Jose Velásquez Killed In Chicago Truck Accident On South Paulina Street

Truck Accident - March 16, 2022

Bicyclist Jose Velásquez, 16, Died In Chicago Pedestrian Accident With Commercial Truck On South Paulina Street

Jose Velásquez Killed In Chicago Truck Accident On South Paulina Street

COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS (March 15, 2022) – A 16-year-old identified as Jose Velásquez has tragically died after he was hit by a truck in Chicago along South Paulina Street while riding a bicycle.

Cook County police officials are saying that the accident took place around 10:20 a.m. on Friday. Jose Velásquez was bicycling on the sidewalk when a truck driver traveling on South Ashland Avenue made a right turn into a driveway and struck him.

Police officers and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Jose Velásquez was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police officers cited the driver of the truck for failure to yield. That driver complied with all required chemical tests. The Chicago truck accident remains ongoing at this time.

You can help support the family of Jose Velásquez by donating to their GoFundMe page.

Liability In Cook County Truck Accidents

Bicyclists are uniquely vulnerable to collisions for a number of reasons. They have a naturally small profile and lack the protection of enclosed vehicles. According to one report from the National Safety Council, “846 bicyclists were killed in motor-vehicle traffic crashes in 2019, a 3% decrease from 871 in 2018. Bicyclists’ deaths accounted for 2% of all motor-vehicle traffic fatalities.” Commercial trucks can be particularly dangerous to bicyclists.

  • Trucks have large blind spots that can obscure the presence of pedestrians.
  • Truck drivers are often forced to work long hours and may naturally become fatigued.
  • Trucks have a wide turning radius making collisions with pedestrians and other vehicles more likely.

Commercial truck drivers must get a commercial license (CDL) and are held to a high standard in terms of safety. Serious traffic infractions can jeopardize a truck driver’s ability to maintain  a CDL.  Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1), every driver must exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians and bicyclists in the roadway. They must also use their horn when necessary to warn others about their presence.

Failing to yield the right of way to a pedestrian may result in vicarious liability on the company that the truck driver worked for. Generally speaking, companies are liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. In many circumstances, negligence for a truck accident could also include failing to properly train a truck driver. It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any bicycle accident.

  • Surveillance footage should be sought.
  • Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
  • Medical records should be preserved.
  • Work records should be examined.

The family of any victim that died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help with many of the unexpected expenses that can come with the sudden and tragic loss of a loved one. Potential beneficiaries in a civil claim may include a victims siblings and parents. An Illinois wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.

Investigating A Cook County Truck Accident

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Jose Velásquez. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what happened for the sake of all who have lost so much. It is our sincere hope that city officials will consider measures to make this stretch of road safer.

Do you need more information about a Chicago truck accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are 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 to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into a collision we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.