Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog

A local trauma nurse is hosting a first aid class aimed at teaching riders what to do in the event of a Chicago motorcycle accident.

The Sun-Times reports that the clinical nurse at Loyola Center for Heart & Health Medicine in Park Ridge developed the idea after a decade of treating motorcycle victims in the emergency room and suffering a motorcycle accident of her own in 2006. That accident was caused by a motorist throwing a Gatorade bottle out the window. The nurse suffered a dislocated shoulder, broken ankle and severe road rash after laying her bike down on I-55.

Fellow riders assisted her during the 40-minute wait for emergency personnel to arrive.

"I realized how ill-prepared motorcyclists are for accidents -- including me at that time," said Teresa McClelland. "And I realized how important it was that the riders with me knew what to do."

She began teaching a class called A Crash Course for the Motorcyclist to motorcycle riders, scooter riders, EMS workers and nurses. The crash focuses on what to do in the minutes after a motorcycle accident to secure the scene and assist the injured until professional help arrives.

As Chicago injury lawyers we applaud such programs and encourage every rider to take advantage of safety instruction.

"Usually, the first person at the scene [of a motorcycle accident] is another cyclist -- and often these accidents are in rural areas," she told the Sun-Times. "I am trying to train bikers how to handle that golden hour between the accident and when the emergency response team arrives."

Advice in the class includes information on securing the scene, how and when to move an injured rider, traffic control, how to move a motorcycle, and the proper information to provide a 911 dispatcher. McClelland is also the director of training and curriculum for Rescue Riders, a non-profit group of volunteer bikers who lend their emergency response training to large motorcycle events.

She understands the grim statistics faced by riders -- 17 percent of crashes involve motorcycle riders, who are eight times more likely to be seriously injured than car drivers. Ninety-eight percent of motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle result in injuries to the rider. Almost half result in serious or life-threatening injuries.

Not only does she encourage every rider to take a safety course, she encourages them to get CPR training and to enroll in an accident management class as well. Basic and advanced safety courses are being offered at Loyola University Health System on the following Saturdays: July 24, Sept. 4, Sept. 18, Oct. 2, Oct. 16, Nov. 13 and Nov. 27.

For additional information visit www.accidentscene.org.

Continue reading "Safety courses teach riders what to do in the event of a Chicago motorcycle accident" »

Two women were killed in a Chicago car accident early Monday morning when their car crashed into a tree in suburban Wilmette, the Breaking News Center reported.

There were other passengers in the car and at least one other person was seriously hurt in the accident, which occurred about 3 a.m. in the 700 block of Sheridan Road when the black four-door sedan left the road and slammed into a tree. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the deaths. Cause of the crash remains under investigation.

A woman was struck by a train near the W. Lake St. station in Hanover Park on Sunday night. The News Center reports that she was taken to St. Alexius Medical Center, where she died from injured sustained in the accident. She was struck by the Metra train operating on the Milwaukee District West Lane sometime around 8:30 p.m.

Seven people were injured in an auto accident on Saturday in the Far North Side's Edgewater neighborhood. Three people were seriously hurt in the crash, which happened at the intersection of Granville Avenue and Sheridan Road. The News Center reports that the injured were taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, St. Francis Hospital in Evanston and Weiss Memorial Hospital. The accident remains under investigation and no other information was reported.

A Chicago motorcycle accident claimed the life of a rider on Saturday in the Roseland community on the Far South Side. The News Center reported that the crash occurred shortly before 4 a.m. in the 11200 block of South Yale Avenue. The accident is being investigated by Illinois State Police and no other information was released.

- A Chicago car crash involving an ambulance injured a fire department paramedic and a patient early Monday morning on the Northwest Side, the Breaking News Center reported.

The ambulance was on a transport run to Resurrection Medical Center when it was struck in the 6000 block of West Foster Avenue. The 46-year-old driver of the other vehicle was also injured and taken to the hospital. He was cited for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.

- A Chicago bus accident involved two other vehicles and injured three people just after 7 a.m. Monday. The fire department reported the crash happened near the intersection of Lawrence and Elston avenues.

