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Bicyclist Ran Over in Chicago Neighborhood, Avondale

June 26, 2020/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – A bicyclist was hit and critically injured by a city vehicle on Tuesday morning in the Avondale neighborhood located on the city’s northwest side.

The incident happened around 8:30 a.m. on the corner of W. Belmont Ave. and N. Milwaukee Ave.

Witnesses say a female bicyclist was struck and dragged by a city maintenance truck as its driver made a right turn at a busy intersection. The truck driver did not stop right away, and onlookers had to jump in front of the vehicle to tell the driver to stop, according to ABC 7. The driver reportedly told investigators that the bicyclist was in his blind spot.

The 31-year-old woman was taken to the hospital in serious but stable condition. The 48-year-old male driver of the truck was taken to a Swedish hospital for observation.

Residents in this area say the intersection is full of blind spots for drivers and pedestrians and is dangerous. The Chicago Police Department’s Major Accidents unit is investigating the incident.

Motor Vehicle Fatality Rates Jump Despite Quarantines

June 17, 2020/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – There has been much less traffic on the roads because of the novel coronavirus that has resulted in the closing of non-essential businesses and stay-at-home orders that have been in place since mid-March. There has been a reduction in car crashes; however, in some places the number of deaths from car accidents has decreased while others have increased.

Pandemic Traffic Crash Statistics
Some cities and states have seen a significant increase in dangerous car crashes during the pandemic. Through the first three months of 2020, the following states have experienced notable increases in the number of roadway deaths: Arkansas (16%), California (8%), Connecticut (42%), Illinois (11%), Louisiana (23%), Nevada (10%), New York (17%), North Carolina (10%), Oklahoma (9%), Tennessee (6%), and Texas (6%).

States with notable decreases include: Arizona (-4%), Hawaii (-32%), Idaho (-28%), Iowa (-13%), Maryland (-13%), Michigan (-12%), Oregon (-24%), and South Carolina (-12%).

Many people die from roadway accidents, especially during holiday weekends. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimated over Memorial Day weekend that 366 may die on U.S. roads. If the estimate holds, it will be the lowest number of fatalities for the holiday period since 2014.

Reasons for an Increase in Accidents
Reports indicate speeding has increased significantly since traffic has lessened. Some states are moving towards “ill-advised” roadway tactics intended to address the pandemic such as repealing requirements for teen drivers to pass road tests before acquiring licenses and relaxing hours of service rules for commercial vehicle drivers.

Distracted driving may also be more prevalent since there is less traffic, so drivers get a false sense of security and begin to use less caution. Drivers figure they have more time to react, so its OK to look at their cellphone.

“What really strikes me is the incredible speed of the changes we’re seeing on a roadways,” Ken Kolosh, manager of statistics at the National Safety Council, told NPR. “Looking at other recessions what you usually see is a decrease in the number of deaths, or the injuries and fatality rate holding steady or decreasing slightly.”

Driver Precaution
Practicing defensive driving is always important, and it is particularly important during the pandemic, as drivers may be much more reckless. To help ensure safer roads, NSC urges people to do the following while on the road:

Follow state and local directives and stay off the roads if officials have directed you to do so; many states are asking drivers to stay home unless it’s an emergency situation or for essential errands
Obey speed limits, even if roads are clear and traffic is light
Practice defensive driving: Buckle up, designate a sober driver if you’re going out drinking or arrange alternative transportation, get plenty of sleep to avoid fatigue, and avoid distractions
Be aware of increased pedestrians and bicycle traffic as people turn more to walking and biking to get out of their house safely during quarantine
Stay engaged with teen drivers’ habits and practice with them frequently (tips available here)
Organizations and employers are encouraged to join the Road to Zero Coalition, a group committed to eliminating roadway deaths by 2050

NSC collects fatality data monthly from all 50 states and the District of Columbia and uses data from the National Center of Health Statistics, so deaths occurring within one year of the crash on public and private roadways–such as parking lots and driveways–are included in the estimates. NSC motor vehicle crashes and estimates for each state can be reviewed here.

Injured in an Auto Accident? Our Licensed Attorneys Can Help

If you suffered injuries in a car crashed caused by someone’s negligence, or you lost a loved one in an accident, please call the Dinizulu Law Group for a free consultation. We may be able to help you seek compensation for your damages. With more than 50 years of experience, our legal team has protected and brought justice to victims and their families through Chicago and Illinois. Due to the statute of limitations, it’s important you inquire with an experienced attorney immediately to preserve your legal rights. For a free consultation, call (312) 384-1920 or visit our website for more information.

Reasons Why Trucking Accidents Occur

November 5, 2019/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – There are many factors that contribute to car and trucking accidents, such as weather, equipment failure, poor vehicle maintenance, among other factors. Many car accidents that involve semi’s or tractor trailers occur for the following reasons:

