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Semi-trailer allegedly causes fatal accident in construction zone

On Behalf of | Jul 2, 2014 | Wrongful Death

Motor vehicle accidents are a fact of life. Some of them are fatal, often resulting from a driver’s negligence. For surviving family members of individuals who are killed in a car accident, the knowledge that a loved one died because of someone else’s carelessness or negligence often makes their loss even harder. It is understandable when family members are interested in seeking justice and closure, as well as compensation.

A truck driver who allegedly caused a fatal accident some 75 miles northwest of Chicago is facing both criminal charges and a wrongful death lawsuit because of an apparent lack of attention to traffic conditions. According to the Illinois State Police, a 74-year-old man died when the car he was riding in was hit by the semi being driven by a 55-year-old Indiana truck driver who failed to reduce his speed while approaching a construction zone on Interstate 39 a mile north of Illinois Highway 72. The impact with the sports utility vehicle also injured its driver, the 71-year-old wife of the man killed. She was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was listed in critical condition. Three other vehicles were involved in the accident, and three more people were reportedly injured. According to the ISP, the truck driver has already been cited for failure to reduce speed.

The family of the man killed can file a wrongful death lawsuit in addition to whatever criminal charges are prosecuted. Evidence from any criminal charge can be used in the civil lawsuit.

In these circumstances, holding the negligent driver accountable financially can help cover medical costs incurred by victims or surviving family members. Compensation can also help to pay funeral expenses and make up for income that is lost by the death of the victim.

Source: Oglecountynews.com, “Fatal multiple vehicle accident on I-39,” Chris Johnson, June 18, 2014

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