Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident Ticket

Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident is the most common ticket issued after a traffic accident has occurred. The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-601a) requires that a driver on Illinois roads slow down based on the traffic and road conditions and "use due care" to avoid an accident.

If you slow down, an accident still occurs and you are found at fault, you will most likely be cited for "failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident." Even if you were traveling at or below the posted speed limit, you are still required to slow down enough to avoid the accident.  Illinois drivers must reduce speed as necessary to "avoid colliding with any person or vehicle on or entering the highway..."

A "Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident" ticket is considered a petty offense in Illinois with a maximum fine of $1,000.  If you are found guilty of this offense, a moving violation will be added to your license record.  Three moving violations in one year can result in a suspended driver's license.  (For drivers under 21, two moving violations in two years can result in a license suspension.)  

If you have received a ticket for "Failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident", it is important that you talk with an experienced traffic attorney who can help you understand all of the ramifications that a "guilty" plea and a conviction could have.  


Protecting a client's driving record is something in the fore front of Traffic Attorney Tim Henderson's mind as he helps you work toward the best possible outcome.  Protect your driving record and insurance rates.  Tim Henderson has a practice that has served clients in Cook, DuPage, Will and Kane Counties - this includes the cities of Skokie, Joliet, Chicago, Wheaton and Maywood. Call for a free consultation today.