Chicago is one of the largest cities in the United States, trailing behind New York and Los Angeles. Chicago is the largest city in the state of Illinois, as well as the entire Midwest. The Chicago area is home to approximately 2.7 million residents. Hundreds of auto accidents happen in Chicago every single day, and some reports show that these numbers are increasing. In 2017, there were 132 traffic deaths. The previous year, there were 119. In Chicago, where do the most accidents occur?
One study shows that the deadliest intersection in Chicago is on the South Side. The intersection of South Chicago Avenue and Stony Island Avenue has been cited as the most dangerous intersection in the city. The intersection is nestled between South Chicago, South Shore, Greater Grand Crossing, and Avalon Park.
Chicago has initiated a program called Vision Zero. The goal of Vision Zero is to completely eliminate serious injuries and deaths caused by traffic accidents by the year 2026.
Officials in Chicago have stated they will reach this goal by treating death and serious injuries caused by traffic accidents as a public health issue that needs serious attention. Officials have also declared that streets will be redesigned so that they are safer. Chicago’s streets will be redesigned in a way that makes them safer for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. So far, more than 100 pedestrian refuge islands have been installed. Additionally, 200 intersections have been lined with bump-outs. More than half of the city’s intersections now have pedestrian countdown timers. Other improvements have also been added throughout the city.
The City of Chicago will also add safety features to employee vehicles. For example, mirrors and side guards for large city vehicles will be installed.
City officials and others involved with Vision Zero have stated that they will continue to research additional methods that should help reduce the number of traffic deaths throughout the city.
Until Vision Zero truly results in no traffic deaths, Chicagoans can take a few steps to reduce their risk of being involved in an accident, such as:
- Never driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. There is no shortage of Uber, Lyft, and cab drivers in Chicago, and it is also a good idea to get a ride with a friend.
- Put the phone down while driving. The bulk of traffic accidents are caused by distracted driving. Silence your cell phone and put it out of reach.
- Chicago is home to some serious winter weather. When it is icy, snowy, or sleeting, if you have to be on the roads, slow your speed and allow plenty of space in between your car and the car in front of you.
Though these guidelines may seem basic, if more drivers followed them, the number of traffic accidents would decrease significantly.
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If you were injured in a vehicle accident in Illinois, contact Stein & Shulman, LLC, today to discuss your legal options with a skilled Chicago auto accident lawyer. You can schedule a case consultation at no cost to you by calling our office at 312.422.0500.
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