- A Chicago motorcycle accident seriously injured a man Sunday night when his motorcycle hit a guardrail on the Dan Ryan Expressway. He was thrown over the rail and landed on a residential street beneath the bridge. The rider was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in serious condition.

- A Chicago train accident claimed the life of a 35-year-old Wisconsin woman early Sunday. The woman was struck by a train in suburban Glenview about 3 a.m.

Through Sunday, a total of 299 people have been killed in Illinois traffic accidents, compared to 325 people killed during the same period last year, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

A pair of Chicago motorcycle accidents in the last week offers a sobering reminder of the dangers of spring riding season.

As Chicago car accident lawyers recently reported on the Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer blog, a total of 121 Illinois motorcycle riders were killed in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Nationwide, 5,290 were killed and almost 100,000 injured in riding accidents.

On Thursday morning, a motorcyclist was killed when his bike collided with a car on the Southwest Side, the Breaking News Center reported. Police report that the motorcycle's speed may have contributed to the accident, which occurred at the intersection of 55th Street and South Laramie Avenue at about 2:30 a.m. The rider pronounced dead at Advocate Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn.

On Sunday (April 11), a motorcyclist was seriously injured after striking a median on the North Side, according to the News Center. The accident at the intersection of Irving Park Road and Ashland Avenue sent the 27-year-old rider to the hospital.

Spring is a dangerous time for riders for a number of reasons. New riders often begin riding in the spring and even veteran riders can take some time to get reacquainted with their equipment and area roads, where conditions often change over the winter. Additionally, it frequently takes motorists time to begin looking for motorcycles again as the weather improves and riders begin taking to the roads for the spring and summer months.

The popularity of motorcycle riding has exploded in the last decade; registered motorcycles in the United States have increased from 4 million in 1998 to more than 7 million this year. With the increase in riding has come an increase in serious and fatal motorcycle accidents. While nationwide traffic fatalities are in decline, fatal motorcycle accidents have increased each year for more than a decade.

Illinois State University offers a Motorcycle Safety Education program through the Illinois Department of Transportation. Participating in a safety program, or reminding yourself as a motorist to watch out for our riding friends, is a great way to ensure everyone has a safe summer on our roads.

A Libertyville woman faces up to 14 years in prison after admitting in court that she was driving with drugs in her system when she caused a fatal suburban Chicago Motorcycle accident.

The 26-year-old woman pleaded guilty to aggravated driving under the influence in Lake County Circuit Court, according to the Daily Herald.

Authorities contend that she was driving a Dodge minivan east on Cage Road in Wauconda Township at about 10:30 p.m. last June 9, when the van crossed the centerline and struck a westbound Harley-Davidson driven by a 49-year-old McHenry man.

He was pronounced dead at the scene. The defendant was taken to the hospital for blood tests, which revealed the presence of heroine and a generic form of the anti-anxiety drug Xanax in her system.

She was also charged with possession of a controlled substance after drug paraphernalia in the van tested positive for cocaine. In addition to a potential for 14 years in prison, she will be eligible for local jail time and probation at her sentencing, scheduled for May 26.

She remains in Lake County Jail on $250,000 bond.

As we reported on our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer blog, spring is an especially dangerous time for Illinois motorcycle accidents as motorists get accustomed to watching for riders on the road. In 2008, a total of 121 riders were killed in Illinois. Almost 100,000 motorcycle riders are seriously injured in traffic accidents on the nation's roads each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

One of every five fatal crashes occurs at an intersection, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which has issued guidelines for driver and pedestrian safety at intersections.

The Chicago car accident attorneys and the pedestrian accident lawyers at Abels & Annes remind motorists that intersections remain one of the most dangerous places for serious or fatal Illinois traffic accidents.

The government reports that 7,772 of 37,261 traffic fatalities nationwide -- or 20.8 percent -- occurred at intersections in 2008. In Illinois, that percentage is even higher, with 25.2 percent of fatal Illinois traffic accidents reported at intersections, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Each year, about 250 fatal crashes occurred at intersections in Illinois.

It is easy to forget during our daily commute that an intersection s a "planned point of conflict in the roadway system," according to the NHTSA.

