An 89-year-old Evanston man died following a one-car accident during which he crashed into a tree in Skokie. According to Skokie Fire Chief Ralph Czerwinski, the man was driving a sedan east on Dempster Street near McCormick Boulevard when he unexpectedly crossed the westbound lanes and struck a tree on the side of the roadway. Although the motorist was reportedly conscious when paramedics arrived, the man allegedly went into cardiac arrest after emergency crews placed him on a backboard stretcher. The elderly driver was reportedly transported to Saint Francis Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The exact cause of the daytime traffic accident is currently under investigation by the Skokie Police Department. Inclement weather reportedly does not appear to have played a role in the collision. Authorities stated it is unclear whether the crash occurred following a medical emergency.
Motor vehicle accidents often occur unexpectedly. Although tragic, it is fortunate that no one else was injured in this particular crash. A vehicle collision may be caused by any number of factors including driver inattention, impairment, recklessness, or even a medical emergency such as a heart attack.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about eight percent of all traffic wrecks across the United States in 2008 involved a motorist over the age of 65. Still, approximately 15 percent of people killed in vehicle crashes were senior citizens. In addition, almost one-fifth of all pedestrian deaths in 2008 involved an elderly American. Approximately 80 percent of traffic deaths in 2008 for individuals over the age of 65 occurred during the day and about 69 percent involved another automobile. NHTSA data also suggests that elderly drivers are more likely to use a safety belt and less likely to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs than any other motorist age group.
Normally, drivers in the State of Illinois are required to renew their operator’s license once every four years. Once a motorist reaches age 81 the renewal process accelerates. Drivers between the ages of 81 and 86 are required to renew an Illinois license every two years. Once a motorist reaches age 87, he or she must renew an operator’s license every year. In addition, Illinois drivers who are 75 or older are also obligated to take a road test each time they renew a license. If you were hurt in a traffic wreck that was caused by a senior or other driver, you are advised to contact a quality car accident lawyer as soon as you are able.
If you were involved in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, you should contact the experienced lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. Our committed Chicago Metro car accident attorneys are available every day of the week to answer your questions and help you file your personal injury or wrongful death case. Our capale lawyers have years of experience advocating on behalf of clients who were hurt by another driver throughout the Chicago area. To speak with a competent personal injury attorney today, do not hesitate to give Abels & Annes, P.C. a call at (312) 475-9596. You may also contact us through the law firm’s website.
More Blogs:
Research Claims Drivers in Illinois and Across the Continent are More Likely to be Hurt in a Crash While Taking High Doses of Opioid Painkillers, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, January 26, 2013
Three Killed, One Critically Injured in Crash in Chicago’s Roseland Neighborhood, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, January 24, 2013
Additional Resources:
Evanston man dies following Skokie car crash, Chicago Tribune
Evanston Man Dies Following Single Car Crash in Skokie, by George Slefo, Evanston Patch