up.

Continue reading "Motorists' opinions can be a factor in reducing risk of Chicago car accidents" »

Chicago personal injury lawyer David Abels pictured with Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White at the
Chicago Bulls vs. the Los Angeles Lakers game on December 10 (the Bulls won 88-84).

Click here to read safety tips from the Secretary of State's Office on how to avoid Illinois car crashes.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers frequently report on the dangers motorists face as a result of distracted driving, particularly cell phone use and text messaging while behind the wheel. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 5,474 motorists were killed and nearly 450,000 were injured last year in car accidents caused by distracted driving.

The National Safety Council opened December by launching a push for a nationwide ban on cell phone use by drivers. The Itasca, Illinois safety organization claims a recent survey found such a ban would be supported by two-thirds of voters.

Car accidents in Chicago have been reduced in the years since the city outlawed hand-held cell phone use by drivers. Meanwhile, two new laws were enacted in Illinois this year which make it illegal to text message while driving or to use hand-held cell phones in schools zones and construction sites. Fines for violations start at $75.

But it is precisely such patchwork legislation that the NSC aims to end by pushing for a nationwide ban. The organization also contends that using hands-free devices are no safer. Only eight states ban the use of all hand-held cell phones by drivers and no state bans the use of phones completely.

The organization said phones are a factor in 1.3 million crashes a year and half of 2,424 respondents to a recent survey said they believe a nationwide ban would increase highway safety "a great deal." While texting by drivers is now outlawed in 30 states, the NSC reports that cell phone conversations are involved in 12 times as many crashes as text messaging.

“The public is fed up with their safety being jeopardized because of phone calls,” said David Teater, senior director of Transportation Initiatives for NSC. “It is our hope that elected officials realize the strong public support for laws, and that they are quickly passed to protect motorists and others on our roadways.”

Early this year, the federal government conducted pilot enforcement programs of cell phone laws in Hartford Connecticut and Syracuse, New York. The year-long campaigns found it is possible to enforce such bans in a manner similar to "Click it or Ticket" seat-belt enforcement campaigns. The enforcement effort led to a reduction of as much as 50 percent in driver cell phone use.

Continue reading "Illinois safety advocates call for nationwide cell phone ban to reduce car accidents" »

The Chicago Police Department issued a press release last week stating that to try to reduce Illinois auto accidents, it's DUI strike force patrol would hit the streets over the weekend for the second time in recent weeks. The patrol was to take place in the Ogden District from 8 PM on Friday until 4 AM on Saturday.

Police say the intention of the program is to saturate an area of the City with police officers constantly monitoring traffic for signs of intoxicated drivers. They were to look for speeders, seat-belt violators, and alcohol-related violations. The Chicago Police Department also stated they would be patrolling with a portable breath alcohol testing unit to expedite the process of charging a driver with DUI.

The DUI strike force patrol worked the Jefferson Park (16th) District on November 19-20, 2010. At that time they issued the following numbers of citations:

DUI: 1
Open Liquor: 2
Insurance Violations: 15
Occupant Protection: 4
Drivers License Violations: 12
City Sticker Violations: 11
Speeding: 0
Traffic Violations (other): 14

If you have been injured by an impaired driver in Illinois, contact a Chicago auto accident attorney at Abels and Annes for a free consultation. Contact us online or call 312-924-7575 to speak directly to an Illinois injury lawyer.

Click here to read the December 2, 2010 Chicago Police Department press release.

The National Safety Council reports that Older Driver Safety Awareness Week runs from December 6-10 and is encouraging families to speak with older loved ones about the importance of safe driving in reducing the risk of Chicago car accidents.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers encourage families to make discussing the issue a part of their holiday plans with friends and family. The subject of safe driving among older adults is a critical safety issue that will grow exponentially in the coming years with the retirement of the baby boomers.

The number of drivers over the age of 65 is expected to grow 70 percent over the next 20 years, a growth rate that will eclipse all age groups except teenagers. It's a sobering statistic that could result in the deaths of up to 100,000 older motorists over the next two decades.

Older Driver Safety Awareness Weeks is being sponsored by the American Occupational Therapy Association as a chance for the children and loved ones to discuss the issue with older drivers. For many, it can be a difficult conversation to start; a recent survey found children would rather talk to parents about funeral plans than about taking away the car keys.

The USA Today recently reported that most older adults will outlive their driving abilities, men by about six years and women by an average of 10 years. Fatality rates begin to increase at about age 75 and drivers over the age of 85 have a worse safety record than teenagers, who are typically considered to be the most dangerous drivers on the road.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the number of licensed older drivers has increased 19 percent to 31 million in the last decade. More than 183,000 older drivers were involved in car accidents in 2008. More than two-thirds of those accidents happened during daylight hours and during the week.

Illinois car accidents claimed the lives of 163 older drivers, including 92 who were over the age of 75 and 30 who were over the age of 85.

The NSC provides the following tips for speaking to an older loved one:

-Take rides with an older driver and observe with an open mind.

-Notice any reluctance to drive on the part of an older driver.

-Watch for slowed reaction times.

-Pay attention to an older driver's awareness of surroundings.

-Check the vehicle for signs of damage (when the older driver is not present).

-Check with an older driver's friends and neighbors for observations.

Continue reading "Older Driver Safety Awareness Week aims to reduce risk of Chicago car accidents" »

Two different Chicago car crashes that occurred on the South Side and the West Side on Saturday morning have claimed the lives of two people, according to the Chicago Breaking News Center.

The first deadly Chicago auto accident took place around 5:20 AM in the 3800 block of S. Ashland Ave. A 21-year-old driver in a white Oldsmobile Delta 88 traveling with two passengers hit a median, spun out of control and then hit a viaduct pillar. The driver, a South side resident, was pronounced dead a short time later at Stroger Hospital.

One of the passengers was also taken to Cook County Hospital, but his condition has not been reported. There is also no word if the other passenger was injured.