In addition to Chicago car accidents, statistics show that pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents frequently occur at intersections.

Government reports found 20 percent of accidents at signalized intersections involve a turning vehicle striking a pedestrian; and trucks are at greater risk of being involved in a bicycle accident, in part because of blind spots. In 2007, 1,152 people died nationwide as a result of a pedestrian accident at an intersection.

Motorists who run red lights are a primary danger at intersections. Over 90 percent of Americans believe running a red light is "very" or "extremely" dangerous, yet two-thirds of motorists report seeing someone run a red light almost every day. More than 800 a year are killed by a crash involving someone who ran a red light.

Basic motorist tips for safe driving at intersections can be found at www.safemotorist.com, and include:

-Look both ways before proceeding into an intersection
-Don't depend on traffic signals
-Ensure the intersection is clear: Don't presume other drivers will comply with signals
-Obtain a good view before proceeding: Large trucks or people driving smaller cars and motorcycles and bicycles may have a hard time getting an unobstructed view.

Continue reading "Intersections a dangerous place for Chicago car accidents" »

Illinois' 2008 traffic fatality clock logged 1,115 Illinois traffic crashes per day. Eleven people an hour were injured and 3 people a day died in fatal Illinois traffic accidents, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation's 2008 Illinois Crash Facts and Statistics report.

This is the second blog looking at the newly published information. The Chicago injury lawyers and wrongful death attorneys at Abels & Annes published the first blog in the series on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog last week.

The study reported 10.1 million vehicles registered to 8.7 million licensed drivers traveled over 100 billion miles in 2008. There were 408,258 traffic accidents reported in Illinois during 2008, which caused 94,021 injuries and claimed 1,043 lives.

The Illinois State Police announced last week a campaign to reduce the number of Illinois traffic fatalities by at least 100 through the end of the year, dropping the state total below 1,000. Currently, Illinois is one of 10 states that reported more than 1,000 road deaths last year.

Breakdown of Illinois vehicles:
77 percent passenger cars
17 percent trucks, buses and recreational vehicles
4 percent motorcycles

The highest numbers of fatalities were among passenger cars (850) and pickup trucks (200). However, a high number of fatalities were reported as a result of Illinois trucking accidents (113) and Illinois motorcycle accidents (131).

The state has a good chance of dipping below the 1,000 mark -- 781 fatalities had been reported as of Nov. 10, compared to 883 in the prior year. But November and December are traditionally two of the deadliest months on the road, with holiday travel, Illinois drunk driving crashes and winter weather combining to increase road hazards.

Continue reading "More than 1,000 Illinois car accidents a day injured 11 people an hour in 2008" »

Illinois recorded the fewest traffic fatalities since 1923, according to an exhaustive report on 2008 traffic fatalities released by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The Chicago car accident attorneys and the Chicago injury lawyers at Abels & Annes are taking a look at the report in a series of blog here at our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog and our sister site, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog.

"We believe these reductions are evident that Illinois' traffic safety efforts are working," Gov. Pat Quinn said.

While the statistics are encouraging, the simple fact remains that traffic fatalities are a leading killer both in Illinois and nationwide. For most of us, riding in a motor vehicle is the most dangerous activity in our lives.

In 2008, 1,043 people were killed and more than 94,000 injured in Illinois traffic accidents, the vast majority occurred in an around Chicago. But, perhaps because of the poor economy, fewer motorists were on the road: the state reported a 1.6 percent decrease in traffic.

Highlights of "2008 Illinois Crash Facts and Statistics"

Cost
-Total estimated cost of Illinois traffic accidents in 2008 was $6.2 billion
-Each fatality was estimated to cost $1.2 million
-An incapacitating injury was estimated to cost $67,500
-A nonincapacitating injury was estimated to cost $21,800
-A property damage crash was estimated to cost $7,800

Fatal
-1,043 people were killed in 950 fatal Illinois crashes in 2008
-There was an average of 1.1 deaths per fatal crash
-25.2 percent of fatal crashes occurred at intersections
-74.2 percent of fatal crashes occurred on dry roads
-48.2 percent of fatal crashes occurred during daylight hours
-55.7 percent of fatal crashes occurred on urban roads
-29.8 percent of fatal crashes occurred with a fixed object

