Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Earlier in August, the Chicago Tribune published an article entitled “Head’s up, everyone,” that discusses the prevalence of pedestrian accidents at crosswalks and what the City is doing to reduce them. According to the article, most Chicago pedestrians assume that when the walk signal on the stop light is illuminated, it is completely safe to go ahead and cross the street because pedestrians have the right-of-way, and drivers are supposed to yield to them. The article continues on and says that almost 80% of all Chicago pedestrian-automobile accidents happens at intersections, where pedestrians feel the most safe to cross the street.

The article also calls attention to some alarming statistics that the Chicago Tribune recently reported on. According to that analysis, there were “17,847 crashes involving 18,376 pedestrians” between 2005 and 2009. The City is realizing the seriousness of these numbers, and considering ways to prevent, and reduce them. The City’s plan includes identifying key places to focus on, whether it be because that area is known for hosting many crashes, whether the infrastructure in that area needs to be re-engineered, or if a certain neighborhood in that area needs education regarding pedestrian accidents.

Cab drivers also play a large role in pedestrian accidents. They were involved in close to one-third of pedestrian accidents in Chicago’s business district, the Chicago Tribune reports. Knowing this information, local officials can better tailor their efforts to specific areas in order to reduce pedestrian accidents involving taxis. Not only were cab drivers a big contributor to these types of accidents, but teenagers were involved, too. The same study also revealed that 15-year-olds to 18-year-olds caused the highest number of pedestrian-car accident victims. This is where the city’s education plan comes into play.

Our Chicago pedestrian attorneys support the City’s efforts to improve safety at crosswalks. We also encourage our readers to be attentive pedestrians and to be alert when crossing the road. Avoid iPods, smartphones, and text messages while crossing the street. It is also important to pay attention to stop lights, and not only the color of the light, but the cars around the intersection. If there is no light, you have the right-of-way, however cars may not always abide by that so stay as focused and alert as possible. The Illinois Rules of the Road state that pedestrians must yield by following traffic lights, signals, and use crosswalks. However, it continues to say that a driver needs to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians when there are no traffic signs or signals, when making turns (such as a right turn on a red light), when they are in the crosswalk, when there is a “walk” sign illuminated, to Illinois Department of Transportation workers, and finally to people with disabilities.

Continue reading " City of Chicago Makes Plans to Reduce Chicago Pedestrian-Car Accidents " »

Over the weekend, the Chicago Tribune reported a Lake County motorcycle accident involving two passengers. A motorcyclist was driving, with his daughter as a passenger, when they hit a car while turning left. The motorcyclist was killed in the accident, and his young daughter was seriously injured.

Motorcycle safety information is not only important for motorcyclists, but also important for all drivers to be aware of how to operate safely when sharing the road with motorcyclists. Although in this accident it sounds like the motorcycle driver was at fault, in many instances motorcycle accidents can happen because drivers may not be able to see motorcycles, especially if their undivided attention is not on the road.

Also, this example highlights the importance of helmet use for motorcyclists. Although motorcyclists are not required under Illinois law to wear them, our Illinois injury attorneys strongly support helmet use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2008 in Illinois, there were a total of 121 motorcycle riders killed. Of those 121 riders, only 25% were wearing helmets, and 74% were not. Though helmets cannot protect motorcyclists from all accident related injuries, perhaps if some of these victims had worn helmets, they could have had suffered less serious injuries. The article continues to say, “Helmets are estimate to be 37-percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders”. Motorcyclists are not protected by a hard exterior, like a car, so they must rely on their helmets and other gear (i.e. goggles, boots, gloves, denim, leather, etc.) for protection.

Another factor in this accident was that the motorcycle was making a left turn. Left turns are always tricky, especially at an intersection with a traffic signal. If a traffic light turns yellow while a driver is waiting in an intersection to turn left, there can certainly be a potential collision if drivers do not yield. The Illinois Rules of the Road claim that over half of all motorcycle accidents happen at intersections. They continue to say that the most common situation in which a motorcycle accident occurs is when an “oncoming automobile makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle.” Drivers should always watch for motorcyclists and other vehicles before turning left. Motorcyclists must follow the rules of the road just like all other drivers, and the Illinois Rules of the Road say that when turning left, always signal and follow traffic signs. The rules also say that motorcyclists should always yield the right-of-way to vehicles currently in an intersection, including checking oncoming traffic, even if it may be your turn to make the turn, in order to avoid an accident.

Continue reading " Lake County Motorcycle Accident Illustrates Importance of Motorcycle Safety " »

Over the weekend, NBCChicago recounted an Illinois car accident that occurred on the Bishop Ford Freeway. An 18-year-old man, his mother (a mother of five), and another man, were all killed in a car accident that happened during the early hours of Sunday morning. It appears that the car accident happened because the victims’ car was either moving very slowly or stopped in the middle lane when an oncoming SUV rear-ended their car. The man driving the SUV claims that he did not notice the car because their lights were not on. His daughter was a passenger in his car, and neither of them suffered from any serious injuries; they were both wearing seatbelts. NBCChicago says that even hours after the crash, “there were no indications that drugs, speeding or alcohol were to blame”.

