One family recently suffered a shocking car accident on the Tri-State Tollway. The serious car accident occurred near Elmhurst during the middle of the night.
Five family members were travelling southbound on I-294. Just after midnight, a BMW, also travelling south, made an improper lane change from the left-hand lane. According to the Illinois State Police, the BMW hit the back left side of the family’s SUV in the center lane. The driver of the SUV lost control of the car as it rolled over. There were three children in the SUV at the time of the crash, including a 12-year-old girl and 4- and 6-year-old boys.
All three children suffered minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital. Their parents suffered serious injuries and were also taken for treatment. The driver of the BMW was also injured and hospitalized. Fortunately, everyone survived the car crash, but the incident did shut down the interstate for roughly an hour. The investigation into the accident is still underway and the authorities have not filed any charges or citations as of yet, although authorities did point out the driver’s improper lane change.
Accidents like this highlight just how fragile life on the road can be. Within seconds, a routine drive can become a traumatic event with lasting consequences. Even after the initial shock wears off, families are often left to deal with ongoing medical appointments, disruptions to work, and the emotional impact on children who may struggle to feel safe in a vehicle again.
The financial burden that follows can be substantial. Emergency treatment, ambulance transportation, physical therapy, and long-term care may all come into play. In many cases, insurance coverage may fall short or involve complicated disputes, especially when multiple parties are involved. Navigating these situations without experienced legal guidance can be overwhelming.
When an accident occurs, a police investigation can provide vital evidence for victims who are seeking to exercise their legal rights to recover compensation from negligent drivers. Hospital bills, therapy, and lost wages can quickly add up to threaten a family’s financial stability. A police report concluding that a negligent driver is responsible for the accident and injuries suffered by the victims will frequently provide a strong basis for a claim for compensation in court.
When victims are injured in car accidents as a result of a negligent or reckless driver, the liable driver is responsible for expenses related to the injuries. An attorney who is experienced in personal injury lawsuits will be able to provide insight on the legal options available to victims and help them pursue the support they need during a difficult time.