Alcohol
-44 percent of fatally injured drivers who were tested, tested positive for alcohol
-49.3 percent of fatally injured drivers ages 16 to 24 who were tested, tested positive for alcohol

Pedestrian Accidents
-135 pedestrians were killed in 2008 and 5,423 were injured
-About 9 percent were under 15 years old
-About 15 percent were over the age of 65
-About 40 percent had a positive blood-alcohol content

Motorcycle Accidents
-There were 4,901 motorcycle crashes in 2008, though the number of fatalities decreased by 14 percent

School Bus Accidents
-No school bus passengers were killed; 123 were injured
-No school bus drivers were killed;99 were injured

Tractor Trailer Accidents
-115 people were killed in semi accidents
-5 of the persons killed were truck drivers while 99 were occupants of another vehicle

Train Accidents
-38.5 percent of fatal train crashes happened at crossings with gates
-53.8 percent happened at crossings with control devices other than gates, including flashers and warning signs

Work Zone Accidents
-There were 31 fatal crashes in work zones in 2008 in which 31 people were killed
-Two of the persons killed were road construction workers

Deer
-There were 24,209 crashes involving deer
-Two deer crashes involved fatalities

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an accident, call the Chicago injury lawyers and Illinois wrongful death attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free appointment to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.

An August car accident that killed a Chicago motorcycle rider has resulted in felony DUI charges against the car's driver.

The 47-year-old North Ashland Avenue woman has been charged with aggravated DUI in connection with the Chicago car accident that killed a North Side motorcyclist, ABC7 reported.

The case made news after a nurse sued the city after she reported being arrested by police for failing to give a blood test to the woman charged, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

The Chicago motorcycle fatality happened shortly before 3:30 a.m. at the intersection of Ashland and Wilson, claiming the life of a 24-year-old North Campbell Avenue man, who died at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center six days later as a result of his injuries.

Police reported that the accused driver stated she did not see the motorcycle as she turned eastbound on Wilson from Ashland and accused the motorcyclist of running the red light.

She admitted drinking wine after officers smelled alcohol and reported she had glassy eyes, according to The Sun-Times. A motorist reported the woman's car was swerving from side to side before the accident.

Police reported she was placed in custody for driving under impairment after refusing to complete field sobriety tests.

A nurse filed a lawsuit the following Monday, alleging she was arrested for not performing the blood test. Blood ultimately was drawn at the hospital for a blood-alcohol test at 7:30 a.m., according to police.

The nurse's lawsuit claims she told police she could not perform the test until the accused driver was officially admitted as a patient and that she was unable to perform her duties as an emergency room staff member while being detained by police, according to The Sun-Times report.

With Illinois bikers hitting the street in big numbers through the Labor Day weekend and the media focusing on the increase in motorcycle fatalities, the Illinois State Police have announced a new initiative aimed at motorcycle awareness.

The Chicago Sun-Times recently reported Illinois motorcycle accidents are up 22 percent, from 2,180 in 2007 to 2,663 last year.

The Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers at Abels & Annes urge riders and motorists to do your part in reducing motorcycle accidents. Many accidents are caused by other vehicles who either don't take the time to look for motorcycles or misjudge how fast the much-smaller motorcycles are approaching.

As we reported in a blog last month, fatality statistics are sobering for motorcycle riders across the country. Nationwide, motorcycle fatalities increased for the 11th straight year and accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A total of 5,290 riders were killed in 2008, compared to 5,174 in 2007. The increase came in a year when federal statistics revealed a steep drop in virtually every other category, including a 13 percent decline in motor vehicle fatalities.

On Friday, Illinois State Police Director Jonathon E. Monken was joined by the Illinois Department of Transportation and State Farm Insurance Company to announce efforts to increase motorcycle safety awareness.

“The Illinois State Police continues its commitment towards reducing traffic fatalities to record setting levels through enforcement and education efforts,” said ISP Director Jonathon Monken. “Tragically, however, one area that is quickly on the rise nationally is motorcycle fatalities. We hope by partnering with State Farm and the Illinois Department of Transportation in order to call attention to the nationwide increase in motorcycle fatalities, we will also emphasize motorcycle safety awareness.”