The second crash took place about an hour later in the 4400 block of W. Lake Street. In that collision, the driver struck a fixed object. The motorist was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai Hospital just before 8 AM. The police did not provide further details as to how the accident occurred.

Chicago road conditions would have been poor at the time of both accidents due to a recent snowfall. The 2 collisions were investigated by the Chicago Police Department.

As December begins, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the state is on the verge of reporting fewer than 1,000 traffic fatalities for the second year in a row. Last year was the first time since 1921 that fewer than 1,000 motorists were killed on the state's roads.

Fewer Chicago car accidents is part of the reason. Through November, 124 fatal car accidents have been reported in Chicago, compared to 141 during the same period last year and 156 through the first 11 months of 2008.

As our Chicago injury lawyers have reported, much of the reduction has been the result of high unemployment, the slow economy and less road congestion. In fact, there is some evidence that fatalities have begun to rise again with the economic recovery. So far this year there have been 855 fatalities, 17 more than the 838 reported statewide through the first 11 months of last year.

That's part of the reason traffic safety efforts are expected to be intense through the holiday season, which began with a host of traffic enforcement initiatives on Thanksgiving weekend, including 2,000 seat belt enforcement zones, 68 roadside safety checkpoints and more than 1,000 additional patrols.

“The partnership between IDOT, state and local law enforcement exemplifies our collective commitment and dedication to traffic safety in Illinois,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “We strongly urge all drivers and passengers to continue to buckle-up, properly secure your child in the appropriate safety seat, never drink and drive and please silence or place your cell phone in the glove compartment before driving.”

Speeding, distracted driving, failure to wear seat belts, drunk driving, drowsy driving and aggressive driving are among the most common causes of serious or fatal accidents. As the holiday coincides with the start of the winter driving season, authorities are also urging motorists to have their cars serviced, to allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and to make other accommodations for bad weather and poor driving conditions.

Continue reading "For second year in a row, the push is on to reduce fatal car accidents in Chicago, throughout Illinois " »

A deadly Southern Illinois car crash that occurred back on May 8, 2010 has resulted in a motorist being charged with aggravated DUI, according to TheTelegraph.com. The 30-year-old driver, a resident of Carlinville, Illinois, has been charged with an information that was filed in Macoupin County Circuit Court. A judge has set bond at $100,000.

The charges allege that the defendant was driving a 2007 Chevy Malibu eastbound on Illinois Route 108 when he drove off the road and rolled the vehicle several times. Four occupants in the car were ejected and one of the passengers, a 27-year-old Bethalto resident, died at the scene.

The driver and two other passengers were taken by ambulance to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield. The extent of their injuries have not been reported.

Police were initially unsure as to who was driving the vehicle. After investigation by the Illinois State Police (District 18) and the Macoupin County Sheriff's Department, they determined that the defendant was driving. The facts that led to that determination were not reported.

It was also not reported whether an Illinois car crash lawyer is involved in the case or if a wrongful death lawsuit has been filed by the victim's family against the driver.

Authorities are urging motorists to be prepared for snow, ice, and other poor driving conditions. Winter weather is a frequent cause of Chicago car accident, particularly at the start of the winter driving season.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that 173 motorists were killed and more than 17,000 were injured in accidents on wet, icy or snowy roads last year.

"Motorists should plan ahead and provide sufficient time to reach their destination, slow down, buckle-up and eliminate all potential distractions in their vehicle before driving." IDOT Secretary Gary Hannig said. "Safety is the number one priority at IDOT and it is never compromised.”

The Illinois State Police also reminds motorists to use caution and to move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles.

"During the winter months, motorists can help protect those who work to keep our roads safe, by yielding to emergency vehicles. The Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, or reduce speed and proceed with caution when approaching stationary emergency vehicles displaying flashing warning lights," said Illinois State Police Acting Director Jonathon Monken. "Reducing speed, avoiding distractions, and practicing safe driving habits are crucial in the winter months. There is simply less room for error during inclement weather."

The highway department reports that completed construction projects should provide some relief from congestion and better road conditions. But reminds drivers to be prepared for poor conditions and to watch out for snow-removal equipment.

"We still encourage drivers to be prepared for winter conditions, use caution and watch out for snow plows and other crews working to clear the way," said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Kristi Lafleur.

Illinois Safe Driving Tips Include:

-Give plows plenty of space. Plow operators typically have a limited field of vision and may not see you.

-Beware of black ice. Take it easy at intersections, off-ramps, bridges and in other areas prone to ice buildup.

-Keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full.

-Avoid travel when possible.

-Carry an emergency car kit that includes jumper cables, reflectors or road flares, windshield washer fluid, ice scraper, sand or other traction material, blankets, food items and a first-aid kit.

-Always carry your cell phone.

-Wear your seat belt.

-Have your car serviced.

-Keep tires in good repair.

Continue reading "Safe winter driving can reduce risk of Chicago car accidents" »

An Illinois car crash on the near North Side of Chicago has resulted in injuries to three people when an SUV struck a wall, according to the Chicago Tribune. The accident happened early Monday morning around 3:50 AM in the area of the Merchandise Mart at the intersection of Kinsey and Franklin streets.

It is being reported that the SUV struck a support wall in an underground parking garage. Three male occupants in the vehicle were taken by ambulance to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in serious to critical condition. They were traveling in an Infiniti SUV truck. The driver, who was in his late 20s, is reportedly in stable condition. One hurt passenger was in the front seat, the other in the rear.

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. The Chicago Police Department is handling the accident investigation.

Typically, in a single car accidents, injured passengers have the right to make claims against the driver's auto insurance policy. Chicago injury lawyers at our law firm have handled several cases in the past for passengers injured in single car collisions where the driver was traveling too fast for conditions and lost control of his or her vehicle.

