The Chicago Sun Times reported good news for Illinois motorists today. There were 112 fewer traffic deaths in Illinois in 2009 than the year before.
The results mean that not only has IDOT met its Save 100 Campaign goal of cutting down the number of accident-related deaths by 100, but it is also the first time since 1921 that Illinois has recorded fewer than 1,000 traffic fatalities in a year, IDOT said.
IDOT and the Illinois State Police officially announced Operation Save 100 in November, but IDOT has been working with local law enforcement agencies and community advocates all year to coordinate efforts to save lives.
“This is a huge accomplishment,” IDOT Division of Traffic Safety Director Michael Stout said. “It tells me that the programs are working and our partners are working.”
Several reasons were listed as to why 2009 turned out to be a safer year on Illinois roads. He listed an increase in seat belt usage — 92 percent compliance recently, up from between 70 and 80 percent a few years ago. He also mentioned fewer people driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and the advent of the graduated driver’s license program for teens.
It will be interested to see if this number continues to go down in 2010 with all of the new traffic law intact.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an Illinois car accident or Illinois truck accident, then call Attorney Aaron Bryant for a free consultation at 312-588-3384.