Chicago Speeding Auto Accident Attorneys
Representing the Victims of Auto Accidents Caused by Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common traffic offenses, but it can frequently lead to accidents. Not only does speeding cause motor vehicle accidents, but it often leads to fatalities. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a contributing factor in 31% of all fatal crashes in 2008 and 11,764 lives were lost in 2008 due to speeding-related crashes.
When a motor vehicle accident occurs as the result of speeding, the speeding driver is often negligent and should be held accountable for the damages, injuries, or deaths that were caused as a result. At Ankin Law, our skilled Chicago speeding accident lawyers focus on representing the victims of auto accidents caused by negligence, included speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving.
Speeding can cause a number of dangerous driving conditions, including:
- Difficulty reacting to and maneuvering around obstacles in the roadway, including other vehicles and objects
- Reduced reaction time
- Loss of control of vehicle
- Inability to make a safe turns or lane changes
- Inability to stop quickly
Illinois Speeding Laws
The state of Illinois takes speeding offenses and accidents caused by speeding very seriously. It is a driver’s responsibility to be aware of and obey the posted speed limit. The maximum speed limit on rural interstates is 65 miles per hour. On interstate highways near or in major cities, the speed limit is reduced to 55 miles per hour and 30 miles per hour in urban areas.
Regardless of posted speed limits, drivers are expected not to exceed speeds that are reasonable and appropriate for the particular traffic conditions. Even if a driver is driving at a speed that does not exceed the posted speed limit, he or she is still under an obligation to reduce speed in various situations, such as approaching or crossing an intersection, when approaching or driving around a curve, heavy vehicle and/or pedestrian traffic, or poor weather conditions.
Under a new Illinois law, driving 30 to 39 mph over the posted speed limit qualifies as “excessive speeding,” and drivers may be subject to penalties of up to $1500 and even possible jail time.
Get the Legal Help You Need
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a speeding driver, it is important to act quickly to protect your legal rights and remedies. The skilled Chicago auto accident attorneys have years of experience advocating on behalf of personal injury victims, including those injured in motor vehicle accidents. Contact the experienced Chicago speeding accident attorneys at Ankin Law at (800) 442-6546 to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help you receive the compensation you need and deserve as a result of your speeding accident.