The teen driver who died was not wearing a seat belt, but his mother and the other man were. It is reported that the teenager’s mother was a wonderful caretaker, with incredible strength and faith. Reports from NBCChicago, the Chicago Tribune, and CBSChicago all conclude that the cause of the car stalling is currently unknown and it does not sound like any particular driver was at fault.

Although we are unsure of if this accident could’ve been avoided or not, it is important to know what to do if your call should stall in the middle of a lane. According to RoadSense, if possible you should try to safely signal and move to the shoulder of the road. You should then put on your emergency lights. Monitoring your fuel level and keeping your car maintained can help prevent this from happening. As discussed in previous posts, it is crucial to move your car safely away from traffic if a problem should arise. Also, if you witness a stalled car, or a driver that may need help, make sure to pull over away from traffic as well, and cautiously walk over to try to help. If necessary, call 911. We hope that readers will use this knowledge if their car should stall or if they witness an accident of this type.

If you have been a victim in a rear-end accident or have lost a loved one due to a negligent driver, our Illinois accident attorneys may be able to help you receive fair compensation. When a loved one is wrongfully killed, a lawsuit can be filed to help you seek fair compensation and justice for your loss. Contact our Illinois car accident lawyers to see how we may be able to help you.

NBCChicago reported a Chicago bike accident that occurred earlier this week involving a drunk driver and a cyclist. The driver has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence, aggravated fleeing police, leaving the scene of a fatal accident, and reckless homicide. The car collided with the bike, killing the cyclist due to multiple injuries. The driver fled the scene, however police found him near the crash. The report continues to state that in addition to aggravated DUI and fleeing the scene, the driver ignored a stop sign, was driving without a license, and did not have insurance. The driver is currently being held without bond.

This story once again illustrates the dangers of driving under the influence. As we have discussed in previous posts, our Chicago bicycle accident attorneys believe that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a very serious charge and should not be taken lightly. We hope that by publicizing DUI accidents, readers will see how many preventable injuries and deaths occur each month in the Chicago area. We hope our readers will use this knowledge to help raise awareness surrounding this problem. Driving intoxicated, from any substance, can not only harm you, but it also endangers other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Additionally, this story brings up the issues surrounding hit and run accidents. There are a number of reasons why drivers decide to leave the scene of an accident, but it is always a poor decision, and can lead to serious charges. In this case, the driver should have not left the scene of the accident, but probably did so because he was intoxicated and driving without a license and feared arrest. According to the Illinois Vehicle Code, “The driver of any vehicle involved in a motor vehicle accident resulting in personal injury to or death of any person shall immediately stop such vehicle at the scene of such accident, or as close thereto as possible and shall then forthwith return to, and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident.” Our Chicago injury attorneys encourage drivers involved in an accident, to pull over safely, and call an emergency number. Doing so may help the victim get the medical attention he or she needs sooner, and could save a life.

If you have lost a loved one due to another driver’s mistakes, you may be able to take legal action. Filing a lawsuit would not only help you to receive reasonable compensation, but it also allows you to hold wrongdoers responsible for their negligent actions. If you have been a victim in a cycling or car accident, or have lost a loved one in an accident, please contact our Illinois accident lawyers to see how they may be able to help you.

Earlier this week, the NapervilleSun, a Chicago Sun-Times publication, reported on developments surrounding a fatal Illinois car accident. A dentist from Naperville was indicted with two felony counts, both of reckless homicide, for the death of two people, a father and his daughter. The dentist is still in the hospital for injuries he acquired in the accident, but apparently he has a long history of driving charges on his hands. The night of the accident, he was reportedly speeding, crossed the center division, and was driving down the shoulder of the lanes when he drove towards oncoming traffic, striking the father and daughter’s vehicle. The article also continues to say that the Naperville dentist has been charged in previous years with having an open container of alcohol in his car, driving under the influence, and other traffic violations.

Our Illinois injury attorneys encourage all drivers to take all traffic violations seriously, and to acknowledge past mistakes in order to prevent them from occurring again. The reports do not indicate whether the driver was operating on a suspended license from his previous driver, but in some cases even a suspension will not stop someone who has no regard for his/her safety or the safety of others. In Illinois, first time DUI offenders must have a breath-alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) installed if they want to regain driving privileges and this device must be used for six months. However, this terrible accident came six months to the day after his previous DUI arrest on February 6.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also always preventable, and when paired driving recklessly, it is a recipe for disaster. It is crucial to stay focused on other drivers on the road to protect yourself, but victims are often powerless. If this driver had followed the rules of the road and not operated his vehicle under the influence, it is possible that this tragic fatal accident could have been avoided.

If you have been injured due to a negligent driver, or have lost a loved one, you may be able to receive fair compensation and peace of mind for your loss. When you are involved in a crash like this, it is likely that there will be expensive medical fees including doctor’s appointments, medication, surgeries, hospital costs, and other expenses. These costs can add up quickly and become a heavy burden while also in the midst of recovering emotionally and psychologically from the damages a car accident of this sort can leave behind. Please contact our Illinois car accident attorneys to see how we may be able to help you.

Earlier this week, the Chicago Tribune reported an Illinois car accident involving an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) worker and a car driving in McHenry County. The accident occurred during morning traffic, when a sedan driven by an elderly man hit the IDOT worker. The IDOT worker was immediately taken to the hospital, where he was declared dead.

