Fuzzy Dice and Illinois Car Accidents

 Posted on July 26, 2022 in Car Accidents

Given how much time we spend in our vehicles, it is not surprising that many people will add personalized touches to them. We add bumper stickers, seat covers, and even sentimental items on the dashboard. Many drivers will also hang mementos and other items from their rearview mirrors, like air fresheners, stuffed animals, and graduation tassels. What many drivers do not realize is that these items can actually obstruct their view, resulting in a serious car accident.

What Does Illinois Law Say?

Having items hanging from a rearview mirror can block the driver’s visibility, which can end up causing a crash. This is one reason why it is illegal under Illinois law to have objects in places that could block the driver’s view. According to the statute:

“No person shall drive a motor vehicle with any objects placed or suspended between the driver and the front windshield, rear window, side wings or side windows immediately adjacent to each side of the driver which materially obstructs the driver's view.”

In addition to obstructing a driver’s view, these items hanging from the mirror can actually cause the rearview mirror to snap off. This smashing of the mirror can be a significant distraction to the driver, looking away from the road, resulting in a collision. If the mirror breaks from the fall, the driver will not have a rearview mirror until it can be repaired or replaced, again creating a driving hazard.

Accident Liability

Although it may sound silly that a Christmas tree air freshener hanging from a mirror could cause a driver to crash, the reality is that it does happen and happens enough that Illinois created a law making it illegal.

And if the driver is involved in a car accident that was caused by their obstructed view, they will be liable for the damages of any victims who suffer injuries in the accident. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages if they are unable to work while they recover, pain and suffering, scarring, and permanent disability.

Call a Cook County Personal Injury Attorney for Legal Assistance

If you have been injured in an accident caused by the negligence of another driver, it is important to speak with a skilled Northbrook IL car accident attorney before speaking with the other driver’s insurance company. Insurance adjusters are notorious for manipulating conversations with victims in order to get them to say something that can be used to deny their claim. Call Gruzmark Law, Ltd. at 847-729-7660 to schedule a free consultation. Let us handle your car accident claim while you focus on your recovery.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=1815&ChapterID=49&SeqStart=143000000&SeqEnd=145500000