WAUKEGAN, Lake County, Ill., Nov. 11, 2026 — Two people were hurt on Monday morning, November 9, in a chain-reaction crash on Waukegan Road in Waukegan, the Lake County Sheriff's Office said.
The crash happened in the southbound lanes of Waukegan Road between Route 137 and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Officials said a car had stopped after running out of gas and was rear-ended by another southbound vehicle. As drivers tried to avoid that collision, a separate three-vehicle crash followed, bringing the total to at least four vehicles involved.
Two people were taken to area hospitals with minor injuries.
Southbound Waukegan Road was closed while crews cleared the scene. All lanes reopened by 7:50 a.m.
Investigators continue reviewing the collision. We wish the injured a complete recovery.
Intersection Crashes in Illinois
This multi-vehicle crash happened at Route 137 and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Waukegan, IL. Our Illinois intersections page covers intersection crashes across Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions
What usually causes multi-vehicle pile-ups?
They commonly start with one vehicle slowing or stopping unexpectedly, due to mechanical trouble, weather or an earlier crash, and other drivers following too closely to react in time.
Why do chain-reaction crashes happen so quickly?
Once the first impact occurs, following vehicles usually have only seconds to brake or swerve, which can trigger additional collisions before traffic can slow down.
What should I do if I'm stopped near a crash on the highway?
Turn on hazard lights, stay in the vehicle if it's safe to do so, and move as far from traffic lanes as possible while waiting for responders.
How can drivers avoid getting caught in a pile-up?
Keeping a safe following distance and watching brake lights several cars ahead gives more time to react if traffic suddenly stops.