Our Chicago accident lawyers remind readers and clients of the importance of safe driving in work zones. Driving in work zones can be a confusing task and unfamiliar signage, lane change requirements, and extra traffic make it extremely important to pay close attention to the road . We encourage all drivers to read over tips provided by the Illinois Tollway. These tips include avoiding all possible distractions in order to stay focused and alert on the road. This will allow you to read road signs and understand where the zone starts and ends. It is also important to follow the reduced speed limit, driving slowly regardless of if the IDOT workers are there or not. Tailgating is dangerous regardless of if you are in a work zone or not, so it is imperative to avoid that at all times.

All drivers should be reminded that there are costly fines and severe penalties for hitting workers, so all drivers should watch carefully for all types of workers. According to the Illinois Tollway, “the minimum penalty for speeding in a work zone is $375, regardless of whether there are workers present or not. The Move Over/Slow Down Law requires motorists to slow down or move to the next available lane when approaching emergency or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights”.

According to the article, police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, and charges are pending for the driver who caused this tragic car accident in McHenry County. Our Illinois car accident attorneys have successfully handled many cases like this one and note that it is important for motorists on the road to stay focused and alert, to protect themselves, other motorists, IDOT workers, and all pedestrians on the road. If you have been a victim in an Illinois car accident, or have lost a loved one, please contact our Illinois injury attorneys to see how we may help you.

Recently, BND reported on a car-pedestrian accident involving a woman who stopped her vehicle and got out to help the victims of a car crash. That accident occurred when a sedan driven by a drunk driver rear-ended a semi-truck. A couple driving by pulled over to see if the truck driver or drunk driver were injured or needed their help. As the woman was getting out of her car to assist, another sedan hit her and tossed her to the left shoulder of the highway. A paramedic performed CPR, but the woman was declared dead at a nearby hospital. The article reports that the Arkansas couple was on their way to visit family. It is anticipated that the driver who had hit the woman will not face any charges.

Our Chicago accident lawyers know that many people are injured or killed in roadside accidents when they get out of their cars to check a flat tire, are trying to aid another person, or pull over for another reason. AOLAutos suggests six main steps to follow if you witness an accident and decide to pull over to help. First, you should pull as far off the road as possible, and turn on your flashers. Distance yourself from the accident to allow easy access for emergency vehicles and in case of explosions. You should also make sure no one is injured, but remain a safe distance away from the victims and accident. Next, call 911. If possible, help the driver involved in the crash to move the vehicle out of the way of other ongoing traffic. And finally, if you have a camera or cell phone with camera on it with you, take a few pictures to give to the police when they arrive.

When helping others in an accident, it is crucial to stay a safe distance away from ongoing traffic in order to make sure that you yourself stay safe. Our Illinois accident attorneys agree that helping others in a car accident is a noble thing to do, however, it is imperative to make sure that your safety is not at risk as well. If you have been a victim, or know someone who has, due to another driver’s negligence or also while trying to help another motorist, please contact us to see how we may be able to help you.

Our Chicago accident lawyers were not surprised to read a recent report in the Chicago Tribune about the frequency of pedestrian accidents in our city’s crosswalks. The report found that 80 percent of pedestrian accidents in the city occur at crosswalks where pedestrians have a walk signal. Although a new state law passed last year requires drivers to stop at crosswalks for pedestrians, every day we see taxis, trucks and other motorists flat-out ignoring these street markings.

We feel it is crucial to raise awareness surrounding this study to remind drivers to stop for pedestrians in order to reduce the growing number of vehicle-pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians follow traffic signal rules to protect their safety and the safety of others. They expect to crosswalks to provide safe passage, and drivers should honor this system. When drivers ignore these signals, the consequences can be deadly. Pedestrian accidents occur frequently due to negligent drivers, many of whom are distracted distracted due to cell phones, texting, the radio, and other technologies. Because cars are so much larger that people, pedestrians can be seriously injured or even die in pedestrian car accidents.

Our Illinois accident attorneys are well aware of the dangers of Chicago crosswalks. We have helped a number of victims injured in accidents involving the Chicago crosswalk system. One of our successful cases involved a 50-year-old woman who was struck by a bus while she walking through a crosswalk in Chicago. The bus not only hit the woman, but also rolled over her, causing serious injuries. The bus driver pled guilty to failure to exercise due care and striking a pedestrian. She claimed that she never saw the woman in the crosswalk prior to the accident, and wasn’t aware that she had struck or even rolled over the pedestrian until the bus passengers made her stop the bus. Our Illinois accident attorneys settled the lawsuit with the bus company for $1.25 million.

This case is just one example of how we have helped the victims of pedestrian accidents get the justice they deserved. If you have been a victim in a pedestrian accident due to a negligent motorist of any type, or have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, we may be able to help you receive fair compensation. Unfortunately, all too often, drivers are distracted or act aggressively, risking their safety and the safety of those around them. If you or a loved one is harmed in a Chicago pedestrian accident, please contact a Chicago attorney to see how we may be able to help you.

