Drew Barger Killed In Sterling DUI Car Accident On 1st Avenue Bridge
Wrongful Death - March 29, 2022
Drew Barger Died In Collision With Drunk Driver Along 1st Avenue Bridge
STERLING, ILLINOIS (January 25, 2022) – A pedestrian identified as Drew Barger has tragically died in a car accident with a drunk driver during a traffic stop along 1st Avenue Bridge.
Whiteside County Police officials are saying that the accident took place around 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. Drew Barger was walking along the 1st Avenue Bridge when he was stopped by a Sterling police officer.
During the stop a 46-year-old driver in a northbound pickup truck struck Drew Barger and Sterling Officer Travis Nease. Paramedics and police officers were called to the scene in order to help both of the victims.
Sterling Officer Travis Nease and Drew Barger were both taken to the hospital in order to receive treatment. Despite life-saving measures Drew Barger died as a result of his injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck was arrested on suspicion of Aggravated DUI. A full investigation into the collision remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Sterling Car Accidents With Drunk Drivers
Every year thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in car accidents with drunk drivers. According to one report from the Centers for Disease Control, 29 people are killed every day in the United States in car accidents involving drunk drivers. Many more are left with serious, life-changing injuries. Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Reduced coordination
- Lowered alertness
- Delayed reaction times
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to (625 ILCS 5/11-501), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle when a person has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If a person was driving a commercial vehicle they must not drive with a BAC of 0.04% or higher. What many people do not realize is that there are a number of substances that can impair them aside from alcohol. This includes benzodiazepines and even prescriptions.
If the driver of a pickup truck was working at the time of a collision, their employer could potentially be held at fault. Generally speaking, employers are liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employers were working within the course and scope of their job duties. It is important to determine the employment status of any pickup truck driver at the time of a collision. There are a number of other steps that should be taken after an accident.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
The family of any victim that died in a car accident with a drunk driver may be able to seek some measure of justice through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. An Illinois wrongful death attorney can examine the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are. There are, however, statute of limitations to keep in mind. Failing to act within the statute of limitations may result in a person permanently forfeiting their rights.
Investigating A Sterling DUI Car Accident
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Drew Barger. It is our sincere hope that Sterling Officer Travis Nease will make a full recovery. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. This was a preventable tragedy that should have never taken place.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Illinois? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any legal questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You’re always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
