It’s an annual tradition in the city – Taste of Chicago. An event that draws thousands of visitors to the downtown area to sample some of the town’s wide range of cuisine.
The Taste is not only Chicago’s largest festival but it is also the largest food festival in the world, arriving in mid-July each year. The 2015 celebration begins today at downtown’s Grant Park and will last through Sunday with 33 different restaurants, 15 food trucks, and 12 pop-ups on site for those adventurous enough to try something new. Of course, in addition to the selection of food will be several concerts spread across multiple stages that will run during festival hours.
With so much to do and taste during Taste of Chicago, it is not surprising how many people will flood the downtown area to take advantage of these activities. But this influx of people can make things hazardous for all those who will be driving and/or walking in the Loop.
An increase in pedestrian traffic always increases the risk of a pedestrian accident occurring, and when one does happen, the pedestrians involved are likely to sustain injuries or even to lose their lives. It is always best to prevent a crash from happening and with that in mind, those who will be in Chicago through Sunday should be on alert.
Drivers should note that traffic will be restricted in certain areas and that portions of Columbus Drive and Jackson Drive will be closed to motor vehicle traffic. If you are planning to drive, consider an alternative route or think about using public transportation. The CTA will be providing additional bus and train service near the Taste and many Metra trains run downtown though Metra passengers should note that bicycle and alcohol restrictions will be in place to those on-board as long as the Taste is in session.
Anyone who will be behind the wheel should note that pedestrian traffic will be heavily, predominately around Grant Park and major public transit hubs like Union Station. Be prepared for walkers to cross any street outside of a crosswalk or against a crossing light as many will be unfamiliar with traffic patterns downtown. If you plan to attend the Taste and you will be imbibing, make sure you use a safe means of transit, whether it is a taxi cab, designated driver, or public transportation and never let a friend drive after he or she has been drinking.
The personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. hope you enjoy the Taste of Chicago safely and that your trip to and from downtown Chicago is uneventful. However, if the unthinkable occurs and you become an injured accident victim, know that we will be standing by 24 hours a day to provide you with the assistance you deserve.
We offer all those who are hurt a free case consultation without any obligation when they call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we always have a licensed lawyer available to take your call. If we represent you, we will advance all case-related expenses and we guarantee that we will not charge you a fee unless we make a recovery on your behalf.
If you have questions or if you need help, call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us get to work for you.
Prior Blog Entry:
Joliet Car Crash Leaves 1 Dead, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 7, 2015.
Resource:
Hungry for the Taste? Here’s your complete guide (maps, menus and tips), by Chicago Tribune Graphics, Chicago Tribune, published July 6, 2015.