An Illinois personal injury lawyer has filed a lawsuit on behalf of an Oak lawn man who died in a Chicago car vs. pedestrian accident that occurred last Thanksgiving, according to the Neighborhood Star. The wrongful death lawsuit was filed in Circuit Court of Cook County. The victim's mother has been named special administrator of the estate for the purposes of the suit.

The accident reportedly occurred when the victim was trying to push his disabled vehicle and 6500 block of Cicero Avenue around 3 AM. At that time an alleged drunk and speeding driver struck the pedestrian.

The victim was rushed by ambulance to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn where he passed away several hours later. Four other people were hurt in the accident, and five ambulances responded to the crash.

The defendant, a 31-year-old South Side resident, was criminally charged with felony aggravated DUI, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and leaving the scene of an accident.

Also listed as a defendant in the civil lawsuit is a tavern (and its owners) where the driver was allegedly drinking alcohol prior to the crash.

The Illinois pedestrian accident lawyer that is representing the victim's family was not named in the newspaper article.

An Illinois auto accident lawyer at Abels & Annes has signed on to represent a Chicago woman that was injured in an October, 2010 collision. The Chicago car crash occurred on Interstate 294 at around 8 AM during the morning rush-hour.

Our client was northbound on the interstate and stopped in traffic when a driver slammed into her from the rear. Shortly after the accident she developed severe back, neck and left shoulder pain.

Since the date of the accident the plaintiff has undergone treatment with three different orthopedic physicians in the Chicago area, including doctors at Illinois Bone and Joint Institute. Due to the severity of her pain, she has now been referred for an MRI to determine if she sustained more serious injuries.

The Illinois State Police handled the crash investigation and they placed the rear ending driver at fault in the police report.

Contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes if you've been hurt in an Illinois car crash. Call us at 312-924-7575 for free case evaluation.

The Chicago injury attorneys and staff at Abels & Annes wish each of you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving weekend and remind you to practice the safe driving habits that will reduce your risk of being involved in a Chicago car accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 354 fatal accidents occurred over the Thanksgiving holiday last year.

In Illinois, Thanksgiving's 12 fatal accidents was second only to Memorial Day's 17, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. Last year, 12 motorists were killed and more than 800 were seriously injured in Illinois car accidents over the Thanksgiving weekend.

The Chicago Tribune reports that more than 2.1 million Illinois motorists are expected to hit the roads through the Holiday. By comparison, only 87,000 are expected to fly.

Overall, AAA expects travel to increase by 4.3 million travelers, or 11.4 percent nationwide.

"We do see this as a reflection on the modestly improving economy, but it should be noted that we're not out of the woods yet,'' AAA spokeswoman Beth Mosher told the Tribune. "The 4.3 million increase in total travelers over last year is less than half of the volume lost from 2007 through 2009.''

The following Illinois safe travel tips are adapted from information published by USA Today.

-Make sure your car is in good repair and has been properly serviced.

-Allow for plenty of time to reach your destination.

-Take a break every two hours to remain alert while driving.

-Hit the road by noon Wednesday to avoid gridlock. Expect heavier than normal traffic on Sunday.

Continue reading "Chicago injury lawyers wish you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday " »

A Chicago hit-and-run accident has caused severe injuries to a pedestrian on the North Side, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The collision occurred early Sunday morning in the Edgewater neighborhood.

Around 3:30 AM a red vehicle that was traveling in a northwest direction struck the pedestrian in the area of 5900 N. Ridge Ave. The motorist then fled the scene. Rescue personnel from the Chicago fire Department rushed the pedestrian to St. Francis hospital Evanston where he is reportedly being treated for severe head injuries and is in critical condition.

The vehicle that may have been involved was located later that same day in the 6000 block of N. Lincoln Ave. in a motel parking lot. The Chicago Police Department's major accident investigation unit is stating that they have been in contact with someone who may have been the driver.

Police are also stating that it was not raining at the time of the accident and there were no skid marks showing the driver tried to stop. 30 mph is the speed limit at the location. There is actually a red light camera at the accident location, however it is not been determined if a photo was taken.

Police have not yet been able to interview the pedestrian.

Click here to read the story as reported by WGN-TV and ABC news.

Click here to read more about Chicago pedestrian accident lawsuits and Illinois hit-and-run injury claims.

A motorist that crossed an interstate median has caused an Illinois truck versus car crash, killing himself and a truck driver, according to ksdk.com. The deadly auto accident occurred Wednesday on Interstate 64 in Clinton County.

The Illinois State Police are handling the crash investigation and they are reporting that a car traveled across the median near milepost 36 and headed eastbound in the westbound lanes until it slammed head-on into a semi truck. The wrong way driver, a 39-year-old St. Louis resident, was rushed to a nearby hospital and died a short time later.

The truck driver, a 29-year-old woman from Florida, passed away at the scene of the accident. Her husband, who was riding as a passenger, survived the accident and was taken to nearby St. John's Mercy Hospital with serious injuries.

State police do not know what caused the driver to travel into oncoming traffic. The crash investigation is ongoing.

stltoday.com is reporting that after the collision the truck left the road, struck an embankment and then caught on fire. The trucker was trapped in the vehicle and died in the fire.

The collision occurred just before 5 AM and it shut down part of the highway for around 12 hours.

An Illinois car crash in Streator has left five students hurt, according to pantagraph.com. The accident happened on Saturday night and two teenagers remain hospitalized.

The Livingston County Sheriff's Department is handling the crash investigation. They are reporting that the car the teenagers were traveling in was on a rural road when its driver lost control and overturned several times. The crash occurred in the area of the Twin Creek Golf Course.

One of the injured, a 15-year-old Woodland student, is in critical condition in Peoria at Children's Hospital of Illinois. Another student, also age 15 from Ancona, is hospitalized in good condition.

The driver of the car, a 16-year-old from Streater, was taken by ambulance to St. Mary's Hospital. He has since been released. Two other 15-year-old passengers were taken to St. James Hospital in Pontiac and released a short time later.

The sheriffs department is still investigating the accident and no citations have yet been issued.

