Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

In Chicago, Illinois 6 people were hurt in a car accident on Sunday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Two of the injured were children. The auto accident occurred around 2 am in the 8200 block of South Chicago Avenue on the Southeast Side. The driver of an SUV lost control and crashed.

There were no other vehicles involved in the accident. Occupants of the SUV were pinned in and 5 ambulances were sent to the scene. The Chicago Police Department handled the crash investigation.

The children, ages 9 and 10 were taken by ambulance to University of Chicago's Comer Children's Hospital. The driver was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn and a female passenger was taken to Jackson Park Hospital. Two others who were reportedly injured refused treatment.

In a single car accident, a passenger can make an injury claim against the driver's auto insurance policy. This type of accident is not uncommon and our law firm handles these cases often.

Also see "Four hurt in early-morning car accident" at chicagobreakingnews.com.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Injuries to Children & Minors

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There are fewer instances of trains blocking Chicago streets, Canadian National Railway told regulators Tuesday, but acknowledged more work needs to be done after its purchase of Chicago area-tracks from Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway.

The company said it had 11 instances of trains blocking Chicago-area streets for 10 minutes or longer in May, compared to 14 in April and 50 in March when it first acquired the tracks that arc westward around Chicago through Illinois and Indiana suburbs, according to a report Tuesday in the Journal of Commerce.

The Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes monitor the local railway industry and its impact on motorists' safety. In addition to the deadly Rockford, IL, train crash last week, which was also operated by Canadian National Railway, instances of trains blocking area roads for an extended length of time can lead to car accidents.

Rear-end collisions are common. Motorists also can become understandably frustrated with the delay and attempt to drive around down-track gates, leading to the potential for accident and injury once the train begins moving again. And, when train blockages at intersections become a common occurrence, motorists can sometimes try to get through ahead of an oncoming train.

The Canadian railroad company also reported the duration of the delays is declining -- from several instances of roadway traffic being stalled for hours because of stopped trains in March, to two lengthy delays in April and one last month.

That train stretched more than a mile long with 106 loaded railcars and blocked a road at Joliet, Ill., for an hour, after stalling on an uphill climb as it headed out of town.

The company reports corrective action for each blockage in an attempt to pacify suburban complaints, where the acquisition is being contested in federal court. It also admitted the problem has been alleviated somewhat by a down economy and fewer freight loads and train trips.

Canadian National Railway also said it has made safety presentations at several area schools, and has posted 225 “no trespassing” signs on its railroad property from Gary, Ind., to West Chicago.

Continue reading "Fewer trains blocking area roads could reduce traffic accidents, Chicago car accident laywers say" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Train Accident

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The Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes have recovered $255,000 on an underinsured motorist claim for a woman who was struck by a car leaving church following Good Friday services.

The client was hit in a crosswalk at Irving Park and Austin as she left Polish Jesuit Fathers. A driver turning left did not see the client, who was crossing the street on a walk sign.

Chicago attorney David Abels said the driver's insurance carrier, Allstate, paid $50,000. The firm then collected an additional $200,000 on an underinsured claim from the client's insurance carrier, which were the limits of the policy, as well as $5,000 in medical payment coverage.

Abels said timely recovery of the $255,000 will assist the woman in recovering from serious injuries.

The woman was rushed to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge with severe head injuries and underwent emergency surgery, Abels wrote in a previous blog. The client had a large piece of her skull temporarily removed and spent time in a coma.

"In reality, no amount of money is ever going to change the situation for our client. This is a lifelong injury that is going to affect her for the rest of her life," Abels told CBS2 in Chicago about pending legislation that would require motorists to come to a complete stop when someone is crossing the street.

The serious injury or death of pedestrians who are struck by motorists continues to be a serious problem -- more than 4,600 pedestrians were killed in 2007, including 171 people in Illinois.

The Chicago Department of Transportation is stepping up enforcement in conjunction with the Chicago Police Department. The operation puts undercover officers in crosswalks posing as civilians. Drivers who fail to yield face fines of $50 to $500.

“Providing a safe pedestrian environment is our No. 1 goal,” said CDOT Commissioner Thomas G Byrne. “This initiative is designed to increase awareness among motorists about the importance of stopping for pedestrians. People should be able to safely cross the street in their neighborhoods.”

Continue reading "Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers at Abels & Annes recover $255,000 for victim of crosswalk car accident" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident

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In Romeoville, Illinois an elderly husband and wife were killed Thursday afternoon when their car was hit by an Amtrak train after they allegedly went around a descending crossing arm and started across the tracks, according to the Naperville Sun. The train accident occurred at New Avenue and Romeo Road around 1 pm.

The couple, Harry C. Hoffman, age 74 and his wife, Doreen J. Hofman, age 64 died at the scene. The damage to the vehicle was so bad that the police are not yet able to state who was driving the car. One occupant was ejected from the vehicle and the car was badly damaged and knocked several hundred feet down the tracks.

There are several issues related to the train crash being reported. First, while the gates descended there was still a green light for traffic, which police are speculating may have confused the driver. Further, witnesses are reporting that the car made a right turn on to the tracks as the gates were still descending, not after they were already down.

It is likely that Chicago train crash lawyers will soon be involved. The attorneys that handle the case will likely retain train safety experts to help them determine the causes of the accident.

One issue that I am curious about is the the fact that the couple's car was hit while the gates were still on the way down, or had just gotten down, by a train traveling at a high speed through a congested suburban area. (Were the gates dropping too late? Was the train speeding?) Further, I would like to know more about the traffic lights and whether the crossing is confusing to drivers.

It is being reported that this deadly accident is not the first train vs. motor vehicle collision at this crossing.

Continue reading "Chicago bound Amtrak train hits and kills Joliet couple" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Train Accident , Wrongful Death

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The American Trucking Association is rolling out an 18-point safety plan this month that it claims will improve highway safety, in part as a response to the recent $23.8 million jury award stemming from a 2004 Chicago trucking accident that claimed two lives near Plainfield, Illinois.

The Chicago trucking accident lawyers at Abels & Annes applaud any move that will improve trucking safety. A 4,000 pound passenger vehicle doesn't stand a chance against an 80,000 pound semi traveling at 70 mph. Jury awards are often high because the injuries are catastrophic and liability can be compounded by overweight trucks, tired or inexperienced truck drivers and unsafe or poorly maintained trucks as trucking companies struggle to remain profitable in a tight economy.

"As the U.S. logistics and freight industry becomes increasingly dedicated to meeting ever-tighter supply chain delivery windows, American trucking fleets are trying to become even safer," the ATA announced, noting the industry claims to be the safest it has been since the U.S. Department of Transportation began keeping crash statistics in 1975.

Safety advocates believe the 18-point plan is a move in the right direction.

“I appreciate all the work that’s been done and I believe (the new safety agenda) is a good platform as we move into the next highway authorization process,” said John Hill, a former former Federal Motor Carrier Safety administrator. ATA’s new strategies “specifically address driver deficiency areas and give drivers tool they need to improve highway safety."

Others argue the plan is aimed at improving the group's image as it pushes for even heavier trucks, approaching 100,000 pounds. The Truck Safety Coalition blasted ATA for not going far enough.

“This is about longer and heavier trucks,” said Jennifer Tierney of Kernersville, N.C., who says her father was killed in a truck-related accident. “That’s what their agenda is. Bigger vehicles are more dangerous vehicles."

Tierney said if the trucking industry were serious, it would commit to reducing truck driver fatigue by reducing the legal hours they can drive (which is now up to 88 hours in a little over a week), support electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) and support increased mandatory behind-the-wheel driver training.

Yet advocates for the trucking industry say the number of trucks involved in fatal crashes has dropped 10 percent in the past two decades, despite a 50 percent increase in the number of registered trucks and a 70 percent increase in truck miles traveled.

The ATA's plan calls for:

Improving Driver Performance:
1. Policy on the use of non-integrated technologies while the vehicle is in motion
2. Policy supporting uniform commercial drivers license (CDL) testing standards
3. Policy supporting a CDL graduated licensing study
4. Policy supporting additional parking facilities for trucks
5. Policy supporting a national maximum 65mph speed limit for all vehicles
6. Policy supporting strategies to increase the use of seat belts
7. Policy supporting a national car-truck driver behavior improvement program
8. Policy supporting increased use of red light cameras and automated speed enforcement
9. Policy supporting graduated licensing standards in all states for non-commercial teen drivers
10. Policy supporting more stringent laws to reduce drinking and driving
Safer Vehicles:
11. Policy supporting targeted electronic speed governing of certain non-commercial vehicles
12. Policy supporting electronic speed governing of all large trucks manufactured since 1992
13. Policy supporting new large truck crashworthiness standards
Safer Motor Carriers:
14. Policy supporting a national employer notification system
15. Policy supporting a national clearinghouse for positive drug and alcohol test results of
CDL holders
16. Policy supporting a national registry of certified medical examiners
17. Policy supporting access to the national Driver Information Resource
18. Policy supporting required safety training by new entrant motor carriers
For more details on ATA’s 18-point safety initiative, go to www.truckline.com.

Continue reading "Chicago trucking accident lawyers monitor trucking industry safety initiative" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Truck Accident

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At least four Chicago-area motorcycle accident deaths in May have advocates looking at ways to punish distracted drivers and increase awareness to prevent motorcycle accidents as the summer riding season gets into full swing.

The Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys at Abels & Annes have been active in promoting motorcycle safety awareness on this blog, publishing 10 things drivers should know about motorcycles, and a safe riding blog earlier this month.

Abels & Annes is also taking a look at distracted driving as part of its Summer Safe Driving Series.

