Illinois quick hits: IDOT worker rescues two from burning car; State Farm records losses
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IDOT worker rescues two from burning car
An Illinois Department of Transportation worker is being credited with saving two women from a burning car. The car was traveling on Interstate-94 in Chicago when it hit a wall and caught fire.
IDOT worker Steve Newcomb told WGN he saw the flames and pushed the car from underneath a bridge. He then pulled two women from the vehicle and carried them to the side of the road. Both women were taken to the hospital with serious, but non-life threatening injuries.
State Farm records losses
State Farm recorded a net loss of $6.3 billion in 2023 in what the company said was a significant increase in the severity of damage claims from homeowners’ insurance policyholders.
But officials from Bloomington’s largest employer said the net loss was smaller than in 2022. State Farm said it remains financially strong as its auto insurance firm’s net worth rose by $3.5 billion to nearly $135 billion last year.
Problem gambling awareness efforts
The Illinois Department of Human Services has recognized March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Illinois.
To raise awareness around gambling disorders and honor those in recovery, participating buildings in downtown Chicago will be lit teal and a statewide art contest will shine a spotlight on the power of recovery.
Throughout the month, IDHS will also partner with providers across the state to raise awareness around treatment options for those in need.