Illinois authorities report that poor road conditions may have been among the factors contributing to a recent fatal car accident. Stories like this one highlight the importance of driving carefully and not taking chances on messy roadways. This recent chain-reaction car accident began when a 29-year-old driver lost control of his vehicle while attempting to avoid another vehicle pulling out into traffic.
After braking suddenly, the driver’s vehicle collided with that of a 50-year-old woman. The force of the head-on impact resulted in fatal injuries to the woman whose vehicle was struck. She was transported to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after the accident.
Authorities reported that the driver of the car that struck the woman was not injured in the collision. The 53-year-old driver that pulled out into traffic, presumably beginning the chain reaction, was charged with failure to yield. It is unclear whether any additional charges will be filed.
It is unfortunate when anyone loses his or her life in a car accident. What can bring some solace to the surviving family members is knowing that they may have legal rights under Illinois law, which could help them recover damages for their loss. Successfully litigated wrongful death claims, for example, could provide family members with compensation for medical or funeral expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. While no amount of monetary restitution can replace the life of a loved one, it can help ease the burden so that the victim’s family can focus on grieving and moving forward without their loved one.
Source: Chicago Tribune, Fatal crash on icy I-55 Frontage Road near Joliet, Jonathan Bullington, Jan. 25, 2014