Author Archives: abryant633

Chicago’s State Street Bridge Closes For Repairs

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The State Street Bridge which is located over the Chicago River and connects the River North and downtown Loop neighborhoods closed earlier this month for emergency repairs. According the the Chicago Department of Transportation (“CDOT”), they recenty became aware of structural problems that needed to be addressed.

A CDOT spokesperson stated that they will begin critical structural repairs that will require a full closure of the bridge to vehicles and pedestrians through November 2025. The spokesperson stated, “as with all our bridges CDOT has been closely monitoring its condition and recent inspection identified deterioration that prompted us to move this repair project forward to ensure continued safety into the operation of the bridge.”

Te bridge repairs will include rehabbing the center locks, steel elements at its center, and replacing worn components that have damaged the roadway during extreme heat.

If you commute into the loop for work by foot, car or bus, this could affect your timing if you take State Street to arrive downtown. The 36 bus has been re-routed to the adjacent bridge. Although construction like this can be annoying for those who live and work downtown, it is improtant that these older bridges are stabilized and brought up to code to aboid any type of catostrophic accident in the future.

Should you or someone you love become seriously injured in a Chicago pedestrian accident or Chicago truck accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at The Bryant Law Group, LCC., for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or you can go directly to our website at www.blgchicago.com.

Lake County Sheriff Increasing Traffic Enforcement For Memorial Day

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Memorial Day weekend is around the corner, and as I wrote earlier in the week, AAA is predicting a record number of travelers on the roads and in the air this weekend.

The Lake County Illinois Sheriff’s department is looking to make things safer for those out on the roads this holiday weekend. They are implementing the national “Click It or Ticket” safety campaign to encourage drivers to fasten their seatbelts, put their phones down and drive safely.

“During this campaign, law enforcement agencies will be working together to ensure the
message reaches all drivers and passengers. Buckling up is the simplest way to reduce injury or save a life in a crash,” the Sheriff’s office said in a statement. The numbers back this up as the department stated that 72 percent of men killed in car crashes in 2023 didn’t have a seatbelt on, compared to 28 percent for women.

Additonal patrols will be on the roads looking to enforce all traffic safety rules throughout Lake County. This includes seat belt enforcement, texting and driving, drunk driving, reckles driving and driving within the speed limits.

If you have been injured in an Illinois traffic accident or Illinois truck accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at The Bryant Law Group, LLC, for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go directly to our firm’s webstie at www.blgchicago.com.

Road Closures Planned For Chicago Half Marathon

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The busy season for Chicago road races has begun as the Life Time Spring Chicago Half Marathon and 10k race takes place this Sunday. Larger races like this one (and Chicago Marathon) leads to multiple road closures.

If you are planning on being downtown this weekend, please plan ahead and take a look at the below road closures starting early Sunday morning:

All lanes of Monroe Street from Lake Shore Drive to Columbus Drive (3 a.m.-6 p.m.)

Columbus Drive northbound lanes from Randolph to Monroe (3 a.m.-noon)

Columbus Drive southbound lanes from Randolph to Monroe (3 a.m.-9 a.m.)

All lanes of Columbus Drive from Monroe to Jackson (3 a.m.-9 a.m.)

All lanes of Columbus Drive from Jackson to Roosevelt (6 a.m.-9 a.m.)

Both exit ramps from Lake Shore Drive to Randolph (6:30 a.m.-noon)

Eastbound lane of intermediate Randolph from Lake Shore Drive to Columbus (6:30 a.m.-noon)

Good luck to all the runners this weekend and be sure to plan ahead if you plan to be downtown as this closures could affect when and where you want to be.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Chicago pedestrian accident or Chicago bicycle accident, then call the Chicago personal injury attorneys at The Bryant Law Group, LLC., for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or feel free to click on on our website at www.blgchicago.com.

AAA Predicting Record Travel For Memorial Day weekend

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AAA announced this week that it expects 2025 to be record breaking year for U.S. travelers on the road and in the air Memorial Day Weekend. Despite inflation worries, Americans will be traveling en mass this coming weekend. From Thursday, May 22 to Monday, May 26, travel forecast is an projects increase of 1.4 million travelers compared to last year and, which would set a new Memorial Day weekend record. The previous record was set back in 2005 with 44 million people. AAA has provided drivers with some tips on how to avoid the worst traffic times to help get you to your destination quickly and most importantly, safely.

AAA provided the following best and worst days and times to travel:

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car 
Date Worst Travel Time Best Travel Time 
Thursday, May 22 1:00 – 9:00 PM Before 12:00 PM 
Friday, May 23 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM Before 11:00 AM 
Saturday, May 24 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM 
Sunday, May 25 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Before 1:00 PM 
(Memorial Day) Monday, May 26 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Before 2:00 PM 

If you are hitting the road this weekend, be sure to plan ahead and use appropriate safety measures, which means always buckling up and putting your phone away if you are behind the wheel.

Should you or a loved one become injured in a Chicago traffic accident or Chicago truck accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at the The Bryant Law Group, LLC., for free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go directly to firm’s website at www.blgchicago.com.