"We are a nation of distracted drivers and it's costing us lives and property damage," Mami Pyke wrote in the Daily Herald on Sunday. "One local case that's provoked outrage is the death of motorcyclist Anita Zaffke of Lake Zurich, killed May 2 by another driver who was polishing her nails instead of watching the road, police say."

Pyke said Zaffke's death is giving weight to a call to give authorities additional means to punish distracted drivers in addition to charges like reckless homicide, which can be difficult to prove against distracted drivers.

Legislation sponsored by Rep. William Blake, R-Danville, would create a misdemeanor category of negligent vehicular homicide, which could result in up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Black pushed for the reform after a 25-year-old Urbana cyclist was killed by a driver who went off the road while downloading ring tones on her cell phone.

Illinois motorcycle accidents and fatalities continue to increase. From 4,119 in 2005 to 4,819 in 2007. There were 154 Illinois motorcycle deaths that year, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

"This is the ugliest start to riding season in Illinois that we ever have seen," Dean Akey, a veteran biker and owner of an Allstate Insurance business in St. Charles, told the Daily Herald.

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable travelers on our roads. Please give them a break this summer. Pay attention while driving, return or motorcycle friends home safely to their families and give yourself a break from the grief and heartache hitting a motorcyclist can cause.

Continue reading "Increase in Chicago motorcycle accidents blamed on distracted drivers " »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Motorcycle Accident

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On the South Side of Chicago a single car accident has resulted in a nine-year-old's head being thrown into a windshield, and the child's mother being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, according to ABC News. The mother, Cheryl Ranae Reynolds, hit a viaduct Saturday night near East 83rd and South Jeffery after she allegedly reached down to pick up a bottle alcohol she dropped on the floor.

The mother has been charged with aggravated DUI and not wearing a seat belt. The Chicago Police Department is handling the investigation. The extent of the child's injuries have not yet been reported.

While the mother caused the accident, that fact does not bar an injury claim by the minor child against her mother and mother's auto insurance carrier. If the mother had valid auto insurance, the child will be able to pursue a claim.

In a similar case, personal injury and wrongful death lawyers at Abels & Annes currently represent a father who lost his two daughters in an auto accident. The girls were in their mother's minivan when she crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on.

The fact that the mother's actions caused the accident does not bar the childrens' estates from recovering against the mother's estate and her insurance company. Car accident lawyers at our law firm expect to recover the insurance policy limits on behalf of the childrens' estates over the next several weeks.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , DUI , Personal Injury

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Chicago personal injury lawyer Dave Abels was interviewed on WUIS 91.9 Wednesday about pending legislation that would criminalize driving without insurance and the need to increase Illinois' minimum mandatory coverage levels.

"The way the law stands right now it just doesn't provide real protection for people who are seriously injured in auto accidents," said Abels, of Abels & Annes, a Chicago law firm that handles car accidents, motorcycle accident and other personal injury claims. "It covers you for small accidents but not the big accidents that you really care about where your life is changed forever."

The station contacted Abels after he blogged about the law last month here at www.chicagopersonalinjurylawyerblog.com

Under current law, uninsured motorists face a fine of $500 to $1,000 and a license suspension for 3-6 months. The new law, which is awaiting signature by Gov. Pat Quinn, makes driving without insurance a misdemeanor criminal offense carry the threat of up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

The law is named after Michael Dean, who was killed in 2006 by an uninsured driver who faced only a fine.

Abels said the new law is a step in the right direction but the state still needs to address its low mandatory insurance limits of $20,000 per accident and $40,000 per occurrence.

During the interview, Abels acknowledged that increased mandatory protection would be an added cost for motorists, but said the costs would be minimal and worth the added protection.

Continue reading "Chicago personal injury lawyer interviewed on public radio about proposed Illinois insurance law, minimum coverage standards" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Legal News , Personal Injury

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The Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys at Abels & Annes urge motorists to review "10 things all car, truck and bus drivers should know about motorcycles" to increase awareness as we enter the summer riding season.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 5,154 motorcyclists were killed in the United States in 2007 and another 103,000 were injured. In fact, the number of fatalities has exploded with the increase in registered motorcycles over the last 10 years.

In 1997, 3.9 million motorcycles were registered and 2,116 fatalities were reported compared to the 5,154 deaths in 2007 when 7.1 million bikers were registered on our roadways.

"It's a fact that car drivers and other motorists are at fault most of the time in multiple-vehicle crashes that involve motorcyclists," said Motorcycle Safety President Tim Buche, of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. "That's why we've initiated several public outreach tools specifically targeting the driving community. MSF has life-saving messages for everyone, whether they are behind a handlebar or behind a steering wheel."

MSF has launched a new website, www.forcardrivers.com, aimed at helping car, truck and bus drivers safely interact with motorcyclists. One of the leading motorcycle safety advocacy groups in the nation, MSF's primary website also offers a wealth of information geared toward safe motorcycle riding.

10 things Car, Truck and Bus Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles:

1. Over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle. Most of the time, the motorist, not the motorcyclist, is at fault. There are a lot more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers don't "recognize" a motorcycle – they ignore it (usually unintentionally).

2. Take an extra moment to look for motorcycles, whether you're changing lanes or turning at intersections. Because of its small size, a motorcycle can be easily hidden in a car's blind spots or masked by objects or backgrounds outside a car.

3. A motorcycle may look farther away than it is. It may also be difficult to judge a motorcycle's speed. Predict a motorcycle is closer than it looks.

4. Motorcyclists often slow by downshifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not activating the brake light. Allow more following distance and predict a motorcyclist may slow down without visual warning.

5. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily and to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles, and wind. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to be reckless or show off or to allow you to share the lane with them.

6. Turn signals on a motorcycle usually are not self-canceling, thus some riders (especially beginners) sometimes forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change. Make sure a motorcycle's signal is for real.

7. Maneuverability is one of a motorcycle's better characteristics, especially at slower speeds and with good road conditions, but don't expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.

8. Stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery pavement makes stopping quickly difficult. Allow more following distance behind a motorcycle because it can't always stop "on a dime."

9. When a motorcycle is in motion, see more than the motorcycle - see the person under the helmet, who could be your friend, neighbor, or relative.

10. If a driver crashes into a motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian and causes serious injury, the driver would likely never forgive himself/herself.

Continue reading "Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers advocate review of 10 things all car, truck and bus drivers should know about motorcycles" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Motorcycle Accident , Truck Accident

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The bicycle accident lawyers at Abels & Annes join Chicago and Illinois authorities in advocating safety and awareness this summer to reduce bicycle accidents.

The Chicago Department of Transportation began a series of 20 Share the Road events last week that will stretch across five city wards and into August in an effort to increase awareness.

"To ensure everyone's safety, all users of the public way need to follow the rules," said CDOT Commissioner Thomas G. Bryrne. "Safety is our No. 1 priority and the Share the Road program is an effective way to work toward that goal."

Nationwide, 698 bicyclists were killed and another 44,000 seriously injured in 2007, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Bicycling is a popular form of recreation and a practical means of travel for more than 4 million people in Illinois. But the Illinois Department of Transportation estimates more than 4,000 Illinois residents are seriously injured each year in bicycle accidents.

IDOT has released a public service announcement for the summer, emphasizing the legal requirement to give cyclists at least three-foot of clearance when making a pass. "There is plenty of room for us all, Please Don't Squeeze."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports the majority of bicycle accidents occur between 5 and 9 p.m.

"Our goal is to keep everyone on the road safe," 42 Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly said. "Cyclists need to be protected but they also need to ride responsibly and follow the laws of the road."

The city plans to have 500 miles of bike trails by 2015 -- motorists should remember every bicycle on the road means one less car adding to the congestion.

An excellent map of Chicago-area bike paths and trails is available by clicking here.

Citywide, law enforcement is receiving special training to enforce the new bicycle safety ordinances that were passed in March 2009 -- and the city's bike-lane parking ordinance will carry a $150 fine, up from $100 last year.

IDOT offers the following rider safety tips as part of its Summer Survival Guide.

Continue reading "Chicago bicycle accident lawyers at Abels & Annes call for summer of safety and awareness" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident

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An Illinois bus accident has claimed the lives of two young men after the double-decker open-air bus they were riding in passed beneath an overpass.

Justin Sleezer of Yorkville and Cameron Chana of Clarendon Hills were killed when their heads struck the Interstate Highway 57 overpass on Illinois Highway 16 in Mattoon. Fifty passengers, mostly students from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, were returning on the rented bus from a day of boating at Lake Shelbyville, about 200 miles South of Chicago.

Many on the bus were members of Sigma Pi fraternity, however a fraternity member told the Chicago Tribune the trip was not organized by the house.

Witnesses indicated the two young men killed were among the tallest in the group, although it is unclear whether they were standing or sitting on the top deck of the bus when it passed beneath the overpass. Passengers said the driver never told those on the upper deck to sit down or warned them of other safety precautions.

The bus driver took the victims to Lincoln Health Medical Center in Mattoon and they were later transported to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana where they were pronounced dead.

Mattoon Police Chief David Griffith said the investigation is ongoing and police are looking at whether any regulations were violated.

While it has not been reported if Illinois accident lawyers are involved in the case yet, the families of the victims have a strong wrongful death claim against the bus company.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bus Accident , Personal Injury , Wrongful Death

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On the West Side of Chicago, one man was killed and two others were injured on Sunday in a rollover car crash, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The accident occurred around 7:30 am in the 3900 block of West Division Street.

The victim, Francisco Delgado, age 42 of Chicago, was a passenger in a 2002 Nissan Xterra that was reportedly speeding when it ran a red light at Pulaski and Division, and then hit a northbound 2005 Taurus. The Nissan then hit a pole and rolled over.