Yesterday, BND reported on a Belleville, Illinois car accident in which an SUV operated by a teenager collided head-on with a van operated by a woman with children in the back. The accident also involved three other cars. The operator of the minivan was airlifted to a hospital with serious, but not life threatening, injuries. The five children in her car were taken by ambulance to a hospital.

The driver of the SUV was a 17-year-old teenager who swerved into the opposite lane for an unknown reason. He also hit another driver who was trying to turn left. After initially hitting the minivan and the driver who was turning left, the cars caused a chain reaction that included two more vehicles that were behind the minivan. The citation for the teenager was improper lane usage, and when taking to police, he recounts, “I don’t remember what happened; I just hit the car.”

New drivers on the road, teenagers specifically, pose a lot of risk to not only themselves but also towards other drivers. Teenage drivers are not only inexperienced compared to veteran drivers, but are also more prone to distractions such as their telephones, texting, social media, friends and music while driving. While it is not confirmed why the teenage driver swerved into the opposite lane, it is not improbable that there were distractions involved.

We encourage teenagers to be involved with programs such as Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) to learn about safe driving practices. Parents should also talk to their teens about safe driving. Many parents take steps to limit the number of passengers their teen drivers can have, but it is difficult for parents to monitor other distractions. As we mentioned in a recent blog post, we also hope car companies and cell phone companies will continue to create new technology that limits the use of certain features whilst driving.

At one time or another, we all will have a teen driver in the family. It is important for teens to learn smart driving practices early, so they develop the skills needed to drive safely throughout their lifetime. Just like all other motorists, teen drivers have a responsibility to obey all traffic laws, signs and should be prepared to react to unusual conditions. When they fail to do so and cause personal injuries to someone else, it is important that they are held responsible. Our Illinois car accident attorneys have successfully handled many cases involving negligent driving, and if you have been a victim or lost a loved one due to another driver’s mistake, we may be able to help you receive fair compensation.

The Chicago Sun-Times reported that charges were filed surrounding a Tinley Park car accident that occurred this weekend involving a drunk driver who lost control of her vehicle causing it to flip over several times. One passenger was ejected from the car and killed. Two of the three surviving passengers in the sedan are currently hospitalized. The driver has been charged with reckless homicide and aggravated drunk driving. The driver’s bail is reported to be set for $150,000. The father of the young teenager who was killed in the accident thinks that the bail is too low considering that his daughter had lost her life due to this negligent driver.

According to the report, the negligent driver’s blood-alcohol count was over twice the legal limit, and an open bottle of alcohol was also found inside the vehicle. Our Illinois accident attorneys know that accidents caused by people who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol are completely preventable and avoidable, and in this instance DUI was likely responsible for the passengers’ serious injuries and the death of the driver’s friend. Aggressive driving paired with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a literal recipe for disaster. When a driver’s reckless behaviors cause others to suffer, victims have a right to seek justice for the harms caused.

Continue reading " Tinley Park Car Accident Results in Teenage Fatality and Leaves Two Injured " »

In warmer weather, there is a tendency to see more bicyclists on the roads, sidewalks, and bike paths. Our Chicago injury attorneys always notice an increase in the number of calls we receive about bicycle accident injuries in the spring and summer. Bicyclists in Illinois are responsible for following rules similar to most other motorists, so we thought it would be helpful to remind our readers-bikers and drivers alike-about basic bike Rules of the Road in Illinois.

Bicyclists should drive in the same direction as other motorists on the road, but in some instances road blockage can cause the cyclist to have to move inward to avoid the obstructions. Bicyclists have the right-of-way on the road when it comes to bicyclists and motorists. If your car is riding next to a bicycle and for whatever reason you are required to pass it, the Illinois Rules of the Road booklet suggests that drivers "do so slowly and leave at least 3 ft. of passing space".

Blog readers may recall that last summer, Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation for bicyclists into law in order to better safeguard cyclists around Illinois. The law, which has recently been established as effective, created penalties for motorists who drive aggressively towards cyclists. We urge motorists to pay close attention to bicyclists, however, it is also crucial that cyclists still operate their bikes safely and wear a fitted helmet to lower their risk for serious injury should accident occur.

When a bike and car are involved in an accident, the bicyclist usually suffers from worse injuries due to the sheer size difference. When drivers are aggressive, disobey road signs or do not pay attention to smaller vehicles or bicycles on the road, a serious accident can occur. If a cyclist is involved, especially one who is not wearing the proper safety equipment such as a helmet, it is probable that the smaller vehicle or bicyclist will suffer from more severe injuries.

Continue reading " Attention to Bicycle Safety Can Reduce Chance of Illinois Car Accident " »

Tailgating is one of the most common causes of Illinois car accidents. The term tailgating refers to when one vehicle follows another vehicle without leaving a safe distance in between. Tailgating, along with speeding, weaving lanes, flashing headlights, and other driving issues, are all considered to be aggressive driving behavior, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These behaviors can lead to increasing fines, suspended licenses, or violations. Most people who tailgate follow too closely because they are in a rush, are trying to speed on the road, or trying to get the car in front of them to move over. This act may seem like a one-time thing and harmless, however it has the potential to create serious Illinois car accidents, leading to possible personal injury or wrongful death.

