Illinois Injury Law Blog

Cell Phone Ban - Already Law for Chicago Drivers - Debated Nationally

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:09:59 -0600

It's probably not news to you that Chicago motorists are banned from any cell phone use behind the wheel - period.

And you likely know that wherever you are in the state, it's illegal to text and drive.
But on the national stage, it's an issue police, lawmakers and motorists continue to grapple with. And on a local level, it's an issue drivers too often ignore.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys understand that despite the horrific crashes that sometimes result from distracted driving, the question of whether to ban texting and driving often comes down to enforcement. For example, how will a police officer know whether you are texting or simply dialing a phone number?

That's why some people are so vocal about an outright ban of all cell phone use for drivers. Such a move, they say, will eliminate any confusion.

But the movement may be losing momentum in some areas like Boston. There, The Herald recently reported that proposed bills targeting cell phone use among drivers aren't getting much attention.

Just weeks after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommended outlawing all cell phone use by drivers, lawmakers in Massachusetts met to discuss that possibility. They had already banned texting behind the wheel.
But just one speaker came before the committee to address the issue.

Sen. Thomas McGee told the Herald reporter that the lack of turn out was puzzling, especially given what a hot-button issue distracted driving has become in recent years.
“We expected this to be a much more attended hearing than one person coming in to testify,” he was quoted as saying. “We do get a lot of information. We do get a lot of feedback and hopefully we continue to get that.”

The national government has taken a strong stance on the issue, with the launching of the website, distraction.gov. There, the NHTSA reports that distracted driving accounted for 5,500 deaths and 450,000 injuries in 2009.

In other states, the issue continues to be debated.

In West Virginia, for example, The Charleston Gazette reports the governor's bill to ban all cell phone use by drivers is expected to easily pass the first round of committee hearings. Similar pieces of legislation have, in the past, failed to make it through that state's senate.

Meanwhile in Utah, lawmakers are debating whether their texting-and-driving laws go far enough. A ban was enacted three years ago, but Sen. Lyle Hillyard recently talked with a KSL TV reporter about what may be considered a possible loophole - the fact that the person texting has to actually hit "send" before it's considered in violation of the law.

There, those who break the anti-texting law face up to three months in jail and a $750 fine. If someone is killed by a texting driver, that penalty increases to a possible 15-year prison term and a $10,000 fine.

And in Arizona, it's one of the few issues both Democrats and Republicans both agree upon. One week into the session, four lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have proposed bills with varying cell phone driving restrictions.

Chicago Man Cites Lack of Sleep in Three-Car Crash in Park Ridge

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 13:05:44 -0600

Reeling in the wake of a three-car crash in Park Ridge, a Chicago man told investigating officers that that he hadn't had much sleep.

According to The Chicago Sun-Times, the driver said he worked nights, and rest was hard to come by.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys know that with a sagging economy, many residents in Illinois and elsewhere have had to take on second and even third jobs to make ends meet. Extra shifts and late hours can mean danger when those workers get behind the wheel.

The AAA Traffic Safety Foundation reports that drowsy driving is often underestimated and under-reported. Last year, the foundation conducted a national phone survey to gauge drowsy driving habits.

What they found is startling.

Despite the fact that almost all the motorists surveyed (96 percent) said they believed it was unacceptable for drivers to operate a vehicle while sleepy, nearly a third said that within the last month, they had driven when they were so tired they could barely keep their eyes open.

The car accident in Park Ridge happened earlier this month, when police reported the driver, 26, was traveling east on Dempster Street when he struck a vehicle stopped at a traffic signal. The car he hit then struck the car in front of it.

The young driver was hit with two traffic citations.

In this case, no one appeared to have been seriously injured. But many others who come in contact with drowsy drivers aren't so lucky.

The AAA found that in 2010, one in six fatal accidents and one out of every eight total accidents involves a sleepy driver.

Most sleepy drivers are men, the study reports, and the majority of crashes happened when they drifted into another lane.

Scarier still, more than half of these incidents happened on six-lane highways.

And while the Chicago driver reported his night shift was the culprit, AAA found that one in four drowsy driving crashes happen between the hours of noon and 5 p.m.

