Drunk driving accidents pose a danger to those who are under the influence of alcohol, those who may be in their cars, or even others who happen to be in the area of a drunk driver. Avoiding a car unfortunately is not a fool proof way to avoid a collision as pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists may be injured in a crash in the greater Chicago area or across the nation. Too often, it is an innocent victim who is hurt and forced to deal with the damages after the dust settles on a drunk driving crash.
Victims may be at the mercy of the actions of others but in the event of a collision, they may be entitled to seek relief for their damages. Through the use of a civil claim, victims may be entitled to obtain financial compensation for losses including medical expenses, surgical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago may help you understand your options for relief, including whether you have a valid claim for your injuries.
Friday afternoon, a woman was killed in a St. Charles car accident that is believed to have been caused by a drunk driver. The incident took place near Timbers Trail and North 2nd Avenue shortly after 2:00 p.m. and involved one northbound and one southbound vehicle. Local officials believe that a 23-year-old man was traveling southbound when he crossed the center line and struck the second vehicle, which was driven by a woman. The woman sustained critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital for emergency treatment; unfortunately, the crash caused injuries too extreme and she died a short time later.
Police questioned the male driver of the first vehicle and determined he was under the influence at the time of the crash. He was arrested and is facing multiple charges including aggravated driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance. It is not clear whether the driver was intoxicated or was under the influence of drugs at this time but police have reported that he was driving on a suspended license and therefore should not have been operating the vehicle at all. The driver is awaiting an initial court appearance at this time.
Drunk driving crashes and collisions involving drugged. Drivers are a serious threat to the safety of everyone. Not only are these action illegal but they also can lead to serious or permanent damages to those involved. The worst crashes may claim the life of a victim, and this damage can never be made right.
The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. believe in fighting for the rights of victims, and if you have been hurt, we want to fight for you. We offer a free case consultation without any obligation to those who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we provide it 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we will keep everything discussed during the free consultation confidential and if we represent you, we will never charge a fee unless we make a recovery in your case. Our goal is to obtain the best possible outcome in every case and we fight for your rights. Call us today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Tips for a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published November 25, 2014.
Resource:
Man Charged With DUI After Fatal Head-On Crash, CBS Chicago, published November 29, 2014.