Northbrook, IL (August 4, 2026) – A multi-vehicle collision on the outbound Edens Expressway left two people hurt early on Monday morning near Dundee Road in Northbrook. The roadway was closed for several hours while emergency units managed the wreck.
The collision happened at about 4:47 a.m. on the northbound Edens near Dundee Road, close to the Skokie Lagoons. Two people were taken to hospitals with injuries, according to Illinois State Police.
Early information indicated a possible wrong-way driver may have been involved, though that detail was not confirmed. Traffic moved along the shoulder while the roadway remained closed, and the affected stretch reopened by 6 a.m.
Drivers were advised to use alternate routes through Forestway Dr, Dundee Rd, and Skokie Blvd during the closure. The investigation into the collision is continuing, with additional details expected as the review progresses. We are keeping those hurt in our thoughts as they recover from their injuries.
How Wrong-Way Driving Risks Can Develop on Expressways
Wrong-way driving is one of the most dangerous hazards on divided highways because vehicles can suddenly face traffic moving in the opposite direction. These situations often give drivers very little time to avoid danger, especially at higher speeds or during overnight hours.
Common factors linked to wrong-way travel include confusion at ramps, poor visibility, and impaired judgment. Road signs, pavement markings, and alert driving habits help reduce these risks. Motorists can improve safety by staying focused, avoiding distractions, and checking surrounding traffic patterns while entering or exiting expressways. Defensive driving techniques can provide extra time to react when unexpected hazards appear on busy roads.