Young drivers - those under age 24 - were particularly at risk, and more readily admitted driving while tired than older motorists. Often, these individuals are trying to juggle college courses and multiple jobs, leaving them more prone to drowsiness behind the wheel.

Still, similar to drunk drivers, drowsy drivers may have a hard time realizing when it's time to pull over - or better yet, not get behind the wheel at all.

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys are asking you to heed the AAA recommendations for recognizing when you're too tired to drive:

--You have trouble keeping your eyes open or focused.
--You find it hard to keep your head up.
--You feel irritable or restless.
--You realize you're missing traffic signals or your intended exit.
--You find yourself drifting into other lanes or jolted by the rumble strips.
--You keep yawning or rubbing your eyes.
--You have trouble remembering the last few miles you drove.

If you are experiencing any of these, please, prevent an accident by either pulling over or not getting behind the wheel at all.

Fiery Elevator Accident in Illinois Kills Building Resident

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:21:27 -0600

A Chicago woman was killed after she stepped off the elevator in her 12th-floor apartment on Lake Shore Drive, according to the Chicago Tribune. The recent Illinois elevator accident underscored the need for fire sensors in these elevators and more strict safety code enforcement. She was killed as she returned to her apartment. She got to the 12th floor and the elevator doors opened, exposing her to 1,500-degree temperatures from gas and fire fumes. According to Charles Buckman, a 56-year veteran of the elevator industry, an elevator accident like this should never have happened. He says that national engineering code required elevators to come equipped with fire sensors on every floor and in the motor room so that the elevators shut off and return to the bottom floor in the event of an emergency.

“They must not have been fitted with sensors. Or else they got away with murder. Literally,” Buckman told the newspaper.

Our Chicago elevator lawyers understand that elevators and escalators are a part of many peoples' everyday lives. We don't typically think about the safety and maintenance of these devices, but rather assume that they are up to code and safe to ride. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case. Both elevators and escalators have a safety standard they must meet with a long list of safety requirements. When safe-riding conditions of these devices are not met, fatal accidents can result. If you or someone you love has been injured in an escalator or elevator accident, it is critical for you to contact an experienced attorney to help you to fight for the compensation you deserve. Legal representation can help you determine who was at fault in the accident.

The scene of the recent fatal Chicago elevator accident was a 21-story building that was not required to meet the safety codes established in 1975. According to building department spokesman Bill McCaffney, the building was built in the 1950s and therefore was exempt from meeting current safety codes. Had this building met current safety codes, this fatal accident could have been avoided.

The building was scheduled to be brought up to code through an ordinance that would have required the old building to have an alarm system throughout the entire place. This would have triggered the elevators to move to the bottom floor and shut down in the event of an emergency. City officials voted to push back the measure until 2015.

Buckman says even the older buildings throughout the city are supposed to have fire sensors that should cause the elevators to shut off in the event of an emergency. He says the elevator shouldn't have even been running during this accident.

Nine other building residents were injured in this fire.

Distracted Driving Targeted in 2012; Reduce your Risk of a Cook County Traffic Accident

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:09:23 -0600

Expect an all-out assault on distracted driving from the government in 2012.

Our Chicago wrongful death attorneys note the U.S. Department of Transportation released a December report that indicates more than 3,000 motorists died in distracted driving car accidents in Cook County and elsewhere in the United States in 2010.

-The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration a new measure called "distraction-affected crashes" will be used to track the issue.

Using it for the first time, the government reports 3,092 motorists died in distracted driving accidents. That's down from the more than 5,000 reported in 2009. But the drop has nothing to do with the risks and everything to do with the challenges of tracking distraction-related accidents across all 50 states.

-The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended banning cell phone use by all drivers -- both hands free and handheld. Currently only 8 states ban hand-held cell phone use by all drivers. A number of cities, including Chicago, also prohibit drivers from using hand-held devices while behind the wheel. No state prohibits the use of hands-free devices.

And, while Illinois is among the growing number of states to prohibit drivers from text messaging behind the wheel, there are challenges to enforcing such laws. For starters, the patchwork of laws that exist in all 50 states makes it difficult to inform travelers of state law. And it's tough for law enforcement to tell whether a driver is dialing a phone (which is often legal) or sending an illegal text message.

