Driver Flees Accident Scene

Yesterday morning's serious accident on Route 176 near Haligus Road (east of Route 47) is adequately reported in today's Northwest Herald on Page 3B, although the police agency handling it is not mentioned. From the phone number in the article, the Crystal Lake Police Department probably handled it.

For the 12 years I have been back in Illinois I have pursued what feels like a one-man crusade against reckless and dangerous drivers. The driver who caused yesterday's accident certainly fits in this category. On many occasions I have reported dangerous drivers to area police agencies, including McHenry, Lake and Kane County Sheriff's Departments.

Most of the time my calls have been professionally received and dispatched. When an officer or deputy has been able to stop the violator, I have requested that a ticket be issued and I have gone to court to testify. In 12 years one driver got off in Kane County and one driver got off in McHenry. In both cases the drivers lied about passing me in no-passing zones.

Yesterday's accident was reportedly caused by a driver who passed a car, even though there was oncoming traffic. The police will sort out all the details.

The driver caused the accident and kept going. His car is described as a red 2001 or 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. That's pretty close, but it could be anything similar. My guess is that this driver was on the way to work and travels that route on a daily basis. He might avoid it for a while, but soon he'll return to the familiar route. He could live in Marengo or south Woodstock. Somebody knows who he is. My guess? White male, single, age 19-24, works in a plant or industrial setting.

When you see any vehicle of a similar description heading from west to east in that vicinity at 6:00AM, report it to 815-356-3620 and let them check it out.

And when a reckless or aggressive driver comes to your attention, report it! These drivers are killers, and we can work together to get them off the road.