The ISP encourages motorcyclists to take a rider safety course to hone their riding skills, and offers the following safety tips for new riders all the way up to seasoned veterans:

- Although Illinois does not mandate wearing a motorcycle helmet, use of approved helmets, protective body wear, boots and gloves is strongly recommended.

- Improve your visibility by wearing brightly colored clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.

- Be alert for animals alongside and on the roadway, not only in rural areas, but in urban areas as well.

- Don’t ride beyond 80% of your riding capabilities. To do so leaves no margin for the unexpected.

- When riding with another motorcycle, stagger your position. This allows both riders to take evasive action safely should the need occur.

- Don’t become fixed on what’s just beyond your front tire. Be aware of what’s ahead. Safe riders remain aware of developing situations 12-16 seconds ahead. This includes other vehicles, potholes, roadway obstructions, and other potential hazards. This allows time to plan and react in a controlled manner.

- Oil, grease and other fluids from cars and trucks generally collects in the middle of the lane. Avoid these potentially slick areas by riding in the normal wheel tracks of these vehicles.

- In the event emergency braking is required, remember motorcycles have far better stopping capabilities than cars and trucks. As you’re avoiding the hazard, scan for a safe escape route while watching for vehicles approaching from behind.

- Before proceeding through an intersection, check left, check front, check right, and check left again. Checking left first is important because this is the first lane you cross. Continue to scan in the intersection in a clockwise pattern, checking traffic approaching in front, in case that vehicle turns left in front of you. 77% of motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle happen in this manner.

- Don’t lend your motorcycle to someone without knowing his or her skill level and making sure they have the proper license.

- Don’t drink and ride. Alcohol slows reactions and impairs function.

The Chicago personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes have been advocating motorcycle safety on our blog throughout the summer.

Our summer blog on motorcycle safety can be found by clicking here

Click here to read our post on 10 things all drivers should know about motorcycles.

Continue reading "Illinois state police move to address Chicago area motorcycle accidents as Labor Day weekend approaches" »

A new federal study released last month found one in every seven nighttime weekend drivers tested positive for drugs.

The Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes urge weekend drivers to remain on the lookout for erratic drivers. Studies have long shown drivers are most likely to be drunk and driving between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.

While the study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found the percentage of motorists driving drunk continued to decline, the study for the first time tested for drug use and the results were sobering:
- 16.3 percent of nighttime weekend drivers were drug positive.
- Marijuana (8.6 percent)
- Cocaine (3.9 percent)
- Medications (3.9 percent)

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said he is concerned about the prevalence of drivers who use drugs.

“I’m pleased to see that our battle against drunk driving is succeeding,” said Secretary LaHood. “However, alcohol still kills 13,000 people a year on our roads and we must continue to be vigilant in our efforts to prevent drunk driving.”

The percentage of drunk drivers identified in the survey has fallen from 7.5 percent in 1973 to 2.2 percent in the most recent survey. This study was the first to measure for the presence of drugs.

“This troubling data shows us, for the first time, the scope of drugged driving in America, and reinforces the need to reduce drug abuse,” said Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. “Drugged driving, like drunk driving, is a matter of public safety and health. It puts us all at risk and must be prevented.”

The NHTSA is conducting further research to assess how drug traces correspond to driver impairment since some drugs can remain in the body for days or even weeks.

Among the findings of the latest roadside survey:

- The percentage of male drivers with illegal BAC levels was 42 percent higher than the percentage of alcohol-impaired female drivers.

- Drivers were more likely to be illegally drunk during late nighttime hours (1 a.m. to 3 a.m.) than during daytime or early evening hours.

- Motorcycle riders were more than twice as likely as passenger vehicle drivers to be drunk (5.6 percent compared with 2.3 percent).

- Pickup truck drivers were the next most likely to have illegal BACs (3.3 percent).

Continue reading "Chicago car accident alert - one in seven weekend-night drivers test positive for drugs" »

The Chicago-Sun Times is reporting about the ongoing increase in motorcycle fatalities, thanks in part to more riders, rising gas prices and increased interest in riding.

