Worst Roads in Illinois 2025: What Drivers Need to Know

Illinois drivers, especially those navigating Chicago’s busy streets, face challenges from potholes, cracked pavement, and traffic congestion. In 2025, these are the worst roads drivers are reporting across the state.

Top 5 Worst Roads in Illinois (2025)

1. I-90/I-94 (Kennedy Expressway): Known for heavy traffic, rough pavement, and constant construction delays.
2. Lakeshore Drive (US-41): Cracked asphalt, potholes, and unpredictable lane closures along Chicago’s scenic route.
3. I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway): Frequent lane changes, potholes, and traffic bottlenecks plague this critical commuter route.
4. I-55 (Stevenson Expressway): Congestion, patchwork repairs, and deteriorating pavement make driving stressful for suburban commuters.
5. IL-59 (Suburbs): Rough surfaces, poorly timed signals, and increasing traffic congestion frustrate suburban drivers.

Why Are Illinois Roads Struggling?

Extreme freeze-thaw cycles, salt damage, and high traffic volumes take a toll on Illinois roads. Funding gaps delay full repairs, leading to temporary patchwork fixes that quickly fail under stress.

Cost to Illinois Drivers

The average driver in Illinois spends over $650 annually in vehicle repairs tied to poor road conditions, including tire damage, bent rims, and suspension problems.

How Can Drivers Protect Their Vehicles?

Check tire pressure regularly, avoid standing water hiding potholes, report road hazards to IDOT, and use navigation apps to bypass known trouble spots.