Chicago Adding 11 New Speeder Cameras

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Multiple news outlets, including WGN, reported this week that the city of Chicago is installing eleven (11) new speeder cameras throughout the city. Speeder cameras, which have long drawn the ire of Chicago residents, will issue a $35 fine for driving 6-10 mph over the speed limit and a $100 fine for those and going 11 mph or more over the limit. These tickets are considered non-moving violations and do not affect your driving record.

The city continues to contend that these cameras are strictly a safety measure and were installed to protect pedestrians, bicyclists and other drivers. Many who live in the city believe they are simply a money grab.

Regardless, the speeder cameras appear to be here for the long haul. The following locations begin enforcement on May 15:

  • 2640 W Peterson Ave – Green Briar Park
  • 6614 N Central Ave – Edgebrook Park
  • 442 E 71st St – Meyering (William) Park
  • 8553 S Martin Luther King Dr – Cole (Nat King) Park
  • 7733 S Cottage Grove Ave – Hirsch Metropolitan High School
  • 3358 S Ashland Ave – Kucinski-Murphy (Vicki Rosebeth) Park
  • 6146 N Sheridan Rd – Park 559

The following locations begin enforcement on June 30:

  • 49 W 85th St – Perspectives High School
  • 614 W 47th St – Tilden High School
  • 1635 N LaSalle Dr – Lincoln Park
  • 5941 N Nagle Ave – Rosedale Park

Up to 50 new cameras are expected to be installed by the end of the year. You can find all Chicago speeder cameras by clicking here.

Should you or a loved become seriously injured in a Chicago traffic accident or Chicago truck accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at the Bryant Law Group, LLC., for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go directly to the firms website at www.blgchicago.com.

What To Do (and Avoid) When Injured In A Car Crash

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The summer travel season is right around the corner, and millions of Americans will be hitting the roads for road trips and extended vacations. A car accident or a truck accident can be a very stressful moment for many people. It is improtant to keep your cool and think rationally if you happen to be involved in a car crash. Below are a list of items to focus on doing (and not doing) should you have the unfortune to be involved in a traffic accident.

DOs and DONTs:

• Do call the police immediately or have someone at the scene call for you • Do get names, addresses, license plate and phone numbers of those drivers involved. This includes any witnesses.
• Do take photographs of scene and your injuries;
• Do take care of your injuries-concentrate on getting better (i.e. go to the emergency room or set an appointment with your primary care physician);
• Do keep records of your medical treatment and time missed from work;        • Do make sure to purchase adequate full coverage auto insurance, including uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in case you are struck by an uninsured driver or the victim of a hit and run;


• Do not talk or give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company;
• Do not attempt to negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company before your medical treatment is completed;
• Do not wait months from the date of injury before hiring an attorney, as your right to file claim or lawsuit may be barred; and
• Do not wait days or weeks from the time you are injured to seek medical attention. Your health comes first and also insurance companies are wary of paying for medical bills if treatment is postponed.

This is not an exhaustive list, but they are simple steps you can take in order to protect your rights as accident victim to ensure you are compensated for your injuries. Should you or a loved become seriously injured in Chicago car crash or Chicago truck accident, then call the Bryant Law Group, LLC., for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go directly to our firm’s website here www.blgchicago.com.

IDOT & ISP Issue Tips For Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

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Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”) and the Illinois State Police (“ISP”) launced the “Start Seeing Motorcycles” campaign as part of motorcycle safety awareness month. Start Seeing Motorcycles banners and yard signs will be on display throughout the state, reminding the public to always stay alert for motorcycles.

According to IDOT, there are approximately 150 motorcycle fatalities in Illinois every year. Just 3% of all registered vehicles in Illinois are motorcycles. Despite that low number, 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2023 were motorcycle related. This safety campaign is geared towards curbing that trend.

IDOT and ISP issued the following safety tips for both motorcyclists and drivers, which they hope will make the roads safer for everyone.

For drivers:

  • Look twice before changing lanes or merging into traffic, using your mirrors and glancing over your shoulder. Allow appropriate distance.
  • Allow motorcyclists enough space to maneuver and enough time to adjust if necessary. Traffic, weather and road conditions require motorcyclists to react and maneuver differently than other drivers.
  • Be vigilant. A motorcycle can easily be hidden behind other vehicles. Checking mirrors and blind spots is essential before changing lanes or merging.
  • Use care when driving near a group of motorcyclists. Sharing the road with organized motorcycle groups requires patience and communication. If you need to change lanes or reach an exit, signal your intention early and wait for the riders to create a space. Do not merge in between groups or riders unless there is enough space to do so safely.

For motorcyclists:

  • Wear DOT-compliant gear that increases visibility in traffic in addition to providing protection in the event of a crash. Use bright colors and retro-reflective strips or decals, especially at night. Over-the-ankle boots, gloves, protective jackets, pants and properly fitted helmets with face shields or protective eyewear are all part of a full-gear package.
  • Use lane positioning to increase your visibility. Ride with your headlight on at all times. It’s the law in Illinois. Give yourself space and time to react. Allow room for emergency braking. Make lane changes gradually and expect the unexpected.
  • Ride sober. Motorcycle riding and alcohol don’t mix. Drinking slows your reaction time and affects your balance, coordination and vision.
  • Always signal before changing lanes. Avoid weaving between lanes. Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a Chicago motorcycle accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at the Bryant Law Group for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go to the firm’s website at www.blgchicago.com.