Government surveys continue to show drivers use cell phones and text while driving -- despite denying it and despite indicating they would not feel safe riding in a vehicle with a driver who was texting or talking on the phone.

"What's clear from all of the information we have is that driver distraction continues to be a major problem," said Administrator Strickland. "We need to maintain our focus on this issue through education, laws, enforcement, and vehicle design to help keep drivers' attention on the road."

The survey found that three-quarters of drivers will answer a ringing telephone while driving. Two-thirds of all drivers will continue driving after doing so. Half of all drivers hold the phone -- fewer than 1 in 5 drivers utilize a hands-free device.

And, despite getting a bad rap when it comes to bad behavior behind the wheel, the government's latest study found that older drivers are just as guilty as teens when it comes to use of electronic devices behind the wheel. More than 80 percent of drivers ages 21 to 34 said they answer the phone while driving -- more than 70 percent of all drivers under the age of 65 admitted doing so.

The biggest difference in behavior as it relates to age came with the attitude of passengers. And sex. Two-thirds or more of adult woman over the age of 25 said they would say something to a driver on the phone if they were riding as a passenger. Only half of younger women said they would confront the driver.

And only about one-third of men of all ages said they would voice their concern.

Bike Share an Opportunity; Reducing Risk of Chicago Bicycle Accidents Must Remain in Focus

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:40:15 -0600

Chicago is looking for partners for the city's bike sharing program. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers join in commending the city for becoming one of the nation's top metro areas for cycling. However, with that designation comes an increased risk for bicycle accidents in Cook County.

The Chicago Department of Transportation is looking for sponsorships and partnerships for outdoor advertising space to support the bike-sharing program. Bike share is expected to launch in June.

“As we have seen in communities across the globe, a wide variety of companies are interested in sponsoring bike-sharing programs to reach professionals, tourists and others who enjoy the convenience of bike sharing,” said Gabe Klein, Commissioner of the Department of Transportation.

The U.S. Department of Transportation continues to report increases in the number of cyclists who are seriously injured or killed in riding accidents. As the popularity of cycling has increased for both recreation and fitness, so too has the age of the injured rider. Today, men in their 30s and 40s are most likely to be injured or killed in a riding accident, according to government statistics. This can have a devastating impact in a family's finances.

While we support the ongoing effort to make the city more bike friendly, careful attention must be paid to also making it safer. Bike Share can be a wonderful addition, could help alleviate congestion, and could provide a wonderful way for tourists and residents alike to explore all downtown has to offer. But it could also put a bunch of cycling novices on unfamiliar streets in one of the most congested cities in the nation. Chicago is the nation's third-largest metro area and has the second-largest central business district in the United States.

Similar bike share programs are in place in London, Boston, Minneapolis, Miami and Toronto. Fort Lauderdale and several other cities are also instituting such programs. Sponsors include New Balance and Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

“We are looking for a media company who can attract partners and sponsors for many different aspects of the bike sharing program,” said Klein.

Some 3,000 rental bikes and 300 stations are scheduled to be online by June. Ultimately, more than 5,000 bikes and 500 stations will be brought online. More than 300,000 riders a year are expected to participate in the program.

Other cycling friendly moves the city has made recently include:

-A series of open houses are being held for the Streets for Cycling Plan 2020. The plan aims to expand the city's cycling infrastructure.

-The city is adding 750 bike racks to the cycling infrastructure. The ultimate goal is to add an additional 2,400 bike racks.

- Construction of the Kinzie Street Protected Bike Lanes. Studies continue to show more people would choose cycling as a mode of transportation if designated bike lanes were separated from the normal flow of traffic. Women, in particular, represent only a small portion of the cycling community and routinely site safety and shared bike lanes as a common reason for not cycling.

HEARTS Network Aims to Share Stories of Personal Tragedy in Order to Reduce Teen Car Accidents in Chicago, Nationwide

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:22:37 -0600

Parents worry about their teenage children this time of year as they may spend a little extra time driving on Illinois roadways while they are on winter break from school. Not only are roadways a little more congested and subject to winter weather conditions, but the chances of coming into contact with a drunk driver is higher this time of year. No parent wants to risk losing their child in a Illinois teen car accident caused by a distracted or intoxicated driver around the holidays.

