Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Nationally, thousands of pedestrians are killed every year in motor vehicle collisions. Many of those take place right in Chicago as people walk to and from work, to school, or simply just for pleasure. In most cases, pedestrian accidents are preventable collisions that can be blamed on a mistake or error on one or more individuals involved. Whether a driver is distracted, texting or talking on a cell phone, speeding, or driving the wrong direction, a pedestrian does not stand much of a chance of a driver is acting in a negligent manner and ignoring the safety of others in the area.
Drunk drivers and drivers under the influence of drugs pose a serious threat to pedestrians as well as other motorists across the state. Intoxicants like alcohol work by decreasing the speed body’s central nervous system, restricting a driver’s ability to make quick decisions, think clearly, and respond appropriately to changing conditions while on the road. Recognizing this danger, legislatures across the nation have passed laws making driving under the influence illegal in an effort to keep these hazardous drivers off the road. Despite these efforts, motorists continue to drive drunk in Chicago and continue to put the safety of others at risk on a regular basis.
The laws in Chicago can provide relief to those who have been victimized by the actions of a drunk or otherwise negligent driver by allowing these victims the opportunity to recover financially. This relief can be sought through the use of a civil claim for damages that may be available even if a traffic ticket or criminal charge was not brought against a responsible driver, depending on all the facts and circumstances surrounding a crash. Speaking with a lawyer who representing the victims of car accidents may help you understand if you are entitled to relief or what legal options may exist if you have been injured in a crash.
Police in Chicago have reported that a two vehicle crash that killed a pedestrian this weekend was caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol. According to officials, a 26-year-old man was driving westbound on North Avenue when he reportedly ran a red light and struck a stopped car at the southbound ramp from the Kennedy Expressway. The force of the impact caused the second car to roll over and slide into a 73-year-old pedestrian near the intersection. The crash caused injuries too severe to the pedestrian and he died as a result of the incident.
The driver that allegedly initiated the crash was injured and transported to an area hospital for treatment. He was subjected to blood alcohol testing which reportedly showed a BAC of 0.161, more than double the legal limit of 0.08 in Illinois. He has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol and is being held after bail was set at $250,000.
If you have been injured as a pedestrian or if your loved one has been killed, make sure you understand whether you are entitled to relief. If so, these claims must be brought within a time frame specified by law or the right to obtain a recovery will be lost.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., our legal team is dedicated to the representation of those who have been injured through the negligence of others. We offer a free case consultation to all victims who call us toll free at (855) 59-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you have been hurt through the actions of another, call us today and let us help you get the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
SUV Strikes Motorcycle, Causing Deadly Collision in Bridgeview, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 2, 2014.
Resource:
Prosecutors: Drunk driver caused crash that killed panhandler, by Steve Schmadeke, Chicago Tribune, published June 3, 2014.