Driving Conditions in ChicagoThe sheer size of Chicago makes it a magnet for heavy traffic congestion and angry commuters. Urban mobility reports reveal that commuters in Chicago spend over 70 hours stuck in traffic every year. There are over five hours per day that are considered peak hours for travel on highways around the metropolitan area.
Chicago Crime Statistics- Auto Thefts FBI statistics indicate that Chicago was the location of 19,446 auto thefts in 2011. - Property Crimes In 2011, there were 118,239 property crimes in Chicago. - Crash Statistics The City of Chicago reports that there were 3,130 pedestrian crashes in the city in 2009.
Chicago Vehicle and Driving Safety RequirementsThe Governors Highway Safety Association works to compile data related to driving safety requirements in states across the U.S. Illinois has strict laws related to using a cell phone while driving. Texting while driving is never permitted, and drivers must use a headset if they want to make or receive a call while driving. There are universal helmet laws in Illinois. This means that it is illegal for a motorcyclist to ride without a helmet.

Impaired Driving Laws in ChicagoAll states have a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit set at .08. The Illinois State Police remind drivers that the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe. Fines in the state of Illinois are particularly high and range from $2,500 to $25,000. Imprisonment of up to 12 years is possible, and people who are convicted of a DUI can lose their license for 10 years or more. Community service is also typically ordered when a person is convicted of a DUI.