Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
The words “driving under the influence” make many drivers in Chicago think of someone who consumes alcohol and then drives a car while over the legal blood alcohol limit of .08. That is one way that a driver can be guilty of a DUI but far from the only way. The laws in Illinois prohibit any driver from operating a vehicle under the influence of any intoxicating substance. Though this includes alcohol, it also includes street drugs and can include prescription drugs in some cases. If the substance can influence a driver’s ability to operate a car, it is likely illegal for a motorist to use the substance and drive.
Ignoring the law and driving while intoxicated on some substance is a serious offense. It can result in traffic or even criminal charges and can cause a driver to lose a license, pay fines and court costs, and even spend time in jail or prison. The worst punishments tend to be linked to repeated violations of the law and in situations where an impaired driver causes an accident that leaves others injured or even killed. If a crash leaves innocent victims behind, those hurt by the impaired driver can also bring a civil claim for their damages, seeking compensation for things like medical bills, pain and suffering, or even loss of companionship when a loved one dies. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand what options may be available to you after an accident occurs.
Now, police in Naperville have reported that a fatal bicycle collision that occurred in September may have involved a driver with drugs in his system. The incident, which occurred near the intersection of Freedom Drive and Diehl Road, involved a crash between a 26-year-old male driver of a Nissan and a 56-year-old woman on a bicycle. Though emergency crews responded and transported the woman to Edward Hospital, her injuries were too severe and she later died as a result of the crash.
Police began an investigation into the incident and determined that the 36-year-old male driver had illegal drugs in his system at the time of the collision, contrary to and in violation of Illinois law. He was recently arrested and charged with aggravated driving under the influence of drugs, a charge that may result in incarceration if he is convicted. At this time, it is not known what controlled substance was found in the man’s system. The driver has since been released on bond and will appear in court in early February to face the charges.
The attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. understand how an accident with an impaired driver can change many lives forever. From the victim of the crash to the victim’s loved ones, the impact can be significant and even permanent. We believe that those injured through the negligent or reckless conduct of another deserve an advocate on their side to help protect their rights and to fight for a fair and adequate recovery.
We offer a free case consultation to all injury victims who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we have a lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call. If an accident has left you injured, make sure your interests are protected. Call us today and let us help you get a recovery you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyers Settle Claim for $100,000, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published January 8, 2014.
Resource:
Aurora man charged in September traffic death in Naperville, Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, published January 9, 2014.