Common Types of Car Accidents in Chicago

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s 2023 crash summary, Chicago saw 101,023 reported crashes, of which 158 were fatal and 17,792 caused injuries.

Motor vehicle accidents are a daily part of life in Chicago, taking place everywhere from the Kennedy Expressway to quiet residential intersections. Whether you’re commuting along Lake Shore Drive or turning through a busy city intersection, the risk of being involved in a crash is real—and often life-changing.

Below are the most common types of car accidents in Chicago, where they typically occur, what causes them, and why legal guidance is essential if you’ve been injured.

T-Bone Collisions at Chicago Intersections

T-bone crashes, also known as side-impact collisions, occur when the front of one car strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These types of car accidents often take place at busy intersections where drivers run red lights or fail to yield.

In Chicago, intersections like Cicero Avenue and Madison Street or North Avenue and Western Avenue are notorious for these incidents due to high traffic volumes and visibility challenges.

T-bone accidents can cause serious injuries, including organ damage, rib fractures, and whiplash. Determining fault may rely on traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness testimony, making these cases evidence-heavy and ideal for legal representation.

Rear-End Collisions on Expressways and City Streets

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents in Chicago, accounting for 23,785 crashes in one year alone, especially in areas where traffic is stop-and-go.

The Kennedy Expressway, for instance, sees frequent rear-end collisions during rush hour, while Michigan Avenue is another hotspot due to heavy pedestrian and vehicle activity.

Rear-end collisions are often caused by tailgating, driver distraction, or sudden braking. Injuries typically include cervical strain, herniated discs, and shoulder trauma. While the rear driver is generally presumed at fault, that’s not always the case, especially if the lead driver stopped abruptly or had malfunctioning brake lights.

Head-On Crashes on Suburban Roads or Boulevards

Head-on collisions are some of the most devastating types of car accidents, particularly when they occur at high speeds. With 862 of them in Chicago in the latest report, these accidents are more common on Ogden Avenue or Harlem Avenue, where drivers may drift into oncoming lanes due to fatigue, intoxication, or distraction.

Head-on accidents often result in catastrophic injuries such as brain trauma, internal bleeding, or broken legs. Fatalities are not uncommon, and surviving family members may have grounds to pursue wrongful death claims.

Sideswipe Auto Accidents in Multi-Lane Traffic

Sideswipe accidents occur when the sides of two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite direction make contact, often because one driver fails to check their blind spot before changing lanes.

Adding up to 18,470 crashes in Chicago’s latest crash report, these incidents are especially frequent on multi-lane roads like Lake Shore Drive or Columbus Drive, where fast-moving traffic and frequent lane changes create heightened risk.

Although sideswipe collisions can seem minor, they often cause soft tissue damage, shoulder dislocations, and arm injuries. Dashcam footage can play a crucial role in proving fault, which is often contested in these cases.

Rollover Accidents Involving SUVs and Large Vehicles

Rollover crashes typically involve SUVs, vans, or trucks due to their higher centers of gravity. These one-vehicle or multi-vehicle accidents often happen on sharp curves or ramps, such as those near Lower Wacker Drive or on I-90, especially when speeding or tire blowouts are involved.

Rollover accidents, of which 104 occurred in Chicago in the latest reporting period, often result in serious injuries like spinal cord trauma, head injuries, and crush injuries. In some cases, liability may extend beyond the driver to include the vehicle manufacturer or the city, if poor road design or defective tires played a role.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups in Hazardous Weather

Pileups often occur during inclement weather, when low visibility and slick roads lead to chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles. I-55 is particularly vulnerable to these types of accidents during winter months, with ice and snow making it hard for drivers to stop in time.

The latest Chicago report reveals 2,057 crashes in snow and 10,461 in rainy conditions.

Victims can suffer multiple fractures, airbag burns, and deep lacerations. Sorting out liability in these events is complex, often involving two vehicles or more, and can require a thorough investigation and the coordination of several insurance claims.