In the Illinois Rules of the Road booklet, they suggest that drivers use a two-second rule to help regulate a safe driving distance. The rule suggests that all drivers pick a stationary object on the road ahead of them. As soon as the vehicle ahead goes past the stationary object, count two seconds out loud, aiming not to pass the same object within the two-second count. If you do pass the stationary object within the two-second rule, you are considered as following to closely. If the car in front of you brakes suddenly, this can lead to a rear-end accident. It is also important to remember that when being followed to closely by someone else, it is considered aggressive driving to slam on your brakes causing them to either have to swerve or rear-end you. If someone is tailgating your vehicle, try to move over to the next lane slowly or pull off of the road onto the shoulder allowing the tailgating car to pass.

According to the Illinois DMV Vehicle Code, it is stated that, “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.” Not doing so is considered aggressive driving and can result in citations.

Aggressive driving can cause severe accidents, such as pedestrian fatalities, or harm to yourself or other motorists on the road, and even wrongful death. If you have been injured in an accident caused by an aggressive driver, or have lost a loved one due to a negligent driver, you may be able to receive fair compensation and peace of mind knowing that the wrongdoers were held accountable for their actions. Please contact our Illinois accident attorneys to review your potential case.

Yesterday, the Madison St. Clair Record reported on a car accident lawsuit filed by an injured woman against a pizza delivery driver, franchising company and others. The woman claimed that the accident caused her to suffer serious injuries , causing her to incur lost wages and costly medical bills.

The lawsuit alleges that the driver who caused the accident was driving at a high rate of speed and failed to properly control his vehicle. The lawsuit also alleges that he was distracted, most likely by a cell phone or the radio. In another interesting point, the lawsuit alleged that he was speeding to deliver the pizzas in time instead of worrying about the safety of those around him.

The lawsuit also named the franchising company, alleging that they were negligent because they did not determine whether he was a safe driver or not, but rather put speedy deliveries ahead of safety.

Companies who employ drivers have a responsibility to other motorists on the road to ensure that those drivers are safe and do not pose a danger to others on the road. Pizza companies create an environment where delivery time comes before safety, posing a threat to others. In recent years, many companies, including Domino’s, dropped their guarantees after accidents involving reckless delivery drivers drew public attention. Although most people hope for a hot and fresh meal, taste and quality should never come before people’s safety. We hope that lawsuits like these continue to remind restaurants and their drivers that unsafe practices will not go unnoticed.

The suit also names the owner of the vehicle, the owner of the pizza shop, and the owner of the van in which the plaintiff was riding. It is the second lawsuit to come out of this Madison County accident.

Continue reading " Lawsuit Filed Surrounding Madison County Car Accident " »

On Monday, the Chicago Tribune reported on a car accident involving a family who had been planning a car trip to Wisconsin. A mother and son were killed when their vehicle was struck by another vehicle in Jefferson Park. Three others passengers in their car were injured, along with the driver of the other vehicle. His car collided with the family’s vehicle, causing the family to run into a light pole.

In a follow up report, it was noted that the negligent driver was speeding, and was also under the influence of marijuana when the accident occurred. The driver was criminally charged with five felony counts of aggravated driving under the influence, two of them for the wrongful deaths of the mother and her son. He was driving on a suspended license, and was charged with failure to reduce speed and operating a vehicle without insurance. The motorist is still in the hospital from injuries acquired during the crash, however his bond is set at $2 million. The charges report that urine test that had tested positive for marijuana “to a degree that rendered incapable of safely driving”.

As we have talked about many times before on this blog, deaths caused by driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are completely avoidable and preventable. Intoxicated drivers endanger themselves and other motorists and pedestrians on the road. Often this type of driving can lead to serious injuries or even wrongful death. Our >Chicago car accident attorneys agree that driving under the influence is never acceptable, and when those who drive drunk and seriously injure others should be held responsible for their reckless actions.

Continue reading " DUI Accident Kills Two In Jefferson Park " »

The Doings Weekly recently discussed the Illinois texting while driving law, and what police in Chicago’s western suburbs are doing to enforce it. The article reports that in some towns, law enforcement officials have started heavily enforcing the law, while others choose not to enforce it. The reason why some police do not enforce the texting law is because they feel that among driving laws, for example, speeding or driving under the influence, texting while driving does not seem like the most pressing issue.

However, texting while driving is clearly dangerous and should be a priority. In 2009 the Virginia Tech Transportation Institution administered a study that showed texting while driving makes getting in an accident 23 times more likely. Distracted driving is responsible for one-fifth of injury crashes, according to the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration. Some police claim that it’s challenging to decide whether or not someone is texting, dialing a number, changing radio stations, messing with an mp3 player or GPS, etc. However, law enforcement should be taking steps to deter drivers from any form of distracted driving.

The Doings Weekly compares the recent texting law to the required seat belt law that occurred decades ago. Today, the seatbelt law is heavily enforced, and although it is challenging to tell if someone is wearing one or not , police make those calls. The texting law exists to encourage people to create safe driving habits, and to help them better understand the seriousness of driving distracted. Distracted driving can lead to serious Illinois car accidents and personal injuries.