Nationwide, motorcycle fatalities increased for the 11th straight year and accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A total of 5,290 riders were killed nationwide in 2008, compared to 5,174 in 2007. That's in sharp contrast to the drop in fatality rates in virtually every other category, including a 13 percent decline in motor vehicle fatalities.

The Sun-Times reported that the combination of inexperienced riders and drivers who aren't used to seeing so many cycles on the road have helped push the number of motorcycle crashes in the seven-county region to 2,663 last year.

That's up 22 percent from 2,180 just two years earlier, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

In Cook County alone, the number was 1,654 in 2008 -- up 26 percent from 2006.

Overall, the number of motorcycles registered in Cook County and the adjacent counties was up 6 percent last year over 2006, according to figures from the Illinois secretary of state's office.

The Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers and injury attorneys at Abels & Annes urge motorists to watch out for motorcyclists and bikers, and to drive & ride safely.

Now through Labor Day is the height of bike season in Illinois and bikers are often injured or killed by cars that pull into their path because they either don't look or they misjudge the speed of the smaller motorcycle.

The Chicago motorcycle attorneys at Abels & Annes are active in promoting motorcycle safety and awareness.
Please take a moment and review our blog on 10 things driver should know about motorcycles.

Our look at the impact of distracted driving and motorcycle accidents.

And our blog on Summer Motorcycle Safety.

Continue reading "Fatal motorcycle accidents on the rise in Chicago and across the country" »

A Chicago motorcycle rider was killed Friday night when his motorcycle collided with a friend, sending him into a wall on the Dan Ryan Expressway, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

The Chicago Breaking News Center identified the victim as a 49-year-old Chicago resident. He was declared dead just before midnight at Stroger Hospital, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office.

The crash happened near 29th Street on the Dan Ryan and may have involved speed and/or alcohol, according to state police.

The motorcyclist was headed south on the Dan Ryan when his bike collided with a motorcycle driven by a 38-year-old friend. The surviving rider was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and his condition was not released.

No details were available about which rider might be at fault and whether the other rider might be issued citations after an investigation is completed.

It is likely that at some point a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney will review the police report and investigate the case to determine if there is a potential civil claim for the family of the victim to pursue.

Illinois reduced fatal accidents across the board in 2008, even seeing a drop in fatal motorcycle accidents, despite a rise in motorcycle deaths nationwide, which increased from 5,174 deaths in 2007 to 5,290 deaths in 2008.

Chicago accident lawyers at Abels & Annes are publishing the results of the annual release of accident data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While the Chicago area is still the state's most dangerous, the reduction in fatal accidents is certainly good news for motorists.

Yet getting into an automobile is the most dangerous thing most of us do on a daily basis. Frequent review of safe-driving habits is always a good idea. And those who are injured through no fault of their own have a right to recover damages from a negligent driver.

More than 700 of this year's fatal accidents -- or 7 of every 10 fatal crashes -- were caused by just two of the roads deadliest violators: drunk drivers and speeders.

Traffic Fatalities
Total: 1,043 in 2008 compared to 1,248 in 2007
Rural: 501 in 2008 compared to 433 in 2007
Urban: 609 in 2008 compared to 747 in 2007

Passenger vehicle occupant fatalities
Restrained: 722 in 2008 compared to 861 in 2007
Unrestrained: 339 in 2008 compared to 395 in 2007

Alcohol-impaired fatalities
362 in 2008 compared to 439 in 2007

Speed-related fatalities
385 in 2008 compared to 523 in 2007

Motorcycle fatalities
Total: 133 in 2008 compared to 157 in 2007
Helmeted: 32 in 2008 compared to 28 in 2007
Unhelmeted: 96 in 2008 compared to 121 in 2007

Drivers involved in fatal crashes
Total: 1,434 in 2008 compared to 1,709 in 2007
Aged Under 15: 4 in 2008 compared to 2 in 2007
Aged 15-20: 142 in 2008 compared to 252 in 2007
Aged under 21: 146 in 2008 compared to 254 in 2007
Aged 21 and over: 1,255 in 2008 compared to 1,415 in 2007.

