Bridge Hit 41 Times In 2 Years, Are Illinois Drivers That Bad?

Some extra driving lessons might be needed for Illinois residents who keep running into a historic bridge.

A Little Long Grove, Illinois History

I don't know why but I've been fascinated by the story of the historic bridge in Long Grove, Illinois. Maybe, it's because I remember seeing it as a kid with my parents. If you're not familiar with the town, I would compare it to Galena. There are lots of shops and restaurants. They also host some festivals too.

The main entrance to Long Grove is an old covered bridge. Since it was built many years ago, some vehicles are too large to cross there. That includes trucks and buses. They are forced to take a different route. The structure is clearly marked to warn drivers. I guess some people just don't pay attention.

Vehicles Keep Crashing Into Historic Long Grove Bridge

According to nbcchicago.com,

A box truck smashed into the historic Long Grove bridge again, this time on Monday afternoon.

 

The crash marks the 41st time the bridge has been hit since it was reconstructed in 2020.

 

This year, the historic bridge celebrated its 116th anniversary. It had a great streak going of 46 years without any problems. Unfortunately, an accident in early 2020 forced its closure for several months to be fixed. The crossing was reopened in August of that year.

Current Count Of Crashed Into Long Grove Bridge

The last time I checked in two years from August 2020 to August 2022, the bridge had been struck thirty-five more times. Check it out, HERE. Recently, it was crashed into again. The total is now up to forty-one.

Apparently, Illinois drivers need a refresher course to figure out what signs mean for bridge sizes.