Barrington Hills Man Charged in Fatal DUI Accident

An 18-year-old Barrington Hills man has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence of intoxicants after a March car crash left one man dead and a woman seriously injured. Bond was set at $100,000 plus the requirement of relinquishing his passport and submitting to random drug tests.

The charges stem from a March crash on Illinois Highway 59 in Barrington Hills where the defendant allegedly was driving under the influence of Lorazepam, a prescription sedative that is highly addictive and known to be abused as a recreational drug. The defendant was driving an SUV northbound when he sideswiped a southbound car and then crashed head-on into a vehicle driven by a 61-year-old man. The 61-year-old man died from his injuries and his 44-year-old fiancee, who was a passenger in his car, suffered severe leg injuries. The defendant sustained minor injuries and received treatment at Good Samaritan Hospital. While there, a blood test revealed Lorazepam in his system.

The defendant has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence involving death and aggravated driving under the influence involving great bodily harm. These are felony charges with incarceration in prison as a sentence if the defendant is convicted on all charges.

The defendant in this case reportedly did not have a prescription for Lorazepam but even if he did, he could be guilty of driving under the influence if the drug affected his ability to drive. Lorazepam is known to cause drowsiness and sleepiness and for this reason, the National Institutes of Health state that no one should take the medication and drive until they know how the medicine affects the individual. It is not clear whether the defendant had previously taken Lorazepam before the collision but police did find a bottle of the drug in the defendant's car after the crash.

Car accidents are very common in Illinois. In fact, there were 281,788 automobile collisions in 2011 alone. Of those crashes, 835 proved fatal with 918 persons being killed. While the number of fatal crashes pales in comparison to the total number of accidents, there were still over 900 people killed in Illinois which is about 17 people every week.

When an innocent person loses their live to the negligence of another, there is nothing that can fully repair the damage and make the victim's family whole again. The best that we can do is seek a financial recovery for the losses suffered by the victim's family through a civil claim. This is allowed by the law to help cover some of the costs and losses experienced in accidents like this.

In a civil claim, and injured person or the surviving family of a deceased victim can bring a claim against a negligent driver for damages, including medical bills, pain and suffering, disfigurement, lost wages, and lost companionship. A personal injury attorney can help assist with this civil claim and seek the compensation that is deserved based on the accident and the resulting injuries.

If you have been hurt in an accident or if a loved one has been killed, call the Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free, no obligation telephone consultation. At Abels & Annes, P.C., you will speak with a licensed lawyer who is skilled in your type of case and who will answer your questions. We can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 so please do not hesitate to call us and let us fight for you.

Prior Blog Entries:

13 Injured After 3 Vehicles Collide, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 18, 2013.

Hit-And-Run Driver Arrested after Accident Injures Child, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 17, 2013.

Resources:

Barrington Hills man charged in fatal March crash, by George Houde, Chicago Tribune, published June 19, 2013.

Photo Credit: CathyK, stock.xchng.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Man Charged in Fatal Tinley Park DUI and Hit-and-Run Crash

The hit-and-run driver of a vehicle that killed a pedestrian on Wednesday night has been arrested and charged, according to Tinley Park police. The 22-year-old Blue Island resident has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence and failure to stop after an accident causing personal injury or death.

A 61-year-old man who was visiting Tinley Park from India was crossing 159th Street southbound at 80th Avenue at about 9:30 p.m. when he was hit and killed by a black pickup truck. The truck fled the scene but left evidence including his license plate behind, a key element that helped police make an arrest.

A witness described the victim as laying in the middle of the road, a shoe and a bag he was carrying several feet away from his body and said the impact sounded like a large boom. A relative described the victim as "a very fun loving person" who "liked to travel." Reportedly, he was a mayor and a social worker in India in his local municipality.

The charges against the driver in this case are significant and if convicted, could result in a long incarceration stint, depending on the driver's prior history and other extenuating or aggravating factors. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol places a defendant at an immediate risk for a suspended license and fines, if convicted, and the consequences can be more severe.

In America, someone is killed as the result of a drunk driver every 51 minutes. This adds up to over 10,000 deaths at the hands of drunk drivers every year. None of these deaths are necessary and all are preventable by simply not driving after drinking. There are numerous alternatives in Illinois including public transportation, taxis, designated drivers, or even walking. But getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol is reckless and often results in injuries or death of innocent bystanders, as it did in this case.

Driving under the influence is a crime that this driver has been accused of, and leaving the scene of an accident is also a crime. Here, the driver allegedly failed to stop to render aid, failed to wait for the police to respond, did not provide any of his identification information, and did not remain at the scene after the crash. This is a felony offense in Illinois unless the driver needed to seek immediate medical attention, and there is no indication that the driver was hurt in this accident. This charge alone, separate from the DUI charge, may result in jail time if the driver is convicted.

These penalties are harsh because the behavior they are designed to address is so extreme and so hazardous and often deadly. If you have been involved in a collision caused by a driver under the influence or by a driver who fled the scene, you may have a claim for any injuries you sustained.

At Abels & Annes, P.C., we are Illinois hit-and-run injury lawyers who know how to deal with insurance companies and difficult defendants. We stand side-by-side with our clients and we fight for their rights. If you have been injured in an accident, call us today toll free at (855) 529-2442 and let us provide you with a free telephone consultation. We have a lawyer standing by now to take your call and answer any questions you have, so please do not hesitate. If you prefer, you can contact us online and a lawyer will respond to your inquiry.

Prior Blog Entries:

14 People Injured in Van Crash on the Kennedy, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 10, 2013.

Crash between Fire Engine and Car Leaves 2 Injured in Chicago, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 6, 2013.