It has not been reported if an Illinois injury attorney is involved in the case yet on behalf of any of the injured minors. As far as a civil case is concerned, the injured teenage passengers have the right to make a negligence claim against the at fault driver's insurance policy. Hopefully the teen driver had enough insurance to cover the loss.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports an increased emphasis on seat-belt enforcement and a crackdown on impaired drivers in an effort to reduce the risk of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere as we head into the winter driving season.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys urge motorists to have their vehicles serviced, including a thorough inspection of brakes and tires, and to talk to family members about the importance of making good driving decisions as we head into the holidays.

The state reports a significant difference in seat belt use between front and back seat passengers -- back seat passengers killed in accidents were nearly twice as likely to be unbuckled, according to 2003 to 2009 crash data. Last year, 628 passenger car occupants (cars and light trucks) were killed in Illinois car accidents. Only 27 percent of those killed while riding in the back seat were properly restrained.

“Sadly, the holiday season, which for many is the happiest time of the year, can also be one of the deadliest and most tragic,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “Wearing a safety belt costs nothing, but not wearing it could cost you a ticket or worse…your life. The same applies when you have been drinking and choose to drive. We want all drivers and passengers to remember Click It or Ticket, day and night and You Drink & Drive. You Lose.”

Illinois drunk driving accidents are a significant safety threat through the holiday season. Nationwide, one-third of all fatal crashes involved alcohol in 2008, resulting in 11,773 deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Drunk driving accidents in Illinois resulted in the deaths of 404 motorists.

Through the Thanksgiving Holiday, the Illinois State Police and more than 150 local law enforcement agencies will be conducting roadside safety checks and impaired driver saturation patrols.

Illinois law does not currently require backseat adult passengers to wear seat belts.

Continue reading "Drunk driving crackdown, seat belt enforcement, aimed at reducing Chicago car accidents through holidays" »

A Chicago area auto accident has claimed the life of a 17-year-old teenager from Winfield, Illinois, according to the Chicago Tribune. The DuPage County crash took place Saturday evening around 9 PM in unincorporated West Chicago. The driver was pronounced dead just after 4 AM on Sunday.

The teenage driver was traveling in a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta eastbound on Garys Mill Road. Just after he passed Indian Knoll Road a 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck exited a residential driveway and the Volkswagen then struck the rear portion of the truck.

Winfield Fire Department rescue personnel responded to the accident rushed the teen driver to Central DuPage Hospital. There, he was placed on life support and later passed away. The exact nature of the injuries that caused him to die were not reported.

The accident was investigated by the DuPage County Sheriff's Department. It is not known if citations or other charges were issued to the pickup truck driver.

If the newspaper account of the accident is correct, the victim's family could have a civil claim against the driver of the pickup truck. A motorist exiting a residential driveway has the duty to yield to vehicles on the roadway and not enter the street until it is safe to do so.

The accident is reportedly still under investigation.

Click here to read the stories reported by the Wheaton Sun.

New data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that children continue to be at high risk for Chicago car accidents, bicycle accidents and pedestrian accidents.

Traffic accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for children ages 3 to 14. Last year, 1,314 kids were killed and 179,000 were injured in traffic accidents nationwide. An average of 4 children are killed and 490 were injured in car accidents every day last year.

Our Chicago accident lawyers frequently report on the common causes of serious and fatal car accidents, including speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving. When it comes to children, obeying car seat and booster seat laws, and ensuring that your child is properly seat belted, can go a long way to ensuring their safety in the event of an accident. The government reports that child safety seats reduce the risk of fatal injuries to infants by 71 percent and to toddlers by 54 percent.

-Children also face significant risk of being seriously injured or killed in a Chicago pedestrian accident. Nationwide last year, 244 children under the age of 14 were killed in pedestrian accidents and more than 13,000 were injured.

-And, while the popularity of cycling has witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of serious and fatal injuries involving middle-aged men, young children have always faced significant risk. Last year, 74 were killed in bicycle accidents and more than 8,000 were injured.

-Tragically, drunk driving accidents killed 181 kids last year and in half of those cases the children were passengers in the vehicle with the intoxicated driver.

-Illinois car accidents killed 34 children last year, including one victim under the age of 1 and 18 victims who were 1 to 7 years old.

Continue reading "Government reports that children remain at high risk for Chicago car accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents" »

A Cook County Circuit Court Judge has set bond at $200,000 for a defendant due to his alleged involvement in a fatal Chicago area DUI auto accident, according to the Chicago Breaking News Center. The accident occurred early Saturday morning by the westbound Arlington Heights Road exit ramp on the Jane Addams Tollway.

The defendant, 21-year-old man from Hoffman Estates, has been charged with reckless homicide and aggravated DUI after he was released from Northwest Community Hospital. The accident resulted in the death of his passenger, a 20-year-old man who was also from Hoffman Estates.

The defendant appeared in Rolling Meadows branch court. Assistant State's Attorneys said that witnesses to the crash observed the defendant driving a Toyota Camry at a high rate of speed and then roll over as it approached the off-ramp. The victim, a former Conant High School athlete, was pronounced dead a short time later at Northwest Community Hospital.

It is not been reported if Illinois personal injury attorneys are involved in the case yet or if a civil lawsuit is been filed on behalf of the victim.

Two firefighters were injured in a Chicago auto accident that occurred on the South Side early Saturday morning, according to WGN TV. The collision occurred when a minivan rear-ended a Chicago fire truck as the driver was getting off the Dan Ryan Expressway S. Lafayette Ave. and W. 71st St. The incident occurred around 1 AM as both vehicles were moving southbound on Lafayette.

The firefighters were taken by ambulance to Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park in fair condition. Chicago Police Department's major accident investigation unit came out to the scene, but they ended up not handling the investigation.

The driver of the minivan was also hurt and was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in serious to critical condition. It has not been reported if the at fault driver was ticketed by the Chicago Police Department or if drugs or alcohol played a role in the accident.

