From the Chicago Tribune.
More people will be killed in traffic accidents this summer than during the same time a year ago, safety experts predict as the Memorial Day travel week is about to get underway.
Even before the official start of the summer driving season, 294 people have been killed so far this year in vehicle crashes in Illinois, according to preliminary data posted online Sunday by the Illinois Department of Transportation. That’s 15 more deaths than at the same time in 2014.
Fatal crashes in the state took 924 lives during all of last year, and more than 5,000 people riding in vehicles died in crashes statewide since 2010, IDOT reported.
The majority of traffic deaths in Illinois and across the nation occur during the summer months, according to law enforcement agencies and safety watchdogs. The factors that make up what officials call the “fatal four” are speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, distracted driving and failing to wear seat belts.
“You cannot choose whether or not you are involved in a crash, but you can choose to try to reduce the chances and prevent injuries if you get in a crash,” said Illinois State Police Master Sgt. Matt Boerwinkle. Read More