Rideshare Accidents Involving Uber and Lyft

With the rise of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, accidents involving app-based drivers have become increasingly common in neighborhoods like River North and Wicker Park, where nightlife and high demand intersect.

These crashes may result from illegal stops, GPS distraction, or sudden lane changes during pickups or drop-offs. Injuries typically include head trauma to rear passengers and seatbelt-related injuries. Determining liability can be tricky depending on whether the driver was actively working in the app, offline, or waiting for a ride request.

Construction Zone Collisions

Work zones create narrow lanes, detours, and unpredictable oncoming traffic patterns, all of which contribute to a rise in crashes. Notable areas include I-94 near major reconstruction sites and CTA construction zones near 95th and the Dan Ryan Expressway.

Collisions in these zones may involve both vehicle operators and roadside workers. Common injuries include crushed limbs, tool-related impacts, and compound fractures. Depending on the cause, legal action may be brought against a government entity or a private construction contractor.

Bicycle Accidents in Bike-Lane Corridors

Chicago’s robust network of bike lanes doesn’t eliminate the risks cyclists face, especially in areas like Milwaukee Avenue through Logan Square or near the 606 Trail. Doored cyclists, blind spot errors by drivers, or motorists drifting into bike lanes are all common causes of bicycle crashes.

There were 1,410 such incidents in Chicago’s latest crash report, causing skull fractures, facial abrasions, and broken collarbones. Cyclists are especially vulnerable and protected under Illinois law, making legal representation critical in securing damages after a crash.

Pedestrian Accidents in Crosswalks and School Zones

With 2,492 reported in Chicago in a single year, pedestrian accidents often occur near CTA stations like Belmont or Roosevelt, as well as in school zones around campuses such as Lane Tech High School.

These accidents frequently result from drivers failing to yield while turning left, texting while driving, or speeding through residential areas. Injuries range from broken hips and concussions to extensive bruising. Illinois law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, and child injury cases may result in enhanced legal penalties.

Delivery Vehicle and Commercial Van Accidents

Delivery trucks and commercial vans, particularly those operated by Amazon, FedEx, or UPS, are frequently involved in crashes in high-traffic delivery areas such as the West Loop and downtown business zones. Per the latest report, Chicago saw 6,432 crashes involving different types of trucks and 8,021 involving vans.

These drivers often work on tight deadlines, leading to rushed decisions, wide turns, and illegal parking. Injuries can include chest injuries, wrist sprains, and foot crush injuries. In many cases, employers can be held liable under vicarious liability laws.

School Bus and Student Drop-Off Collisions

With 32 in Chicago’s latest report, accidents involving school buses or drop-off zones are particularly sensitive, as they often involve children. These crashes are common in neighborhoods like Hyde Park and Lincoln Park, where narrow streets and traffic congestion create dangerous conditions.

Drivers who pass stopped school buses or fail to pay attention during pickup and drop-off hours can cause serious harm. Injuries may include neck trauma, PTSD, and broken bones. Enhanced penalties and child injury laws apply in these situations.

DUI and Impaired Driving Crashes

Driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis remains a major cause of serious accidents in Chicago, especially in nightlife areas like Wrigleyville and West Loop. The city reported 770 alcohol-related crashes, 55 involving drugs, 18 linked to medication use, and 40 crashes involving both alcohol and drugs.

Impaired drivers are more likely to cause head-on collisions, rollovers, or one-car accidents when a moving vehicle collides with a fixed object. Common injuries include spinal trauma, compound fractures, and internal organ damage. Victims may be entitled to punitive damages on top of standard compensation due to the reckless nature of the crash.

