South Lake Shore Drive (SLSD) is a major north-south highway in Chicago, Illinois. It runs along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and is known for its scenic views of the city skyline. However, SLSD is also one of the most dangerous roads in Chicago for pedestrians.
According to a 2023 report by the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), there were 155 pedestrian accidents on SLSD in 2022, resulting in 15 deaths. This is more than any other road in the city.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high number of pedestrian accidents on SLSD, including:
- Speed: SLSD is a high-speed road, with posted speed limits of up to 45 miles per hour. This gives drivers less time to react to pedestrians, especially if they are crossing the road illegally or unexpectedly.
- Distracted driving: Many drivers on SLSD are distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other passengers. This can lead to them not seeing pedestrians or making other driving errors.
- Pedestrian error: Some pedestrian accidents are caused by pedestrian error, such as crossing the road illegally or jaywalking. However, even when pedestrians are following the law, they can still be hit by drivers who are not paying attention or who are speeding.
- Poor road design: Some sections of SLSD have poorly designed crosswalks or intersections. This can make it difficult for pedestrians to cross the road safely.
- Lack of enforcement: The city of Chicago does not do enough to enforce traffic laws on SLSD. This means that drivers who speed or drive distracted often get away with it.
The city of Chicago is working to address the high number of pedestrian accidents on SLSD. In recent years, the city has installed new pedestrian crosswalks, added speed bumps, and reduced the speed limit in some areas. However, more needs to be done to make SLSD safer for pedestrians.
Here are some tips for staying safe as a pedestrian on SLSD:
- Only cross the road at crosswalks.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as your phone or music player.
- Wear bright clothing or reflective gear so that you are visible to drivers.
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident on SLSD, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You should also contact a lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Recommendations for Preventing Pedestrian Accidents on South Lake Shore Drive
In addition to the steps that the city of Chicago is already taking, there are a number of other things that can be done to prevent pedestrian accidents on South Lake Shore Drive. These include:
- Implement a Vision Zero program: Vision Zero is a traffic safety strategy that aims to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and serious injuries. A Vision Zero program on SLSD could include measures such as further reducing the speed limit, installing more pedestrian crosswalks, and increasing enforcement of traffic laws.
- Create a more pedestrian-friendly environment: This could involve making sidewalks wider, adding more pedestrian-activated signals, and planting trees and other greenery to make the road more visually appealing and inviting to pedestrians.
- Educate drivers and pedestrians about traffic safety: Public awareness campaigns can help to educate drivers and pedestrians about the dangers of speeding, distracted driving, and jaywalking.
By taking these steps, the city of Chicago can make South Lake Shore Drive safer for all users.