Maria Herrera Killed In Aurora Car Accident by East New York Street

Pedestrian Accident - December 4, 2024

Investigation Underway After Maria Herrera Died In Aurora Car Accident With Pickup Truck Near East New York Street and West Park Place

AURORA, ILLINOIS (December 4, 2024) – A 72-year-old woman identified as Maria Herrera has tragically died in an Aurora car accident by East New York Street and West Park Place.

Kane County officials are saying that the collision took place around 5:45 p.m. on October 3. Maria Herrera was crossing the street when she was hit by a Chevy Silverado making a right turn onto Park Place.

The driver apparently noticed the pedestrian and attempted to stop but was still unable to avoid a collision. Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.

Maria Herrera was taken to Ascension Mercy Hospital with critical injuries. Sadly, she later died at the hospital. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.

Liability For Kane County Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are uniquely vulnerable to the hazards posed by motor vehicles. They lack the protection of enclosed vehicles and are more likely to be overlooked. According to the IIHS, “A total of 7,522 pedestrian deaths occurred in 2022. Pedestrian fatalities account for 18% of all crash fatalities. Although pedestrian deaths in 2022 were approximately the same as in 1975, they have increased 83% since reaching their lowest point in 2009.” There are a number of measures that cities should take in order to prevent pedestrian collisions.

• Cities should ensure that all intersections are well illuminated.
• Cities should install pedestrian refuge islands in certain locations.
• Cities should study which intersections and roadways have the most accidents.

All drivers have a legal obligation to take measures in order 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. If a driver fails to slow down in order to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that certain steps are taken after any pedestrian accident.

• Surveillance footage should be sought.
• Medical records should be preserved.
• Photos of the accident site should be taken.
• The police report should be reviewed.

The vast majority of pedestrian accidents are entirely preventable. They tend to involve situations where drivers are distracted or fatigued. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that staying awake for only 18 hours reduces a person’s ability to drive safely equal to driving with a BAC of 0.05% or higher. The family of any person who died in a pedestrian accident may have legal recourse through a civil claim.

Investigating Aurora Car Accidents

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Maria Herrera. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong.

Do you need more information about a pedestrian accident in Aurora? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates is here to help in any way that we can. 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 any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.