Chicago Car Crashes Peak During Evening Commute

 Posted on December 21, 2025 in Car Accidents

The evening commute is one of the busiest times on Chicago roads. Traffic increases as people leave work, pick up their children from school and afternoon activities, or head to appointments. Major routes, such as I-90, I-94, and other expressways, often become crowded between late afternoon and early evening. During these hours, the risk of car crashes rises across the city.

At Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC, we regularly see cases tied to this daily surge in traffic. If you were involved in an evening rush-hour crash, contact us today to talk about your case with our experienced Chicago, IL car accident lawyers.

Evening Commute Crash Risks on I-90, I-94, and Other Chicago Expressways

Chicago expressways carry heavy traffic during the evening rush. I-90 and I-94 are known for sudden slowdowns, tight merges, and frequent lane shifts. Interchanges near downtown and along the Kennedy and Dan Ryan Expressways often back up quickly, leaving little room for error.

Lakeview Drive and nearby surface streets face different but related challenges. Traffic lights, buses pulling in and out, and pedestrian crossings can cause abrupt stops. Delivery vehicles and rideshare drop-offs add to the mix, especially during peak hours.

Illinois law requires drivers to follow posted limits and adjust their speed to conditions. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-601, drivers must travel at a speed that is reasonable for traffic, weather, and roadway conditions. During the evening commute, heavy congestion and reduced visibility can make even normal speeds unsafe. This rule often becomes important when determining how a crash occurred.

Common Types of Accidents During the Evening Commute

Common evening commute accidents include:

• Rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic

• Sideswipe crashes during lane changes on I-90 or I-94

• Intersection accidents on busy surface streets

• Merging crashes near on-ramps and off-ramps

• Pedestrian or cyclist accidents during low-light conditions

Lane use is another frequent issue. Illinois law requires drivers to stay within a single lane as much as practical and to move safely when changing lanes. During rush hour, close spacing and rushed decisions can lead to sideswipes or chain-reaction crashes when people stop following traffic laws.

How Weather and Seasonal Changes Affect Evening Commute Accidents

The weather can quickly change evening driving conditions in Chicago. Rain can make roads slick and reduce stopping distance. Snow and ice in winter add another layer of risk, especially on expressways and bridges.

Seasonal changes also affect visibility. In fall and winter, darkness arrives earlier, meaning more drivers are on the road after sunset. Glare from headlights, wet pavement, and streetlights can make it harder to judge distance and speed. In summer, construction zones on I-90, I-94, and other major routes can cause sudden lane shifts and traffic backups. Wind can also affect vehicle control. These factors often combine, making the evening commute less predictable and more demanding, even for experienced drivers.

What To Do If You Are Injured in a Chicago Evening Commute Crash

If you are injured during your evening commute, your priority should be getting medical care. Some injuries do not cause immediate pain or symptoms, especially after the stress of a car accident. Seeking treatment right away helps protect your health and creates a clear medical record that may be important for a car accident claim.

It is also wise to preserve information when possible. Photos of the scene, traffic patterns, and vehicle damage can be helpful later. On major expressways, traffic cameras or dash camera footage may provide additional insight into how the crash happened during peak commute hours. Speaking with an attorney early can help ensure this evidence is identified and handled properly while you focus on your recovery.

Be aware of legal time limits. Illinois law sets deadlines for filing injury claims. Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, most personal injury cases must be filed within two years of the accident date. This time can pass quickly while you focus on recovery, vehicle repairs, and insurance issues.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Chicago, IL Car Accident Attorney Today

At Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC, we will review the details of your situation and explain how Illinois law may apply. Call us today to schedule your free consultation with our knowledgeable Chicago, IL car accident lawyers. We work on contingency, which means that you only pay attorney’s fees if you recover compensation. Hablamos Español.