Resources:

Blue Island man charged in fatal hit-and-run in Tinley Park, by Gregory Pratt, Chicago Tribune, published June 10, 2013.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Mookie Blaylock, Former NBA Star, Faces Charges in Fatal Car Crash

Home > Wrongful Death > Mookie Blaylock, Former NBA Star, Faces Charges in Fatal Car Crash

Former NBA star and fan favorite Mookie Blaylock is facing charges of driving on a suspended license and failing to stay within his lane after he caused a car crash on Friday morning that left one woman dead.

Blaylock is best known for his years with the Atlanta Hawks but also played for the Golden State Warriors and the New Jersey Nets, now the Brooklyn Nets, following his draft into the NBA in 1989.

The collision occurred just outside of Atlanta on Tara Boulevard, a popular four-lane highway in the area. It appears that Blaylock was traveling in one direction and lost control of his Cadillac Escalade, crossed a center median, and entered the highway going the other direction. Blaylock's SUV collided head-on with a van in a violent collision. A 43-year-old female front seat passenger in the van was killed in the crash and Blaylock was critically injured. Emergency medical technicians transported Blaylock by air ambulance to an area hospital where he was placed on life support for several hours.

Following surgery for a broken ankle, Blaylock is in critical condition and reportedly is no longer on life support. However he is currently being sedated by his physicians. Once he is able to speak, police intend to interview him about the collision and may level additional charges against Blaylock, including a potential charge for vehicular homicide. So far, Blaylock has been charged with driving on a suspended license and failing to stay within his lane of traffic.

The family of Mookie Blaylock have reported that he suffers from seizures and has received medical treatment for them and recently had an episode where paramedics had to be called to his home during one of Blaylock's seizures. It is not clear whether doctors had given him any instructions regarding his ability to drive. Reports indicate that an arrest warrant was recently issued in Spalding County, Georgia for Blaylock on charges of driving under the influence and a drug charge though it does not appear that these prior charges had anything to do with the current accident.

Head-on collisions of the type involved in this accident are often violent and account for a disproportionate number of fatalities each year. Though head-on collisions account for only two percent of all crashes, they are responsible for nearly 10 percent of all fatalities. One of the reasons they are so deadly is that these collisions often occur when one driver fails to stay within his own lane and crosses a center line or median. Statistically this results in serious collisions most often on roads with high rates of speeds, like rural highways or other areas with light traffic.

In addition to the pending traffic violations and possible criminal charges, Blaylock may face a civil suit for the damages he caused to the victim and her husband who was reported driving the van and was injured in the crash. These civil suits may include claims for the injuries caused by Blaylock's negligence and for the loss of the victim's life.

If you have been injured in a head-on collision, you may have a claim for your damages against the driver responsible for your injuries. Call the Illinois car crash attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free, no obligation telephone consultation regarding your accident, your injuries, and your rights. We have a lawyer available 24 hours a day so please call us now at (312) 924-7575 or toll free at (855) 529-2442.

Prior Blog Entry:

Driver Gets 10 Year Prison Sentence for Road-Rage and DUI Crash that Killed Biker, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 3, 2013.

Van Driver in Illinois Crash that Killed 5 Had Suspended License, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 2, 2013.

Resources:

Blaylock faces charges in fatal accident, Chicago Tribune, published June 2, 2013.

Mookie Blaylock improves after crash, may face charges, by Ray Glier, USA Today, published June 1, 2013.

Photo Credit: Image ID: 448500, throbi, stock.xchng.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

School Bus Driver Faces No Charges in Fatal Illinois Crash

A school bus driver involved in a fatal collision near Wadsworth earlier this month will not face any charges, according to the Lake County State's Attorney's Office. At least one witness at the scene of the crash originally indicated the bus driver ran a red light, but officials say that witnesses gave conflicting statements thereafter regarding the cause of the collision.

On April 5, the school bus collided with two SUVs at the intersection of Highway 173 and Kilbourne Road, resulting in the death of one of the SUV drivers. A toxicology report on the victim showed what is believed to be prescription drugs in the SUV driver's system at the time of the crash, adding speculation as to the cause of the collision.

There were 35 children on board the bus that morning which was traveling to Newport Elementary School in Wadsworth. The collision demolished one of the SUVs, caused significant damage to the other, and caused the school bus to roll on its side. In all, 37 people were injured.

In most collisions, people who are injured by the negligence of another driver have a right to bring a claim against at-fault driver's insurance. The claim may be made to cover things like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the deceased driver of the SUV is determined to be at-fault in this crash, the adults and students on the bus may be able to bring claims against the SUV driver's insurance.

Most individual automobile insurance policies do not have limits high enough to cover all of the people injured in this collision. Illinois law requires drivers to have a minimum of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per collision in insurance coverage though drivers can carry a greater amount. Even with a large insurance policy, there may not be enough money to cover the damages caused by a crash.

If your damages are greater than the negligent driver's insurance, you may also have an underinsured motorist claim. In this type of claim, your own insurance company will "step into the shoes" of the at-fault driver and provide another source of potential monetary compensation for your claim.

Many people have private insurance policies that provide underinsured motorist coverage in case of a crash with significant injuries and a small insurance policy. In the case of the crash between the school bus and the SUV, the children on board the school bus may be covered by an underinsured provision in their parents' policy and/or an underinsured provision in the policy covering the school bus. Some buses provide this type of coverage to their passengers, including PACE, while other buses, like the CTA, do not. It depends on the language of the insurance policy at issue.

If your child has been injured while riding on a school bus, you may have a claim on behalf of your child against the at-fault driver as well as a possible underinsured motorist claim. The knowledgeable school bus crash lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to discuss your child's injuries. To find out what rights your child may have, please call us today at (312) 924-7575 or toll free at (855) 529-2442.