Delgado was taken to Illinois Masonic Hospital after the accident and pronounced dead a short time later. A woman in the other car was treated for injuries at St. Mary's Hospital.

The Chicago Police Department is investigating the accident and trying to determine if drugs or alcohol played a role. Criminal charges are supposedly going to be filed against the at fault driver, who was seriously injured in the accident.

There is no word as to whether Chicago personal injury lawyers are involved in the case yet.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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Earlier this week it was reported that a Chicago police officer was seriously injured when his SUV was involved in a three vehicle car accident on the South Side. It is now being reported by the Southtown Star that someone stole the officer's gun while he was unconscious at the scene.

Police are trying to determine who took the weapon, and they are reviewing cell phone video and surveillance video that may show what happened. The cell phone footage was taken by a person that happened to be passing by and it supposedly shows a person going through the officers possessions and taking the gun from his side while he was trapped in the police SUV.

It is also being reported that an elderly driver involved in the car crash has been ticketed with failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and failure to yield. The exact facts as to how the accident occurred have not been reported.

The elderly driver and passenger, and two teenagers were also injured in the collision. All four were taken to area hospitals.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident

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Illinois auto accident lawyers at Abels & Annes have reached a $250,000 policy limits settlement in an uninsured motorist case. The claim stems from an auto accident that occurred October 9, 2008 at approximately 8:00 a.m. The plaintiff had been driving northbound on Fairview in Downers Grove, Illinois. Traffic in front of him came to a stop and he came to a complete stop for traffic. As our client was sitting at a stop he was hit in the rear end with great force by a vehicle being driven by an uninsured driver.

The defendant stated to the investigating police officers that he had looked away from the roadway before the collision and could not react in time to stop before hitting the plaintiff. The uninsured driver was issued tickets for driving too fast for conditions and for driving without insurance.

Following the collision our client began to experience pain and discomfort in his neck as well as numbness and tingling in his left arm. Over the next couple of days his pain worsened and the numbness and tingling in his left arm increased. As a result of his symptoms he sought treatment from an orthopedic specialist.

An MRI was performed on November 13, 2008 which revealed a disc herniation at C4-C5, posterior disk ridge complex at C4-C5 with central stenosis and bilateral neural foraminal narrowing.

Continue reading "Chicago Injury Lawyer Settles Uninsured Motorist Claim For $250,000" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Settlements & Verdicts , Uninsured Motorist Claim

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A Chicago Police Officer has been charged with the hit and run death of a teenage bicycle rider, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The charges include reckless homicide, leaving the scene of an accident involving death or injury, and aggravated DUI.

The car vs. bike accident occurred in the 8000 block of South Ashland on Friday at 1:30 am. The victim, 13 year old Trenton Booker, was riding his bicycle when he was hit by an off duty police officer who was driving his Dodge Charger the wrong way on a one-way street.

The officer has been relieved of his police powers and he was arrested after the accident. Further, a Chicago Police Department internal investigation has begun. The officer is a 39 year old narcotics officer who has been with the police department for 17 years.

The victim was going to graduate from 8th grade in June.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident , Hit & Run Accident , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois a bicycle rider that was hit by a cab near Grant Park opened his eyes today as his family looked on at Northwestern Hospital. The bike vs. taxi accident happened at the intersection of Balbo & Columbus just after 10 pm on Tuesday night.

A witness to the accident states that the collision occurred when a speeding cab ran a red light. The witness says the victim was eastbound on Balbo and had almost made it across Columbus when he was hit. He also states that the taxicab was going at least 10 mph over the posted limit.

The bicyclist was critically injured and taken by ambulance to Northwestern. He suffered a subdural hematoma, and surgeons had to remove a large piece of his skull to relieve the swelling. The bone is frozen at the hospital will be reinserted at a later date.

The family of the victim has retained Abels & Annes to pursue a civil claim against the at fault driver and the taxicab company.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident

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On the South Side of Chicago, an off duty CTA employee has been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver. The auto accident happened in the 9100 block of South Jeffery Boulevard back on April 27, 2009. Our client was driving home from work when an intoxicated driver crossed the center line and struck her vehicle.

A Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief happened to be driving behind the victim and witnessed the accident. He immediately called for help and rendered assistance.

The CTA worker was taken by ambulance to Jackson Park Hospital for medical treatment. She sustained right knee, back, and neck injuries. As of today, she is still suffering from her injuries and is treating with a medical doctor.

The Chicago Police Department investigated the accident and charged the defendant with DUI. The victim has been informed by police that the defendant's blood alcohol level was several times the legal limit. A court date is set for next week.

Abels & Annes will be pursuing a civil claim against the at fault driver's auto insurance carrier.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident

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In Chicago, Illinois a car crash late Monday night on the Dan Ryan has resulted in the death of one man, and DUI charges for another, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The deadly auto accident occurred when a northbound Ford Crown Victoria changed lanes around 79th Street and struck a Cadillac that was in the far right lane of the expressway.

The driver of the Cadillac lost control, skidded and struck a concrete wall head on. The airbags in the car reportedly did not deploy. The victim, Justin Hopkins, a 30 year old Chicago resident, was pronounced dead later the same evening at Stroger Hospital.

The 34 year old driver of the Crown Victoria was charged with DUI by Illinois State Troopers investigating the accident. Additional charges are reportedly being considered. The alleged DUI driver and his two passengers were not injured in the accident.

It has not been reported if the victim's family has yet retained an accident lawyer to investigate the case. The Estate will have a case against the at fault driver, and the lawyer that gets involved will also investigate a potential products liability case. The attorney may hire an expert to find out whether there was something defective about the airbag system in the vehicle and determine why it did not deploy.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois a pedestrian was fatally hit by a taxi last Sunday, according to the Lake Oswego Review. The victim, Robert Deighton, 42, a resident of Lake Oswego, Oregon was walking when a taxicab came out of a driveway and hit him. He was rushed by ambulance to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center and was pronounced dead shortly after the collision.

The cab driver was ticketed by Chicago Police with failing to yield when coming out of a driveway. He has a June court date. The police department's Major Accident Investigation Unit is handling the investigation.

It has not been reported if the family of the victim has retained an injury lawyer to pursue a wrongful death claim against the cab driver's insurance carrier.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident , Wrongful Death

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Pedestrian vs. car accidents in Chicago are a big issue as warm weather arrives. Due to a large increase in Chicago pedestrian fatalities in 2008, the Police Department is stepping up their efforts to protect people on foot from cars. They are running a sting operation to catch people who fail to yield to pedestrians, where undercover officers pose as civilians in crosswalks. Further, the Illinois legislature is considering a new law that would require drivers to stop for pedestrians rightfully crossing the street (not just yield).

On Sunday, Chicago accident attorneys from Abels & Annes appeared on CBS News in Chicago to discuss a pedestrian injury case that they are currently working on. The client was hit and severely injured while crossing in a crosswalk at Irving Park and Austin on the Northwest Side. The 38 year old driver of a 2006 Audi A4 failed to notice her crossing.

The Chicago resident was transported by ambulance to Lutheran General Hospital with severe head trauma. Emergency surgery was performed and the client remained in a coma for over two weeks.

Late last week, medical doctors at the hospital were able to wake her. She is in good spirits, however, her road to recovery is long from over. She is expected to remain in the hospital for an extended period of time.

The injured pedestrian has retained Abels & Annes to pursue a civil claim against the driver's auto insurance carrier. Witnesses to the accident should contact Abels & Annes, or fill out the contact form on our website.

Click here to view the CBS story.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Fractures / Broken Bones , Legal News , Pedestrian Accident

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A Chicago woman who was hit by a car on Good Friday has woken from a coma. The accident happened just after she left church services for Good Friday at Polish Jesuit Fathers on Irving Park Road. She was crossing in a crosswalk at Irving Park and Austin on a walk sign when a driver turning left did not see the woman and struck her with his vehicle.

She suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. There she underwent emergency surgery and had been in a coma ever since the accident.

She is now awake and in good spirits. However, she is missing a large piece of her skull that was removed during surgery. The bone has been frozen at the hospital and will be re-inserted during another surgical procedure at a later date. Her road to recovery has just begun and she will be in the hospital for several more months.

The driver who hit her was ticketed by the Chicago Police Department and is set to appear in Court later this month. The pedestrian has retained Abels & Annes, P.C. to pursue a civil claim against the driver's insurance carrier.

There may have been several witnesses to the accident who have not yet come forward. If you have information regarding this accident, please call 312-924-7575 or email accidentwitness@yahoo.com.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident

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The world's fastest man has been hurt in a car crash, according to the Detroit News. Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt was involved in an auto accident in Jamaica on Wednesday. His injuries are reportedly not serious.

It is alleged that Bolt had been speeding on a wet highway when he lost control of his BMW M3. The car skidded of the road and was seriously damaged.

The sprinter and a female passenger were taken to an area hospital and treated. He was released the same day.

Bolt won gold medals in the men's 100 meter and 200 meter, both in record times, at the Beijing Olympic Games.

Click here to read the entire story.

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Posted In: Auto Accident

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In Cook County, Illinois, injury lawyers from Abels & Annes have filed a lawsuit on behalf of a Chicago physician who was seriously injured in a car accident. The crash occurred on June 23, 2008 in the afternoon when the defendant rear-ended the plaintiff.

Our client had been driving northbound on Broadway in Chicago. When she arrived at Broadway’s intersection with Irving Park Road she stopped in the left turn lane with her left turn signal on to await her opportunity to make a left turn onto westbound Irving Park Rd. While she was stopped her vehicle was rear-ended. The lawsuit alleges the defendant failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to stop for stopped traffic, was driving at an excessive rate of speed, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area.

The doctor had an almost immediate onset of back and neck pain following the collision. She was transported by ambulance from the local police station to Thorek Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department.

