Pedestrian safety remains a major concern in Illinois, especially in busy urban areas. Certain intersections throughout the state pose a higher risk for accidents due to factors like heavy traffic, poor visibility and confusing road designs.
By understanding where the most danger lies, pedestrians can take extra caution and reduce their chances of experiencing a serious accident.
Chicago’s most dangerous intersections
As the largest city in Illinois, Chicago has several intersections where pedestrian accidents frequently occur. The intersection of Cicero Avenue and Chicago Avenue ranks among the most hazardous. This area sees heavy traffic throughout the day, and the wide streets combined with poor visibility at certain times increase the risk for pedestrians.
Another dangerous intersection in Chicago is the one at Ashland Avenue and 79th Street. High speeds and a high volume of both vehicles and foot traffic make it a challenging area for pedestrians to navigate safely.
Dangerous suburban intersections
Outside of Chicago, some suburban and rural areas also pose risks for pedestrians. The intersection of Ogden Avenue and York Road in Hinsdale is a major concern. Located in a busy suburban area, this intersection has seen an increase in pedestrian accidents due to high traffic volumes and confusing traffic patterns.
The intersection of Roosevelt Road and Main Street in Lombard is another dangerous spot. Many pedestrians in this area sustain injuries because of heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.
Addressing pedestrian safety in Illinois
Local governments are working to make these intersections safer by improving signage and redesigning certain roadways. However, pedestrians should also take responsibility by paying attention to their surroundings and avoiding distractions when crossing busy streets.
According to crash data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were a total of 3,869 pedestrian crashes in the state in 2022. High-traffic intersections remain a common site for these accidents, illustrating the need for caution and greater pedestrian awareness.