Fatal Crashes Down for 2016 – Summer Data Yet to Be Recorded

While the year is far from over, preliminary data suggests that there may be fewer fatal crashes in 2016 in Illinois than there were in 2015. To be sure, in 2015, there were a total of 914 fatal crashes resulting in 998 fatalities, as reported by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

This year, nearly a full five months in, there have been 352 fatal crashes resulting in 372 fatalities, just over a third of the total fatality number for the year 2015. If the trend continues, the state of Illinois will hopefully experience fewer than 900 traffic fatalities this year. However, summer data has yet to be recorded, and the hotter months are often some of the most dangerous for drivers.

Why Is Summertime So Dangerous?

The rate of fatal accidents tends to spike in the summertime. This is largely contributable to the increased traffic congestion, as more people hit the road for vacations and trips to water parks, theme parks, and more.

The holiday of July 4th can also be dangerous, at it is notoriously a holiday rife with drunk drivers across the nation.

The heat, the desire to get to one’s destination quickly, distracted driving, and intoxication can all lead to aggressive and dangerous driving behaviors that increase the risk of accident.

Keeping Fatality Numbers Low

Tragically, the state of Illinois has already lost 372 lives this year in traffic accidents alone. As the weather continues to warm, drivers should pledge to prevent this number from rising any further this year by:

• Making sure that vehicles are serviced and maintained. It may seem unlikely, but a poorly maintained vehicle could cause a devastating accident. Tire pressure is extremely important, because long trips and extreme heat can put your tires to the test.

• Always having a designated driver. If you plan to go out this summer for a holiday, a party, or just to grab drinks with friends, be sure that you have a plan for getting home safely. Do not put yourself or others at risk by getting behind the wheel after you’ve had a beverage.

• Following posted traffic laws. Another thing that you can do to keep yourself and others safe is to always follow posted traffic laws. This means driving the speed limit, yielding when appropriate, ensuring your vehicle is equipped with headlights, and stopping when requested.

Know What to Do if an Accident Happens

If an accident does happen, do you know what to do? In addition to reporting the accident to the police and to your insurance company, you should also contact a committed Rockford car accident attorney to review your case and advise you on what steps to take next. At Fisk & Monteleone LTD. we will guide you through the process of filing your claim and work hard to get you the maximum amount of damages possible. To learn more about your rights after a crash, contact us today at 815-209-9030.