I Can’t Find a Hit-and-Run Driver After a Car Crash in Chicago: Can I Still Sue?
Even if you cannot find the person responsible for your car crash injuries in Chicago, you may still have the ability to sue. That said, locating a hit-and-run driver is usually helpful as you pursue fair compensation for your injuries. Even if the driver seems to have fled without a trace, it is worth contacting an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer for further guidance.
You Can Still Sue Another Party That Contributed to Your Crash
Even if a driver flees the scene, you can still theoretically sue other parties who may have contributed to your crash. For example, you might have been struck by a hit-and-run driver while walking across a crosswalk. If that driver was forced to veer because of the negligence of another driver, you may be able to sue the first driver for their role. An experienced lawyer can help you explore innovative strategies, and you might even be able to sue a local municipality for confusing signs or defective roads.
It Still Helps to Locate the Driver
Nonetheless, it still makes sense to locate the driver who was primarily responsible for your crash. Have faith in the local police, but be aware that it may take weeks or months to track down the culprit. An experienced lawyer can potentially assist with the investigatory process, perhaps by exploring leads that local police overlook.
Investigators Are Often Highly Motivated to Find Hit-and-Run Drivers
Investigators in Illinois are often extremely motivated to find hit-and-run drivers. They may be particularly intent on finding these individuals after high-profile crashes that spark outrage in the local community. For example, NBC Chicago recently reported that a high school student was recovering from serious injuries after a hit-and-run accident in Elgin.
The teen was just minutes away from her residence when she entered a crosswalk on her bike. She was then struck by a vehicle at high speed. The first driver remained at the scene but did not get out or offer assistance. The teen was then left to crawl toward the pavement in a desperate attempt to get off the road.
She was not successful, and a second vehicle struck her before she could reach safety. The second driver did not stop at the scene and drove away without a trace. Now, the teen is facing a long road to recovery in a hospital bed, and she has been forced to put her college plans on hold.
Local police are searching for the driver who fled the scene. Of course, there is no guarantee they will ever face justice. The local community is outraged that neither driver even attempted to offer the severely injured teen even the slightest bit of help.
Can a Chicago Auto Accident Lawyer Help After a Hit-and-Run?
A Chicago auto accident lawyer may be able to help after a hit-and-run. Even if you cannot locate the person responsible for your injuries, it makes sense to schedule a consultation and review your options alongside a legal professional. Begin this conversation today by contacting Connolly Injury Law at 312-827-2641.
Source:
nbcchicago.com/news/local/search-on-for-hit-and-run-driver-who-severely-injured-elgin-high-school-student/4013045/