Our Chicago accident attorneys applaud the towns listed in the article that seriously enforce texting while driving laws, including:
• La Grange
• Western Springs
• Hinsdale
• Oakbrook Terrace
• Clarendon Hills
• Burr Ridge

Penalties vary depending on whether or not texting while driving is considered a state law or as the individual community’s ordinance. Usually, when it is enforced as an ordinance, there is a fine that can start from $35.00 and go as high as $165.00. The state offense has an $120.00 fine.

Continue reading " Enforcement of Texting Laws Varies in Chicago Suburbs " »

Yesterday FoxNews reported about the issues posed surrounding teen driving, such as speeding, distractions (cell phones, music, friends), and driving under the influence. When it comes to teen driving, a lecture from a parent, driving instructor, or teacher is not going to influence teens to the point where they avoid texting and social media while driving, along with paying more attention to road signs and rules of the road. The article discusses a study in which Liberty Mutual Insurance and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) discovered that 68% of all teen drivers have had close call accident encounters.

FoxNews continues by talking about how some automobile companies have been working on different ways to reduce the number of close calls by “teen-proofing” their cars with features that “help parents track the location of the car, warn them when they enter danger zones and even set in-car speed limits”. Some of these new technologies allow parents or guardians to limit the top speed that a vehicle can reach, keep the radio turned off until the driver’s seat belt is unfastened, or control the maximum volume limit for the stereo. Additionally, others have a GPS tracking signal that notifies parents when a teen driver is speeding, driving after curfew, or goes somewhere that has been previously set as out of bounds.

SADD is an organization that strives to give students and teens the tools and knowledge needed to make smart decisions by avoiding underage drinking, drug use and other risky driving practices. This organization works to form a community of young people who help and empower each other to make the right decision.

Our Illinois car accident attorneys support SADD’s mission and encourage car companies to continue making adjustments to their automobiles that will help teens become safe drivers on the road. In addition to monitoring technologies, automobile companies should also look for ways to make their vehicle safer through design. Further, our Chicago accident lawyers support ongoing efforts by states to make texting and other forms of distracted driving illegal.

Dangerous teen driving habits can have devastating effects on fellow drivers, and can potentially result in serious or fatal car accidents. We encourage teachers and parents to continue talking to their children about safe driving techniques, however we also applaud celebrities and organizations such SADD, in their efforts to inspire teens to do the right thing on the road.

PJStar reported this week on an Illinois motorcycle accident that resulted in the death of a Peoria couple. The couple was driving home together on a motorcycle during the early morning hours this past Sunday. They were stopped behind a small SUV at a red light when a large SUV hit them from behind, forcing the motorcycle into the SUV in front of them. The couple was sadly killed in this accident, leaving behind two young daughters. The operator of the large SUV fled the scene; however, he was located less than an hour later. He was arrested on two charges, one of reckless homicide, and another of DUI. PJStar adds that the couple on the motorcycle was not wearing helmets, and that the operator of the small SUV was also charged with DUI. The parents of the couple recount tales of memories of their children, and their children’s family. There is no official word if the family will take legal action or not.

We encourage drivers to always pay attention to all other vehicles on the road, including motorcycles, bikes, and smaller vehicles that may be hard to see, especially at night. Along with following road signs and rules of the road, it is the responsibility of all drivers to be aware of the people and vehicles they share the road with. Our Illinois car accident attorneys advise motorcyclists to wear helmets to prevent possible serious injury if an accident should occur. Also, check to make sure that each of your lights is working properly and that you have reflectors on your motorcycle.

All of our readers should take driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol seriously, and to avoid it at all costs. It is much easier to lose focus and collide with other vehicles when you are incoherent due to drugs or alcohol. Our Illinois accident attorneys concur that driving intoxicated is absolutely preventable and avoidable. Not only does it put the driver who is influenced by drugs or alcohol at risk, but it also puts other drivers on the road at risk and can lead to personal injury or wrongful death cases.

Additionally, it is also important to realize that a hit and run accident, caused when the negligent driver flees the scene, is considered aggressive driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Aggressive driving can lead to vehicle impoundment or a “double fine” to give aggressive drivers a penalty and hopefully motivate them to avoid this type of road behavior. Our Illinois car accident lawyers advise that if you are involved in an accident of any kind, you should remain at the scene, and call the authorities immediately.

If you have been a victim in this type of accident, or have lost a loved one due to a negligent driver, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries or loss of a family member. A lawsuit may help you attain some peace of mind and reassurance in knowing that a negligent driver will be held accountable for their wrongdoing. Contact us for a free consultation and case evaluation with one of our lawyers.

NBCChicago reported yesterday that a car travelling in the wrong direction on a Chicago area highway collided with another car head on, causing four cars in total to be involved in the accident. A motorist in a convertible drove in the wrong direction on I-88 and hit a sedan head on. After the two cars initially collided, the sedan hit the median, and the convertible then struck a mini van. A station wagon was also hit with debris.

The motorist in the convertible, a middle aged man, had serious injuries, while two of the three people in the sedan died due to the head-on collision. The driver of the sedan suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital.

The police and coroner’s office are currently in the process of further investigation in this Illinois car accident involving wrongful death, NBCChicago reports, saying that it was not immediately known if any driver had been intoxicated or if drugs or alcohol were involved. However, the driver who caused this terrible accident was clearly negligent for driving the wrong way down a busy highway. Anytime drivers violate traffic laws, ignoring signs and signals, and someone is injured, they can be held accountable for their reckless behavior.