Read the story as reported by firechief.com here.

A new study reports that drowsy driving may be responsible for an increasing number of car accidents in Chicago and elsewhere. As the Los Angeles Times reported, if the driver beside you is not talking on his phone, texting, speeding or drunk, there is an increasing chance that he or she may be just barely awake.

The AAA Foundation for Highway Safety reports that more than 2 in every 5 drivers admit to having fallen asleep while behind the wheel. One in 10 drivers say they have fallen asleep at the wheel in the last year.

One in 4 drivers said they have driven in the past month, despite being so tired they could barely keep their eyes open.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys frequently mention the dangers associated with distracted driving, speeding and drunk driving. But driver fatigue and drowsy driving deserve more attention. The problem could be even more acute with the early darkness and cold weather, which prompts drivers to roll up their windows, and turn up the heat inside their vehicles.

With this week being Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, safety advocates, including the National Sleep Foundation, are encouraging drivers to take seriously the threat drowsy driving poses to your own safety and to the safety of other motorists behind the wheel.

"Sleepiness decreases awareness, slows reaction time, and impairs judgment, just like drugs or alcohol, contributing to the possibility of a crash," said AAA Foundation President Peter Kissinger. "We need to change the culture so that not only will drivers recognize the dangers of driving while drowsy but will stop doing it."

A new analysis by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 1 in 6 fatal crashes involve drowsy driving, which would account for more than 5,500 deaths on the road each year. Additionally, the report found that drowsy driving is involved in 1 in 8 crashes that result in hospitalization and 1 in 14 crashes that result in a vehicle being towed from the scene.

"Many of us tend to underestimate the negative effects associated with fatigue and sleep deprivation and, conversely, overestimate our abilities to overcome them while driving," said Kathleen Marvaso of AAA. "This data underscores the importance of educating drivers on the simple, yet effective steps they can take to prevent a possible tragedy. Unfortunately, too many drivers have adopted the 'I'm tired, but I can make it’ mentality, often to their own peril or to the peril of others."

Drivers should remain alert for symptoms of drowsy driving, which may include trouble keeping eyes open or focused, an inability to keep your head up, wandering thoughts or daydreaming, drifting out of your lane or tailgating.

AAA tips for remaining alert:

-Get at least six hours of sleep the night before a long trip.

-Schedule a break every 100 miles or two hours.

-Stay overnight rather than attempting to drive straight through.

-Drive during hours when you would normally be awake.

-Stop driving if you are sleepy.

Continue reading "Drowsy driving prevention week aims to reduce risk of Chicago car accidents" »

Wide receiver Earl Bennett of the Chicago Bears is reportedly thankful to be alive after being involved in an Illinois auto accident early Monday morning, according to ESPN. He is reportedly "okay" after being rear-ended on the Ohio Street feeder ramp just after midnight.

Bennett was driving a 1973 Chevy Impala when he was rear-ended by 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. There may have been one other passenger in the Impala whose name has not been reported, although it is being speculated that it is another Bears player. After the impact both vehicles slammed into a wall on the highway.

The Illinois state police responded to the scene of the accident, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The at fault driver was ticketed for driving on a suspended or revoked license and for failing to reduce speed to avoid an accident. No injuries have been reported so far due to the accident.

A Chicago hit-and-run accident is seriously injured pedestrian on the south side, according to the Chicago Sun-Times . The accident happened just outside an election polling station Tuesday morning and the pedestrian was Martin Munoz, brother of State Sen. Antonio Munoz.

A driver of vehicle reportedly sped through the intersection and hit Munoz, age 40. The victim was taken by paramedics to Mount Sinai Hospital where he underwent surgery for significant leg injuries. The senator's brother was apparently on his way to vote at the time of the accident.

Illinois pedestrian accident occurred just before 6 AM in the area of 4030 S. Archer Ave. The pedestrian was crossing Archer northbound towards the election station when the mid-1990s Nissan came through the intersection heading southeast. The car was traveling between 30 and 40 mph when it hit the victim. Occurrence witnesses heard screeching tires and then turn to see the pedestrian being knocked around 20 feet.

A Chicago police officer reportedly was working security the location. The officer gave chase in a squad car, was able to get a license plate number, but then lost track of the vehicle. Police have since located the vehicle and are speaking to a "person of interest".

Click here to read the stories reported by ABC news and the State Journal Register.

As far as a civil claim is concerned, this case will likely turn into a hit-and-run / underinsured motorist claim. In my experience as a Chicago personal injury lawyer, most drivers that flee accident scenes end up not having valid auto insurance. Once an Illinois pedestrian accident attorney gets involved in the case, they will surely investigate whether a case can be pursued against the hit-and-run driver, however the claim will most likely end up being against the victims own auto insurance company.

A total of 14 people have been hurt, of which 12 were children, in a Chicago car crash on Sunday afternoon, the Chicago Tribune is reporting. The collision involved two vehicles on the Eisenhower Expressway in the area of Keeler Avenue in the westbound lanes.

Chicago Fire Department officials are stating that the kids were taken to area emergency rooms, some in critical condition. Two adults were also hospitalized in serious to critical condition. At least 10 ambulances rushed to the scene of the accident. Those hurt in the collision were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Stroger Hospital, West Suburban Medical Center, Loyola University Medical Center, and St. Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center.

The at fault driver was reportedly a 33-year-old woman and she has been charged with child endangerment. When her vehicle rolled over some of the children inside were not properly seatbelted. The driver was also cited for driving without insurance and failure to reduce speed to avoid a collision.

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that witnesses to the accident state the driver lost control for unknown reasons, and that she was not speeding or driving erratically.

Due to the fact that the at fault driver was not insured, when Chicago auto accident lawyers get involved in the case they will look to make uninsured motorist claims against each victim's own auto policy (if they have them).

Read the story as reported by NBC news here.

