Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Bus accidents can vary from minor to severe and can result in anywhere from no injuries to multiple serious injuries or even death. Buses are bigger and heavier than the majority of vehicles on the road and as a result, the damages incurred in a bus crash have a tendency to be large, meaning that in addition to any injuries, property damage to other vehicles may result.
Bus accidents in Chicago can be complicated because often the passengers on the bus as well as individuals in other cars involved in the crash are injured, and it becomes the job of local officials to sort out who caused the accident and whether the crash could have been avoided. When a collision is due to a mistake or negligence on the part of one or more drivers, those injured may be able to seek relief for their damages through the use of a civil claim. These claims are separate and distinct from any charges brought by the state of Illinois and they seek monetary compensation on behalf of a victim, allowing that injured person to get the medical treatment and care needed. Speaking with an injury lawyer is the best way to learn whether you may be entitled to relief after your accident.
Unfortunately there was an accident in Will County yesterday morning between a Pace bus and two cars, leaving one person dead and injuring at least three others. Though it is early in their investigation, police suspect that a white Kia crossed the center line while driving on Renwick Road and entered a lane of oncoming traffic, causing a collision with a Pace bus and then a blue Ford. Multiple agencies responded to the scene of the crash to help those who were injured and four people, including the three drivers involved and one bus passenger, were transported to area hospitals for treatment. The driver of the Kia sustained critical injuries and later died as a result. The driver’s identity is not currently known.
The other three individuals received medical treatment in Joliet and were expected to survive though their current conditions are not clear.
Investigators are continuing to review the facts of the crash and trying to determine exactly what happened before the initial impact, including why the driver of the Kia allegedly crossed the center line. They are speaking with those involved in the crash in an effort to understand the events of the collision better and to determine what ultimately caused the first impact.
If you have been involved in an accident with a bus and you sustained injuries, you may be entitled to pursue a claim for your injuries against the at-fault driver, whether that is the driver of a bus or the driver of another vehicle involved. Often, there may be multiple people or entities responsible for a collision who may be held liable by a court of law. Speaking with an injury lawyer experienced in bus accident cases is a good way to start learning about what options exist for you.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we have experience representing many victims of bus accidents, both those who were passengers on a bus and those who were in a car that was hit by a bus. We are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to see if we can help you as well. We offer a free case consultation to all injury victims who call us at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we never charge a fee unless we make a recovery on a case. There is no obligation on your part, so please call us today and take advantage of our free consultation.
Prior Blog Entry:
Actor Chris Kattan Arrested After Suspected DUI Crash in California, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 11, 2014.
Resource:
1 dead, 3 hurt injured (sic) when 2 cars, Pace bus crash, Chicago Tribune, published February 12, 2014.