Seriously injured victims of accident such as this, or people who have lost loved ones in motor-vehicle accidents caused by driver negligence, may be able to file a lawsuit. When someone is seriously injured, they may be faced with costly medications, surgeries, ongoing therapy, frequent doctor appointments, and hospital bills. An injured victim could be out of work for months or even years, with the possibility that they could suffer from irreversible injuries. Families of people wrongfully killed must cope not only with their own grief and suffering, but also medical and funeral costs. A personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit can help victims recover the compensation they need and deserve, and also to make an example of the negligent party.

Continue reading " Chicago Car Accident Results in Two Fatalities and Leaves Two Seriously Injured " »

ABCNews recently reported a car accident that resulted in the wrongful death of two taxicab passengers. The taxicab had been working for the METROlift service, transporting two women from a dialysis center, Click2Houston adds. The driver of the cab had been speeding and weaving through lanes when he steered off of the road and into stopped 18-wheeler that had been parked on the shoulder of the road.

The two passengers, a mother and a preacher’s wife, were both killed in the accident. The driver of the cab was also severely injured and ultimately charged with criminally negligent homicide.

A lawsuit has been filed against the erratic taxi driver. Family members wonder how this could have happened, and what he was doing or thinking at the time of the crash. Family members are aware that their loved ones can not be brought back, but would like to make a point of the wrongful death accident as an example for erratic drviers, so others don’t have to experience this tragic loss.

The investigation continues, looking at video that was taken on the cab’s interior camera, talking with witnesses, and continuing to review all the current information.According to ABCNews, the driver is currently out of bond, and is charged with the two counts of criminal negligent homicide.

Driving erratically and weaving in and out of lanes may decrease travel time, however, as shown in this specific car accident, it has severe consequences that shouldn’t be risked to shave a few minutes off of a car ride. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in regards to the Federal Highway Administration, “The Department of Transportation’s policy on highway speeds is to provide guidance to State and local governments to set speed limits that maximize the efficient and rapid transportation of people and goods while eliminating the unnecessary risk of crashes due to unsafe speeds”.

Continue reading " Lawsuit Filed for Victims of Taxi Accident " »

The Times-Georgian recounted an accident that occurred recently involving a student killed in a school-bus accident. The student was partly flung through a bus window when the bus rolled over on a highway near the student’s school. The driver claimed that he gazed down momentarily, and once he looked up road, the bus had already veered off the road. He attempted to brake in order to stop the bus, but stopped short, hitting a duct causing the bus to roll over.

According to the report, the family of the student has filed a lawsuit against the bus driver, school district and other school officials. The family’s car accident attorney hopes that the investigation will reveal who is responsible for this terrible accident. A police investigation revealed that the bus driver had cough medicine in his blood at the time of the accident. It also appears that the operator of the vehicle had not been certified by state regulations that allow motorists to drive students. The driver’s reckless decision to drive while groggy from the cough syrup, coupled with the school district’s failure to abide by state regulations that required bus drivers to be properly trained and licensed, resulted in the wrongful death of this young student.

Victims who are injured in car, bus, truck or bike accidents caused by distracted or overly-medicated drivers may be able to file lawsuits against the driver at fault. These types of accidents may result in serious injuries that can become costly in regards to medical attention, doctor visits, and potential surgeries, or even more costly, the grief that family members must deal with in the case of a fatality. Filing a lawsuit may result in compensation for medical needs, and may be able to bring family members some peace of mind.

Moreover, our Chicago injury attorneys have handled many cases of this type successfully. If you have been the victim in an Illinois bus accident, or have lost a loved one, our lawyers may be able to help you receive compensation and taking action will draw attention to the severe consequences driving under the influence and distracted driving pose.

According to KFVSNews, a young man who was driving at 5:45 a.m. caused a recent car accident. According to the report, the man had fallen asleep at the wheel, and while no other cars were involved, the car operator veered off of the road, hitting a mailbox and ultimately hitting a tree. Although the man was wearing a seatbelt, and no major injuries occurred, this incident highlights the fact that driving drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and has the potential to cause severe, even fatal, Illinois car accidents.

The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) breaks down the hard facts of driving drowsy, saying that driving drowsy or sleepy can slow the operator’s reaction time, lower awareness and focus, weaken judgment and can potentially cause a serious accident. The NSF cautions that it is difficult for officials to identify driving drowsy because there is no Breathalyzer or blood test that can be used to confirm that sleepiness was a factor in an accident. However, the NSF reports “several states are considering legislation that would allow police to charge drowsy drivers with criminal negligence if they injure or kill someone while driving if they have not had adequate sleep”.

NSF testimony tells the story of a family who was driving to dinner at a restaurant. On the way to the restaurant, a young driver who had not slept in over a day collided with the family’s vehicle. A young boy, one of his sisters, and his mother all passed away in the accident, leaving one sister surviving, without a family. This car accident resulted in the wrongful death of three people, and could have been avoided if the driver would have waited to be more rested to operate the vehicle.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys advise all drivers to make sure that you are well rested and focused when operating any motor vehicle.

What can you do to reduce the risk of injuring yourself or others?

