Car accidents in Chicago and the surrounding areas can turn anyone into a victim on any given day. Routinely, safe and responsible drivers are still involved in collisions due to the negligent actions of another driver or motorist on the road. When even the safest driver cannot be guaranteed a ride free from an accident, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal implications of a crash, especially if you are injured.
The laws in Chicago are designed to hold those responsible for car accidents as liable for the injuries that result. This means that the victims of a crash may be entitled to seek relief for their damages through the use of a civil claim. These claims are separate and distinct from any traffic or criminal charges brought by the State of Illinois and often are available even if a driver was not ticketed in the crash. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer who has experience representing the victims of accidents in Chicago and the suburbs may help you understand your legal rights if you have been hurt, including whether you may be entitled to financial relief.
Police in Morton Grove received notice of a collision between two vehicles on Wednesday afternoon. When they responded to the scene of the crash, they determined that two vehicles collided in the intersection of Greenwood Street and Schermer Road shortly after 1:00 pm. The cause of the collision has not yet been determined but police have confirmed that one vehicle was eastbound on Greenwood while the second was northbound on Schermer.
The impact of the collision sent one vehicle into a residential garage and the second into a light pole near the intersection. The eastbound vehicle was driven by an 85-year-old woman while the northbound vehicle was driven by a 71-year-old woman with no passengers in either car.
Both drivers were injured in the accident and were treated at Glenbrook Hospital after being transported by emergency medical personnel. The extent and nature of their injuries is not clear but both women were expected to survive. Fortunately, no one inside the home associated with the garage and no pedestrians in the area of the light pole were injured.
As the investigation continues, police and other officials will attempt to determine why two vehicles traveling in opposite directions were in the same intersection at the same time and whether either driver failed to follow the law while driving. It is possible that tickets may be issued if the investigation shows negligence on the part of anyone involved in the crash.
If you have been involved in a car accident in Chicago or in the surrounding suburbs, know that you may be entitled to relief for your damages, including your medical bills. These claims must be brought within a period of time specified by Illinois law so you should consider contacting a personal injury lawyer now to make sure your rights are protected.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe that every victim deserves to have a legal advocate on their side, fighting for their rights. We have put our experience to use through our representation of numerous car crash victims and we are standing by to help you as well. Call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 for a free, no obligation telephone consultation regarding your accident and your rights. We are standing by 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to take your call and to help you whenever you need answers.
If you have been injured, call the car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today.
Prior Blog Entry:
Bicycles Take Over Parts of Chicago As Summer Weather Arrives, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published May 27, 2014.
Resource:
Car crashes into Morton Grove home, by Jonathan Bullington, Chicago Tribune, published May 28, 2014.