Available 
Chicago, IL (February 14, 2026) – Emergency responders were dispatched Friday evening to a reported auto accident with injuries on I-57 near 115th St on Chicago’s South Side.
Key Details
- Location: I-57 at 115th St, Chicago
- Reported: February 13 at 6:06 p.m.
- Type: Expressway crash with injuries
- Agencies Notified: Chicago Police and Illinois State Police
- Response: Fire crews dispatched to assist
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred on I-57 near the 115th St exit.
- Dispatch audio described the incident as an auto accident with injuries on the expressway.
- Illinois State Police were notified to assist at the scene.
- Fire crews were sent to evaluate and treat those involved.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The number of vehicles involved
- The severity of the reported injuries
- Whether any lanes were fully closed during the response
Local Context
The stretch of I-57 near 115th St serves as a major north-south route for commuters traveling through Chicago’s South Side and into the surrounding suburbs. The 115th St exit provides access to nearby residential areas and connects drivers to local arterial roads. When a crash with injuries occurs along this expressway segment, traffic can slow quickly as vehicles approach exit ramps and merge areas. With Chicago Police, Illinois State Police, and fire crews responding, managing traffic flow and ensuring scene safety are priorities while injured individuals are assessed, and vehicles are cleared from active lanes.
What to Do Next
- If your vehicle cannot be moved safely, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives, especially on busy expressways.
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage and the surrounding roadway conditions.
- Save any dashcam footage immediately so it is not overwritten.
FAQ
Q: Why do highway crashes often cause major delays?
A: Expressways like I-57 carry high volumes of traffic at faster speeds. When a crash blocks even one lane near an exit, congestion can build quickly as drivers slow and merge.
Q: Why are freeway crashes considered especially hazardous?
A: Higher speeds and limited reaction time increase the risk of secondary collisions. Emergency crews must secure the area to protect both motorists and responders.
Q: What happens when state police are notified of an expressway crash?
A: State police typically assist with traffic control, investigation, and enforcement on interstate highways. They coordinate with local agencies to manage the scene and complete official reports.
