Pedestrians are at risk for collisions anytime they are near the drivers of automobiles. While the laws in Illinois are strict regarding who has the right-of-way and who must yield in instances when pedestrians and cars cross paths, too often, those laws are ignored by drivers and pedestrians suffer the consequences when a crash takes place. A staggering 19 percent of all pedestrian fatalities caused in traffic accidents were the result of hit-and-run drivers in the nation in 2012, a reminder that pedestrians are not only at risk for a crash but also at a serious risk of being ignored by an at-fault driver if a collision occurs.
Pedestrian accidents affect thousands in Chicago and in Illinois every year and cause many victims to suffer financial hardships in addition to the pain and suffering that comes with the injuries they sustain. When a hit-and-run driver is involved, victims may not understand whether they have a valid claim or whether they can obtain relief for their losses, but in Chicago, relief often is possible. Speaking with a personal injury attorney may help you further understand what options are available to you, regardless of whether a fleeing driver was later apprehended.
Police in Morton Grove have confirmed that a collision occurred on Monday night between a pedestrian and a hit-and-run driver and that the pedestrian lost his life as a result. The incident occurred near the intersection of Shermer Road and Harlem and caused officials to close the area to traffic in the area while they began their investigation on site; however, the area was reopened a short time later.
Emergency medical personnel were also on hand Monday and they evaluated the pedestrian, described as an 86-year-old male. His injuries were extreme and he was transported to Lutheran General Hospital for treatment but the victim died a short time later. At this time, police have not yet identified the driver or the owner of the vehicle that was involved in the crash and they are looking for help from the public or from anyone with information on this incident. Authorities believe that the suspected vehicle may have significant front-end damage caused by the crash and that anyone who believes they have information should call the Morton Grove Police Department.
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents plague the city of Chicago and the surrounding areas as many people walk and many others drive, leading to congestion and the inevitable interaction between these groups. While pedestrians and cars may use the same intersections or same areas, that does not mean that accidents must occur; rather, the majority of these collisions involve an error or negligence on the part of one or more individuals and can lead to charges as a result.
In addition to any citations levied by local police, responsible drivers may be held financially liable for the full extent of the damages that result, including the injuries incurred by a victim. If your life has been affected by a crash or if your loved one was injured or killed, make sure you know your options by calling the law firm of Abels & Annes, P.C. today.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we provide a case consultation without any cost and without any obligation to those who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we have a lawyer standing by 24/7/365. If we can help you or if you have questions about a Chicago pedestrian accident, do not hesitate. Call us now and let us fight for the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Alleged Wrong Way Driver Caused Fatal Car Accident in Forest Park, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published January 12, 2015.
Resource:
Pedestrian Killed In Morton Grove Hit-And-Run Near Shermer, Harlem, ABC7Chicago.com, published January 12, 2015.