The government has released a report detailing a half-century of safety initiatives as part of the reason for the historic decline in serious and fatal car accidents. However, as our Chicago injury lawyers have reported, the economic downturn has also played a significant role in the reduction. And, as the economy slowly recovers, the number of fatal Illinois car accidents is again on the rise.

Car accidents and traffic fatalities have been declining steadily since reaching a peak of 43,510 in 2005. Most recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that traffic fatalities declined from 37,423 in 2008 to 33,808 last year -- a level not seen since the 33,186 deaths that occurred on the nation's roads in 1950.

Safety officials are quick to point toward the success of enforcement efforts aimed at increasing seat belt use and reducing drunk driving.

“Today’s numbers reflect the tangible benefits of record seat belt use and strong anti-drunk driving enforcement campaigns,” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland in announcing the record-low fatalities. “But we are still losing more than 30,000 lives a year on our highways, and about a third of these involve drunk driving. We will continue to work with our state partners to strictly enforce both seat belt use and anti-drunk driving laws across this nation, every day and every night.”

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers have frequently reported the drastic decline in traffic crashes. But recently that trend has changed. The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that 746 people have died in Illinois car accidents thus far in 2010, compared to 742 during the same period a year ago.

That increase could be linked to the (albeit slow) economic recovery -- many cite the sagging economy as a primary reason for the reduction. To counter this argument, the government points to an overall increase in miles traveled. However, it does not report whether a significant reduction in peak congestion (due to high unemployment and less holiday and vacation travel) could be partially responsible.

Additionally, not every category bears good news: Motorcycle accidents and bicycle accidents have continued to increase over a three-year moving average.

Recently, the government completed a study that does offer some insight into where the reductions are occurring, even if the reasons why remain a mystery.

-Crashes involving young drivers declined 17 percent between 2007 and 2008.

-Fatalities involving children under the age of 16 decreased by 20 percent.

-Multiple-vehicle fatalities decreased by 13 percent.

-Fatalities involving large trucks decreased by 12 percent.

-Weekend fatalities decreased by 11 percent.

The government cites a number of safety milestones along the historic downward trend in traffic fatalities that began in the 1970s:

1968: Front-seat lap and shoulder belts are required for all vehicles.

1970: NHTSA is formed by an act of Congress.

1971: Standardized training for EMTs.

1974: Nationwide 55mph speed limit enacted by Congress in response to energy crisis.

1978: First child safety-seat law enacted.

1980: Mothers Against Drunk Driving is formed.

1984: First seat-belt law enacted by New York.

1987: Passive restraint rules (airbags) began with the 1987 model year.

1988: All 50 states have raised minimum drinking age to 21.

1990: NHTSA begins providing crash worthiness tests.

1996: Safety campaign to move children to rear seats.

1998: All 50 states have zero tolerance alcohol policy for drivers under 21.

2002: First nationwide "Click It or Ticket" campaign.

2005: All 50 states have .08 legal limit for alcohol.

2008: Seat belt use up to 83 percent as states continue to enact primary enforcement laws.

Continue reading "Government touts half-century of safety initiatives for reduction in traffic fatalities even as fatal Illinois car accidents are on the rise" »

Illinois accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have entered into an agreement to represent a Shorewood resident that was injured in a Will County truck versus car crash. The collision occurred on Interstate 80 near Larkin Road in Joliet, Illinois.

Our client was driving his 1994 Pontiac Bonneville eastbound in the right lane of the highway. At that time a semi truck was in the eastbound left lane. The truck driver moved his vehicle to the right Lane and failed to observe our client, striking the Pontiac on the driver's side of the vehicle. This caused the plaintiff's vehicle to fishtail. The Pontiac was heavily damaged in the crash.

The Illinois State Police handled the accident investigation. After interviewing the parties involved, they issued the truck driver citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. The trucker admitted to police that he never saw the plaintiff's vehicle.

Our client sustained low back and neck injuries in the accident. He was seen a short time later at St. James Hospital where he was examined by physicians and prescribed hydrocodone for pain.

Over the days following the accident his pain worsened. He is now undergoing treatment with a medical doctor.

If you have been hurt in a Chicago area trucking crash, call the Illinois injury attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation. Call 312-924-7575.

The USA Today reports that parents are increasingly turning toward the low-tech teen-driving contract amid the decidedly high-tech world faced by teen drivers.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys recently reported on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog that the State of Illinois is debuting a new website aimed at helping parents keep their teen drivers safe behind the wheel.

Tougher laws and better training have led to a 50 percent reduction in fatal Illinois car accidents involving teenagers in recent years, from 146 in 2007 to 71 last year. However, car accidents remain the leading cause of death among teenagers nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Illinois Secretary of State's Office offers a Teen Safe Driving Contract here. Similar contracts are offered through AAA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Such contracts have several things in common, including a modification of restrictions as drivers gain experience and demonstrate responsibility, and clearly defined penalties for violations.

"It's a way for parents and teens to engage with each other and agree on what the consequences are," Arlene Greenspan, of the CDC's Injury Center, told the USAToday. "Writing it down clarifies for everybody what the rules are."

Some automobile insurers also offer discounts for parents and teenagers who sign contracts.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that 6,107 drivers ages 15 to 19 were injured in accidents last year. When the occupants of young drivers are included, more than 10,000 people were hurt in traffic crashes -- or about 1 in every 8 injuries.

Statistics show the homecoming season and the Christmas and New Year's holidays are among the most dangerous on the road for young drivers. The increased risk also coincides with the start of winter driving season. We encourage you to spend some extra time with your teen drivers to talk about the expectations and responsibilities associated with climbing behind the wheel.

Continue reading "Parents focus on helping teens avoid Chicago car accidents as homecoming and holiday seasons begin" »

A Chicago area hit-and-run pedestrian accident has resulted in the death of a woman and another person being injured, according to the Chicago Breaking News Center. The accident happened early Monday morning in North Aurora.