Car Accidents Involving Public Transit (CTA Buses, Trains)

Public transportation accidents involving CTA buses and trains occur most often on busy routes like those near State Street or Halsted. Per the latest report, there were 2,505 crashes involving buses and 13 involving trains in Chicago

Buses may swerve or stop suddenly, and train passengers may suffer falls due to abrupt movements. Victims may sustain broken ankles, neck injuries, or whiplash. Because the CTA is a public entity, claims must be filed within shorter time frames and follow specific procedures outlined under Illinois law.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Accidents

In neighborhoods like Englewood or Humboldt Park, uninsured or underinsured drivers are a common concern. Hit-and-run incidents and expired insurance coverage make it difficult for victims to recover damages from the at-fault party.

Injuries from these accidents range from facial cuts and knee injuries to chronic whiplash. Having UM/UIM coverage on your own policy is essential, and legal help may be needed to pursue a claim through your insurance.

Accidents Caused by Mechanical Failures

Not all crashes are caused by driver error—sometimes a vehicle fails due to poor maintenance or defective parts. Chicago recorded 2,722 crashes linked to vehicle defects in a single year. These include brake failure (498), tire defects (187), or steering wheel defects (83), and can lead to sudden, uncontrollable crashes.

Victims may suffer from chest injuries, head trauma, or serious airbag-related injuries. Liability may rest with the vehicle manufacturer, repair shop, or owner of a poorly maintained vehicle.

Parking Lot and Garage Accidents

Parking structures and lots in high-traffic areas like Water Tower Place or Midway Airport are frequent sites for low-speed collisions. As many as 20,446 of Chicago crashes in the latest report involved parked vehicles.

Drivers backing out without looking, speeding in tight quarters, or failing to see pedestrians in blind spots can cause accidents that result in back injuries, pedestrian trauma, or ankle fractures. Property owners may also be liable if poor lighting or signage contributed to the accident.

Low-Speed and Fender Bender Accidents

Even low-speed crashes can result in soft tissue injuries, especially in confined spaces like downtown Streeterville or shopping center lots. These incidents are often caused by ignoring stop signs, poor attention to distance, or distractions.

While injuries may seem minor, neck strain and muscle stiffness can linger, and insurance companies often undervalue these claims without legal advocacy.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run crashes often happen at night or in less-trafficked areas, like industrial corridors or alleyways. These accidents may stem from the at-fault driver being uninsured, intoxicated, or simply fleeing to avoid consequences.

Injuries vary depending on speed and impact, but the lack of immediate medical aid can make them more severe. Surveillance footage and UM claims become crucial in these investigations.

Accidents Involving Motorcycles

With 588 recorded in a single year, motorcycle crashes are common on roads like Western Avenue or Lake Shore Drive, where visibility and space are limited. Many are caused by drivers turning left in front of a bike or failing to see it while changing lanes.

Motorcyclists often suffer road rash, broken bones, or traumatic brain injuries. Due to common insurance bias against bikers, having an attorney on your side is critical.

Accidents Caused by Road Hazards or Poor Maintenance

Per the latest report, 1,274 car accidents in Chicago were directly caused by infrastructure issues, such as potholes, broken traffic signals, or missing signage, such as stop signs. The West Side of Chicago, where maintenance may be delayed, is particularly vulnerable.

Injuries in these situations include loss of vehicle control, rollover risk, and tire blowouts. Legal claims may be brought against the City of Chicago or IDOT, but strict filing timelines apply.

Accidents Involving Emergency Vehicles

Crashes involving fire trucks, ambulances, or police cars often occur near hospitals like Northwestern Memorial or Mount Sinai, where emergency response vehicles travel at high speeds.

These incidents can cause T-bone impacts, shattered glass injuries, or blunt force trauma. While emergency vehicles have certain legal protections, victims still have the right to pursue compensation, though government liability claims require prompt legal action.

Book a Free Consultation with a Chicago Car Accident Attorney Near You!

If you’ve been involved in any of these types of car crashes in Chicago, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to help. Every case is different, and each type of crash comes with its own legal complications. Let us investigate your accident, determine liability, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Call (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form to speak with a car accident attorney in Chicago.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.