The state of Illinois is home to over 10 million registered vehicles including cars, trucks, vans, and buses. Any one of those 10 million vehicles may be involved in a collision, and many of those collisions will result in injuries or even death to the drivers and passengers involved.
Some car accidents in Chicago are due to factors beyond the control of those drivers involved. Yet contrary to popular belief, the majority of collisions take place due to an error or negligence on the part of one or more driver, whether the negligence stems from speeding, failing to pay attention, or even driving while distracted. If negligence is to blame for an accident that causes injuries, the victims of that crash may be entitled to relief. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer who has experience representing car accident victims may help you understand whether you have a valid claim for your accident, and if so, what types of relief may be possible in your case.
Illinois State Troopers were alerted to a multi-vehicle crash on Friday on eastbound I-80. Though early in the investigation, police believe that an eastbound SUV rear-ended a Dodge which caused a chain reaction crash involving two other vehicles. The crash caused the driver of the SUV to lose control of his vehicle, which rolled at least once before coming to a rest on its roof.
Emergency medical personnel responded to the crash and evaluated all four drivers involved. The driver of the SUV suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The driver of the Dodge, a 50-year-old man, was transported to South Suburban Medical Center where he died shortly thereafter. The drivers of the other two vehicles were taken to hospitals as well but it was believed to be for precautionary measures and both are expected to recover.
The collision caused all lanes of eastbound I-80 to be shut down beginning at approximately 1:30 pm while police investigated and crews worked to clear the debris. Traffic was restored slowly to the area with all lanes reopening by 4:30 pm.
The impact felt by a car accident can reach not only those who are directly injured but also their family members, loved ones, friends, and coworkers. But those who are injured in Chicago-area crashes are not without relief.
Victims can seek financial compensation through the use of a civil claim for damages and can be helped by retaining a personal injury lawyer. At Abels & Annes, P.C., we focus our legal career on the representation of those harmed by others and we are ready to help you. We have a licensed lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575.
If you have been hurt in an accident, let us help you get the relief you deserve. Call us today for a free case consultation.
Prior Blog Entry:
Actor Tracy Morgan Sues Wal-Mart Over Truck Accident, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 13, 2014.
Resource:
1 killed, 1 hurt in I-80 crash, Chicago Tribune, published June 11, 2014.