The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 18 percent of all fatal pedestrian traffic accidents involve a hit-and-run driver, or nearly one if five fatal crashes. In Illinois, including Chicago, it is illegal to leave the scene of a crash without being authorized to do so by police except in limited situations, but drivers continue to do so every year regardless of the consequences. Hit-and-run accidents often leave behind victims who are too hurt to call for help, meaning that a fleeing driver is the only chance these victims have of getting the help they need. Fleeing drivers deny victims the ability to get help and for that reason, the laws of the state assess harsh penalties against hit-and-run drivers who are apprehended. Doing so can be a felony and if a victim dies in the accident, the fleeing motorist may face between three and 14 years in prison for his or her actions.
Whether a fleeing driver is caught or not, the victims of these accidents and their family members may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries, including the medical bills they incur. If a driver is later identified, it is possible that multiple claims may exist and may enable that victim to obtain all the relief he or she deserves. Speaking with a personal injury attorney in Chicago may help you understand your options if a fleeing driver left you hurt or if you suffered.
A collision between a speeding SUV and a pedestrian in Waukeegan on Sunday night initially left the victim critically injured. Now, authorities have confirmed that the victim lost his life due to the injuries he sustained.
The incident happened shortly before midnight near Butrick Street and Tamera Court. A group of pedestrians were walking in the area when witnesses say that a speeding SUV approached the group and struck a 21-year-old man, leaving him critically injured. The victim was taken to Vista Medical Center East for emergency treatment following the accident. Though doctors were able to improve the man’s condition, his injuries proved too severe and he died three days after the crash.
The driver of the SUV involved in the accident fled the scene northbound and has not yet been identified or apprehended. Waukeegan police are asking for help from the public and encouraging anyone with information to come forward and report what they know. if the driver is identified, it is possible that the motorist will face multiple charges for the role he or she played in the collision.
Being involved in a car accident is always an unfortunate and distressing event but if you are involved in a hit-and-run crash, it may seem even worse that another driver fled the scene without following the laws. If your loved one loses his or her life in a hit-and-run crash, you may be left to wonder whether the fleeing driver’s actions affected the outcome of your loved one’s injuries.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., our personal injury team is standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call and to help you understand what options may be available to you if you have been involved in a collision. We offer a free case consultation to those who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and there is no obligation on your part for speaking with us.
If an accident has affected your life, do not let your rights be ignored. Call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us fight for the relief you deserve to compensate you for your damages.
Prior Blog Entry:
Parking Lot Accident in Chicago Leaves Teenage Pedestrian Injured, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published December 16, 2014.
Resource:
North Chicago 21-year-old dies after hit-and-run in Waukeegan, by Frank Abderholden, Chicago Tribune, published December 18, 2014.