Upon arrival at the Emergency Department a history was taken, she was examined and diagnostic tests were performed. The doctor complained of head, neck and low back pain. She was initially diagnosed with a back strain, prescribed pain medication, muscle relaxants and instructed to seek follow up treatment after discharge.

Continue reading "Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Files Lawsuit For Injured Medical Doctor" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Legal News

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In one of the more boneheaded accidents I have heard about lately, an alleged DUI driver hit a Chicago cop car on Saturday night, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The accident happened in the 3800 block of West Lawrence Avenue around 8 pm when a man from the Northwest Side rear-ended an unmarked police car. The driver was later charged with driving while under the influence.

Two ambulances responded to the crash and the police officer was taken to Resurrection Medical Center in reportedly stable condition. The DUI driver refused treatment.

The hurt officer reportedly worked in the tactical unit. The exact nature of his injuries have not been reported. However, in a rear-end collision, back and neck injuries seem to be the most common in my experience.

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Posted In: Auto Accident

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In the south suburbs of Chicago, several people were hurt on Monday morning in a multiple vehicle auto accident on Interstate 55, according to the Southtown Star. The car crash involved two semi trucks and four cars. Five motorists were reportedly injured.

The collision took place at Woodward Avenue and I-55 around 7:45 a.m. A vehicle reportedly lost control while moving southbound and crashed, and that caused a chain of subsequent collisions.

Darien-Woodridge Fire Department Paramedics rushed to the scene. The injured people were taken to three different hospitals in the area.

The crash blocked several lanes of traffic during the morning rush for over an hour. The Illinois State Police is handling the accident investigation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Truck Accident

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In Chicago, Illinois, a two year old boy died Saturday afternoon after being hit by a car in an alley, according to the Chicago Tribune. The pedestrian accident took place in the block of 7200 South Sacramento Avenue around 4:45 p.m.

The child was taken by ambulance to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn and was pronounced dead around 90 minutes after the accident.

The driver, a 40 year old Chicago woman, was ticketed by the Chicago Police Department for failing to keep a proper lookout for a pedestrian in the road. The exact facts as to how the accident occurred have not been reported.

The NHTSA reports that in 2007, children 14 and under accounted for seven percent of pedestrian fatalities in the United States (306 out of 4,654 deaths). Of those child fatalities, 187 (61%) were male children. Nearly 100 of the children killed were ages 1-3. Eighty percent of the child pedestrian deaths took place at at non-intersection locations. In the same year, around 70,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide, and 14,000 of those injured were children 14 and under.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Injuries to Children & Minors , Pedestrian Accident , Wrongful Death

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Two people were killed on the Southeast Side of Chicago in an auto accident early Sunday morning, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The crash involved 3 cars moving eastbound in the 3200 block of 106th Street on the Cal City Bridge. One of the vehicles struck another vehicle while trying to pass it, lost control and hit a steel gate on the bridge.

The vehicle then caught fire and was engulfed in flames. Two males were killed in the fire. They were reportedly in their 20s and have not yet been identified.

The vehicle that was struck by the passing car then lost control and hit a 3rd vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle refused medical attention and the driver of the third car was taken to Advocate Trinity Hospital for treatment.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois, just days after an off-duty detective rear-ended and killed two people in a car accident on the Dan Ryan Expressway, Police Superintendent Jody Weis is saying that he is going to change how the department handles cops that drive while intoxicated, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. A new policy is now in place that notifies a watch commander whenever there is a possible cop DUI. The watch commander must then go out to the scene of the occurrence. The policy is to apply to both on duty and off duty officers.

Fifteen officers were arrested last year for DUI, compared with eight in 2007. Some of those arrests were well publicized. As for last week's accident, the detective's blood alcohol level was allegedly three times the legal limit. He has been charged with reckless homicide, DUI and leaving the scene of an accident.

Last week's accident received more unwanted attention this week when the Judge set bond in the amount of $500,000. There were protests at the Courthouse when this occurred, as family and friends of the victims felt the officer received preferential because of his employment. The detective has posted bail and will appear in Court again on May 1, 2009.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Legal News , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois a deadly car crash early Friday morning has resulted in criminal charges against an off duty detective from the Chicago Police Department, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The auto accident happened on the Dan Ryan and resulted in the deaths of two people after their car burst into flames.

The collision occurred when Joseph Frugoli, 41, rear-ended a vehicle that was disabled on the side of the expressway. His blood alcohol content was allegedly three times the legal limit of .08. He has been charged with reckless homicide, aggravated driving under the influence, and leaving the scene of an accident. He is scheduled to appear for his bond hearing Sunday morning and in currently in police custody.

The police department has started an internal investigation and the detective has been relieved of his police powers. Reportedly, the detective was walking away from the crash scene when he was apprehended.

Andrew Cazares, 23, of Summit, Illinois and Fausto Manzera, 21, of Chicago were the victims in the accident. The crash took place around 3:30 a.m. near 18th Street in the southbound lanes of the Dan Ryan. Cazares had pulled his Dodge over to the side of the highway, possibly for a flat tire, when a Lexus SUV driven by the detective slammed into them.

Click here for an accident photo.

This is the second deadly hit-and-run car crash in the news over the past several days where the at fault driver tried to walk off from a deadly accident. In California, a minivan ran a red light and killed LA Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart. The defendant fled the scene on foot and was captured by police a short time later.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Hit & Run Accident , Wrongful Death

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On the Southwest Side of Chicago, an elderly man was killed in a car accident last Saturday, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The driver, an 88 year old Chicago man, was driving east on South Archer Avenue in his 1997 Lincoln, when he was hit from behind by a 1991 Lincoln Continental. The force of impact from the collision ejected the driver from his vehicle.

The victim was rushed by ambulance to Advocate Christ Medical Center for treatment. However, later that afternoon he was pronounced dead. A passenger in the car and the driver of the other car were both injured and transported to Holy Cross Hospital for treatment.

As a result of the accident, the at fault driver, a Chicago resident, received citations for following too closely and having no proof of insurance. The Chicago Police Department is handling the investigation.

This accident is another example of a growing trend of people operating motor vehicles without insurance. In this tough economy, more and more people have been going without it. Just last week, my office was contacting by Fox News in Chicago and they plan on running a story about this very topic.

If you or a loved one has been injured by an uninsured driver, contact Abels & Annes for a free consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Uninsured Motorist Claim , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois, high speeds of 90 mph may have lead to a bad auto accident on the Dan Ryan Expressway early this morning, according to WLS TV. Further, a firefighter was injured while responding to the accident.

The car accident took place just before 2 a.m. when a car traveling at a high rate of speed northbound near 75th Street flipped and went up onto a side wall. There were four occupants in the car, and the driver and front seat passenger were ejected from the vehicle. The driver, a male from Chicago in his 30s was killed in the wreck.

Shortly after the accident, a Chicago Fire Department fire truck that rushed to the scene was hit by a driver that may have been intoxicated. The fire truck was parked with all of its emergency lights on when a driver exiting at 71st street struck the front of the truck. A firefighter was injured in that 2nd crash and was taken to an area hospital.

The Illinois State Police are handling the accident investigation. The surviving passengers of the first accident were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn with serious injuries.

The driver that hit the fire truck was taken into custody by the Illinois State Police. He has been ticketed under Scott's Law for not keeping clear of emergency vehicles.

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In Chicago, Illinois as spring weather arrives, more and more bicycle riders are on the street. It is only the end of March and injury lawyers at Abels & Annes are working on their first bike vs. car accident case of the season.

A North Side resident was injured last weekend when he was struck by an opening car door. He was riding southbound on Southport Avenue just north of Addison Street in a marked and designated bicycle lane. As he was passing a parked car on the west side of the street, the driver swung the vehicle door open into the bike lane causing the plaintiff to flip over it and land on his back.

The bike rider immediately had severe shoulder and neck pain. An ambulance transported him to Thorek Hospital on Irving Park Road in Chicago. At the ER he was diagnosed with a separated shoulder.

As of today, the plaintiff is having shoulder pain and swelling, and neck pain. He is going for follow up treatment with a medical doctor in the Chicago area.

Last year in Chicago our law firm saw a dramatic increase in bike accident injuries (pedestrian accidents seem to be on the rise as well).

While the bicyclist in this case could not have avoided the accident, here are a few safety tips offered by the Illinois Secretary of State's Office:

1. Only one person should ride on a bike;

2. If riding with a group on the street, ride in single file and not next to each other;

3. Try to avoid riding at night;

4. Rid your bicycle as close as possible to the right hand side of the road;

5. Keep both hands on your handlebars;

6. Know the rules of the road, as bicycle riders have the same responsibilities on the road as motor vehicle drivers;

7. Always where a helmet; and

8. Make sure your bike is in good operating condition before riding.

If you have been injured in an Illinois bike crash, contact Abels & Annes to speak to an accident lawyer today at 312-924-7575.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident , Personal Injury

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A Chicago man has been charged with felony DUI and other moving violations stemming from a multiple vehicle ambulance crash that occurred on Tuesday in north suburban Evanston, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The case involves a private ambulance being stolen from a nursing home in Chicago, and then erratically being driven north through Evanston until it ran a red light at Chicago Avenue and Dempster Street, causing a six vehicle accident.

The ambulance was reportedly parked unattended and taken from the Clark Manor Nursing Home, 7433 N. Clark Street. The defendant activated the emergency lights and drove off at a high rate of speed.

Charges against the defendant now include aggravated DUI, possession of a stolen vehicle, aggravated battery of a police officer, resisting arrest, reckless driving, driving with no license, failing to reduce speed to avoid a collision, and running a red light.

