A motor vehicle accident can occur anywhere, but some roads are more hazardous than others. Factors such as traffic, design, speed and location can all contribute to an increased risk for collisions.
In Chicago, these are the highways and intersections that pose the greatest danger to drivers.
Stony Island Avenue at South Chicago Avenue
Data from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, Patch reports, found that this intersection is the most hazardous in the entire state. Marking the boundaries between South Shore, South Chicago, Greater Grand Crossing and Avalon Park, this crossing forces drivers to contend with six complex lanes, forced shifts because of railroad activity and an average of 69,999 other motorists every day.
Interstate 55 (Stevenson Expressway)
This north-south interstate has a reputation for fatal auto accidents as well as a recent history of gun violence. More than 20,000 vehicles traverse this highway each day on the Illinois portion, so heavy traffic plays a major role in the increased collision risk. NHTSA data show that car accident deaths on I-55 exceed the national average, particularly during the summer months.
Interstate 57
Not only is I-57 a common site of severe auto accidents, but also CBS Chicago reports that it has seen more expressway shootings than any other road in Illinois (including five in the first quarter of 2019 alone). The design of the highway contributes to both vehicular and weapon hazards, with high speeds, few intersections and frequent exits at different grades that make it easy for perpetrators to escape.
Kedzie Avenue at Belmont Avenue
This complicated intersection confuses drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike, so extra caution is critical at this junction. On both sides of the underpass, there are diagonal one-way roads that lead to Kennedy Expressway. Drivers must also contend with four lanes merging together and unexpected stoplights while passing under the highway.
Protect yourself and others on the road with safe defensive driving techniques. Good habits can reduce your crash risk on every road.