Pedestrians
135 in 2008 compared to 171 in 2007

Continue reading "Chicago car accident lawyers examine state accident data" »

After failed attempts to reach a settlement, car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes have filed a lawsuit against a driver who is insured by State Farm. The claim arises out of an automobile vs. motor scooter collision which took place on June 25, 2008.

Our client was riding his motorized scooter westbound on Lawrence Ave. in Chicago, Illinois. The car in front of him had stopped to make a left turn and then came to a stop behind the car stopped in front of him.

The defendant was driving her Buick Century westbound on Lawrence Ave. She failed to stop for stopped traffic and struck the plaintiff. The front end of her vehicle hit the rear of the scooter. The force of the impact threw our client off the scooter and injured him. He landed on the pavement on his back.

The lawsuit alleges the defendant failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to stop for stopped traffic, was driving at an excessive rate of speed, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area, including the Plaintiff.

Following the collision the plaintiff had an immediate onset of head, neck, back and left foot pain. That night his condition worsened and he was unable to sleep.

Due to his worsening symptoms our client sought medical treatment the next day at an Urgent Care Center. He complained mostly of head and back pain. A history was taken, he was examined and diagnostic tests were performed.

Continue reading "Chicago Injury Lawyers file lawsuit against State Farm driver" »

The tough economy is forcing people to reduce their automobile insurance, increase their deductibles, shop for cheaper coverage and, in some cases, even cancel their insurance.

The Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes urge motorists to carry as much uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage as they can afford. Reducing expenses by reducing auto insurance is shortsighted at best -- the cost is minimal compared to the expense of being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

The Insurance Research Council reports that a recent survey found 15 percent of those surveyed said they had increased their deductibles or reduced their coverage in order to reduce their premium costs.

Nine percent of those surveyed said they canceled or did not renew vehicle coverage in response to the economic downturn.

Encouragingly, the survey found most homeowners and drivers have continued their insurance coverage, even if they shopped for a lower rate.

"These findings confirm that most Americans recognize the importance of maintaining essential insurance coverage on their homes and cars," said Elizabeth A. Sprinkel, senior vice president of the IRC. "But they also show that Americans are willing to shop and reevaluate their insurance needs in order to reduce insurance costs."

And a proposal awaits the signature of Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn that would make failure to carry auto insurance a criminal offense, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Current law allows for a fine of up to $1,000 and license suspension of up to 6 months.

Chicago car accident attorney Dave Abels was recently interviewed about the new law and blogged about the inadequacy of the state's mandatory minimum insurance of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.

The new law is tougher, but still not tough enough.

Here is the big problem with the insurance law in Illinois. The minimum coverage is still $20,000 per person, and $40,000 per occurrence. No amount of money is going to bring a loved one back or make a family whole again, but $20,000 is a slap in the face. (I have handled car accident death cases where the victim incurred over $500,000 in medical bills before passing away).

Continue reading "Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes urge motorists to maintain proper car insurance " »

The Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes are launching a summer safe-driving series featuring more than a dozen blogs aimed at reducing serious injury and wrongful deaths resulting from summer car accidents.

Chicago ranked fifth in the nation in the number of motor-vehicle-related deaths (192) in 2007, the most recent year of data released by the federal government. And the city was third in the nation in the number of pedestrians killed at 50.

In Illinois, the number of fatalities remained virtually the same between 2006 and 2007, dropping by five deaths, from 1,254 to 1,249. The state ranks ninth-highest in traffic fatalities, after California, Florida, Georgia, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Nationwide, 41,059 people were killed and 2.5 million injured, causing $230 billion in economic damage, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Make no mistake about it: Driving a car is the most dangerous activity each of us engage in on a daily basis. Yet, as you climbed behind the wheel of that 4,000 pound hunk of steel to begin the work week, do you even remember the last time you made a conscious effort to review the safe driving habits and practices that could save your life?

