Illinois residents concerned over proposed speed limit increase

 Posted on May 30, 2013 in Firm News

The exact impact of vehicular speed in crashes varies, based on many factors, but there is nonetheless a connection between higher speeds and more severe accident outcomes, including brain injuries, amputations, and spinal cord injuries. In a truck accident, for example, one reason may be the increased impact that naturally occurs as the rate of movement climbs. Another might be the decreased time for driver response when travelling faster.

A recent opinion expressed concern about increased risks of collisions if a new bill is successful in raising the speed limit in Illinois from 65 to 70 miles per hour. The opinion points out that the enactment of such a law would result in more deaths and uses findings from studies to back up their argument. While supporters of the bill point out that the speed increase could be friendly for businesses in the state, the opinion says that traveling at higher speeds will create more accidents because people will fail to increase their distance from other vehicles.

A few counties would be allowed to lower speeds but the rest of the state would be open to the higher speed limit. However, the opinion urges the House members to consider the warnings of government agencies which point out the dangers associated with higher speeds, as well as the impact on human life.

Injuries sustained in car accidents can incur significant costs, creating financial challenges for victims. People injured in any car or truck accident on Illinois highways may want to give strong consideration to seeking proper legal advice and representation to ensure that they are properly protected and compensated.

Source: Chicago Tribune, "Whoa! Raising the Illinois speed limit would kill more motorists," May 7, 2013