Watch CBS News

Illinois Traffics Deaths Could Reach 1,000 By The End Of The Year

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Illinois is headed for a dubious distinction when it comes to the number of deaths on streets and highways across the state.

Illinois is on pace to crack the 1,000 traffic death mark for 2016. As of mid-morning Tuesday, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there had been 983 traffic deaths in the state, 93 more than there were exactly a year ago. WBBM's Bernie Tafoya reports.

IDOT spokeswoman Gianna Urgo said, "It's happening in rural and urban locations. Lower gas prices and one of the milder winters on record have led to more people driving, but these are not acceptable excuses."

Last year, Illinois came close to the 1,000 traffic death mark with 998.

The last time Illinois had at least 1,000 traffic deaths was 2009 when there were 1,039. Urgo suggests motorists buckle up, put away cellphones and other distractions, observe the speed limit and be extra careful in roadwork zones.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.