More Blog Posts:

Deadly Illinois Bus Accident Kills 1, Injures 37, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published April 5, 2013.

4 Vehicle Crash Injures 5 in Southwest Chicago Suburb, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published May 2, 2013.

Resources:

Bus Driver Cleared Following Fatal Accident, NBC Chicago, published April 30, 2013.

Photo Credit: Bus, Image ID 604402, stock.xchng

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Driver Distracted By Cell Phone Charging Cord Causes Fatal Accident

Authorities believe that a driver was distracted by a cell phone charger cord that was tangled around his steering wheel when he caused an accident on August 8, 2013.

The accident occurred in the 13900 block of South Cicero Avenue earlier this month. The at-fault driver reportedly was driving a Ford Taurus when he became distracted by his cell phone charger around 4:45 p.m. The Taurus turned into the rear passenger door of an SUV and caused a crash, leaving the family within the SUV injured. The occupants included a husband, wife, and their son. Both the husband and son survived with minor injuries and received treatment at Palos Community Hospital. The wife was initially transported to MetroSouth Medical Center in Blue Island but later was transferred to John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County for further treatment. According to her family, she survived for several days before succumbing to her injuries. Her family also indicated that the woman had a history of heart problems before the accident that may have been aggravated by the crash.

Police investigating the accident cited the driver of the Taurus for failing to reduce his speed to avoid an accident, improper lane usage, and driving without insurance on his car. It is unclear whether the driver will face any additional charges stemming from the death of the woman in the other vehicle.

When driving, distractions can arise in hundreds of different forms. Commonly, drivers may be distracted by eating, the radio, conversations within the car, or a cell phone or even by things outside of a vehicle like an accident or a flashy billboard. Though it may be human nature to be curious about some things and to divert your attention from the road, it is each driver's job to stay focused on driving and to put the safety of other motorists first. When a driver allows distractions to divert his or her attention, accidents are much more likely to occur.

Many drivers believe that they are driving in a safe manner and that they are not distracted by anything while behind the wheel. Others believe that modern advances in technology mean that their use of technology makes them a safe driver. Despite these common beliefs, studies continue to show that a large number of drivers are distracted at some point throughout their daily drives and that technology may not reduce distraction rates significantly. Instead, these same studies show that drivers who use hands-free technology to make phone calls or text are still dangerous and are only moderately safer than those who do not use hands-free devices. The conclusion of decades worth of data indicates that it is the conversation itself and not the method of delivery that distracts thousands of drivers every day.

When a distracted driver causes an accident that results in injuries, the law may provide for a victim to make a financial recovery. This money can be used to pay for medical bills or to compensate a victim for lost income while the victim was injured. In many cases, there is insurance available to cover an accident, but often the insurance available is not enough to fully cover all losses. Illinois has low levels of mandatory insurance and as a result, in the case of a catastrophic injury or death, a victim may need to explore other avenues of recovery to obtain full and adequate payment.

If you have been the victim of an automobile accident, call the Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free consultation. We have a lawyer available 24 hours a day to take your call at (312) 924-7575 and there is never an obligation with the free consultation. If you have been hurt, let us help you understand your legal options today.

Prior Blog Entries:

Woman Killed After Man Leaves Car Running, Son Accidentally Puts it in Gear, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 19, 2013.

Unlicensed Driver Sentenced to 4 Years for Reckless Homicide, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 15, 2013.

Resources:

Phone Cord Tangled In Steering Wheel A Factor In Fatal Crestwood Wreck, CBS Chicago/Sun-Times Media Wire, published August 16, 2013.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

DUI Driver Who Fled Scene of Fatal Crash Gets 7 Year Prison Sentence

An Aurora man will serve seven years behind bars for striking two and killing one with his van back in 2010. The 33-year-old man was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death, to which he pleaded guilty in February of this year.

The prosecution stated that the defendant had been drinking on October 25, 2010 and later chose to get behind the wheel and drive. The defendant approached Grant Street in North Aurora where a man and woman were walking around 2:00 a.m. The defendant struck both pedestrians with his van and fled the scene without speaking with police or even checking to see if his victims were alive.

The female victim, a 22-year-old Cicero resident, died as a result of the accident. She had been walking with her boyfriend, now 25 years old, when both were hit. The man survived the crash with serious injuries, including injuries to his shoulder, knee, and head with a knee replacement needed at some future point.

The defendant driver of the van turned himself in to authorities as an Aurora police station approximately two hours after the incident. His blood alcohol content was measured so that the level at the time of the crash could be determined. Based upon the results, prosecutors contended that the defendant had a BAC between .10 and 0.18, higher than the legal limit of .08. Armed with this information, the defendant was charged with driving under the influence and leaving the scene of a crash.

The presiding judge sentenced the defendant to seven years, four of which were for the charge of leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death, and the other three for aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol. The sentences are concurrent, meaning that the defendant will have to serve one and then the other back-to-back, totaling a seven year prison sentence behind bars.

This accident illustrates how quickly one or more bad decisions can turn deadly. A car may be a means of transportation but when in the wrong hands, it can also be a weapon. Here, a driver admitted that he had been drinking and that he chose to drive anyway. Even if he had not caused an accident, he would have committed a crime simply by operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Not only did this man drive drunk, but he also struck two pedestrians, killing one and seriously injuring the other.

Illinois makes it a crime to leave the scene of an accident and it is a felony if that accident results in death or serious bodily injury. The rationale behind this law is that if a motorist stops and stays at the scene, the motorist may be able to call for help, increasing the chance of a victim surviving or limiting the extent of injuries suffered. When a driver fails to remain at the scene, that driver can face serious time behind bars, like the defendant in this accident now faces.