Rollovers are the most common type of trucking accident. Rollers occur when a driver loses control of his truck and begins to slide sideways, in which any obstruction can cause a rollover such as a curb, guardrail, uneven ground, or another car. Trucks that make too sharp of turns also run the risk of rolling over. The severity of truck rollovers are high, and have high fatality rates.
Malfunctioning brakes or an error in a trucks braking system can result in catastrophic or fatal crashes. Most trucks have air brakes which are designed to stop a truck in roughly 100 feet when traveling at a speed of 34-40 mph. When a malfunction or error in the brake system occurs, it can become a very dangerous scenario for all drivers on the road. Even when pumping the breaks, it’s important to remember these 80,000 pound vehicles can be deadly.
Tire blowouts are also a common cause of trucking accidents, as the wear and tear on these vehicles is extremely high from the long distances traveled. The truck’s load and the distance traveled will have an effect on the tires.
Overloaded cargo is a result of a truck that has been loaded with over-capacity weight. Truck drivers are expected to meet very tight deadlines, and may push this by over-loading their truck with material meant for multiple drives. When trucks overload cargo, the weight begins to be too heavy to manage, which can result in an accident.
Falling debris occurs when trucks are loaded improperly, which can cause cargo to be lost during transit, which can cause an accident. Trucks are responsible for loading and securing cargo properly so that nothing falls on the highway.
Blind spots can cause accidents, as truck drivers have many. If you’re unable to see the truck driver in the side mirror, they cannot see you – whether you’re on the right or left side of the truck. Do not follow too close to a truck, as this is also a blind spot.
Swinging turns is when a truck causes a collision while turning. Swinging turn accidents can happen when a truck swings left to make a right turn, when a truck makes too wide of a turn, or squeezing cars beside the truck by not turning wide enough.

If you’re involved in a truck accident in Illinois:

For drivers who are involved in a collision with a truck, or caused by a truck, you should first determine if anyone at the scene needs to seek medical attention. Truck accidents are normally very serious, and the appropriate medical attention should be provided to all necessary parties.

Avoid talking to a truck company without the presence of an experienced Illinois truck accident attorney. More than likely, the truck company will try to negotiate a settlement; however, without a knowledgeable attorney, you could be cheated out of the full cost for your injuries, damage, and compensation for lost wages.

At Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd., we understand how trucking companies and their insurance providers operate, and we refuse to settle for any offer that is unjust. Our attorney’s have represented and fought for the rights of our clients that have been affected by a trucking accident, who will use their experience to win your case.

Contact a Chicago- based truck accident attorney today for a free consultation at (312) 384-1920.

Address:
221 N. LaSalle St., Suite 1100
Chicago, IL 60601

5 Common Questions about Trucking Accidents

September 26, 2019/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Car accidents are more common than truck accidents; however, truck accidents can be more fatal, especially when combined with speed, weather, and other conditions. It’s important to know factors that can contribute to a truck accident, how trucks are more dangerous than passenger vehicles, what to do if you’re involved in an accident, and how long you have to file a lawsuit.

According to a report released by Enjuris, 4,102 people died in a truck accident in 2017. Thirty-two percent of accidents that occurred happened on an interstate or freeway, while fifty-two percent occurred on other major roads; moreover, fifteen percent of accidents happened on minor roadways.

Factors that Contribute to Truck Accidents

Driving a large commercial truck, such as a semi, is much more difficult to operate due to the weight and size of the truck. The size of the truck makes turning more difficult, and requires a much longer stopped distance than a passenger vehicle.

Improper loading can result in roll-over accidents, due to cargo being improperly loaded and strapped when inspecting before a truck leaves the warehouse. All employees are required to check their truck and ensure that all cargo is properly loaded and log information.

Drivers and truck companies have an obligation to inspect trucks and correct any maintenance issues as they arise. Many drivers and companies cut corners to keep up with profit margins, resulting in negligence.

Truck companies may fail to hire qualified drivers. Many truck companies are on tight deadlines, and hire drivers who are not qualified for these jobs, or have ever driven a semi-truck at all. Trucks are known to excessively speed to meet required deadlines, although they pose a serious threat to themselves and those around them.

Many drivers put deadlines before the safety of others and drive exhausted, or use a drug stimulant to keep themselves awake during their long hours on the road. When you combine these factors with weather, such as rain, snow, sleet, or fog, it can become catastrophic, or even fatal.

Why Are Commercial Trucks More Dangerous?

Tractor-trailers on average weigh 16 times more than a typical passenger car. Semi’s are roughly 53 feet and require 350 feet to come to a complete stop on the highway, compared to a passenger car which requires a breaking distance of 180 feet.

These trucks can also be carrying hazardous material that can cause further damage and injury.

What Do I Do if I Have Been Involved in a Truck Accident?

Ensure your safety above all else, and check to see if anyone was injured in another vehicle. Make sure you are in a safe location, or if you’re able to move your car, move it to an area where you can safely exit. If you need medical treatment, call 911 and request an ambulance right away.

The police will arrive to document the accident – no matter how big or small the accident may be, a documented police report should always be completed. Write down any information you can about the accident and never talk to the other vehicle involved about what happened. Take photographs of your car and the other car(s) involved.

You will need to request the truck drivers name, address, phone number, drivers license number, and insurance company and policy number. You should also get information regarding what truck company the driver works for.

It’s important to see a doctor, even if you think that you’re “fine.” A gap in time waiting to go to the doctor can hurt your case, so it’s important for your health and to have a record of seeing a doctor immediately after the accident.

If you’ve been injured or a fatal accident has occurred, you should contact an attorney immediately. The attorney’s at Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd. specialize in truck accidents and personal injury, and work hard to receive full compensation for any losses you may have occurred due to a truck driver’s negligence.

How Long Do I Have to File A Lawsuit?

Due to the statue of limitations, you have two years to file a lawsuit; however, you should contact an attorney immediately because of the steps they will have to take, like investigation and discovery. It’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible.

When Do I Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?

You should hire a truck accident lawyer immediately after the accident occurs. It’s important to seek legal advice so your attorney can obtain as much information as possible on your accident.

Our attorney’s at Dinizulu Law Group offer a free, confidential consultation for you. They will walk you through your options and help with all legal representation. You can call (312) 384-1920 to schedule a free consultation, or visit our website for more information.

Contact:

Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd.
221 N. LaSalle St., Suite #1100
Chicago, IL 60614