McHenry County, IL (February 15, 2025) – A serious two-vehicle crash occurred Friday morning at Route 23 and North Olbrich Road in unincorporated Harvard, leaving two people injured. The crash happened as snow-covered roads created hazardous driving conditions across the Chicago area.
Emergency crews responded to the scene at approximately 9:13 AM, where they found that one driver was pinned inside his vehicle due to the severity of the collision. Fire agencies from Marengo and Woodstock were called in to assist the Harvard Fire Protection District with rescue efforts.
Firefighters worked for 20 minutes to extricate a male driver from a white sedan before transporting him to Javon Bea Hospital-Riverside in Rockford with serious injuries. A female passenger in the same vehicle was also taken to the hospital with moderate injuries.
The driver of a pickup truck involved in the crash was uninjured and declined medical treatment. He was the only occupant of his vehicle.
Authorities have not determined the exact cause of the crash, and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating. It is unclear if any citations will be issued.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
The Dangers of Snow-Covered Roads in Illinois
Winter driving conditions, like those present during this crash, significantly increase the risk of accidents. Snow-covered roads reduce traction, making it more difficult for drivers to brake, turn, or regain control after a skid. Accidents at intersections, such as the one at Route 23 and North Olbrich Road, frequently occur when vehicles slide through stop signs or traffic signals due to icy conditions.
One of the primary dangers of winter driving is black ice, which is nearly invisible to drivers and can cause sudden loss of control. Even at moderate speeds, icy roads can lead to spinouts, rear-end collisions, or high-impact crashes like the one in McHenry County.
Drivers can reduce the risk of winter accidents by slowing down, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns. Additionally, ensuring that vehicles are properly equipped with snow tires, functional brakes, and working windshield wipers can improve safety during hazardous weather conditions.
For those involved in winter-related crashes, seeking medical attention is critical, even if injuries appear minor at first. Internal injuries, concussions, or soft tissue damage may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time. Additionally, documenting the accident scene, obtaining a police report, and collecting witness statements are essential steps for insurance and legal purposes.
Handling the aftermath of a severe crash can be overwhelming, particularly when dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, and insurance claims. Victims of winter-weather accidents may be entitled to compensation to help cover these costs. If you or a loved one has been injured in a snow-related accident, seeking legal and medical assistance can help ensure financial stability and proper care.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.