If you have been the victim of a car accident, you should know that you are afforded legal protections and rights and that you may be entitled to a financial recovery. Call the Chicago DUI injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free telephone consultation and let us help you understand your options. There is never an obligation associated with our consultation and we have a lawyer standing by now to take your call at (312) 924-7575. After an accident, you deserve to have legal representation fighting for your rights. Call us now and let us fight for you.

Prior Blog Entries:

Driver Distracted By Cell Phone Charging Cord Causes Fatal Accident, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 20, 2013.

Woman Killed After Man Leaves Car Running, Son Accidentally Puts it in Gear, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 19, 2013.

Resources:

Seven years for Aurora motorist in fatal hit and run, by Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, published August 21, 2013.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Fatal Crash in Long Grove Leaves 1 Dead

Authorities in the north suburb of Long Grove were called to the scene of an accident last night. When they arrived at the area of Illinois 83 and Westmoreland Drive, they determined that a pickup truck and a minivan collided near the intersection, causing serious injuries and damage to at least one vehicle. The driver of one car died and her passenger was critically injured while the conditions of those in the other vehicle are not presently known.

At this time, it is not clear why the two cars collided and whether either driver is at fault. In the area where the crash occurred, Illinois 83 is a four lane divided road that intersects with Westmoreland Drive in a "T" intersection where drivers can turn from north or southbound I-83 onto eastbound Westmoreland Drive only. The speed limit on I-83 is 45 miles per hour and on the quiet Westmoreland, drivers are limited to traveling only 25 miles per hour.

Officials have been able to confirm that a female was driving a blue 2011 Honda CRV and that this vehicle collided with a red 2007 Ford F10 pickup truck. The driver of the CRV died at the scene and a female passenger in her car was taken to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville in critical condition.

There are hundreds if not thousands of factors that can lead to or cause a car crash and in many cases, it is the combination of several factors that actually cause a collision to occur. In 2011 alone, there were over 281,000 car accidents within the state of Illinois and in those accidents, 918 people lost their lives. An additional 84,172 people involved in car accidents sustained personal injuries. This means that statistically, about 2 percent of all Illinois residents are involved in a car accident every year, meaning that the chances are high that you know someone who has recently been a victim of an accident or had their family affected by a car crash.

To reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, people on all sides of transportation are taking steps to increase awareness and safety. Legislators have enacted tough laws against driving and driving or driving under the influence of drugs. Additionally, police officers look for traffic violations and attempt to curb unsafe behavior by issuing citations or warnings to offending motorists. Hopefully, if a driver is warned about speeding or running a red light, the driver will alter his or her behavior before a collision happens.

Car manufacturers have also taken significant steps in recent years to increase safety features on cars. Many modern vehicles have been designed to warn drivers when a car is in their blind spots, when a driver starts to veer outside of a designated lane, and when a driver is too close to a vehicle in front of him or her. In the event of an impact, most cars now have airbags and exterior bodies designed to absorb an impact, leaving the passengers protected from as much harm as possible.

If you have been the victim of an auto accident and you sustained injuries, call the Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free, no obligation telephone consultation. We have a lawyer standing by 24 hours a day to take your call at (312) 924-7575 or toll free at (855) 529-2442. Call us and let us help you today.

Prior Blog Entries:

Nissan Plans Self Driving Cars by 2020 With Goal Of Crash-Free, Fatality-Free Vehicles, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 28, 2013.

DUI Driver Who Fled Scene of Fatal Crash Gets 7 Year Prison Sentence, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published August 23, 2013.

Resources:

Authorities: 1 killed, 1 critically hurt in Long Grove wreck, by Rosemary Regina Sobol, Chicago Tribune, published September 5, 2013.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Fatal South Side Chicago Hit-And-Run Leads to Arrest

A 27-year-old woman from West Pullman has been arrested and charged in a fatal hit-and-run crash that left a 77-year-old man dead. The woman appeared in court on Wednesday where the judge ordered that she be held on $250,000 bail.

The incident occurred on July 17, 2013 around 7:00 a.m. The prosecutor in the case alleges that the victim was crossing in the 8300 block of South Racine on foot when the defendant approached him in a black Mercedes, traveling northbound. The woman struck the victim with her car and fled the scene without stopping to check on the man's condition or without speaking to police.

There were witnesses to the collision who notified the authorities. When paramedics responded, the male victim was transported to Advocate Christ Medical Center but was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. Meanwhile, local police interviewed several suspects who had a description of the responsible vehicle. The officers also obtained security footage from an area establishment that reportedly caught the collision on film, including the car striking the victim and then fleeing the scene. According to authorities, two eye witnesses have identified the defendant as the woman that was driving the Mercedes at the time of the crash.

With the information gathered from their investigation, police arrested the 27-year-old woman on Monday in her home. She reportedly works in medical billing, is a mother to an 11-year-old son, and is studying to be an x-ray technician.

It is not clear exactly what charges the woman is facing in connection with the crash, but under Illinois law, it is a felony to leave the scene of an accident that results in death or serious bodily injury to another. Therefore, this woman could be facing the possibility of extended jail time as well as becoming a convicted felon if the alleged facts against her are proved at trial.

If the potentially serious criminal and traffic offenses faced are not enough, this woman may also face a civil claim brought by the surviving family members of the victim on his behalf. This type of civil claim, often referred to as a wrongful death suit, may allow a victim's family to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one.

