Wintry Weather Causing Motor Vehicle Accidents

 Posted on January 26, 2015 in Personal Injury

Ice covered roads and sub-zero temperatures plagued the region at the start of the new year, causing a number of motor vehicle accidents rise. Two semis caused a significant traffic backup near Interstate 90 during morning rush hour traffic. The resulting chain reaction caused at least 10 cars to crash. The two tractor-trailers jackknifed on the eastbound lanes of Route 47 courtesy of the icy conditions. Cars then found themselves spinning out of control, hitting the guardrails, and falling into ditches. Route 47 was then backed up for about five miles even after the lanes were cleared a few hours later. State troopers and first responders had problems clearing the scene because of the conditions. The single digit temperatures, wind, and light snow caused the roads to be extremely slippery. Illinois Winter Driving Snowfall in the Chicago area earlier this month left the roads covered in snow and ice. Major interstates, such as interstate 80 and 74, were 75 to 100 percent covered in ice for large sections of the roadway. Illinois is considered a high-risk road zone by icy road safety advocates. This means it is in the highest ranking of areas where fatal icy car accidents occurred. In 2015, there have already been six fatal crashes and the year has only just begun. In 2014 there was a total of 842 fatal car crashes, many of which occurred during the winter. Once the winter season rolls in, drivers need to take extra precaution and prepare for the worst. Many safety organizations advocate specific basic winter driving tips. Drivers should always ensure their motor vehicle has been winterized. Furthermore, motorists must stay informed and prepared, which includes having planned alternative routes and keeping updated to weather, road, and traffic reports. It also means being prepared with a winter survival kit in the back seat. Such a kit will keep drivers warm and fed in the event they are stranded due to weather, traffic jam, or an accident. Finally, driving defensively and carefully is a must. Ice patches and other slick spots are not always visible, even in the daytime. Because of the increased risk of accidents and injuries during the wintery weather season, it is crucial that you stay prepared. If the worst does happen and you are hurt in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced accident attorney will be able to help you evaluate your case, walk through the process, and help you receive the most compensation for claim. Contact Our Experienced Accident Attorneys If you are in an accident, contact one of our experienced auto, truck, or motorcycle accident attorneys. Our attorneys have experience assisting clients with all types of types of accident and personal injury claims. Contact us today if you need representation due to an automotive accident. At the Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, our DuPage County car accident attorneys are ready to help you today.