As we reported Tuesday in the Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, at least two cars that were hit looked to be totaled and as many as eight people were injured. Several victims were taken to area hospitals for treatment. The accident also shut down the busy intersection for several hours.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury

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Illinois Car Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes have settled an uninsured motorist claim for a Chicago woman. The case arose out of an automobile accident that occurred on November 4, 2007. The plaintiff was traveling eastbound as a passenger on Cermak Road at it’s intersection with Rockwell. As the vehicle went through a green light an uninsured driver failed to yield while turning left and struck the car my client was riding in.

At the scene of the accident, our client had back and neck pain. She was taken by ambulance to Saint Anthony Hospital.

At the St. Anthony ER the plaintiff reported persistent and constant back and neck pain. The doctor noted she appeared to be in pain, and she had tenderness at C3-C4, and tenderness in the lumbar area and left chest area. X-rays were taken which were negative for fracture. She was diagnosed with neck strain, low back pain and muscle contusions. She was prescribed Tylenol with codeine for pain.

That evening her pain increased and she had difficulty sleeping. Her pain did not resolve over the next few days.

On 11/8/07 our client followed up at Rush University Medical Group. At that time she complained of pain on the left side of her neck, left chest / breast, and left breast bruising from the seat belt. Her medical doctor noted muscle spasms in the neck, and that the chest wall as tender and swollen. She was diagnosed with cervical strain and chest wall contusions. The doctor prescribed physical therapy.

On 11/21/07 sternum and rib x-rays were taken at Rush that were negative for fracture, and she was evaluated for physical therapy. The client went to therapy on 12/5/07, 12/12/07, 12/14/07, and 12/21/07. After physical therapy the client had improved, but she continued to have neck and chest pain over the next few weeks.

Because the at fault driver had no auto insurance, we made an uninsured motorist claim against her own policy with State Farm Insurance.

If you have been injured by an uninsured motorist, contact Abels & Annes to discuss your legal options.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Settlements & Verdicts , Uninsured Motorist Claim

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An auto accident in Chicago, Illinois has seriously injured four people early this morning, according to WBBM News. The crash involved two vehicles, one of which was a van that flipped over onto a crosswalk.

The Loop car crash occurred at Madison and Franklin at about 1:20 am. Five ambulances rushed to the accident that involved a Chevy Ventura and a Pontiac Sunfire. It is being reported that 4 people in the Pontiac were critically injured. Two were transported to Stroger Hospital of Cook County and two others went to Northwestern Memorial Hospital. A fifth person may have also been taken to an area hospital. Four occupants of the van refused medical treatment.

The cause of the crash and the nature of the injuries has not been reported. The Chicago Police Department is handling the investigation.

Luckily this accident occurred late at night, as the crosswalk at Madison and Franklin is extremely crowded with pedestrian traffic during daytime hours. Pedestrian fatalities could have occurred if this crash happened at the wrong time of the day.

If you have been injured in an Illinois auto accident, contact an injury lawyer at Abels & Annes to discuss your case.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury

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A Chicago motorcycle rider was killed this past Saturday on the South Side when he was hit by a minivan near the intersection of 95th Street and Forest Avenue, according to the Chicago Tribune. At approximately 6:45 p.m., the victim was traveling east on 95th Street when he was struck by a Dodge minivan coming from the opposite direction that failed to yield when turning left onto Forest Avenue.

The motorcyclist, Reginald "St. Nick" Coleman, 27, of the 400 block of West 95th Place, was rushed by ambulance to Advocate Christ Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at a short time later. The at fault driver and his passenger were not injured. The driver was ticketed by the Chicago Police Department for failing to yield the right of way.

Coleman was a local rap artist from the group White Chalk. His wife had just passed away in November from a heart attack. Coleman is survived by his three children, three sisters, and his mother.

According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, in 2007 there were about 600,000 licensed motorcyclists in Illinois. Furthermore, the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration found that in 2007 there were 142 motorcycle deaths in Illinois (and 2,116 riders killed across the United States).

Attorneys from our firm have handled and successfully resolved injury cases resulting from motorcycle accidents. If you are a motorcycle rider who has been injured in a collision, contact attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. for a free consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Motorcycle Accident , Wrongful Death

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NFL wide receiver Donte' Stallworth was involved in a fatal pedestrian accident yesterday, according to multiple media outlets such as the Boston Globe. The accident happened on a causeway between Miami and Miami Beach, Florida. Stallworth was driving his Bentley around 7 a.m. when he hit Mario Reyes, a 59 year old construction worker who was crossing the road. It is unclear whether Reyes was in a crosswalk or near a crosswalk. He was rushed to a nearby trauma center and pronounced dead a short time later.

Reyes worked at a crane operator and commuted by bus to work. He had just finished working the overnight shift and was headed to the bus stop when he was hit by Stallworth's Bentley. Reyes is married with a daughter. He came to Miami from Cuba when he was a teen.

Stallworth reportedly cooperated with police, consented to drug and alcohol testing, and has not been charged at this time. Stallworth, 28, currently plays for the Cleveland Browns who signed him last year to a 7 year, 35 million dollar contact. He has previously played for the Patriots, Eagles & Saints. It is being reported that he owns three condos in the Miami area.

An accident like this reminds us that back here in Chicago, pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise. As we recently reported, there were fifty-six pedestrian fatalities here in 2008, a big increase from forty-nine deaths in 2007 and forty-eight in 2006.

Pedestrians accidents are very dangerous. The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that pedestrians are over 8 times likelier to be injured, and over 23 times likelier to be killed in an accident, as compared to people riding in a car.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident

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Auto Accident Lawyers from Abels & Annes, P.C. have resolved an injury case for one of our clients involved in a car accident. On August 31, 2008, the plaintiff was stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of Chicago Road and 33rd Street in Steger, Illinois waiting to make a right turn. At that time, another car was stopped at the same intersection in the left lane. The other driver then decided to make a right turn from the left lane and struck our client’s vehicle. As a result of the auto accident, our client had sustained pain and discomfort in her back and neck. In addition, she also felt tingling and numbness in her right arm. That evening the severity of her pain increased and she had difficulty sleeping.

The next day our client sought medical care at Saint Margaret Mercy Medical Center, where she complained of back and neck pain, with right arm tingling and numbness. Her history was taken and she was examined. Hospital physicians also ordered x-rays and prescribed her pain medication. She was diagnosed with acute cervical, thoracic, and lumbar strain.

On September 4, 2008, our client followed up with a medical doctor. The physician diagnosed her with lower back and neck pain with muscle spasms. He also prescribed more pain medication and ordered an MRI. The MRI was taken the next day on her lumbar spine. The MRI results discovered a slight disc bulge at L5-S1. A cervical X-ray was also taken, which was normal.

Over the next several weeks the client’s pain continued, and on October 9, 2008 she followed up another doctor. At that time, she complained of pain in her back, neck, arm, and leg. Furthermore, she told the doctor that the back pain was a throbbing ache, the pain was worse when sitting, and she rated the pain an 8 out of 10. However, she said that her neck pain was worse with activity. The doctor prescribed physical therapy.

On October 15, 2008 our client began physical therapy. Her treatment consisted of electric stimulation, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, hot/cold packs, and neuromuscular re-education. Over a period of one month she completed ten physical therapy sessions, and she reported improved neck and back pain. After her completion of the ten sessions our client was discharged from physical therapy.

The car crash case settled for just under $12,000. State Farm insured the defendant.

This type of case can be worth more in court and we recommended a lawsuit to our client. However, she did not want to litigate and instructed us to settle.

If you have been injured in an automobile accident, contact attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. to speak to a lawyer.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Settlements & Verdicts

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Chicago accident attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have reached a settlement for a traffic flagger who was hit by a car on a road construction site. Our client was working in the 1400 block of Milwaukee Avenue in Glenview, Illinois on June 17, 2008 when she was hit. She was standing in a lane that had been blocked by construction horses.

The plaintiff was flagging drivers to slow down in the construction zone when a driver entered the blocked lane, drove over several construction horses, and struck our client. The driver then fled the scene. Police were unable to locate the hit and run driver.

Our client was transported by ambulance to Glenbrook Hospital. She complained of head pain, left hand and forearm numbness and tingling, and she had soreness in her thighs and legs. The treating physicians ordered a series of diagnostic tests including head, cervical, abdominal and pelvic CT’s, x-rays, and labs. Our client was prescribed pain medication, told to follow up with a physician, and discharged from the hospital.

On July 3, 2008, our client followed up with her physician. She complained of increasing abdominal pain and bilateral knee pain. Her doctor ordered an abdominal ultrasound, and due to our client’s continued complaints of pain and discomfort, he also ordered gallbladder, liver, and pancreas ultrasounds. The tests were negative.

As a result of her injuries sustained in the accident, our client incurred over $14,000.00 in medical expenses. Workers' compensation insurance paid her bills.

Because the at fault driver fled the scene, attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. filed an uninsured, hit-and-run motorist claim against our client’s insurance policy. She received an additional $15,000 for her injuries.

Chicago Injury Lawyers from our firm often handle and resolve accident cases for pedestrians. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, please contact attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident , Settlements & Verdicts , Uninsured Motorist Claim

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On the South Side of Chicago four people were injured Wednesday night when a Chicago police car collided with another vehicle, according to the Southtown Star. The squad car was responding to an emergency call when it collided with a civilian vehicle around 7 pm in the 10900 block of South State Street.

The two officers and the two occupants of the other vehicle were all injured in the auto accident and taken to local hospitals by ambulance. It has not been reported how the accident occurred and the Calumet District of the Chicago Police Department is investigating.

