It is well understood by most Chicago residents that drinking and driving never mix. A recent accident in the West Town neighbor of the city shows how this deadly combination can result in horribly tragic events.
A 33-year-old graphic artist was struck and killed by a black sport utility vehicle that did not stop after striking him. The accident caused the victim to be taken to a local hospital where he died from his catastrophic injuries. Witnesses who saw the incident occur believe that the SUV may have come from the direction of a local bar, indicating that the driver may have been drinking prior to causing the fatal injury accident.
It is reported that the victim was engaged and that he worked in Chicago’s Loop. His loss will undoubtedly be felt not only by his fiancé and co-workers but also by his surviving family members and friends.
At this time police have not found the SUV or the driver, leaving this matter as a tragic fatal hit-and-run accident. When the driver is located, that driver may face criminal charges. However, the surviving family members of the victim may also consider pursuing civil claims against the responsible person.
Injury accidents such as this one leave massive voids in the lives of the people who loved and supported the accidents’ victims. Thankfully the civil court system of Illinois provides these survivors with some options for pursuing their damages from such tragic losses. In these cases, family members can seek compensation for their losses including for funeral costs, medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Source: ABC 7 News, “Hit-and-run driver strikes, kills man in West Town neighborhood,” Mar. 23, 2014
