A large number of drivers in the Chicago area are making plans to be on the roads this weekend, traveling to see family for the Easter holiday or otherwise enjoying some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This means that area expressways, interstates, and even local roads are expected to be laden with motorists all trying to get to their chosen destinations at the same time, leading to hectic and potentially dangerous situations.
Gas prices are relatively low at the moment though they have increased in the last two weeks. This is another factor expected to contribute to high traffic with several million drivers nationally expected to travel more than 50 miles from home. Unfortunately, rain is expected in much of Illinois today and on Sunday as well which could lead to a heavy traffic load with poor visibility around the state: a recipe for car accidents and other collisions.
If you will be one of the thousands of drivers taking to the roads this weekend, keep the following tips in mind:
- Get a Check Up: Cars need servicing and other maintenance work from time to time. If it has been a while since your car was reviewed by an experienced mechanic, have it looked at to make sure everything is in proper working order and fix any issues that need to be fixed. Simply maintaining your car can make it less likely that you will be involved in a crash.
- Check the Weather: Rain is expected to be the major weather issue this weekend but other inclement conditions are possible. If you plan to drive, check the weather ahead of time and try to avoid driving when conditions will be at their worst.
- Slow Down: An estimated 50 percent of collisions around the nation are caused or contributed to by speeding. If you want to remain accident-free, slow down. Obey the speed limit and do not rush to get to your destination. If anything, leave a few minutes early so that that you will not feel pressed for time and will not feel the need to speed.
- Increase Following Distance: Of all the forms of typical car accidents, rear-end accidents are the most common. They tend to occur when one driver is following another too closely and does not have enough time to slow and/or stop her car as a result. Avoid these collisions by increasing the distance between your car and the car in front of you with the distance greatest when traveling at highway speeds.
Driving in Illinois can be a dangerous task. If you find yourself the victim of a crash that leaves you hurt or otherwise causes you harm, know that you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages and your suffering. By bringing a civil claim against an insurance company or an at-fault driver, you may be able to recover wholly, allowing yourself to move forward after a crash and return to your normal life.
If you have questions about your rights, know that the personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. offer a no-cost, no-obligation case consultation to all victims who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575. We have a licensed lawyer standing by to speak with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week because we understand that you may need help outside of normal business hours and we strive to help victims whenever they need us.
If an accident affected your life or claimed the life of someone you love, call Abels & Annes, P.C. today.
Prior Blog Entry:
Blind Spot Technology Could Reduce Car Accidents, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published March 22, 2016.