Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
A recent six-car accident in Chicago killed two people and injured three others, according to WLS 890AM. The accident happened on Dan Ryan Expressway near West 47th Street at about 11:15 a.m. Illinois State Police report that alcohol may have been a contributing factor in this accident.Involved in the accident were two cars, a tour bus with nine passengers, two semis and a minivan, according to ISP Master Sgt. Joseph Stangl. Accident reports state that the chain-reaction accident started when the tour bus hit a semi, which then jack-knifed, straightened out and drove away. To avoid a collision with the tour bus, a passenger car swerved out of the way but was then hit by another semi. That car swerved the other way and then slammed into a concrete median. Lastly, a minivan slid sideways into the second semi. Names have not been released because charges are still pending.
Our Chicago car accident attorneys understand that a 62- and a 57-year-old were killed in this accident. Also injured in the accident were two 57-year-olds and a 21-year-old. The accident was so severe that officials had to close down the southbound lanes for roughly five hours. Unfortunately, many accidents that occur on our state’s expressway produce catastrophic results like this one, because of the speed of traveling vehicles.
This is a perfect example as to why driving on interstates, highways and on expressways can be so dangerous. One wrong move from a driver can cause a chain reaction of accidents. Drivers and road hazards can set off these types of accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that thousands are killed in highway accidents in the U.S. every year. Because traffic is traveling at such high speeds on these roadways, accidents can be severe. Luckily, there are a few safety tips that we can all practice to help increase roadway safety on these busy streets.
Safe Driving Tips:
-Always maintain a safe following distance. You never want to tailgate or follow too closely. This only reduces your reaction time and increases your risks for an accident. Experts suggest the 3 second rule.
-Always keep an eye on what’s going on in front of you. Knowing what you’re approaching can help you to react better and more quickly.
-Always follow the posted speed limit. When you exceed the speed limit, you’re decreasing your reaction time. Speeding also increases your stopping time and distance.
-Know what’s going on in your blind spots. Whenever you’re changing lanes, make sure you physically look to see what is in your blind spots. Mirrors overlook these areas. Just turn your head back for a second and check.
-Always use your blinkers. Let other drivers know your intended maneuvers. Predictability is critical in reducing risks for an accident.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a car accident in Chicago or elsewhere in the state, the personal injury attorneys and wrongful death lawyers at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss the rights of accident victims. Call (866) 99-ABELS to schedule an appointment. There is no fee unless you win.
More Blog Entries:
Chicago Car Accidents Caused by In-Car Technology, NHTSA Warns, Chicago Carr Accident Lawyers Blog, February 25, 2012
Chicago Car Accident Watch:Illinois Handheld Cell Phone Ban on Horizon, Chicago Carr Accident Lawyers Blog, February 16, 2012