• Get sufficient sleep…caffeine will not cut it
• Do not drink alcohol before you drive, especially if you feel fatigued
• Try to avoid driving late at night
• Make frequent stops on long trips
• Get a ride from an alert friend or family member

Driving drowsy can lead to fatalities, pedestrian injuries, or result in the operator of the vehicle themselves suffering severe injuries. If you have been a victim of a car accident of this nature, or have lost a loved one because someone else fell asleep behind the wheel, please contact us as we may be able to help you seek compensation for your loss or injuries.

KSDK reported on a recent Illinois accident in which a young woman was killed while riding on the back seat of a motorcycle with a friend when their motorcycle struck another motorcycle that was making a U-Turn. Both drivers involved in the accident were injured, and the female passenger died from a serious brain injury. None of them had been wearing helmets according to The State Journal-Register. KSDK says that the investigation of the accident continues, and there are possible charges.

Although the state of Illinois does not have laws that require riders to wear helmets, our Illinois accident attorneys always encourage the use of helmets to riders, in order to reduce the risk of serious brain injury. When reviewing motorcycle helmet use in 2010 overall, the National Highway Safety Administration showed the use of motorcycle helmets nationally dropped by 13%, a significant amount. In the Midwest alone, motorcycle helmet use has dropped almost 24%. Twenty-one states to date (including the District of Columbia) have laws requiring motorists to wear helmets, however, Illinois is not one of them.

An issue that could play a role in this fatal motorcycle was that the woman’s fellow biker made a U-Turn, causing this accident. According to a report prepared by CTC & Associates for The Bureau of Highway Operations, Illinois driving laws that limit U-Turns state, “The driver of any vehicle shall not turn such vehicle as to proceed in the opposite direction unless such movement can be made in safety and without interfering with other traffic”. We do not know all of the circumstances surrounding the accident, but the other motorcycle driver may have performed an unsafe U-Turn.

We always encourage the use of safe driving practices for motorcyclists because they are especially vulnerable due to the lack protection these vehicles provide. The investigation in the motorists’ accident continues, but if it is found that either of the motorcycle drivers operated their bikes negligently, the victim’s family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for their loss.

Continue reading " Fatality in Montgomery County Motorcycle Accident " »

Commercial-News recently reported on the current state of drivers on the road, if they are insured or not. The article states that about one in every seven drivers on the road is uninsured, almost 15% of Illinois vehicle operators. The article continues on about how every driver will most likely be in a car accident at one point or another throughout their lifetime. However, what happens when the drivers involved are uninsured?

Due to the recent recession, the amount of uninsured vehicle operators has increased, the article states. The result of driving uninsured is forcing drivers who are covered by insurance to pay for the injuries and costs created by those who drive uninsured. Illinois has enforced a required insurance law, but just because the law exists, that doesn’t necessarily mean that all drivers in the state of Illinois are insured.

A State Farm Insurance representative suggests that when involved in an Illinois car accident with a driver who is uninsured, you should first ask them if they have insurance. Next you should call the police and file a police report. Make sure to also collect the other driver’s complete contact information including their name, address, phone number, and information about their vehicle, such as the make, model and license plate number. The Illinois Secretary of State office directs the victim of an uninsured crash to send in an Illinois Crash Report to the Illinois Department of Transportation Accident Report Office.

Our Illinois car accident attorneys encourage all drivers to have insurance, and to carry an insurance card in their vehicle at all times. Our Chicago accident lawyers have handled many cases involving victims of uninsured car accidents. In a recent car accident case, Steven Levin represented a pedestrian who was struck by a driver who happened to be an agent of an insurance company. The driver did not have enough insurance on his own policy to compensate the cost of the pedestrian’s injuries. A fellow attorney commenting on the case added, “You would assume that an insurance agent would understand the importance of carrying a sufficient amount of insurance.”

Continue reading " Chicago Car Accident Attorneys Discuss Issues with Uninsured Driving " »

The Chicago Tribune recently reported on how the Illinois State Supreme Court rules on drugged driving. The article discusses several Illinois car accidents in which the drivers were intoxicated. Some of the reported accidents included aggravated DUI involving drugs, motorists who had tested positive for THC, and other drugs.

Driving under the influence of any drugs or alcohol can result in serious Chicago automobile accidents. The article reported that the intoxicated drivers were cumulatively responsible for four fatalities, one pedestrian and three motorists.

The article discusses how Illinois driving laws are defined and established when it comes to driving under the influence of alcohol, however the Chicago Tribune states that their experts say “determining when a motorist is impaired by drugs is uncharted territory”.

It is apparent that the State Supreme Court is continuously trying to develop the line where it is clear that an Illinois car crash was the direct result of drug intoxication, or if it was simply due to careless driving. Family members of lost loved ones discuss that it is simple for a person to think that a heavy sentencing on an intoxicated driver goes too far, however, when lives are destroyed and lost, it appears just to them.

Our Illinois accident attorneys agree that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is avoidable and preventable. Driving under the influence puts pedestrians and other drivers on the road, and the intoxicated vehicle operator themselves, at risk of serious injury.

Continue reading " Illinois State Supreme Court Reviews Laws Regarding Driving Intoxicated in Illinois Car Accidents " »