When a civilian is injured in this type of situation, it is often not an easy case to pursue, even if the police officer was at fault in the accident. The police are protected by the governmental tort immunity act. When responding to an emergency call, the department is not liable for ordinary negligence but they can be held liable for willful and wanton conduct (which is a difficult burden to meet in Court).

Here is an example: If the police car hit another vehicle speeding through a red light while responding to an emergency call with emergency lights and siren activated, they would most likely not be held liable, as this sounds like ordinary negligence and not willful and wanton conduct. However, if in the same situation they did not have their emergency lights and/or siren activated and were traveling at a high rate of speed, an argument could be made in Court for willful and wanton, or reckless conduct.

As for Chicago police officers, if injured on the job they have the right to collect different types of union benefits (and they are not covered by ordinary workers' compensation laws). Further, if the civilian vehicle caused the accident, they have the right to pursue a civil claim against the at fault driver's insurance policy. (The civilian passenger would have a claim against the civilian driver as well).

If you have been injured in a Chicago area auto accident, contact Abels & Annes to speak with a lawyer now.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury

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Illinois accident attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have settled a motor vehicle vs. bicycle collision for one of our clients. The traffic accident occurred on August 21, 2008, at approximately 5:00 p.m. as the plaintiff was riding her bike southbound on California Avenue approaching its intersection with Grace Street in Chicago, Illinois. When she reached the intersection, she stopped at a stop sign and then proceeded into the intersection.

As she rode southbound she saw a car eastbound on Grace Street stop at the stop sign. The car failed to see our client and accelerated into the intersection, striking the bike. The front of the car hit the rear tire and rear portion of the bicycle frame. The impact caused our client to be thrown forward off her bicycle, hitting the pavement with her face and both of her knees. When Chicago police officers arrived at the scene, the driver admitted to them that he had been distracted when he began to enter the intersection.

Our client was transported by ambulance to the emergency room at Swedish Covenant Hospital where her history was taken, she was examined, and diagnostic tests were performed. She complained of mouth pain, left elbow pain, right leg pain, and bilateral knee pain. She had a lip laceration and her two front teeth were loose, one was noticeably cracked. In addition, she had abrasions to both of her knees, her right calf, and her left elbow. She was prescribed pain medication and upon discharge instructed to seek follow up care.

The next day our client sought follow up care from her dentist. Upon examination, the dentist discovered that she had fractured several teeth. Due to the severe nature of the damage sustained, it was necessary for her to obtain more specialized care from an oral and cosmetic surgeon.

Our client also sought follow up treatment with an Orthopaedic physician for ongoing and persistent pain in her knees that she suffered from the collision. The pain made walking, or riding a bike, or walking up or down stairs extremely difficult. Her examination revealed swelling in both knees and the doctor diagnosed her with post traumatic synovitis of both knees. Our client was prescribed medication and instructed to return for a follow up evaluation. She returned for follow up treatment and continued to have peripatellar pain in her right knee and occasional aches and pain in her left knee. The doctor ordered her to continue with her medication.

As a result of injuries sustained to her teeth in the collision, our client’s diet was restricted to only soft foods for three months and she was forced to go several weeks with her front teeth missing while she awaited temporary implants. Also, her knees continued to cause her pain and limit her mobility and activities. The case settled for $20,000.00, which is the defendant's insurance policy limits. There was no other insurance coverage available to pay a greater amount on the claim.

Chicago bike accident attorneys from our firm represent many clients who have suffered injuries resulting from bike v. car accidents. If you have been injured in a Chicago area bicycle accident, please contact Abels & Annes for a free consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident , Settlements & Verdicts

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In southwest suburban Burbank, Illinois a 29 year old man was killed on Monday when he crashed his car into a house, according to News Radio 780 WBBM. The driver, a Colorado resident, hit the house in the area of 78th & Nagle. He was pronounced dead a short time later at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.

There was a passenger in the car that was also taken to Christ Hospital. He is reportedly in stable condition.

What caused the car to hit the house, or if anyone was injured inside the home, has not been reported. It has also not been reported if drugs or alcohol were a factor.

While it seems like a bizarre and rare case, motor vehicles hitting houses or other buildings is more common than you would think. Recently our law firm settled a case for a client who was home in bed when a car crashed through a bedroom wall and hit her. Her elderly neighbor had hit the gas instead of the brake and lost control.

We also represent a Chicago resident who stopped for some fast food in a downtown restaurant. While he was eating a driver lost control and drove into the restaurant, striking several patrons.

In the Burbank case, the passenger will be able to make a claim for damages against the driver's auto insurance policy. The fact that you are a passenger in the at fault party's car does not bar a claim.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, contact Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury

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Abogados de Accidente de trafico en Chicago de Abels & Annes, P.C., han alcanzado un arreglo para un joven monopatinador que fue golpeado en un paso de peaton por un vehículo que fallo de rendir el derecho de vía. El accidente sucedió el 17 de Abril de 2008 en 117 y la Avenida J en el sur de Chicago. El conductor tuvo un stop y no noto al peatón cuando élla salio. La Policía de Chicago cargó al acusado con fracaso para rendir.

Nuestro cliente sufrió dos dientes rotos, una nariz quebrada, contusiones faciales, y abrasiones al brazo a consecuencia del accidente. El fue llevado a St. Margaret’s Hospital en Hammond, Indiana, y él también trató con un dentista local. Nuestro cliente incurrió varios mil dólares en cuentas médicas.

El conductor del acusado en este caso sólo fue asegurado para $25,000. Reunimos exitosamente esa cantidad para nuestro cliente, y entonces nosotros seguimos un reclamo de automovilista bajo-asegurado contra el seguro de la madre de nuestro cliente. (Este tipo de reclamo es presentado cuando la póliza de seguro del acusado no es suficiente para cubrir la pérdida).

Pudimos reunir un adicional $30,000 para nuestro cliente en el reclamo bajo-asegurado, trayendo el arreglo total a $55,000.

Si usted es un peatón que ha sido golpeado por un coche, o si usted ha sido herido por un conductor sin seguro médico o bajo-asegurado, llame a Abels & Annes, P.C. para una consulta gratis.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Injuries to Children & Minors , Pedestrian Accident , Settlements & Verdicts

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A Chicago area resident has been killed in a pedestrian vs. auto accident that occurred this past Saturday, according to the Chicago Tribune. The collision took place at 87th Street and Cicero Avenue in Oak Lawn, a suburb just south of the Chicago city limits.

It has not been reported how the accident took place, however an arrest has been made by the investigating police department. This strongly indicates that the driver was at fault.

Every year there are thousands of traffic accidents involving pedestrians in the State of Illinois. For example, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reports that in 2004 there were 5,694 pedestrian accidents throughout the State, and that 155 fatalities resulted from those collisions.

IDOT states that pedestrians involved in accidents (as opposed to vehicle occupants) are much more likely to be injured or killed. Pedestrians are 8.7 times more likely to be injured and 23.1 times more likely to be killed as compared to people riding in vehicles. And, while pedestrians are only involved in 1.3% of the accidents in Illinois, they account for 12.7% of the fatalities.

Pedestrian accidents also occur more often in congested areas. Of the 5,694 pedestrian accidents in 2004, 77% occurred in Cook County, and 97% happened on roads that have been classified as urban.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact our office for a free consultation. Our law firm often handles these types of claims, and we just settled a case against Allstate Insurance this past week.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident , Wrongful Death

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A Chicago motorist that was involved in two separate auto accidents last Wednesday night has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, according to Chicago Breaking News. The first car accident occurred on the Edens Expressway and the second crash was on Touhy Avenue a short time later.

The driver, a 53 year old Chicago resident, hit a car on I-94 near Gross Point Road in Skokie as he was turning his vehicle around to drive the wrong way down the interstate. The defendant then fled the scene of the accident moving southbound in the northbound lanes.

The driver then was in a second car accident on Touhy and his car was disabled at that time. He was arrested by Illinois State Police and a breath test was refused.

The article indicates the driver was also charged with leaving the scene of an injury accident. State police reported that the injuries were not serious or life-threatening.

The victims have a good civil case for their injuries and damages against the alleged DUI driver. They will be able to recover for their property damage, personal injuries, medical expenses, lost wages (if they miss work due to the accident) and loss of normal life.

Also, in a case like this, the fact that the police believe the victims were not seriously injured does not make it so. Often our law firm handles cases for plaintiffs that first appear to have minor injuries, and later the pain is not going away or the pain gets worse, and doctors diagnose serious injuries that require surgery.

If injured in an Illinois car crash, contact Abels & Annes for a free consultation at 312-924-7575.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Hit & Run Accident , Personal Injury

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A car accident in the Chicago area has resulted in the death of a 43 year old woman, according to the Southtown Star. The woman's husband was driving the vehicle at the time of the December 23, 2008 accident.

The car crash occurred when the driver lost control of a 1994 Pontiac Bonneville, spun the car, came to a stop perpendicular to traffic in the northbound lanes, and was then hit by a passing semi truck.

The Southtown Star is reporting that there are DUI charges pending against the husband, but no charges have yet been filed. The husband was treated for minor injuries at the scene.

The deadly auto accident is being investigated by the Illinois State Police.

In this accident, the estate of the wife will be able to make a claim against the husband's auto insurance policy for his negligence. While many people assume otherwise, this type of claim is not barred by Illinois law. Our law firm recently represented an Illinois family in a similar case.

It has not been reported if there is any liability on the part of the semi truck driver. The accident reconstruction done by the state police could possibly show that the truck driver was speeding, or that the accident was avoidable for some other reason.

If you or a loved on has been injured in an Illinois car crash or truck accident, call Abels & Annes for a free consultation.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury , Truck Accident , Wrongful Death

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In Corona, New Mexico at least fifty people were injured and two were killed when a tour bus rolled over late friday night, according to the Associated Press. The two fatalities were adults, and a nine year old minor had to be airlifted to a hospital. Fifteen other injured were taken by ambualnce to an Albuquerque hospital. Some of the injuries were critical.

