Legal Question in Personal Injury in Illinois

Steps after getting hit, where other vehicle ran

I live in Chicago and was the passenger in a friend's vehicle that was in an accident. We were going through a green light in a sedan and a truck made an illegal left turn and hit us square in the side of the vehicle. The driver of the truck then drove away and left.

The police have said that they cannot charge the owner of the vehicle with anything because witnesses can only identify they truck and license plate.

I suffered neck and back injuries (treated at hospital and released) and will require lengthy rehab. What are is my recourse against the driver of this truck? Can I hire an attorney to sue the owner of the truck for damages? What should I do next?


Asked on 3/30/06, 3:46 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Nima Taradji Taradji Law Offices

Re: Steps after getting hit, where other vehicle ran

You can make a claim under the uninsured motorist portion of your friend's car insurance coverage--this case may be classified as a hit and run. If not, you have to find out who owns the truck and then file a claim with their insurance company. It sounds like this one will be a tough one. I suggest you find an attorney who will take the matter. This sort of things can easily be screwed up by a novice--and your case looks like it is anything but an easy claim.

I hope this helps,

Taradji Law Offices

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Answered on 3/30/06, 4:19 pm

Re: Steps after getting hit, where other vehicle ran

Dear Sir or Mam:

I am a licensed attorney in Illinois and Indiana and have been practicing law for over 20 years. A majority of my practice invoves personal injury cases and I am sure that I can help you.

Be sure to get the police report. With that information, the owner of the truck as well as other information concerning its operation can be traced.

If the owner of your vehicle has insurance that provides medical payments coverage, you can make a claim for your medical bills up to the limit of that policy. That claim should give you some immediate relief from the medical bills.

Also,in the event that the truck ownership and driver can not be traced, you would have a claim for uninsured motorist benefits under the your driver's policy.

I do not have enough information at this time to guide you as to whether you may have a claim directly against your driver for his neglence.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. More information is available about me at www.lawyers.com/burtonpadove

Respectfully,

Burton

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Answered on 3/30/06, 5:08 pm


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