Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

Could I be liable?

I was waiting in traffic that was backed up from an intersection. The waiting cars had blocked the driveway into a store parking lot, so as traffic inched forward, I maintained clearance so the driveway was no longer blocked. There was a van waiting to exit the driveway. Since I had cleared the blocked driveway, the van pulled out onto the street, but instead of pulling into the immediate lane, she proceeded to the far lane and was struck by another vehicle immediately upon entering the second lane. I was listed as a witness to the accident, but was not listed as a party involved in the collision. My question is, could I be sued or held responsible for this accident since I cleared the blocked driveway allowing the vehicle to pull out from the parking lot? I'm sure I probably waived her on to exit, but I don't recall for sure (this was over two years ago). Please advise.


Asked on 11/07/08, 5:14 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Motty Stone Law Offices of Motty Stone

Re: Could I be liable?

Based on your description of events, I do not see how you could be held liable. Furthermore, the fact that you are not a defendant already indicates that whoever filed this suit does not also want to sue you. Also, if it was over two years ago that the accident happened and you are just now hearing about a lawsuit, there is a good chance that the statute of limitations has expired.

If you are concerned about your own liability, it would not be a waste of time to talk to a lawyer about the details of the accident or to contact your own insurance company. We would be happy to talk to you, please feel free to give us a call.

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Answered on 11/08/08, 7:38 pm


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