When the negligence of a driver takes a loved one away from his or her family, there is nothing that can fill the void left by that loved one's absence. The last thing family members should have to worry about is how they will pay the bills, including any medical expenses that the loved one incurred before death, while they are trying to move forward. That is one thing a civil claim can do for a family. A monetary settlement may make it possible to continue living life without the threat of financial ruin.

If your loved one has been injured or killed in an accident, call the Chicago hit and run injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us provide you with a no obligation telephone consultation. We only represent victims and their families and we are dedicated to each of our clients. There is never a fee unless we make a recovery on your behalf and we are standing by now to take your call, so please call us at (312) 924-7575 now and let us help you on your path to recovery.

Prior Blog Entries:

Driver Runs Stop Sign, Injures 4 Before Fleeing the Scene, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published July 29, 2013.

Crash Near Joliet Leaves 1 Man Dead, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published July 26, 2013.

Resources:

Woman held on $250K for South Side fatal hit-and-run, by Steve Schmadeke, Chicago Tribune, published July 31, 2013.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Rainy Weather Causes Fatal Car Accident on Friars Road

An unidentified motorist died in a fatal two-vehicle wreck that took place on January 6 around 8 a.m. on Friars Road. According to the San Diego Police, the motorist was exiting northbound Interstate 15 on road that was newly rained on when the vehicle spun out of control and hit a fuel delivery truck going east towards Friars Road.

The car driver died at the accident site. Our law office sends heartfelt condolences to the deceased victim’s family and friends for such a shocking loss.

Although authorities stated that wet road was the main reason why the car driver lost control of the car, other factors such as speed and/or distraction from either party may have also contributed to the accident as well. Further investigation is certainly required.

Rain can make driving on roads much more dangerous. Making a sudden stop or trying to avoid a collision with another vehicle can have negative repercussions on wet road compared to dry road. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), auto accidents tend to increase by more than 200% in rain and the main reason behind this is that motorists do not alter their normal day-to-day driving habits.

All drivers need to remember to drive slower and to change quick driving behavior during rainy weather and after the rain has stopped.

We advise the deceased victim’s family members to seek advice and counsel from an experienced San Diego car accident wrongful death lawyer who will determine their legal options.

Please remember to drive safely during winter months in San Diego, especially during or after poor weather. Let’s do our part in making our streets, wet or not, much safer.

San Diego Car Accident Lawyer

3 Doors Down Bass Player Allegedly Causes Fatal DUI Crash

The bassist for the band 3 Doors Down is being held in a Nashville jail after he reportedly caused a collision while speeding and driving impaired, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Police stated that the bassist, Robert Todd Harrell, showed obvious signs of impairment at the scene and that “he acknowledged consuming hard cider and taking prescription Lortab and Xanax” before the crash.

Authorities believe that Harrell was speeding in a suburb of Nashville, Tennessee on westbound Interstate 40 when he hit a pickup truck. The driver of the truck lost control and the truck struck a guardrail, left the road and then flipped at least once before coming to a rest. The driver was ejected and died as a result of the collision.

Harrell has been charged with vehicular homicide by intoxication and is being held on a $100,000 bond.

Following his arrest, Harrell was taken to a local jail where sheriff’s deputies found a plastic bag with 8 Xanax pills, 24 oxycodone pills, and 4 oxymorphone pills concealed in Harrell’s sock. Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication available by prescription while oxycodone and oxymorphone are prescription pain relievers. It is not clear whether Harrell had a prescription for any of the drugs in his possession.

The band issued a statement on its website saying they were saddened by the passing of the victim and that the band’s hearts and prayers go out to the victim’s family and friends.

Harrell was arrested last year and charged with driving under the influence after he was involved in a crash with another vehicle.

This recent crash puts a spotlight on the dangers associated with driving under the influence.
Every day nearly 30 people die in the United States in alcohol-related crashes, or nearly one every 48 minutes. Estimates put the cost of drunk driving in excess of $51 billion per year.

The people most at risk for impaired driving are young people, motorcyclists, and drivers with prior convictions for driving while impaired. The early reports suggest that the impaired driver in this crash had a history of alcohol-related driving. Statistically, drivers with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher involved in fatal crashers were four times more likely to have a prior conviction for driving while impaired than were drivers with no alcohol in their systems.

This means that drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence are more likely to do so again in the future than those who have never driven drunk. Drunk drivers are significant risks to all drivers and passengers on the roads because drunk drivers have slowed response times, delayed ability to process dangers, and are not as vigilant as sober drivers, increasing the risk of collision.

Driving drunk is illegal in every state in the nation and with good reason. Avoid being a drunk driving statistic by following these simple tips: never drive drunk, never ride in a car with someone who has been drinking, always designate a sober driver before drinking or take a taxi for transportation, and if a friend has been drinking, take away his keys so that he will be unable to drive under the influence.

Even though drinking and driving is illegal, people still do it every day in Chicago. If you or a family member has been injured by a negligent driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs, call the drunk driving accident attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free consultation regarding your injuries. We have worked on numerous drunk driving cases over the years and we are ready to start working on your case today. Call us at (855) LAW-CHICAGO.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Lawsuit Filed Over Fatal Megabus Crash in Illinois

A Megabus crash last summer caused injuries to a passenger and left her disabled and disfigured, according to a new lawsuit filed in Cook County.

The Megabus was traveling between Chicago and St. Louis on I-55 when a front tire blew, causing the driver to lose control and strike a concrete pillar in Litchfield. More than 70 passengers were on board at the time of the crash and several had to be extricated. One passenger died in the collision and dozens were injured, including the woman who filed the recent lawsuit.

