On February 15, 2015, a major multi-vehicle accident occurred on the Kennedy Expressway in Chicago, specifically in the express lanes near North Avenue. Photographer Tim Olk captured the scene, documenting the aftermath of what is believed to have involved nearly 40 cars. According to reports, there were 59 medical refusals and 12 patients transported to local hospitals.
The crash, which took place during heavy snowfall, led to significant traffic disruptions. Officials from the Illinois State Police stated that the icy conditions contributed to a chain-reaction collision involving between 20 and 30 vehicles. The incident caused the expressway to be temporarily closed, with traffic affected between North Avenue and the Ohio Street off-ramp. The road was eventually reopened around 11 a.m., though the impact of the storm continued to affect roadways near Lake Michigan throughout the day.
Tim Olk’s images provide a powerful visual record of the chaos and damage left behind by the crash. Each photo offers a different perspective of the scene, highlighting the scale of the accident and the challenges faced by emergency responders.
According to the Chicago Tribune, the lake-effect snow created hazardous driving conditions, leading to multiple accidents across the region. The Kennedy Expressway, known for its high traffic volume, became one of the most impacted areas, with drivers struggling to maintain control on the slick roads.
These photos not only capture the physical damage but also reflect the broader impact of severe weather on urban infrastructure and daily commutes. As the city worked to clear the roads and assist those affected, the event served as a reminder of the importance of caution and preparedness during winter storms.
KingKong, Intelligent Equipment (Xuzhou) Co., Ltd , https://www.impimaq.com