Police responded to an accident near State and Grant Streets just after 2 AM involving two vehicles and 2 pedestrians. By the time police arrived, the driver that caused the accident had fled the scene.

It was reported to police that two victims, a man and a woman, were found lying in the street. The male victim was age 22 from North Aurora, and the female was also age 22, from Cicero. The couple was reportedly standing outside the female victim's 1997 Chevy Cavalier when the hit-and-run driver sideswiped a parked vehicle and hit the two pedestrians.

The two injured victims were taken by North Aurora Fire Department ambulance to Provina-Mercy Hospital. The female pedestrian was pronounced dead a short time later and the male is still hospitalized.

Just after 5 AM, a 30-year-old man from Aurora went to the Aurora Police Department and turned himself in for his involvement in the accident. The driver was then transported to the North Aurora Police Department for questioning. His vehicle, 2004 Dodge work van, is being held by police. The name of the hit-and-run driver has not been released.

Anyone with additional information regarding this accident is being asked to call the North Aurora Police Department at 630-897-8705 and ask for traffic investigator Dan Cyko.

Chicago auto accident lawyers are set to represent a Wisconsin resident that was injured in an Illinois car crash. The accident took place back in July of this year.

The plaintiff was driving her 1999 Honda Accord eastbound on Montrose Avenue. In the 4900 block of Montrose she put her turn signal on and slowed to make a left turn. At that time a woman driving a 1994 Pontiac Grand Prix rear-ended her.

Over the next several days the plaintiff developed neck pain and headaches due to the accident. She then sought treatment with a medical doctor in the north suburbs of Chicago. The physician also referred her for a course of physical therapy.

Since the date of the accident, our client been trying to deal with a large insurance carrier without the help of an attorney. After "spinning her wheels" for several months and not getting anywhere, she decided to retain counsel.

Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes will be looking to recover money damages for the plaintiff to pay for her medical bills, time off work due to the accident, pain and suffering, and loss of her everyday normal life.

If you've been hurt in an Illinois accident and believe you are being treated unfairly by an insurance carrier, contact the Chicago injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free consultation.

I should also add that I believe it is important to start working with an injury lawyer as soon as possible after being involved in an accident. There are many issues that come up early on in a claim where the advice of counsel is needed.

Our Chicago car accident lawyers urge parents to speak to their teens about the dangers of distracted driving during National Teen Driver Safety Week this week, Oct. 17 to 24.

As we reported recently on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, parents can have a dramatic impact on a teenager's safety behind the wheel. Car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers ages 15 to 20, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Teenagers are at high risk of virtually every poor driving decision imaginable, including drunk driving, speeding, not wearing seat belts, distracted driving, poor night driving and riding with too many young passengers in the car.

The Chicago Breaking News Center reports that AAA and the Illinois Department of Transportation is launching a new website aimed at teenage drivers, www.illinoisteendriving.com/

The Chicago Tribune reports that Allstate Insurance, Verizon Wireless, BMW and Liberty Mutual Insurance are among the organizations designing and implementing safety programs aimed at teaching teenagers about the dangers of distracted driving.

Authorities cite tougher laws and better driver training for a 50 percent reduction in teen driving fatalities, form 146 in 2007 to 71 last year. But there is still much work to be done. A separate study we reported on recently found that teens largely understand the risks of distracted driving, they just ignore them. As a parent, we urge you to speak to your teen driver early and often about the need to stay safe behind the wheel.

The dangers are real; the statistics don't lie:

-In 2008, about 20 percent of all crashes involved some form of driver distraction.

-More than 5,000 people a year are killed in distracted driving car accidents; about 450,000 are injured.

-Drivers under the age of 20 are most at-risk for being involved in a serious or fatal accident caused by distracted driving. Drivers ages 20 to 29 are the group with the next-highest risk.

-Those using hand-held devices while driving are four times more likely to get into a serious accident.

-Drivers using a cell phone -- whether hand-held or hands-free -- impair their reactions as much as someone driving with a blood-alcohol level of .08, the legal limit for drunk driving in the United States.

A report by Allstate Insurance found that texting is a teen's greatest distraction behind the wheel. More than 4 in 5 teens admitted to using a cell phone while driving -- fewer than 1 in 4 admitted to drinking and driving.

Continue reading "New website aims to help teens avoid Chicago car accidents as Teen Safe Driver Week begins" »

Chicago personal injury lawyers from Abels & Annes, working with co-counsel from the Elman Law Group, have obtained a jury verdict at trial in the Circuit Court of Cook County. The lawsuit stems from a Chicago car crash that occurred several years ago at the intersection of Clark Street and Oakdale on on the North Side.

The plaintiff was working as a delivery driver when he stopped his 1992 Honda Civic at a stop sign. After stopping his vehicle he was rear-ended by the defendant who was driving a 1996 Saturn.

The plaintiff had an immediate onset of back and neck pain after the collision. He was treated the day after the car crash at Grant Hospital in Chicago. At the ER he was examined by physicians and prescribed pain medication.

Our client's pain did not improve over the next several days so he sought follow-up treatment with a chiropractic physician. The plaintiff went through therapy that consisted of inferential current, mechanical traction, and heat treatment. He also at x-rays and an MRI several weeks after the accident to rule out more serious injuries.

The defendant's insurance carrier would not make a settlement offer pre-litigation so a lawsuit was filed. The case eventually went to trial in front of the Honorable Shelli D. Williams. The jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff for $12,123.00 plus court costs. Our co-counsel, Anthony Elman tried the case.

If you have been injured in an Illinois accident, contact a Chicago car crash lawyer at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation. Call 312-924-7575 to speak to an attorney now. There is no attorney's fee unless a recovery is made.

Daniel Green, a 36-year-old emergency crew dispatcher for the Department of Water Management became a hero on Sunday night after rescuing someone from a burning car after witnessing a single vehicle Chicago car accident, according to WGN news. Just before 11 PM Green was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Pershing Road and Western Avenue when a northbound pickup truck crashed into a support beam for railroad tracks overhead. After impact, the truck became engulfed in flames.

