Thousands of different factors can lead to or even cause a car accident in Chicago. While the possibilities are nearly endless, some are more frequent than others. Among common collision-related factors are failing to yield the right-of-way, following too closely for safety, and ignoring a traffic control device like a traffic light or stop sign. Yet the most common factor believed to be present in accidents across the nation, though, is speeding. According to national studies and surveys, speed is believed to be a factor in nearly 50 percent of all collisions, whether it is a contributing factor or the sole cause. Despite the clear evidence that speed can be dangerous, a large number of drivers surveyed continue to admit that they speed on occasion and that they find it safer than some other traffic-related issues.
When a collision occurs, the laws in Chicago and in Illinois make it clear that the person responsible for the accident, whether it is an at-fault driver, an owner of a car, or even a corporation or company, should bear the financial costs of all the damages that result. This means that victims may be entitled to payment for their losses to help them recover financially as well as helping them secure the medical help they need. It is the right of victims to seek this compensation but these claims must be brought within a time period specified by the law, so if you have been involved in an accident, you may want to speak with a personal injury lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected if you have a valid claim.
Late Friday night, a collision occurred on the Dan Ryan Expressway near 87th Street that involved two vehicles and led to the amputation of a victim’s hand, according to Illinois State Police. At this time, witnesses have reported that a vehicle driven by a 21-year-old man shortly after 10:00 p.m. was speeding when it collided with a second car driven by a 59-year-old woman. The impact send the woman’s car rolling and it came to a stop on its hood. According to witnesses, the 21-year-old male driver initially left his car and ran to the car of the victim but then fled the scene when police arrived. The suspect’s license plates were noted before he fled, though, and authorities arrested the man a short time later. At this time, the suspect has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident but more charges are possible depending on the outcome of a blood alcohol test and an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
The 59-year-old driver of the second vehicle was seriously injured in the accident and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital. Among her injuries was serious damage to her hand and doctors had to amputate it. Her current condition and the rest of her injuries are not known at this time.
The frightening thing about car accidents is that every driver and passenger is forced to trust others on the road, whether or not those other motorists should be trusted. The safest driver in Chicago still may be involved in a crash if someone else is driving recklessly or negligently and failing to consider safety while behind the wheel.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we are a law firm comprised of dedicated personal injury lawyers who fight for the best possible outcome in every case we handle. We work hard for our clients and if you have been injured in a collision, we want to work hard for you. We offer a free case consultation to those who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we keep a licensed lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
Accidents happen. If one happens to you and you are hurt, call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us fight for the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Star of TLC’s Cake Boss Arrested for Driving while Intoxicated, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published November 13, 2014.
Resource:
Woman’s hand amputated after crash, prosecutors say, by Michelle Manchir, Chicago Tribune, published November 16, 2014.