Chicago Intersection Accident Lawyers
Intersections are the most common locations for Illinois car accidents. Drivers who are distracted or negligent fail to obey traffic signals and right-of-way laws. Victims of intersection accidents may endure significant financial burdens in addition to the physical pain of their injuries. Experienced Chicago intersection accident lawyers will be able to help injured victims seek compensation for their injuries, damages and losses.
Illinois Intersection Laws
Illinois vehicle code section 5/11-301 through 5/11-313 covers the installation of and legal ramifications of traffic signals and stop signs. Failure to come to a complete stop at a red light or stop sign is a serious traffic violation as is failure to yield right-of-way to vehicles or pedestrians. Vehicle code 5/11-901 (a) states: "When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different roadways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right."
Illinois Intersection Accident Statistics
The Illinois Division of Traffic Safety recently released their 2009 Illinois Crash Facts & Statistics report. According to that report, there were:
- 83 fatalities at stop signs and red flasher intersections. There were also 8,467 injuries reported at intersections with stop signs.
- 355 injuries reported at intersections with yield signs and yellow flasher intersections.
- 97 fatalities and 18,024 injuries reported at intersections with traffic lights in 2009 Illinois intersection accidents.
These types of accidents are easily avoidable if all drivers simply stay attentive and obey the traffic laws. Sadly, many drivers choose to be negligent and drive in a careless and dangerous manner.
Dangerous Intersections
Intersection crashes can also occur as a result street design or lack of maintenance. For example, an intersection where visibility is poor, needs flashing lights or additional traffic control devices for drivers to safely pass through it. In some cases, a crosswalk may need to be more visible to drivers. Some intersections may have stop signs that obscured by foliage. It is the responsibility of the governmental agency maintaining that roadway to make sure such hazards do not exist.
If you are injured in a street intersection accident caused by a dangerous roadway, the governmental agency or city responsible for maintaining that roadway could be held liable. In Illinois, any personal injury claim against a governmental entity must be filed within one year of the accident or injury.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Illinois street intersection accident, please contact the experienced Chicago intersection accident lawyers at The Bradley Law Firm for more information about your legal rights and options.