When a car accident happens, it can be difficult to know exactly what factors led to the impact and whether any driver involved acted in a negligent or reckless manner. Some cases may appear to be cut and dry, like when a car runs a red light. Yet in some cases, underlying facts may exist that may not immediately meet the eye. From mechanical failures to inclement weather to poor road designs, car accidents can be caused by factors beyond the actions of an individual driver.
Victims of traffic accidents in the Chicago area cannot undo the damage that was done to them but they may be entitled to seek financial relief for their sufferings. Civil claims can enable these victims to receive payment for their medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering but only if a victim takes the affirmative steps necessary to obtain this relief. Claims must be brought pursuant to local and state laws and will be barred if not brought in a timely manner so if you have been hurt, consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago to learn whether you have a valid claim, and if so, how to proceed with your case.
The lives of several people were affected on Sunday morning when a collision involving five vehicles occurred in Joliet. The crash occurred on I-80 near mile post 132 shortly after 11:00 a.m. and left one person dead. At this time, police believe that a 65-year-old man traveling westbound may have crossed into the lanes marked for eastbound traffic, causing a collision that involved four other vehicles.
It is unclear why the 65-year-old driver allegedly entered the wrong lanes of traffic but authorities have confirmed that the man lost his life as a result of the accident. All others involved were assessed for injuries though the nature and extent of those losses remains unknown at this time.
Victims of Illinois car accidents may have multiple claims that can enable them to obtain full and adequate compensation for the injuries they incur. When a victim loses his or her life, the right to seek and obtain relief may pass to that victim’s surviving family members, though no amount of money can ever be considered adequate when someone is killed.
The personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. have been representing car accident victims for decades and if you or your family member has been hurt in a collision, we want to help you as well. We have a lawyer available at all hours of the day and night to take your call toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and that lawyer will speak to you about your specific accident. We offer a free case consultation to all injury victims who call us and we provide it without any obligation on the part of the injured – if you have been hurt, we simply want to help.
All of the lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. handle exclusively injury cases and we only represent victims. Because we believe in fighting for those who have been hurt, we never represent insurance companies and we will always fight for the best possible outcome in any case we handle. If we can help you, call us now and let us assist you toward a path of recovery.
Prior Blog Entry:
May is National Bike Month, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published April 1, 2015.
Resource:
1 dead in 5-vehicle crash in Will County, by Carlos Sadovi, Chicago Tribune, published May 3, 2015.