Northbrook, IL - 60-Year-Old Waukegan Man Dies After I-94 Crash Near Dundee Rd

Northbrook, IL (July 10, 2025) – A tragic multi-vehicle accident took place Monday afternoon, July 7, on Interstate 94 near Northbrook that claimed the life of a 60-year-old man from Waukegan. The Illinois State Police along with the Northbrook Fire Department were dispatched to the Edens Expressway at the 30-mile marker around 12:30 p.m. for a serious collision involving injuries.

Upon arrival, responding troopers found a chaotic scene in the southbound lanes near Dundee Road. The crash involved three vehicles, including two passenger cars and a semi-truck. Both cars sustained significant damage after veering off the expressway, with one of them coming to rest in water nearby. The semi-truck remained on the roadway but was part of the collision’s impact.

Emergency personnel worked quickly to extricate an unresponsive victim trapped inside one of the vehicles. The man, later identified as Martin Maldonado-Velazquez of Waukegan, was transported by ambulance to Endeavor Health Hospital in Highland Park with life-threatening injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, Maldonado-Velazquez was pronounced dead in the emergency room. The Lake County Coroner’s Office confirmed that an autopsy revealed he died from blunt force injuries sustained in the collision.

The impact of the crash forced the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation to close all southbound lanes on Interstate 94 for several hours. The southbound ramps from Dundee Road to Interstate 94 and from Lake Cook Road to Route 41 were also shut down while authorities conducted their on-site investigation and cleared debris. Traffic delays were extensive in the surrounding area until all lanes reopened around 5:40 p.m., more than five hours after the initial incident. Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the collision.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Martin Maldonado-Velazquez during this difficult time.

Car Accidents in Illinois

Motor vehicle accidents are all too common on Illinois roadways, with thousands of crashes reported each year that result in injuries or fatalities. According to state data, interstate highways like I-94 see a significant portion of these incidents due to high traffic volumes and speed limits. Drivers are urged to exercise caution, maintain safe distances, and remain alert to avoid such tragedies.

It is important to understand what often contributes to these incidents. Below are some key aspects related to multiple-vehicle collisions:

• Driver Fatigue: When drivers get behind the wheel while tired, their reaction times slow dramatically. Fatigue can cause a driver to drift between lanes or fail to notice changing traffic patterns ahead, leading to rear-end or side-impact crashes. Staying well-rested and taking breaks during long trips can help prevent fatigue-related collisions.

• Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice are frequent contributors to crashes on Illinois interstates. Poor visibility and slippery roads increase the likelihood of losing control. Motorists should reduce speeds during inclement weather, keep headlights on, and avoid sudden braking when roads are slick.

• Following Too Closely: Tailgating remains one of the top causes of multi-car pileups. In high-speed areas like expressways, keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead is critical. The recommended following distance is at least three seconds in good conditions and even longer in poor weather or heavy traffic.

• Improper Lane Changes: Failing to check blind spots or signal when changing lanes can quickly lead to a serious accident. Defensive driving means checking mirrors frequently and using turn signals well in advance of switching lanes, especially on busy highways.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious car accident in Northbrook or surrounding areas, it is crucial to reach out to our wrongful death attorney. An experienced legal advocate can help protect your rights, gather vital evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies while you focus on healing. Speaking with a dedicated attorney immediately can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Do not wait to get the support you deserve.

If you need trusted legal help, the Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick is here for you. We offer free consultations and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team understands the hardships families face after a tragic accident, and we are committed to helping you pursue justice. Call our Northbrook car accident attorneys at (847) 807-8695 today to get started. We take the time to listen to your concerns and guide you every step of the way. Reach out now and let us stand by your side.

Disclaimer: Accident reports on this site are sourced from police and fire departments, news outlets, social media, and eyewitnesses. The Law Office of Michael W. Kopsick has not independently verified this information. To report an error or request a removal, please contact us directly.

Note: We urge everyone to drive safely and stay alert to prevent accidents. This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. It is not a solicitation for legal services. Images used are for illustration only and do not show the actual accident.