With traffic in Chicago perpetually getting worse, many people in the metropolitan area have turned to alternative methods of transportation to ease their commutes. While some have sought out carpools or use public transportation, others have taken it upon themselves to improve their health while improving their commutes. Cycling, walking and other forms of exercise are becoming popular methods of getting around the area.
Unfortunately for those who commute without a car, they are not able to avoid many of the dangers that are traditionally associated with driving on local roadways. A 50-year-old man suffered serious injuries when the back of his bicycle was struck by a car. The injury accident was so devastating that the man was thrown from his bike to the pavement and suffered fatal wounds to his head and body in the process.
It is unclear if the victim was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, though police did issue a ticket to the driver who caused the fatal collision for failing to slow down. As the accident investigation continues, more details regarding the actions of the victim and the driver may emerge including whether the driver was distracted due to intoxication or using a cellular phone.
The family of the victim must now begin the difficult process of coping with their loss. Once investigators are able to determine the actual cause of the accident and if the cause can be contributed to the involved driver, the victim’s loved ones may consider pursuing their legal rights against the driver to recover damages. Though their lawsuit can do little to ease the pain of their loss, recovery of damages can help lessen the burden of the financial charges that become due for the victim’s medical and funeral expenses.
Source: Chicago Tribune, “Bicyclist killed in crash near Batavia,” Amanda Marrazzo and Rosemary Regina Sobol, June 28, 2013
