ABC Eyewitness News reports that a driver was recently killed when his car struck a pole in the Archer Heights neighborhood of Chicago. Law enforcement authorities believe the 41-year-old man was speeding excessively when his car clipped another vehicle, causing him to lose control of his car and strike a nearby pole. The driver received treatment at Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Fortunately, the other motorist was not hurt in the accident.
While the other motorist came away from the accident without any bodily injuries, those involved in accidents caused by speeding are often not so lucky. To prevent these kinds of deadly occurrences, Illinois legislators have presented a bill to allow the use of speeding cameras throughout the state.
About the Bill
Current laws, which passed in 2011 and took effect in August 2013, only allow speeding cameras in areas with a population over one million, essentially limiting the use of the cameras to Chicago alone. The new bill, presented by State Representative Jay Hoffman, would strike the section of current law that limits the use of speed cameras to cities in excess of one million people and make it available to any government within the city if they so choose.
The speed cameras are currently only allowed in areas deemed “safety zones” and aim to ensure that children are kept safe in and around schools and parks. A safety zone extends to one-eighth of a mile around a school or public park, and those who are found speeding within these zones receive a fine. Speeding motorists are first issued a warning and if they continue to speed through the safety zones, they receive a citation. Those traveling 6-10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit receive a ticket for $35, and anyone speeding 11 mph over the speed limit must pay a $100 citation. The proposed legislation would not change these provisions.
An effective deterrent
Proponents believe that these cameras improve pedestrian safety and help prevent traffic collisions. Since the implementation of the 2011 law allowing speed cameras in Chicago, 51 safety zones have been equipped with the technology. In just the single year since the cameras were installed, the City of Chicago saw an average reduction of 43 percent in the number of speeding events in safety zones, and some areas saw results as high as 99 percent. The City has issued a total of 1.25 million warnings to motorists and 230,000 tickets since the program began.
Drivers who have been involved in an accident that was caused by a speeding motorist may have significant injuries. They should meet and confer with a Chicago personal injury attorney to ensure that they have the best chance at receiving compensation for their injuries.
