Articles Posted in Car Accident

When people talk about a car’s “black box,” they usually mean the vehicle’s event data recorder (EDR). An EDR is an electronic device built into a vehicle that captures short bursts of technical data immediately before, during, and after a car accident, things like vehicle speed, brake use, airbag deployment, and sometimes steering or accelerator inputs. EDRs don’t record conversations or continuous GPS history like a phone app, they capture a snapshot of the seconds surrounding an “event” such as a collision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains that EDRs are intended to improve traffic-safety research and crash investigation by providing objective, sensor-based records of a crash. Continue reading

The Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/I-94) is one of Chicago’s busiest and most critical traffic corridors, funneling commuter, commercial, and long-distance traffic through the city’s south side. Its high volumes, complex interchanges, and frequent weather swings make the Dan Ryan a location where a single mistake or a sudden hazard can quickly cascade into a multi-vehicle pileup. These car accidents are not only disruptive, closing lanes for hours, they also cause major injuries and fatalities and complicate insurance and liability questions for victims. In this blog, we explain why pileups happen on the Dan Ryan, summarize what the data and news reports show, list common injuries and legal challenges, and provide practical steps crash victims should take after a car accident. Continue reading

When maneuvering through the heart of Chicago, you may find yourself questioning whether a U-turn is allowed, and more importantly, whether it’s safe. The rules may differ subtly from the rest of Illinois, and the risks are tangible: U-turns can lead to serious, and sometimes deadly, car accidents. This blog unpacks the law, local restrictions, accident data, and practical advice for navigating, or avoiding, U-turns in Chicago. Continue reading

“Full coverage” is a phrase most drivers toss around like it’s a single, well-defined product, but it isn’t. When someone says they have “full coverage,” they usually mean they have more than the state-required liability; what they actually have is a bundle of different coverages, each with its own rules, limits, and fine print. That misunderstanding can cost you time, money, and leverage after a car accident. This post peels back the marketing-speak and explains, in plain English, what those coverages are, how they affect a car accident claim, and what you should do to protect yourself. Continue reading

A car accident can be a jarring and overwhelming experience, leaving you unsure of what steps to take. However, the actions you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your safety, health, and ability to recover compensation for your injuries.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the challenges Chicago car accident victims face. With over 90 years of combined litigation experience and a proven track record of recovering millions for our clients, our award-winning team is here to help you navigate this difficult time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome. Continue reading

If you drive Chicago’s Eisenhower Expressway—better known as I‑290—you know it can feel like a battlefield. Long stretches of heavy, stop-and-go traffic. Mash-ups with I‑294, I‑88, and I‑90. Short ramps. Sudden bottlenecks. It all adds up to a roadway infamous for crashes. In fact, the Illinois Department of Transportation reports that on one particular 8‑mile stretch between Manheim Road and Cicero Avenue, around 2,000 accidents happen each year.

But what makes I‑290 so crash-prone? In this blog, we discuss the top six causes of car accidents on I-290 and what you can do if you suffered injuries in a crash. Continue reading

Chicago is one of America’s most visited cities, known for its lakefront skyline, historic neighborhoods, and bustling streets. But with busy intersections, distracted drivers, and high volumes of foot traffic, pedestrian accidents involving tourists are an unfortunate and growing reality. Being hit by a car is traumatic—especially in a city you don’t live in. If you’re a visitor injured while walking in Chicago, you still have legal rights. In this blog, we explain what to do after being struck by a car in Chicago, who may be liable, and how an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer can help you recover damages—even if you’re from out of state or another country.

Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago

Pedestrian fatalities and injuries have been on the rise in Illinois, and Chicago is no exception.

Wrong-way crashes are among the most terrifying and deadly types of car accidents. While they are relatively rare, they are disproportionately fatal—especially in a dense urban area like Chicago, where high-speed roadways and complex interchanges intersect with heavy traffic. Recent trends show that wrong-way driving crashes are on the rise in Illinois, and Cook County is among the hardest-hit regions.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a wrong-way accident in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs, understanding your legal rights is critical. At John J. Malm & Associates we represent victims of serious auto accidents in Chicago and across Illinois. We know how devastating these incidents can be, and we’re here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

The Alarming Rise of Wrong-Way Crashes in Chicago

Pedestrian accidents remain a pressing concern in Chicago, with recent data highlighting a troubling increase in fatalities. In 2024, the city recorded 38 pedestrian deaths on surface streets, marking a significant rise from previous years. Understanding the intricacies of Illinois right-of-way laws is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to navigate the streets safely and determine liability in the event of an accident. Continue reading

Highway hypnosis, also known as “white line fever,” is a phenomenon where drivers enter a trance-like state during long, monotonous drives, often with no recollection of the journey. This altered mental state can lead to serious safety concerns on the road and can lead to serious car accidents. In this blog, we discuss the phenomenon of highway hypnosis and what you can do to prevent a crash. Continue reading