In the coming weeks, we will be reviewing some of the most common causes of serious or fatal accidents, including:
-Aggressive Driving
-Speeding
-Distracted Driving
-Drowsy Driving
-Impaired Driving
-Accidents with motorcycles
-Accidents involving bicycles and pedestrians
-Red lights and intersections
-Driving in inclement weather
-Teen driving
-Driving and seniors
-And driving in parking lots

So check back with us often. Why not? Your life could very well depend on it.

Continue reading "Summer Safe Driving series brought to you by the Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes" »

Summer is motorcycle season in Illinois and the motorcycle accident lawyers at Abels & Annes urge riders and motorists to work together in preventing serious injury and wrongful death from motorcycle accidents.

Gov. Pat Quinn, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and motorcycle safety advocates have joined forces in urging the public to “start seeing motorcycles.”

In addition, IDOT is offering free courses for beginner and intermediate riders as it unveils new public service announcements to be aired on radio stations statewide from May to September.

“When you ride, be aware of your surroundings – others may not see you,” said Larry Kolling of the Gold Wing Road Rider’s Association. “Whenever there is a motor vehicle versus a motorcycle accident, most of the time the operator’s comment is 'I did not see the bike.' Look twice. Save a life.”

Drivers often misjudge the speed and distance of a motorcycle. The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes want motorists to remember a second look and a little patience can literally mean the difference between life and death for a biker – the vulnerability of motorcyclists means every accident is life threatening.

Illinois motorcycle fatalities declined slightly last year, from 157 to 135 -- a trend authorities and safety advocates are committed to seeing continue.

“We are moving in the right direction with our traffic safety efforts; however, motorcycle fatalities remain a concern,” said Illinois State Police Director Jonathon Monken, noting the state will be deploying motorcycles to improve motorcycle awareness and safety.

“Our highly-skilled motorcycle enforcement officers will be deployed on interstates throughout the state with the mission of checking for proper license endorsements, speed limit enforcement, reducing fatalities and making other vehicle drivers more aware of motorcyclists.”

Monken said officers will also be enforcing “fatal five violations,” which include speeding, safety belts, improper lane usage, following too closely and driving under the influence.

“We anticipate that deployment of the motorcycle patrol unit will cut down the number of drivers exceeding the speed limit and will ultimately reduce the number of crashes, deaths and injuries,” said IDOT Secretary Gary Hannig.

In 2008, the state trained 15,954 riders in the Cycle Rider Safety Training Program, up from 14,917 in 2007. Classes are free to any Illinois resident 16 years of age or older. For more information on locations and schedules, click here.

The Illinois State Patrol offers the following safety tips:

Continue reading "Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers urge long summer of safe riding" »

In the Chicago area there were two separate motorcycle crashes this weekend that resulted in fatalities, according to the Chicago Tribune. One collision took place in Oak Forest, Illinois on Saturday night. The accident occurred on I-57 when a southbound motorcyclist took an illegal U-turn and hit 3 northbound bikers.

Two of the northbound motorcycle riders, Michael Adams, age 47 of Kankakee and Sean Darke, age 34 of Chicago, were killed. A female passenger, Brianna Moore, age 20 of Calumet City, died later in an area hospital. Another female passenger was seriously injured. The motorcyclist who caused the crash survived and was ticketed with disobeying a traffic control device.

The Illinois State Police investigated the accident. It has not been reported if drugs or alcohol were involved. Additional charges are possible once the case is reviewed by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.

Earlier the same day, two bikers were killed in a Kane County crash. Six others were reportedly injured. The accident occurred when a car hit a group of motorcycle riders. Wade E. Thomas, 44, and Denise A. Thomas, 45, died in the Kane County motorcycle crash.

A Lake Zurich, Illinois motorcyclist was killed by an Illinois driver who was distracted because she was painting her nails at the time of the accident, according to UPI.com. Anita Zaffke was on her bike stopped at a yellow light when she was rear-ended by an unidentified driver of a Chevy Impala.

The victim was thrown from her motorcycle and died from chest & abdominal injuries a short time later at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington. The Lake County Sheriff's Department is investigating the car vs. motorcycle accident, and they have stated that it appears the motorcycle rider did nothing wrong and was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The driver was ticketed with failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. More serious charges are likely once the accident is reviewed by the Lake County State's Attorney's Office.

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