The bus was reportedly traveling northbound on U.S. 54 north of Corona when the driver lost control of the bus while in a construction zone. The bus hit a median and flipped. The roads were icy and snowy at the time.

The bus was in route to El Paso, Texas. The accident closed the highway for around 7 hours.

Being a passenger in a bus accident can be a very scary experience. You are typically not seat belted, and all you can really do is hold on tight and hope for the best. Like the New Mexico accident, injuries from the same event can range from mild to critical to fatal.

If you have been involved in a Chicago area bus accident, contact our office for a free consultation.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Bus Accident , Wrongful Death

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Drivers across the nation are more and more often letting their auto insurance policies lapse due to the poor economy, according to the Wall Street Journal. Hundreds of thousands of drivers decided to go without it this year.

As a Chicago car accident and personal injury lawyer, I am seeing evidence first hand that the Journal article is correct. My law firm has seen a drastic increase in the number of uninsured motorist claims that we are handling for our clients.

What does this mean to you? It means that the chances have gone up that the next time you get hit by car, the driver that hit you may not have auto insurance to cover the loss.

How can you protect yourself? You need to make sure you have good auto insurance that includes significant uninsured and under-insured motorist coverage.

What is uninsured motorist coverage? Uninsured motorist coverage is insurance that kicks in when the other driver involved in an accident with you is at fault and they do not have insurance. At that point your insurance company will step in and pay on your personal injury claim. They essentially step into the shoes of the at fault driver.

What is under-insured motorist coverage? Under-insured motorist coverage protects you from someone that is driving with only the minimum insurance that is required by law (in Illinois the minimum is $20,000 per person / $40,000 per occurrence). In that case, your insurance company will step in and pay on the value of the claim that is above the other driver's insurance policy limits.

For example, you are injured in an auto accident. Your claim is worth $100,000, but the defendant only has $20,000 in coverage. Here, your injury lawyer would collect $20,000 from the defendant's insurance company, and then your lawyer could set up a claim against your own insurance company and collect the full $100,000 on the claim.

If you have been involved in an accident and the defendant is uninsured or under-insured, or if you have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, feel free to contact Abels & Annes, P.C. for a free consultation.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury , Uninsured Motorist Claim

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Auto Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have settled a case for a Chicago resident stemming from an August 2008 car crash. The plaintiff was driving southbound on Luna near its intersection with Bryn Mawr. When our client was most of the way through the intersection she saw the defendant's car traveling at a very fast rate of speed (over 50 mph) eastbound on Bryn Mawr. That is twice the speed limit in this residential neighborhood.

The front end of the defendant's vehicle hit the rear passenger side of the plaintiff's vehicle. The force of the impact was so great that it caused our client's Jeep Cherokee to flip over on its side and skid on its side across the roadway. The driver’s side window was open and her arm got caught between the door and the street and was dragged along the pavement as the vehicle slid. After her car came to a rest the defendant exited his vehicle and fled the scene of the collision on foot.

The defendant was negligent, in that he failed to keep a proper lookout, was driving at an excessive rate of speed, and failed to exercise due care for the safety of those in the area.

Immediately after the collision our client had severe arm pain and back pain. Her arm was bleeding profusely and obviously injured.

The plaintiff was taken by ambulance from the scene of the collision to Resurrection Medical Center’s Emergency Department. A history was taken, she was examined and diagnostic testing was performed. She complained of excruciating left arm pain and back pain. She had significant abrasions to her left arm. X-rays identified numerous foreign bodies in her wrist and forearm, specifically in the ulnar aspect of the wrist and the radial aspect of the forearm, which were required to be extracted before the wound could be cleaned and dressed. She was prescribed pain medication and at the time of discharge instructed to seek follow up medical care.

Continue reading "Car Accident Case Settles For Policy Limits -- Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury , Settlements & Verdicts

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In Eilat, Israel, at least twenty six Russians were killed on Tuesday when a bus crashed down a steep ravine, according to several news outlets, including the Associated Press. There were 60 passengers on the bus who had all just arrived from St. Petersburg, Russia.

The bus reportedly crashed when it passed by another bus at a high rate of speed in a no passing zone, lost control, broke through a guard rail and rolled down a steep hill. Many passengers were thrown from the bus as it rolled.

24 people were reportedly died at the scene, and 2 more past away later at Eilat's hospital. Several more are at the hospital in critical condition. Forty ambulances and six Israeli military helicopters rushed to the accident site.

This traffic accident is the most deadly in the history of Israel. Before this crash, only 406 people had had lost their lives in traffic accidents in all of Israel this year.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bus Accident , Personal Injury , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois a Hoffman Estates woman has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol stemming from an auto accident that took place this past Sunday, according to the Chicago Tribune. The car accident happened on the northwest side on Milwaukee Avenue near Devon. The DUI driver rear-ended another vehicle, killing the other driver.

The Victim, Sergio Correa, 35, of Chicago was taken to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois and pronounced dead early Sunday morning. The at fault driver was also taken to Lutheran General Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Chicago Police Department investigated the crash. The defendant was also charged with misdemeanor DUI and several other moving violations. The defendant is reportedly still in the hospital, and police plan on taking her into custody when she is released, according to the Daily Herald.

The family of the victim will be able to pursue a civil claim against the at fault driver. It has not been reported if the family has retained personal injury lawyers to pursue the case.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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Early Sunday morning a car crash in Chicago, Illinois has resulted in the death of one person, and two others have been critically injured, according to WBBM News Radio 780. Chicago Police Department officials are stating that the accident happened at 111th Street and Western Ave. around 3:20 am. The auto accident involved multiple vehicles.

The person who was killed in the collision was pronounced dead at the scene. The two people that were seriously injured were taken to Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers in Evergreen Park.

The Chicago Police Department's Major Accident Investigation Unit is handling the investigation. The cause of the accident has not yet been reported.

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have resolved an automobile vs. bike accident case for Aaron Eiger, a former classmate of Dave Abels from Evanston Township High School. The collision took place on October 17, 2007 on the North Side of Chicago.

Aaron was riding his bicycle northbound on Southport in a marked bicycle lane. The defendant was driving her SUV southbound on Southport and began to make a left turn to turn into an alley. The driver failed to look to ensure that it was safe to make this maneuver and struck Aaron on his bicycle. The force of the SUV hitting Aaron on his bicycle threw him on through the air into a parked car.

Following the collision Aaron had an immediate onset of pain and discomfort. Aaron was taken from the scene of the collision by ambulance to Illinois Masonic Hospital. At the time of his arrival he complained of left knee pain and shoulder pain. A history was taken, Aaron was examined and diagnostic tests, including x-rays were preformed. Aaron was prescribed pain medications. Upon discharge he was diagnosed with a left knee contusion and multiple abrasions. Aaron was instructed to follow up with a physician.

Two days later Aaron sought follow up treatment from Dr. Steven Sclamberg, M.D. He sought treatment for his complaints of left knee and right shoulder pain. Aaron continued to treat with Dr. Sclamberg through August 7, 2008.

Aaron also underwent physical therapy at Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers for two months. During the course of physical therapy he reported pain with activities such as lifting and carrying his young children.

Aaron incurred over $8,000 in medical bills and his case settled for $35,000.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bicycle Accident , Settlements & Verdicts , Shoulder Injury

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In West Suburban Lisle, Illinois a pedestrian was hit and severely injured as he crossed Ogden Avenue at Center Avenue on November 6, 2008. He was crossing to get to the First Congregational Church parking lot that is used for Metra train parking. The accident happened in the early evening at a location that is marked with warning signs for pedestrian crossing. The victim was a commuter on his way home from work.

The pedestrian suffered severe injuries, including a broken left arm, multiple pelvic fractures, right eye injuries, a fractured skull, internal bleeding and multiple lacerations. He had to undergo multiple surgeries and was in intensive care for over a week before being transferred to long term care & rehab.

One witness stayed at the scene until Lisle police officers responded, but there may have been others. If you were a witness to this accident, or if you know of a witness, please call (312) 924-7575 or email accidentwitness@yahoo.com.

Click here to view a map of the accident area.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Pedestrian Accident , Personal Injury

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In Lostant, Illinois several students were injured Wednesday night when a chartered bus was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a truck, according to the Associated Press. The accident happened on an icy highway in northern central Illinois. At least 36 people were sent to hospitals.

The truck vs. bus accident happened on Interstate 39 when the tractor-trailer jackknifed in in front of a bus carrying students and the two vehicles impacted. The students were taken to three different area hospitals. Thirteen students were taken to St. Margaret's Hospital in Spring Valley and twenty-three students were taken to Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

The bus was returning from Chicago and all the students were from Dunlap High School in Dunlap, Illinois. Dunlap is a small town located on Illinois 91 in Peoria County, Illinois, with a population of around 1,000.

The interstate was shut down until the vehicles were cleared from the road.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bus Accident , Injuries to Children & Minors , School Bus Accident , Truck Accident

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Chicago Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have resolved a case for a bike rider that collided with an open car door on California Avenue on August 21, 2008. The plaintiff was riding his bicycle in a northbound direction on California and the defendant was parked on the side of California facing northbound. The at fault driver suddenly and without warning opened her door into traffic.

The defendant was negligent in that she failed to look back and ensure that it was clear and safe to open her door before doing so. The door opened so suddenly in front of our client that he did not have any time to avoid it and collided with the open door.

The law in Illinois on the issue of opening a car door into traffic is as follows: Opening and closing vehicle doors. No person shall open the door of a vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, nor shall any person leave a door open on the side of a vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.

