Accidents involving 18-wheelers and smaller passenger vehicles rarely have a good outcome for those riding in the smaller vehicle. When pedestrians are somehow involved in truck accidents, the potential for catastrophe is obvious. Without any of the protections afforded to those in a car — such as seatbelts, airbags and the frame of the vehicle — most pedestrians are left wholly unprotected.
While driving along I-64 at around 4 a.m., a 34-year-old Illinois man’s car stalled, although the exact reason why is unclear. Leaving his vehicle on the shoulder of the Interstate, the driver got out of his car and began to cross the road. An approaching 18-wheeler changed lanes after spotting the disabled vehicle, but the trucker apparently failed to take notice of the man crossing the road and struck him.
Although emergency officials responded to the scene of the accident, the pedestrian died while still there. There has been no information about whether the driver of the 18-wheeler was arrested, or if he will face any charges related to the man’s death. Even if he ultimately does not face any criminal charges, he — as well as his employer — could potentially have to face a civil claim against him.
When dealing with civil claims, the victim’s family often pursues justice and legal recourse on his or her behalf. It may not be until a time when a family is grieving the loss of a loved one that they might fully understand how devastating — both emotionally and financially — truck accidents can be. When an Illinois family files a wrongful death claim, they are often seeking damages for their loved one’s estates, which can include the unexpected cost of a funeral, related medical bills that may have been incurred during attempted life-saving procedures and other losses recognized b y our laws. Although no amount of recourse could ever replace a person’s death, if the claim is successfully navigated to completion, the family may find it easier to move forward with the grieving process.
Source: wpsdlocal6.com, “Southern Illinois man dies after being hit by semi; 1 dies in rollover”, John Null, Nov. 20, 2014