The lawsuit names Megabus as a defendant as well as the driver of the bus, the owner and operator Coach USA, and Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations which reportedly made the tire at issue. Reports indicate that the driver of the bus was still in training when a front tire blew on the highway. The driver claims he removed his foot from the accelerator but did not brake because he feared causing the double-decker bus to roll over.

After the collision last summer, Megabus released a statement saying the bus had been made just the prior year and had passed a full safety and preventative maintenance inspection within the week before the crash.

Several passengers recounted the crash to media outlets after the collision, saying the force of the impact was significant and threw many passengers forward and out of their seats, some into the aisles. Unfortunately this often occurs with bus accidents of any type because buses rarely have seat belts available for passenger use.

Many people have a false sense of safety while aboard a large passenger vehicle like a bus or motorcoach because of the size of the vehicle compared to the other passenger cars on the road. In reality, bus accidents occur daily and often cause serious injuries, including broken bones, cuts and bruises, head and neck injuries, and even death.

Chicago is a major hub for busing both locally and across the nation with service by PACE, CTA, Greyhound, and private buses. When you ride on a bus or motorcoach, you place your safety in the hands of the driver, assuming the driver is knowledgeable, skillful, and safe. That is not always the case and bus drivers can be negligent like any other driver on the road.

If you have been involved in a bus accident that left you injured or if a family member was injured or killed by the negligence of a bus driver, please call the Chicago bus accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. for a free, no-obligation consultation regarding your case. If you have been injured, you have legal rights and should contact an attorney to discuss them in detail. We can be reached 24 hours a day at (855) 529-2442 or (312) 924-7575.

Note: Abels & Annes, P.C. does not represent the woman who recently filed a lawsuit in this matter but has represented individuals in very similar accidents in the past.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Fatal Alpine Traffic Crash Kills Driver

Posted On: September 19, 2011 by Ross Jurewitz

One person was killed in a serious traffic collision that occurred on September 15, 2011, around 1:15 p.m. in the 1300 block of Tavern Road in Alpine. According to California Highway Patrol, one of the vehicles involved in this car crash veered off the roadway and smashed into a fire station.

One person suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the accident scene. Based on the limited information provided in the news accounts, the cause of the accident is not clear. It is under investigation and the results will shed light on who was responsible for the accident.

At this time, the deceased’s family members should seek counsel from an experienced San Diego County traffic collision lawyer who would help them learn about their legal rights and options and obtain compensation to cover funeral and burial costs, loss of anticipated wages, loss of love, care and companionship, and other accident-related damages.

Our law office offers sincere condolences to all those who knew and loved the victim for such a tragic loss.

Ross Jurewitz represents people injured in San Diego County traffic collisions and is the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California personal injury law firm dedicated to representing families of people injured or killed in car accidents. If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in a traffic collision in Alpine, please order your free copy of the California car accident book. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

San Diego Accident Lawyer

Man Killed in Fatal Corona Auto Accident

An 18-year old Anaheim man was killed in a serious car wreck that occurred on September 24, 2011, around 2:40 a.m. on Highway 91 (US-91) in Corona. According to the Riverside County Coroner's office, the victim’s vehicle struck a guard rail, rolled over, and then struck the concrete pillar of an overpass.

The motorist was pronounced dead at the accident scene. The investigation is still being conducted on. Unfortunately, it is unclear from the facts of the story why the accident occurred. There is a possibility that the accident may have been the result of a mechanical defect or design issue. It could have also been the result of an uneven road surface.

As for now, the deceased’s family members should seek counsel from an experienced Riverside County car accident lawyer who can hire a trained private investigator to find out how the accident occurred and determine if there are any facts which would suggest that the accident was the cause of someone else’s negligence.

The victim’s family members can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party to obtain compensation to cover funeral and burial costs, loss of anticipated earnings, loss of love, care and companionship, and other accident-related damages.

Our law office offers sincere condolences to all those who knew and loved the victim for such a heart rendering loss.

Ross Jurewitz represents people injured in Riverside County rollover car collisions and is the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California personal injury law firm dedicated to representing families of people injured or killed in car accidents. If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in a traffic collision in Corona, please order your free copy of the California car accident book. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.

San Diego Accident Lawyer

Pair of fatal auto accidents in the Chicago area highlights dangers of drunk driving

Two women have been killed in separate Chicago area car crashes this month, with alleged DUI drivers being responsible for both accidents.

On July 3, a 39-year old Carol Stream man was driving in the early hours of the morning with a 30-year old woman when he failed to stop at a train crossing in Itasca, Illinois, drove through the lowered gate, and struck the engine of a passing train. According to the Chicago Tribune, the man had a blood-alcohol content of .183, more than twice the legal limit of .08. His passenger died of her injuries soon after the crash.

The man has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol, and is being held on $500,000 bail.

A week later, a 43-year old woman returning home from her job as a 911 dispatcher when a 16-year old driver, who was drunk and high on drugs, plowed into her car. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the young driver, who was an honors student and two-sport athlete at his high school, was being pursued by police at the time of the accident.

The youth had just left a party near Old Town, where he got “drunk and high,” when he saw a man leave his SUV idling on North Michigan Avenue while he went to pay for parking. The youth stole the car and fled police after they attempted to pull him over after he ran a red light. During the pursuit, the youth ran a stop sign at the intersection of Armitage and Hoyne Avenues in Bucktown and hit the 911 dispatcher, causing her to careen into a fire hydrant. The youth escaped on foot, but was soon apprehended. Police say the teen had a blood-alcohol content of .186 and was also high on marijuana and ecstasy at the time of the crash.

The youth has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder, felony burglary, misdemeanor DUI, and two traffic citations. His bond is set at $1 million.

Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Each year, thousands of innocent people are killed in alcohol-related crashes. A brief look government statistics from 2009 illustrate this grim reality:

• Out of the 33,808 driving fatalities nationwide, 10,839 of them were alcohol-impaired driving fatalities (32%) – That is roughly 1 every 48 minutes

• 1,077 teens died drunk driving crashes

• 70% of drivers involved in fatal drunk driving crashes had blood-alcohol levels above .15, and the median level was .17

• 44% of the drivers involved in fatal crashes had at least 1 prior DWI conviction

• 1.4 million people were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Out of the 911 driving fatalities in Illinois, 319 of them were alcohol-impaired driving fatalities (35%)

Sources:
- 2009 NHTSA Traffic Report
- NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS)
- 2009 Century Counsel Report- Drunk Driving Fatalities in America
- CDC Stat sheet

Drunk driving is not something that only affects those who engage in it. Innocent people who abstain from drinking and driving are killed every day. If you are injured by a drunk driver, you are entitled to be compensated and can seek the help of an Illinois injury lawyer. Call 312-924-7575 to speak directly to an attorney now.

Recent DUI blogs:

Memorial Day crash caused by drunk driver

Mayor calls for stricter rules after intoxicated city employee causes pedestrian accident

This blog was co-authored Shane Nichols, a 2013 Juris Doctor candidate from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Fatal Pedestrian Injury Caused by Drunk Bus Driver; Are You Safe on a Kansas City Bus?

You are here: Home / drunk driving / Fatal Pedestrian Injury Caused by Drunk Bus Driver; Are You Safe on a Kansas City Bus?

No one will ever say driving a bus is easy, but drinking and driving any vehicle is dangerous.  Already you have more blind spots in a bus and if the driver has been drinking, it just makes it worse–

A pedestrian was killed after being struck by a bus in midtown Manhattan and apprently the driver of the bus, 57-year old Steve Drappel, 57, of West Palm Beach, Florida, was drinking vodka at the time of the accident.  Reports from the scene of the fatal pedestrian injury accident say the acciedent was caused when the bus took a turn onto Ninth Ave. at W. 47th St., and struck the 29 year-old pedestrian.

The pedestrian was caught in the rear wheels and dragged for nearly thirty feet before other drivers managed to flag down the bus.  He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died of massive injuries.  The bus driver failed a breathalyzer test after the accient, blowing a BAC of .08 – twice the legal limit for commercial drivers. He has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI.

Our experienced Kansas City Pedestrian Injury Lawyers want to remind all motorists about the importance of watching out for pedestrians and bicyclists in Kansas and Missouri.  We encourage all drivers to slow down and pay attention, especially when driving through neighborhoods or on streets with pedestrian crossing and bus stops.  If you are approaching a pedestrian crossing, slow down and be prepared to stop to allow the pedestrian or bicyclist the right of way.  When you come across a bus stopped on the side of the road, whether it be a public transportation bus or a school bus, always be on the look out.  A pedestrian has no protection in the event of a collision with an automobile and these accidents often lead to serious injuries, including head injuries and in some cases, death.   Be safe and pay attention– and above all, look out for pedestrians.

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury in an auto accident as a pedestrian in Kansas or Missouri, you  may be entitled to compensation for your losses.  Call experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Attorney James Roswold.  With over 15 years of experience in Auto Injury Accidents, including Pedestrian Injury cases, we may be able to assist you and your family through this difficult time.

Contact Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys to set up a free consultation to discuss your personal injury claim.  You can get started today by downloading our free book, “10 Essential Steps to Protecting Your Injury Claim“.  We want you to know your rights.

Posted by author on Friday, June 10, 2011 at 10:49 am 
Filed under drunk driving, Motorcycle Accidents, Pedestrian Injuries · Tagged with fatal pedestrian accident, Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys, kansas city bus accident, kansas city pedestrian injury attorneys, kansas city personal injury lawyers, pedestrian accident, pedestrian bus accident, serious injuries

Kansas City Auto Accident Blog

Distracted DUI driver causes fatal Chicago crash on Memorial Day

A female motorist that was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol on Monday lost control of her car and crashed, resulting in the death of a baby and injuring three other kids, according to the Chicago Tribune. She reportedly was picking up a chip when she lost control of her vehicle on the Dan Ryan Expressway.

The DUI driver, 47-year-old woman who resides in the 5200 block of S. Paulina Street, is now facing reckless homicide and aggravated driving under the influence charges, both felonies. A judge set her bail at $350,000, according to a spokeswoman from the state's attorney's office. Prosecutors allege the defendants blood-alcohol level was .164, over twice the legal limit in Illinois.

The at fault driver had seven passengers in the 1993 Oldsmobile Cutlass that she was driving. The accident took place around 6:30 PM on Memorial Day. The incident closed the expressway for around two hours, causing a significant holiday traffic on Monday night. The vehicle is only built to accommodate five occupants, so none of the children were in seatbelts or car seats at the time of the crash.

She stuck a guard rail in the area of 75th St., causing the vehicle to spin multiple times and roll over. The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that children were ejected from the vehicle.

Investigating Illinois state troopers stated the driver smelled of alcohol and had bloodshot, glassy eyes. She also admitted that she drank a lot of beer at a barbecue, and there were several open cans of beer inside the vehicle. Witnesses also saw the car swerving.

An 11-month-old boy lost his life in the accident. He was just a week away from his first birthday.

Another passenger, an eight-year-old boy, is in critical condition with a lacerated liver. He was rushed by ambulance to University of Chicago’s Comer Children’s Hospital. Two other passengers, a three-year-old girl and a four-year-old girl, sustained skull fractures. A six-year-old boy was also seriously hurt, but the nature of his injuries were not stated. All of the injured children were taken to Comer.

