Study into Auto Accidents Could be Clue to Best Decisions for Illinois. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has yet to approve the bill to raise the Illinois speed limit on non-urban interstate highways from 65 mph to 70 mph. But some motorists may already be concerned that an Illinois speed limit increase could be the harbinger of more auto accidents and fatalities.
It’s a Numbers Thing
Whenever new legislation is proposed, it’s typical for people to refer to data to justify the need, or the lack thereof, for updated rules and regulations. The case of the Illinois speed limit increase is no different. According to an article by the American Automobile Association (AAA), there was a 39 percent increase in auto accident fatalities involving big trucks in 2010. That was the year Illinois introduced a speed limit increase for big rigs that went from 55 mph to 65 mph for much of the state’s highways. The same article confirms that while roadway fatalities in Illinois dropped 12 percent from 2008 through 2011, the fatalities during that time that were due to speeding rose nearly 14 percent.
Making a Connection
These claims by the AAA could lead one to believe that increasing the speed limit in Illinois is unwise; however, there are many studies and factors to be considered when making such a significant decision. After all, the choice that Governor Quinn will eventually have to make will not only impact travel across the state but also the lives of the millions of motorists who drive these roadways every day.
When you are ready to seek justice, get in touch with our Chicago car accident lawyers today.