Chicago is an area with a lot of seasonal motorcycle riding. The cold and wet winters make riding an uncommon means of transportation but the seasonal temperatures in summer bring out riders by the hundreds. Annually, this catches some motor vehicle drivers by surprise when a significant increase in motorcycles hit the road. But it should be no surprise as every driver is charged with the duty to take note of traffic around them, including motorcycles if they are present in an area.
Drivers who fail to operate in a safe manner may be guilty of negligent driving, a term that encompasses nearly any kind of unintentional error made behind the wheel. Whether that driver is on a cell phone, failing to pay attention to slowing traffic, or even speeding, a negligent driver is likely to cause a collision. When a biker is hurt in a motorcycle accident in Chicago, that biker may be entitled to legal relief for his or her injuries, including compensation to cover any medical bills that must be incurred. Speaking with a lawyer who has experience representing victims of motorcycle accidents may help you understand whether you have a valid claim, regardless of whether the other driver involved received a traffic ticket in the crash.
Indiana State Police officers received notice of a motorcycle accident that took place on Interstate 80 on Monday night. It appears that a 36-year-old man was riding eastbound from an entrance ramp when he came upon a semi truck in front of him. For reasons that are still being investigated, the biker collided with the back of the semi truck, sending the biker off his motorcycle and crashing to the ground. The driver of the semi truck was not injured and did not even realize that his trailer had been struck, leading the driver to continue eastbound.
The incident took place around 10:30 p.m. and garnered a response from emergency medical crews who evaluated the driver and transported him to an area hospital. A short time later, the man was again transported to John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County where doctors attempted to save him. Unfortunately, the victim’s injuries were too severe and he was pronounced dead shortly before 1:00 a.m. on Monday.
Police believe the victim may have lost control of his motorcycle, leading to the crash with the semi, but they are not sure what caused the man to lose control. They are still investigating the incident.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or if your loved one has been killed, you may be entitled to relief for your damages. Call the injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us provide you with a free, no obligation telephone consultation regarding your accident, your injuries, and your legal rights. We are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and everything discussed will be kept confidential.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, call us today and let us help you get the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Long Grove Head-On Crash Sends 2 Adults to the Hospital, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published May 12, 2014.
Resource:
Motorcyclist dies after NW Indiana crash, by Adam Sege, Chicago Tribune, published May 13, 2014.