Two adults were also critically injured in the crash. One was taken by ambulance to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and the other was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.

The Tribune further reports that according to the Illinois Secretary of State's office, the DUI motorist at a good driving record and a valid license.

Is was not reported if an Illinois personal injury lawyer is involved in the case or if a negligence lawsuit is been filed.

While our hearts go out to the victims and their families in this accident, this is a good example of the dangers of distracted driving. It's not just texting and cell phones that can cause a driver to take their eyes off the road. It can also be something as simple as leaning over to pick up food or coffee, or even adjusting the car stereo.

Illinois motorists should be aware that losing that fraction of a second of reaction time can be the difference between life and death. It's better to wait until you are at a safer location.

Further, when you combine distracted driving with a motorist under the influence of alcohol, that is an especially dangerous combination.

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Police Believe Marijuana May Have Been Factor in Fatal Crossover Crash on Kansas Highway 10

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There are many factors that can cause a fatal crossover accident on the highway.  Among them is of course distracted driving– but some of the most dangerous factors are alcohol and prescription or illegal drugs.  At Roswold Law Group, we have discussed in great length the dangers of drunk driving, but marijuana can be just as dangerous.  It may not get as much attention as driving under the influence of alcohol, but marijuana use can lull a driver into a zone and cause them to lose focus on the road.

Members of the Kansas Highway Patrol are investigating a fatal crossover crash that happened on Kansas Highway 10 on Saturday.  Two people were killed in the fatal accident including a five year-old child.  The KHP says a 24 year-old man driving a Toyota Camry crossed over the median and hit a Dodge van carrying four passengers, all of whom suffered serious injuries and were hospitalized.  The crash killed the driver of the Toyota and a five yr-old in the van.  Two adults and a 23 month-old child were taken to the hospital.

A preliminary autopsy has revealed the 24 year-old driver tested positive for marijuana use and it has yet to be determined if it was a factor in the crash.  The victim was the only one involved in the crash who was not wearing his seat belts.

Our experienced Kansas City Auto Injury Attorneys encourage all motorists to practice safe and attentive driving techniques to ensure that all roads and highways are safe in the future.  The highways are dangerous enough as it is.  These accidents that happen on our state highways can have especially dangerous consequences because of the high speeds cars and trucks are traveling at.  Adding other factors that could affect your judgment, such as alcohol or illegal drugs, to the equation raises the stakes and puts everyone on the highway in danger.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an automobile accident in Kansas or Missouri, you may be entitled to compensation including medical bills, loss of wages and legal fees.  Call the experienced experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyers of Roswold Law Group.  With over 15 years of experience in Auto Injury Accident cases including cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, we may be able to help you get through this difficult and stressful time.

Contact Roswold Law Group to set up a free consultation to discuss your personal injury claim.  You can get started today by downloading our free book, “10 Essential Steps to Protecting Your Injury Claim“.  We want you to know your rights.

Posted by author on Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at 9:56 am 
Filed under Alcohol and Illegal Drugs Related Auto Accidents, drunk driving, Seat Belts · Tagged with crossover accident, drunk driving, Eudora, experienced kansas city auto injury attorneys, fatal crash, highway 10, illegal drugs, Kansas, Kansas City, kansas city personal injury lawyers, marijuana, Missouri, Seat Belts, serious injury

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Tougher Maryland Laws in Fatal Accident Cases?

Home Posted On: April 18, 2011 by Laura G. Zois

A while back, I wrote about the issue of what the punishment should be in fatal Maryland accident cases where there are no aggravating factors (almost always alcohol) but still someone dies because someone just was not paying attention. Should this mean prison? Is the pain of killing someone enough punishment?

Clients usually feel strongly about this issue one way or the other, there is very little in between. Either they view the defendant as a killer or they see the accident as a mistake that could have happened to anyone.

A bill has been floating around the Maryland legislature for years that would give prosecutors more latitude when charging these drivers. In a swap, House Del. Luiz Simmons, a criminal defense lawyer from Montgomery County, proposes a law that would sentence someone to up to three years in prison for killing a person as the result of a

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The Pennsylvania Super Luxury Tour Bus Company is Shut Down After the Fatal New Jersey Turnpike Bus Accident

The experienced Pennsylvania bus accident attorneys Jeffrey Reiff and Raymond Bily have filed one of the first lawsuits against Super Luxury Tours on behalf of a victim who sustained catastrophic injuries in the March 14, 2011 bus crash, which also claimed the lives of several others.

The experienced auto accident lawyers of Reiff and Bily has recently joined forces with the catastrophic bus accident attorneys of The Beasley Firm and both law firms have been awarded in excess of $2 billion dollars on behalf of our clients since 1958. We will continue to diligently work on behalf of our clients, as well as with lawmakers, to ensure that the wrongdoers are brought to justice. For more information, contact us online at Beasley Reiff Law Group or toll free at 1-800-588-0130 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Posted by Jeffrey M. Reiff

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Fatal Catawba, North Carolina County Car Accident Caused by Allegedly Drunk Driver

Next » Posted On: February 9, 2011 by Michael A. DeMayo

Sandra Campbell, 50, died on Tuesday in a Catawba County car accident involving her vehicle and a pickup truck accident on Slanting Bridge Road. The impact of the crash was so severe that pieces of the vehicle littered the road. The driver of the pickup truck, Brian Hieb, is charged with DWI. This is the 43-year-old’s second DWI charge in six months.

It goes without saying that driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is reckless and dangerous and dramatically increases the chances of lives being lost. Our Catawba County car crash law firm has worked with many families who have lost loved ones because a motorist was drunk or drugged. The outcome is never pretty for anyone involved

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