Police are still searching for a driver involved in a fatal hit-and run-accident with a motorcyclist on May 11, 2012. Our experienced Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys understand how devastating these accidents can be for the families of hit-and-run victims. We recognize that they are often left with stacks of medical bills and severe grief, so they depend on the judicial system for recourse.
In this particular case, it is unclear whether or not the faulty driver saw the cyclist before the fatal crash. The Chicago Tribune is reporting that a white SUV pulled out in front of the motorcycle sometime around 1 p.m. The motorcyclist apparently did not have time to stop and struck the passenger side of the SUV.
Medical personnel airlifted the victim to the UIC Medical Center, where he tragically died from multiple injuries. Unfortunately, the 23-year-old cyclist was not wearing a helmet. This is a common theme in many fatal crashes, and reinforces the need for all motorcyclists to maintain proper safety precautions.
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Police released an image from a nearby security camera in an attempt to identify the operator of the vehicle involved in the collision. A license plate is not available, but it appears that the vehicle was manufactured between 2009 and 2012. Crimestoppers will offer a $5,000 award for information that leads to an arrest.
Motorcyclists are one of the most at risk groups during summer months. According to the latest statistics, 93% of all cyclist fatalities occur under dry and clear road conditions. Of 130 fatalities in 2010, only one rider wore a helmet certified by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). Although Illinois is one of only three states that does not require drivers to wear a helmet, IDOT still strongly recommends helmets for personal safety.
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In an effort to promote safety among cyclists, IDOT kicked off its first ever “Gear Up ” campaign. The goal is to encourage the use of protective gear and diligence on the roads. As part of the campaign, free training classes are available statewide from May 1st through September 1st for cyclists of all skill levels. The courses are designed to teach both novice and advanced riders about defensive driving techniques.
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Our Chicago bike injury lawyers support these efforts to improve safety on the roadways. According to the ‘Start Seeing Motorcycles’ campaign, many motorcycle collisions could be prevented if the driver knew how to swerve or brake more carefully. To raise awareness for this cause, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn declared May Motorcycle Awareness Month.
Throughout the entire month of May, the “Start Seeing Motorcycles” initiative will do extra work to get the message out cyclists’ safety. Illinois drivers can expect to see cyclists stationed at rest stops, washing windshields, passing out stickers, and reminding drivers to be alert when changing lanes or making turns. Most drivers involved in collisions with a motorcycle claim that they simply did not see the cyclist in the lane. This is the kind of avoidable mistake that could save lives.
Although motorcyclists represent only 3-4% of all licensed drivers, cyclists account for 14% of roadway fatalities. Our Chicago accident attorneys urge motorists to drive responsibly in order to prevent a fatal crash. Sadly, some accidents are unavoidable. If you or a loved one are involved in a fatal crash involving a car, motorcycle, or other type of vehicle, it is important to begin the legal process as soon as possible in order to preserve your legal right to compensation.
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