What Is Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage

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Illinois law requires all motorists carry car insurance. The Illinois state minimum for bodily injury coverage is $25,000.00. What happens if the driver causing the auto accident has only the minimum coverage ($25,000) required by law, but your medical bills, injuries and total damages far exceed the $25,000.00 minimum coverage? Or what if the at-fault driver does not have any auto insurance? Can anything be done? 

Clients are surprised to learn that their own insurance policies can carry what is called uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage applies when a driver is injured in an auto accident caused by an uninsured driver. The injured driver, through the help of an attorney, can make a claim against their own insurance company pay their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and loss of a normal life. An official demand for arbitration must be made by the injured party and sent to their own insurance carrier. Once the injured party has completed medical treatment, their attorney can work on settling the claim with the insurance company. If settlement is not reached then the injured party and the insurance company partake in a binding arbitration to determine an award based the injured parties total damages (medical bills, lost wages, inuries, pain & suffering and loss of a normal life).

A claim can also be made against a client’s own insurance company when the other driver have enough insurance to compensate the entire amount of damages. These claims are called underinsured motorist claims. The process for recovering money damages is the same as an uninsured motorist claim. The only difference is the at fault’s party’s insurance must be exhausted before the injured party’s insurance can be claimed.

The uninsured motorist process can be complicated. I highly recommend contacting an Illinois injury attorney to discuss and walk you throught the uninsured motorist claims process in a order to maximize your recovery. The Chicago accident lawyers at the Bryant Law Group have years of experience handling these types of claims and provide free legal consultations. Feel free to call at 312-614-1076 or go directly to the firm’s website at www.blgchicago.com.

Finally, and just as important, is to make sure you purchase full coverage when buying auto insurance. This will ensure that you have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage and protect you in case you are involved in an accident with no inurance or only the state minimum.

Cook County Court Clerk Offers Amnesty On Traffic Ticket Late Fees

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If you have any moving violations in Cook County, Illinois traffic court that have accrued late fees, you have the week of April 14 through 18 to pay those fines and have any late fees and collection costs waived.

The deal does not include parking, red light or speed camera violations. Late and collection fees will be waived for the following violations:

Major files include the following offenses:

  • Unlawful use of license or permit
  • Driving while license or permit is suspended or revoked
  • Driving commercial vehicles while license suspended, revoked, cancelled or out of service
  • Eluding or fleeing police
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, intoxicating compounds
  • Reckless driving
  • Street Racing
  • Speeding 26 miles or more

Minor files include the following offenses:

  • Failure to stop at stop sign
  • Disobey solid red signal
  • Failure to wear seat belt
  • No valid state registration
  • Operating uninsured vehicle
  • Failure to produce driver’s license
  • Speeding 1-25 miles over the posted limit
  • Speeding 1-25 miles over in a construction zone
  • Speeding 1-25 miles over in a school zone

Mariyana Spyropoulos, clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, said in the following regarding this week’s progam, “this amnesty initiative is part of a broader effort to remove financial barriers that disproportionately impact working families. By waiving collection fees, we’re helping residents take meaningful steps toward resolving their cases and restoring trust in a system that should work for everyone.”

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Chicago car crash or Chicago truck accident, then call the Chicago accident attorneys at The Bryant Law Group, LLC., for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go directly to the firm’s website at www.blgchicago.com.

Illinois Ranks 36th For Roads In Annual Highway Study

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The Reason Foundation released their 28th annual highway study this week, and Illinois ranked number 36 out of 50 for the quality of roads throughout the state. Last year Illinois was ranked 29th. This is a surprisingly low ranking despite having the second highest gas tax (66 cents per gallon) for highway infrastructure.

The foundation’s highway study  grades state roadway conditions on several factors, including pavement conditions, urban congestion, structurally deficient bridges, fatality rates, and cost. This is what the report specifically had to say about Illinois:  “In safety and condition categories, Illinois’ highways rank 37th in urban Interstate pavement condition, 29th in rural Interstate pavement condition, 34th in urban arterial pavement condition, 42nd in rural arterial pavement condition, 38th in structurally deficient bridges, 21st in urban fatality rate, and 16th in rural fatality rate.”

Illinois ranks 46th out of the 50 states in traffic congestion, and its drivers spend 65 hours a year stuck in traffic congestion, the report said.

This is ranking is discouraging based on the amount of money taxpayers pay is gasoline tax. I will play a little devils advocate and say that there could be a light at the end of the tunnel for Illinois drivers. The final phase of the Kennedy expressway construction project in Chicago will be completed this fall. Once completed, one would hope that some of the traffic congestion in the Chicagoland area will decrease, and will hopefully move Illinois up in the rankings. We will have to wait and see.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Chicago traffic accident or Chicago truck accident then call the Chicago accident attorneys at The Bryant Law Group, LLC, for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076 or go to the firm’s website at www.blgchicago.com.