Weather conditions contributed to fatal car accident on I-74
On behalf of of Frederick & Hagle posted in Car Accidents on Wednesday, December 3, 2014.
Driving on Illinois roads during winter typically requires extra caution, as wet and icy roads could lead to devastating accidents. While no car accident is likely to be intentional, every driver is expected to adapt his or her driving style to the prevailing conditions. A slippery road is no excuse for rear-ending another vehicle, as lower rates of speed and proper following distances could usually help one avoid such accidents.
The Galesburg Police recently responded to a call about an accident that occurred on Interstate 74. It was reported that a 26-year-old eastbound driver smashed into the rear of a stationary pickup truck on the right shoulder of the road. Police determined that the adverse weather conditions seem to have played a role in the accident.
The driver of the stationary vehicle suffered severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital, while the driver of the first vehicle died at the scene. No citations were issued at the time of the accident. However, an investigation is underway, as is typical in cases where people are injured or lives are lost. During the investigation, I-74 was reportedly closed for several hours, causing enormous backups.
The injured 55-year-old driver of the stationary pickup truck will likely be facing high medical costs and may even be unable to go back to work for some time. However, if there is sufficient evidence of negligence on the part of the other driver, he may be entitled to pursue the recovery of damages incurred. He retains the right to file a personal injury claim against the estate of the driver whose alleged negligence caused the car accident. If such a claim is successfully presented in an Illinois civil court, the injured victim may be awarded monetary compensation for medical and other expenses related to the tragic accident.
Source: wgil.com, “Police Release Details on I-74 Fatal Accident“, Nov. 25, 2014
