Female Pedestrian Killed In Near West Side, Chicago Semi-Truck Accident
Truck Accident - August 17, 2024
Investigation Underway After Woman Killed In Near West Side, Chicago Pedestrian Accident By The Intersection of South Ashland Avenue and West Roosevelt Road
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (August 16, 2024) – A woman has died after being hit by a semi-truck on Chicago’s Near West Side at the intersection of South Ashland Avenue and West Roosevelt Road.
Cook County officials are saying that the accident took place around 8:15 p.m. on Tuesday. The truck was traveling southbound on Ashland Avenue when it struck a woman.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident in order to help the victim. She was taken to Stroger Hospital with critical injuries, where she later died.
Liability For Chicago Semi-Truck Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian collisions. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, “GHSA previously issued a report finding that 3,434 pedestrians were killed on U.S. roadways in the first half of 2022, based on preliminary data reported by State Highway Safety Offices. A second report analyzing state-reported data for all of 2022 found that roadways continue to be incredibly deadly for pedestrians.” There are a number of factors that could contribute to a semi-truck accident.
- Semi-truck accidents are much more likely when trucks make left turns.
- Semi-truck accidents often involve truck drivers who are distracted or fatigued.
- Semi-truck accidents typically occur in the early morning or late evening hours when visibility is reduced.
Truck drivers are required to get a commercial license and are held to a high standard in terms of safety. They must do everything in their power to avoid hitting pedestrians. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1, every driver must exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian. They must also use their horns when necessary and exercise the proper precautions to avoid colliding with any child or obviously confused person. It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any incident.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- The truck’s event data recorder should be examined.
It has been estimated that nearly 93% of car accidents involve some amount of driver error. In particular, truck drivers are often pushed to work long hours and may naturally become fatigued. This can have lethal consequences for pedestrians and those in smaller vehicles. The family of any person who died in a semi-truck accident may have legal recourse through a civil claim.
Investigating Near West Side Semi-Truck Accidents
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman who died in this Near West Side pedestrian accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. It is our sincere hope that measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies down the road.
Do you need more information about a Near West Side semi-truck accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held accountable for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
