Illinois State Police report 2009 was the safest on Illinois roads in 88 years as the number of fatal traffic accidents in Illinois dropped below 1,000. The state reports more than 100 fewer people were killed on Illinois roads last year.
As the Chicago injury lawyers at Abels & Annes reported on its Chicago Car Accident Lawyers blog, more than 1,000 Illinois car accidents occur every day, injuring 11 people an hour. The state launched the campaign on Nov. 10, reporting 781 deaths with six weeks left to go in the year.
“With the assistance of the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and local law enforcement, Illinois continues to make great strides in the area of public safety,” said Governor Pat Quinn. “This is a proud and historic day for the men and women dedicated to traffic safety who have made travelling in our state safer.”
A total of 928 Illinois traffic fatalities were reported in 2009, according to MyFox Chicago. In 2008, 1,043 fatalities occurred on Illinois roadways, and in 2007, 1,248 highway fatalities were reported.
“Throughout the year, the Illinois State Police has partnered with the Illinois Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies to implement safety programs that target crashes on our roadways,” said ISP Director Jonathon Monken. “There is little doubt the combination of programs designed to address teen driving, impaired driving, and safety belts contributed to successfully reducing Illinois fatalities to their lowest level in 88 years.”
Authorities attribute the decrease in part to a focus on the “Fatal Five” violations responsible for large numbers of traffic crash fatalities: speeding, safety belt use, improper lane usage, following too closely and driving under the influence.
Last year, just 10 states reported fewer than 1,000 traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the Chicago car accident lawyers and the personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.