Pedestrian accidents: Illinois college students hit by truck
On behalf of Jeffrey Frederick of Frederick & Hagle posted in Pedestrian Accidents on Wednesday, October 16, 2013.
College campuses are typically dispersed with students walking to and from classes. For students who attend school on large campuses, their walks can be a considerable distance and cause them to utilize sidewalks near busy streets, especially in city settings. Though they may remain on designated walkways, students are still at risk for being involved in pedestrian accidents, should a driver be negligent or reckless.
Such an accident occurred near the University of Illinois campus, involving two pedestrian students and a pick-up truck. Reports state that the two female students were walking on the sidewalk when the driver of the truck failed to remain on the roadway and struck the two young women. Both of the students were transported to the hospital with serious injuries, and unfortunately, one of the young women died in the emergency room as a result of her injuries. The second victim was listed as being in stable condition at the time of the report.
The driver of the pick-up truck had reportedly been driving unpredictably before the accident occurred as he drove on the sidewalk and hit several road signs. At this time, the driver has received citations for driving an uninsured vehicle and improper lane usage. It was not reported whether any further charges will be filed against the driver in relation to this fatal accident.
Fatal pedestrian accidents are always difficult to learn about, and the victims’ families are undoubtedly shaken by the event. The family of the surviving student presumably feels great relief that their loved one is alive, but the family members of the deceased young woman must face more difficult circumstances. While coming to terms with the loss of their loved one, they must also deal with the financial burdens such as funeral arrangements that plague a family after such an event. Gaining compensation for their financial hardships resulting from the accident could possibly be an option if they wish to pursue a wrongful death claim against the driver deemed at fault. Information on Illinois laws relevant to their situation could help them determine whether filing a claim could be the right path for their circumstances.
Source: news-gazette.com, Pedestrian in campus crash was junior at UI, Mary Schenk, Oct. 10, 2013
