Tollway Worker Killed, Two Injured While Fixing Potholes on I-294

A recent tragic crash on Interstate 294 highlights the devastating consequences of alleged impaired driving. According to ABC7, Illinois State Police confirmed that a driver struck an Illinois Tollway work crew, killing one worker and injuring two others while the individuals were repairing potholes on the Tri-State Tollway in Des Plaines during the early morning hours of May 30.

For one worker, 52-year-old Calvin Holley, the collision proved fatal. The two other workers were hospitalized. Police have since charged the driver with aggravated DUI involving death.

While criminal charges may hold an impaired driver accountable, they do not address the financial and personal losses suffered by injured victims and grieving families. Civil claims often play a critical role in helping victims recover compensation after a serious crash.

What happened on I-294?

A driver struck three Illinois Tollway workers who were performing pothole repairs around 4:30 a.m. on southbound I-294 near Devon Avenue. All three workers were transported to area hospitals, where one worker later died.

Police arrested the driver, who is now facing charges for aggravated DUI involving death.

The incident remains under investigation.

Why work zone crashes are so dangerous

Road construction and maintenance crews have dangerous jobs. They often work only a few feet from moving traffic. When drivers are distracted, impaired, speeding, or otherwise negligent, workers are even more at risk of injury or death, as they often have little opportunity to avoid a collision. The dangers are especially significant at night and during the early morning when visibility is reduced and impaired driving incidents are more common.

When vehicles collide with workers on the road, the consequences tend to be severe, resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Cars move at high speeds on roads like I-294 and can travel very near individuals who are exposed and unprotected.

The loss of a roadway worker performing routine maintenance is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks these workers face every day.

Cassaundra Rouse, Illinois Tollway Executive Director, issued a statement about the tragic event, stating, “Our equipment operator/laborers work on the front line of our 294-mile roadway system, performing duties that included maintaining safe roadway conditions and assisting drivers who were stranded or needed help. [The deceased] was carrying out these duties when he tragically lost his life on the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) … Roadway workers, police officers and everyday motorists are too often hurt, injured or worse because drivers are not following the Move Over Law. The Tollway reminds everyone to slow down and change lanes safely when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights on the road.”

What is the Move Over Law?

Illinois’ Move Over Law, also known as Scott’s Law, requires drivers to slow down and, when safe, move over or yield when approaching certain stopped vehicles displaying flashing lights, including emergency vehicles and highway maintenance vehicles. The law is designed to protect roadside workers and first responders who often work only feet from moving traffic. Although the investigation into the recent I-294 crash is ongoing, the tragedy highlights the importance of giving roadway workers the space and protection they need to do their jobs safely.

What compensation may be available after a fatal crash involving DUI charges?

When a fatal crash involving DUI charges occurs, such as the May 30 collision in Illinois, the deceased person’s personal representative may be able to pursue wrongful death and survival action damages for the benefit of surviving family members and/or the estate. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may be available for the following:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and services
• Pain and suffering experienced by the victim before death (through a survival action)
• Other damages permitted under Illinois law

In Illinois DUI fatalities, punitive damages may also be available.

An experienced attorney can help protect your rights

Serious injury and wrongful death cases often require immediate investigation. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, vehicle data, and toxicology results can play an important role in establishing liability.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash caused by a drunk or impaired driver, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.

Contact Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers today for a free consultation.