Those of us who live in Chicago know what heavy traffic is like. Due to the sheer amount of car crashes we see while out on the road during our morning or evening commute, most of us would assume that crash risks are higher out on the city’s busy highways more than anywhere else. This is far from the case, though.
Data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) shows that most fatal traffic accidents actually occur on rural roads as opposed to urban ones. Most happen within 25 short miles from a motorist’s home as well.
Illinois doesn’t rank among the top four states in the country for having the highest per capita car crash fatality rate. Those spots instead are occupied by Mississippi, North Dakota, West Virginia and Montana. The state does, however, rank as one of the top three midwestern states when it comes to traffic-related fatalies. Only Ohio and Michigan have more fatal car crashes on an annual basis.
Also, as you may suspect, statistics show that a driver’s risk of becoming involved in a fatal car crash increases at certain times of the day. NHTSA data continues to show that the a significant number of fatal accidents occur between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Motorists have the smallest chance of surviving a car crash during the six hour window between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m., though.
Families who lose loved ones unexpectedly in car crashes often struggle to cover the costs of funeral expenses and to make ends meet without the financial assistance of their deceased relative. A Chicago motor vehicle accidents attorney can explain how you may be able to have the negligent party cover these expenses by your filing of a wrongful death lawsuit.