The City of Chicago worker and another bystander immediately rushed to rescue the driver of the pickup truck . They had to force the driver side door open and carry the unconscious driver away from the vehicle and wait for paramedics to arrive. by the time the car door was opened, several other good Samaritans arrived to help.

Green thought the driver would have died if they didn't get them out of the vehicle. Police officers that responded to the accident stated the driver was semi conscious when he was taken away by ambulance to Mount Sinai Hospital. He is reportedly in stable condition.

The other rescuers were not named in the article.

Click here to read the story reported in the Southtown Star.

State Farm has released new information that shows October is still a very dangerous month for teens being involved in Illinois car crashes, and accidents nationwide. They made this determination by looking at data collected over the past seven years, and the greatest amount of claims filed by 16-year-olds and 17-year-olds occurs in October. Claims go up around 15% compared to other months.

Approximately one out of four states have October as the most dangerous months for teen crashes, and about 70% of all states show October as being in its top three months. A State Farm spokesperson says that auto accidents are the number one killer of teens.

Research from State Farm shows that while 70% of teenage drivers say they are nervous about being involved in an auto accident or injuring someone, 57% of those teen drivers admit to texting or reading while at the wheel.

The State Farm website claims:

-Teens are nearly 10 times more likely to be an accident during his or her first year of driving.
-Nearly 2/3 of deadly teen crashes are caused by driver mistakes, from either being distracted or not knowing what to do.
-The risk of a fatal accident can increase up to five times is there our two or more passengers in the vehicle.
-That driving while being tired can affect your driving in the same way alcohol does.

The State Farm website goes on to recommend that teen drivers wear seatbelts, not talk on the cell phone or text while driving, limit the number of passengers in the car, stay within the speed limit, and avoid high-risk driving situations such as bad weather or nighttime driving.

If your teen driver has been involved in an Illinois car accident, contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation. Call 312-924-7575.

An Illinois auto accident has resulted in the death of a man from Peoria Illinois, according to the Chicago Tribune. The crash occurred this past weekend in Will County on Interstate 55.

The victim from Peoria, age 44, died shortly after his Ford Mustang was involved in a separate accident with a Toyota. Just before 7 AM the driver rear-ended a Toyota Camry. After the accident his car was stopped in the left lane of the Interstate.

Unfortunately, the Peoria resident remained in his car while the occupants in the vehicle ahead of him got out to inspect damage. At that time, another Toyota Camry driven by 28-year-old St. Charles resident rear-ended the Mustang with great force, causing it to move forward and strike the occupants of the first Camry.

The driver sitting in his Mustang died at the scene. The three occupants outside their vehicle were were taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Hospital and Silver Cross Hospital.

The Illinois State Police responded to the accident and handled the investigation. The driver of the second Camry involved was ticketed with failure to reduce speed, driving too fast for conditions and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

The investigation is ongoing.

Due to the fact that the driver of the second Toyota Camry did not have insurance, the Illinois personal injury attorneys that get involved in the case will look to set up an uninsured motorist claims on the injured parties' own auto policies. Click here to read more about Illinois uninsured and under-insured motorist claims.

The USA Today is the latest to report on the growing chorus of voices that contend the emphasis on text messaging and cell phone use while driving is coming at the expense of focusing on the many other forms of distracted driving.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys have reported extensively on the cell phone and text messaging debate -- Illinois became one of 30 states to forbid drivers from text messaging when its law took effect on Jan. 1.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently released a study that found text messaging bans were actually increasing the number of distracted driving accidents in states where they are in place -- perhaps because motorists were attempting to hide their phones in their laps, thereby taking their eyes off the road for an even longer period of time and exacerbating the problem.

The group has become increasingly critical of the government's focus on text messaging and the use of hand-held devices by drivers.

"They're focusing on a single manifestation of distracted driving and banning it," IIHS President Adrian Lund said. "This ignores the endless sources of distraction and relies on banning one source or another to solve the whole problem."

We have reported on the many other forms of distracted driving, both here and on our sister site, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, including the risk of distracted driving accidents while driving with your dog or pet in your vehicle.

Other forms of distracted driving include eating, drinking, smoking, grooming, applying makeup, reading, adjusting the radio or using GPS or other in-car electronics, and talking to passengers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration blames nearly 5,500 deaths and 450,000 injuries a year on accidents caused by distracted driving. Only speeding and drunk driving are blamed for more traffic fatalities.

Continue reading "Chicago car accidents blamed on distracted driving involve more than text messaging and cell phones" »

An Illinois auto accident lawyer at Abels & Annes has signed on to represent a local resident that was injured in a collision on the West Side of Chicago. The crash occurred in early September, 2010 at the intersection of Washington & Lamon.

Our client was stopped in traffic moving westbound on Washington Street when she was caught in the middle of a four vehicle chain reaction rear-end accident. Another vehicle that was headed westbound struck a second vehicle that was behind our client, and that second vehicle smashed into the her car. The force of the impact then knocked the plaintiff's automobile into a vehicle in front of her.

At the scene of the accident she started experiencing severe low back pain. She was seen right after the accident at the Oak Park Hospital emergency room. At the ER, she was examined by nurses and physicians, and x-rays were taken.

Over the coming weeks, her pain only got worse. When the pain became unbearable, she was seen again at Rush Presbyterian Hospital in Chicago. She has since started going to treatment with an orthopedic doctor.

The accident was investigated by the Chicago Police Department. After interviewing all the parties involved, the defendant was issued several citations, including failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. The at fault driver has since pleaded guilty in traffic court at the Daley Center.

If you have been hurt in a Chicago area car crash, contact an Illinois accident lawyer at Abels & Annes for a free case evaluation at 312-924-7575. There is no attorney's fee unless we recover for you.