Pedestrians are a part of Chicago and are as common of a sight as taxi cabs, L trains, and city buses. Yet despite the fact that pedestrians are on the streets 365 days a year, their rights to walk are often ignored or understated by other types of individuals, including drivers. The laws that apply to Chicago-area drivers and pedestrians are clear and set forth who possesses the right-of-way and at what time. If everyone in a given area obeyed every rule at all times, odds are that a pedestrian accident would never materialize. However, in today’s busy world, collisions continue to occur between these groups of travelers and in almost all situations, pedestrians are left to bear the physical damage from a crash.
After an accident happens, a victim who sustains injuries cannot magically erase all the suffering he or she must endure. That victim cannot reverse time or undue the negligent conduct that led to a crash. But the victim may be able to move forward from the incident without greater suffering or additional harm if she chooses to seek financial compensation through the use of a civil claim for damages. This type of relief is available in many of the pedestrian accidents that happen in Chicago and can provide payment for losses like medical bills and missed wages. If you have questions, you may get the answers you need by speaking with a personal injury attorney about the law and its impact on your personal rights.
Chicago police officers were called to the scene of a hit-and-run accident in the city on Tuesday and upon arrival, they confirmed that the suspected driver involved struck a pedestrian. The incident occurred near the 3400 block of North Harlem Avenue shortly before 6:30 p.m. when a four door sedan approached a middle-aged pedestrian and struck the woman. Emergency crews also responded to the incident and assessed the victim for injuries. After an initial assessment in the field, the woman was transported to an area hospital for greater treatment where her injuries were considered critical.
Though a vehicle was involved in this incident, the driver allegedly did not stay at the scene but instead fled the area and has not been apprehended at this time. Police are looking to speak with the driver and with the vehicle’s owner if they are not the same person but at this time, no contact has been made. If the driver is located, the police will attempt to determine whether the driver erred in conduct prior to the impact and if so, what charges may be brought in response.
If a pedestrian accident has left you injured or claimed the life of your loved one, you have first-hand knowledge of the devastation these incidents can cause. The personal injury lawyers share this knowledge because of our dedicated representation of only those who have been harmed by the actions of others, including hit-and-run victims and their family members. We want to put our knowledge and our experience to use for you.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we have a lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to take your call toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and if you have been injured, we will offer you a free case consultation without any obligation on your part. Everything discussed will be kept confidential and there is no catch – simply call us today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Semi-Truck Crash on I-88 Leaves One in Serious Condition, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 20, 2015.
Resource:
Woman critically hurt after hit-and-run on Northwest Side, by Alexandra Chachkevitch, Chicago Tribune, published February 24, 2015.