Pursuant to this statute the defendant was negligent in opening her door when it was not reasonably safe to do so and when it would interfere with the movement of other traffic. Every person riding a bicycle on a roadway is granted all of the rights of a driver of a motorized vehicle. 625 ILCS 5/110-1502.

The defendant tried to claim that she had left her door open for an extended period of time prior to the accident and that her door did not just swing open. However, even under this possible scenario the driver was still negligent and is still at fault as under the law it is improper to leave a car door open for any period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.

The defendant was issued a citation from the Chicago Police Department for violation of § 5/11-1407 of the Illinois Motor Vehicle Code.

Continue reading "Chicago Injury Lawyer Reaches Settlement In Bike vs. Car Accident Case" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Settlements & Verdicts

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A driver and a passenger from Chicago were injured last Wednesday in a car accident when they were hit from behind by another vehicle. The car crash happened on the South Side at 95th and State Street. They were stopped at a red light when a car insured by State Farm slammed into the rear of their vehicle.

The driver was treated at University of Chicago Hospital Emergency Room for low back injuries. The passenger, a student at Chicago State University, was treated for back and neck injuries at Holy Cross Hospital. The accident happened on the way to campus for class.

Both the driver and the passenger are still experiencing significant back and neck pain several days after the accident, and they are both following up with Chicago area orthopaedic doctors for further treatment.

The Chicago Police Department handled the accident investigation. While there is no explanation as to why the at fault driver failed to stop for the light, there is no indication that drugs or alcohol were a factor in the accident.

Most of the time injuries like the kind described above end up being soft tissue in nature, and they resolve over time with conservative therapy. However, sometimes the injuries can be more serious.

For example, a couple weeks ago our law firm started a new case where our client was rear-ended at a red light and he was having was he described as moderate neck pain. Over the next 10 days his pain increased dramatically. He has since had an MRI, he has been diagnosed with a herniated cervical disc, and he will have to undergo surgery. He is going to have a disc fusion in his cervical spine over the coming month.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Personal Injury

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Car Accident Lawyers from Abels & Annes, P.C. have settled an injury claim for a Chicago resident who was injured after being hit by a car while standing in front of his house when a car crash occurred.

On the evening of the occurrence our client was standing in his front yard when the defendant was driving westbound on 71st Street approaching its intersection with Lafayette. The intersection of 71st Street and Lafayette was controlled by a traffic light. There was a red light for westbound traffic. The defendant ran his red light and crashed into a southbound vehicle. The force of the impact knocked the other vehicle into a fence and yard on Lafayette and into the plaintiff, who fell to the ground.

Our client was seen at St. Bernard Hospital’s emergency room right after the accident complaining of shoulder, back, hip and knee pain. He was diagnosed with a fracture to his left clavicle, acute low back sprain and left knee contusion. Pain medications and physical therapy were prescribed. Despite this treatment he continued to suffer from pain and discomfort in his left shoulder, left hip, low back and left knee. However, our client sought no follow up treatment.

The case settled against State Farm Insurance for $15,000. The claim was resolved without having to file a lawsuit.

Pedestrians getting hit while in the area of auto accidents is not common, but it does happen on occasion. This is the second case we have resolved this year where a pedestrian was collateral damage to a car crash. Our other client was injured while waiting at a CTA bus stop. A car accident took place in front of him, a wheel flew off one of the cars and hit him, and he sustained injuries.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Fractures / Broken Bones , Pedestrian Accident , Settlements & Verdicts

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In Chicago, Illinois a CTA bus crash has injured several people this morning, according to chicagobreakingnews.com. The accident involved a bus and two vehicles and over 20 people were injured. The collision took place on the Near West Side near Roosevelt Road and Blue Island Avenue.

One person is in critical condition. More than 12 ambulances were on stand by.

According to a Chicago Transit Authority representative, a bus was stopped at an intersection when it was hit from the rear by another vehicle.

From an injury lawyers view, the passengers on the bus can make an injury claim against the driver that hit the bus. However, an insurance problem could develop because there were so many injured passengers. The question is whether the driver has a big enough insurance policy to cover the accident. If there is not enough coverage, the passengers can look to make uninsured or underinsured motorist claims against their own auto polices.

Insurance coverage issues can get complicated fast in this type of accident. Passengers should contact a Chicago Area injury lawyer for help in handling their claims.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Bus Accident , Personal Injury

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Car Accident Lawyers from Abels & Annes, P.C. have recovered insurance policy limits for a Chicago pedestrian injured by a motor vehicle in a September, 2006 accident. The claim was initially denied by the insurance company until our law firm got involved earlier this year.

The car vs. pedestrian accident happened when the defendant was driving northbound on Martin Luther King Drive in Chicago, Illinois as our client was planning to cross King Dr. from the east side to the west side. There was a parking lane for northbound traffic, on the east side of the street. The plaintiff was standing in front of, and to the north of, cars parked in this parking lane. As he was standing in the parking lane waiting for traffic to clear the defendant swerved into the parking lane and struck our client.

The defendant was issued several traffic citations by the Chicago Police Department and plead guilty to failing to exercise due care and driving on a suspended or revoked license.

The plaintiff was transported by ambulance from the scene of the crash to Advocate Christ Hospital. Upon arrival at the hospital emergency room his most significant complaints were of right leg pain as well as injuries to his head, right wrist and right hand. He was diagnosed with displaced right tibia and fibula fractures. The fibula fracture was comminuted, segmental, with multiple components.

Continue reading "Injured Chicago Pedestrian Collects Policy Limits From Driver's Insurance Company" »

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Posted In: Auto Accident , Fractures / Broken Bones , Pedestrian Accident , Settlements & Verdicts

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Chicago Auto Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have resolved a DuPage County injury claim for a Bellwood resident. On April 8, 2008 our client was injured when her vehicle was rear-ended by the defendant. Shortly after the accident the plaintiff developed back, neck, shoulder, pelvic, and right hand pain.

On 4/11/08 she sought treatment with a chiropractic physician in Lombard, Illinois. He noted muscle spasms and tenderness at the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels on our client's first visit. She underwent a course of physical therapy. She went for treatment on nine occasions over the next month. The treatment consisted of electrical stimulation, hot/cold packs, neuromuscular re-education, and chiropractic manipulation therapy.

The case was settled without having to file a lawsuit. Hertz Claim Management paid on the claim.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Personal Injury , Settlements & Verdicts

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In Kane County, Illinois a motor vehicle accident where a car hit a house has resulted in the death of a passenger, according to the Kane County Chronicle. The car accident occurred just before 1:30 am last Friday morning in the 600 block of East Chicago Street in Elgin.

Both the driver and passenger were taken to Sherman Hospital in Elgin. The passenger, Marcelo Martinez-Ayala, 26, of Carpentersville, was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver was not seriously injured.

The accident is being investigated by the Elgin Police Department. The cause of the accident has not been reported.

Car accidents involving collisions with houses are more common than you would think. This year one such accident was reported in the Rock Island area and another was reported in downstate Illinois.

Last year our law firm settled a case where a woman was injured while at home in the South Suburbs of Chicago when an elderly woman lost control of her car and crashed into her house. Our client was hit while she was laying in bed.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Wrongful Death

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In Chicago, Illinois a Monday night motorcycle accident resulted in the death of a Richton Park resident, according to the Southtown Star. The accident happened on the North Side of Chicago on Lake Shore Drive near Belmont Avenue and it involved a car and a motorcycle.

The accident backed up traffic for miles and northbound vehicles were diverted at Belmont for an hour. The Chicago Police Department's Major Accident Investigation Unit is handling the crash investigation. It has not been reported what caused the accident.

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, motorcycle fatalities have greatly increased in the United States from 2,161, fatalities in 1996 to 4,810 fatalities in 2006. The NHTSA also states that there were 88,000 people injured in cycle accidents in 2006, as compared to only 55,000 in 1996.

It was not reported whether the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet in the Chicago accident on Monday. The NHTSA estimates that helmets saved 1,658 motorcycle riders' lives in 2006, and that 752 more lives may have been saved if helmets were used.

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Motorcycle Accident , Wrongful Death

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Chicago Car Accident Attorneys from Abels & Annes, P.C. have settled an injury claim for a Bellwood, Illinois resident. On April 8, 2008 our client was injured when her vehicle was hit from behind by another car. The accident took place on Interstate 290 just south of York Road in DuPage County, Illinois

Shortly after the accident the plaintiff developed back, neck, shoulder, pelvic, and right hand pain. On 4/11/08 she sought treatment with a chiropractic physician in Lombard, Illinois. The doctor noted muscle spasms and tenderness at the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels on her first visit. My client underwent a course of physical therapy. She went for treatment on nine occasions over the next month. The treatment consisted of electrical stimulation, hot/cold packs, neuromuscular re-education, and chiropractic manipulation therapy.

The case settled without having to file a lawsuit. Hertz Rental Car is paying on the claim.

Continue reading "Chicago Injury Lawyers Settle DuPage County Auto Accident Claim" »

Posted by Dave Abels | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Auto Accident , Back and Neck Injuries , Personal Injury , Settlements & Verdicts

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On Saturday afternoon a woman was killed in an auto accident on the Southwest Side of Chicago, according to the Southtown Star. The woman, a 73 year old Chicago resident, was riding as a passenger in a vehicle that was involved in a collision with another vehicle at 43rd and Cicero Ave just before 3:30 p.m. One of the vehicles overturned in the accident.

She was taken to MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn and was pronounced dead shortly after the crash. Others involved in the accident were not seriously injured.

While it has not been reported who was at fault in the car accident, due to the fact that the Chicago woman was a passenger, her family will have a good claim against the driver that caused the collision.