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Less traffic, more accidents: Why the rise in trouble?

On Behalf of | Apr 12, 2021 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

The roads grew more dangerous over the last year, and now there is data to show why. While trends indicated a more hazardous turn for months, it’s now easier to understand where the risks came from.

Illinois saw more fatal accidents on the roads in 2020 than in the prior 13 years. Despite lower amounts of traffic overall, the crashes that did occur were more likely to be fatal because drivers were operating recklessly. When those responsible are breaking the law, it’s more likely they could be held accountable for the consequences.

Causing effects

And there were plenty of consequences. The nation saw an 8% rise in fatality rates from the previous year, but Illinois doubled that to 16% with over 1,100 traffic deaths. Chicago was an even further outlier, with a 45% increase in fatal accidents compared to 2019.

Growing concerns

While the spike in traffic deaths tells part of the story, it’s also important to understand why the rates are rising. Studies revealed several contributing factors to the jump, including excessive speeding and driver impairment from alcohol, marijuana and opioids. All of these circumstances can lead to more dangerous drivers:

  • Greater risk of losing control
  • Reduced perception of dangers
  • Increased crash severity

Even with more open roadways, these factors still put plenty of people in danger.

Danger shows

Showing the other operator was to blame can be an essential part of a successful claim for compensation, and these factors could go a long way to showing negligence on the part of the other driver.