Fatal Vehicle Accidents on the Rise in Illinois

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Uncategorized

Fatal automobile accidents in Illinois are on the rise, law enforcement officials say, and many of them could have been prevented. Cell phone use (otherwise known as distracted driving) is thought to be a major contributing factor, but failure to use seatbelts are also said to be responsible. As such, police are asking everyone – drivers, pedestrians, and passengers – to follow the rules of the road and, above all else, buckle up when on the road.

Five Deadly Months in Illinois

Although 2016 is not even half over, Illinois has already seen 356 auto accident fatalities for the year. Of those, nearly 300 were automobile drivers or passengers, 50 were pedestrians, and 4 were bicyclists. If the current trend continues, it could place 2016’s traffic fatalities above last years – a five-year record high of 998 traffic deaths. Thankfully, there is still time to turn things around, and one factor that every passenger can control (even those who are victims in accidents).

Lack of Seatbelt Use a Factor in Fatality Increase

Although distracted driving is thought to be one of the biggest contributing factors in the overall increase of auto accidents throughout Illinois, law enforcement officials say that part of the increase in fatalities could be due to a decreased use of seatbelts among drivers and passengers. In fact, the Laredo police said they have seen at least two accidents where they believe lack of seatbelt use may have been a factor in the death of a driver or passenger.

You cannot control whether or not the other driver is texting behind the wheel. You cannot stop a drunk driver or keep someone else from running a red light. But you can, and should, ensure you use your seatbelt every time you get behind the wheel. You can also enforce seatbelt use among your passengers and children to ensure they stay safe while on the road.

Injuries After an Accident? We Can Help

If you or someone you love was involved in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be due compensation for your injuries. The skilled and experienced Lake County automobile accident attorneys at Salvi & Maher, LLP can help. To find out how, call us at 847-66-3303 and schedule your free initial consultation today.

Sources:

http://www.kgns.tv/home/headlines/crash-stats-379230171.html