Elmhurst, IL – 1 Injured in Drunk Driving Crash on I-88 at Milepost 139

Elmhurst, IL (August 18, 2025) – An Illinois State Police trooper suffered injuries after a driver under the influence struck his patrol car early Sunday morning, August 17. 

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The collision happened at about 4:02 a.m. on westbound Interstate 88 near milepost 139. The trooper had parked on the right shoulder with emergency lights activated behind a disabled tractor-trailer.

According to authorities, a Tesla driven by 24-year-old Sebastian G. Rodriguez of Romeoville failed to move over and hit the rear passenger side of the patrol vehicle. The impact pushed the squad car forward into the tractor-trailer.

Paramedics transported both Rodriguez and the trooper to local hospitals with injuries. Officials have not released details about the severity of their conditions. State police confirmed that the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

Our thoughts are with the injured, and we wish them a full recovery. 

Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois

Drunk driving accidents continue to be a major concern in Illinois, putting both motorists and law enforcement officers at risk. Despite ongoing campaigns and strict penalties, impaired driving causes countless injuries and fatalities each year.

When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, the consequences can be devastating. Victims often suffer serious harm, from broken bones to brain injuries, that require long-term medical care. The financial burden can overwhelm families already struggling to recover.

Victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to pursue compensation. A skilled drunk driving accident lawyer can help victims recover costs such as: 

  • Medical treatment; Injuries from a crash often require emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation. These medical expenses can quickly add up, creating financial stress for victims and their families.
  • Lost income: Many victims are unable to return to work right away due to their injuries. This loss of wages can create lasting financial hardship, especially if recovery takes months or even years.
  • Pain and suffering: Beyond physical injuries, victims endure emotional trauma and ongoing pain. Compensation helps recognize the mental and emotional toll caused by the reckless actions of a drunk driver.

Taking legal action not only helps families but also holds negligent drivers accountable.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Illinois, we urge you to reach out for help. At Ankin Law, LLC, we understand how life-changing these crashes can be, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. 

Call Ankin Law, LLC, today at (844) 600-0000 for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for your rights and help you move forward.

Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.

Chicago personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney Howard Ankin has a passion for justice and a relentless commitment to defending injured victims throughout the Chicagoland area. With decades of experience achieving justice on behalf of the people of Chicago, Howard has earned a reputation as a proven leader in and out of the courtroom. Respected by peers and clients alike, Howard’s multifaceted approach to the law and empathetic nature have secured him a spot as an influential figure in the Illinois legal system.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Illinois Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: Illinois State Bar Association, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois
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