Some poorly-designed intersections can be dangerous. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 40 percent of all crashes happen at intersections. These crashes usually include:
- T-bone or broadside crashes
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Collisions with pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists
West Town intersection has grown worse over the years
One particular intersection in West Town has a history of serious and fatal crashes, according to Block Club Chicago.
In February 2020, a two-car crash sent one vehicle crashing into a restaurant at Grand Avenue and Wood Street. The driver of the car that crashed into the restaurant was injured and taken to a nearby hospital. The restaurant was serving about 30-40 customers at the time of the crash, but nobody was injured inside.
Area residents attest that the intersection has become more congested and dangerous ever since drivers began using it to avoid major arterial roadways. One resident tells Block Club Chicago that drivers often run red lights at the intersection.
“I take Wood south all the time and there is always someone who goes through the red light at Grand. Terrible intersection,” she said. “I always wondered if there’s an issue with the light.”
City officials seek to make changes to the dangerous intersection
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) will examine the notorious West Town intersection and determine if any changes need to be made, according to Alderman Daniel La Spata (1st).
“Once we receive the completed studies from CDOT, it helps us understand the costs associated with traffic safety features, and how to approach potential implementation of traffic safety features,” said 1st Ward staffer Nick Zettel.
Some area residents have suggested:
- Adding a red light camera to the intersection (although some residents don’t believe this will stop red light runners)
- Converting the traffic signal to a 4-way stop sign (some residents say this would be disastrous, since the intersection is located on a major roadway)
- Replacing the intersection with a roundabout
- Testing the timing of the traffic lights
Chicago attorneys representing people injured in intersection crashes
Intersection crashes are a common occurrence in Chicago. The car accident attorneys at Coplan + Crane have seen how serious they can be. People end up with serious bone fractures, traumatic brain injuries and spinal injuries. Some crash victims sustain life-long disabilities as a result. Others lose their lives — all because of someone else’s careless behavior.
If you were injured in an intersection crash, it’s critical that you seek legal help as soon as possible. Our attorneys can launch a thorough investigation into your intersection crash and aggressively advocate to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation or call us at 800-394-6002.
