Personal Injury Law Blog

With the Fourth of July around the corner, people across the Chicago area are getting ready for the long weekend. It’s a time to relax, maybe grill with friends, spend the day by the lake or check out local fireworks. Holiday weekends are among the busiest travel days of the year. In fact, the Illinois Tollway estimated that nearly 9.3 million vehicles hit the roads over the July 4th weekend last year.

Unfortunately, the traffic also brings a spike in accidents and injuries. Illinois saw 19 crashes and 20 deaths during the Independence Day holiday stretch in 2022. Those numbers are hard to ignore. Knowing how to stay safe and what to do if something goes wrong can make all the difference.

A Risky Time for Travel 

Drunk driving often plays a role in motor vehicle crashes. The combination of impatient drivers, increased alcohol consumption and late-night festivities all contribute to impaired driving. Drinking was a factor in about 40 percent of driver deaths during the Fourth of July weekend, according to national data from 2019 to 2023. In response, local law enforcement sets up roadside safety checks and increases patrols during this period.

Distracted driving is another leading cause of car accidents. While it might sound basic, always wear your seatbelt and stay off your smartphone. If you plan to head out, a few smart choices go a long way. Arrange for a safe ride home, such as using a rideshare service or a designated driver. Make sure your car is in good shape before hitting the road. Check the tires, fluids and brakes to reduce the chance of a breakdown. 

Dangers Beyond the Road

While motor vehicle collisions get a lot of attention, they aren’t the only kind of accidents people may deal with over the long weekend. Injuries can happen almost anywhere, whether at backyard barbecues, July 4th parties or crowded parks. Boating also presents hazards. Some Chicago residents enjoy spending long weekends boating on Lake Michigan. Operators must follow Illinois boating laws, including those that prohibit speeding or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Illinois property owners have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. If someone slips and falls on broken stairs or loose patio stones, and the owner knew or should have known about the issue and failed to address it, the injured person may have a valid premises liability claim.

Fireworks, besides slip and fall accidents, are another common cause of injury this time of the year. Even simple sparklers can be dangerous if used carelessly. If an accident happens on someone’s property because of poor planning or a lack of safety precautions, the injured person might be able to hold them responsible for negligence.

What If A Car Accident Occurs?

If you or a family member is injured in an accident, focus on getting medical treatment. Even if injuries seem minor at the time, seeing a doctor is a good idea. Take photos of the accident scene, write down what happened and collect contact details from witnesses. Report the incident to the police or the property owner.

Accidents can have devastating consequences, from missed paychecks to expensive medical bills. If an injury occurs because of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit to cover all your related costs. Speak to a knowledgeable lawyer to determine if you have a claim.

Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg

If you or a loved one has been injured in the Chicago area during the July 4th weekend, Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is here to help. Our personal injury lawyers have decades of experience representing clients in personal injury claims throughout Illinois. We are committed to helping you understand your options and recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.