Chicago personal injury lawyers understand the importance of keeping an open dialogue with your teen about driving safely because it can have an impact on choices they may make later with regard to taking a risky chance while driving or answering a text when they should be focused on the road.

The National Safety Council (NSC) hopes that parental communication and the initiation and implementation of the HEARTS Network can start to help teens understand the dangerous risks that they take behind the wheel and curb the urge to take unnecessary chances so that roadways can become safer for all users.

HEARTS Network stands for Honoring Everyone Affected, Rallying The Survivors. The NSC is asking anyone who has been affected by a teen car accident to share their personal story as it relates to survival or tragedy by joining the HEARTS Network.

Nationally, more than 15 people die in a crash daily involving a teen driver. Pedestrians, bicyclists, passengers and other motorists are all affected each day when a crash with a teen driver occurs. In fact, roughly two-thirds of the victims who lose their life in a crash involving someone between the ages of 15-17 are not a teen driver.

An NSC spokesman says that sharing stories of survival can hopefully help take away the risks of future crashes and the number one killer of teens nationwide. Participants of the network are being given the opportunity to relate their story within the community and spare other families from having to go through the same grief of losing a child. HEARTS members may also seize the opportunity to work with other traffic safety leaders to improve teen driving issues in their own community.

Illinois is one of 10 states that is currently receiving support from the NSC and funding from the Allstate Foundation for advocacy groups geared toward young drivers like Teen Safe Driving Coalitions. Other states receiving funding include New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida, Minnesota, Tennessee, Texas and California. Members of the HEARTS Network are encouraged to get the message out in order to reduce teen tragedies by getting involved and advocating with traffic safety groups nationwide.

In 2009, over 5,600 people died in a teen-related car crash. The HEARTS Network shares the story behind the tragedy and the morbid statistics that affect so many people nationwide.

If you have been affected by a teen car crash and want to relate your story to others in your community join the HEARTS Network. Educate and influence others about the life-long impact a tragedy can have on a family and connect with other survivors that can relate to your story.

More information and how to join can be found online at NSC HEARTS Network.

Holiday Gatherings Can Stress Out Your Pets, Leading to an Increase in Dog Bite Injuries in Cook County, Statewide

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 12:36:10 -0600

You may be looking forward to hosting family gatherings or the extra traffic running through your home this holiday season. But there is probably at least one member of the family that isn't all that excited about it. Our Cook County dog bite accident attorneys want to remind pet owners that all the extra activity and break in normal routines can cause a lot of anxiety for a dog. Anxious and stressed out dogs can become vicious and are highly likely to bite or attack causing dob bite injuries to children in Chicago and elsewhere in the state.

American Humane Association reports that on average 4.7 million dog bites occur annually nationwide. Hospital emergency rooms throughout the country treat roughly 800,000 dog bite injuries annually. More than 70 percent of dog bites on adult victims are to the arms, hands, legs and feet compared to 65 percent of dog bite injuries on children being to the neck or head.

Children under 12 years-old are at risk in 50 percent of dog attacks; 82 percent of the victims treated at the hospital are children 14 years-old or under. In addition, more than two-thirds of fatal dog attacks involve children ages 9 and under. Parents who leave their newborn unsupervised with a dog put their children at considerable risk of being attacked and killed. The odds of newborn deaths from dog attacks are 370 to 1 compared to an adult being attacked and killed by a dog.

Most pet owners have a misconception that their dog won't hurt anyone, especially if a dog is particularly friendly or accepting of visitors at home. Dog behavior is unpredictable and should never be taken lightly. According to doggone safe, the holidays are an extremely stressful time for dogs so pet owners should look for some clear warning signs from your dog when they become anxious. Stress signals include: tail is down or tucked between the legs, ears are pinned straight back, rapid panting, sweaty paw pads, furniture is used as a protective barrier, yawning or constant licking of chops, fur is raised on their back or the dog stares intensely at the person who is bothering them.

Pet owners should use the following dog bite prevention tips to help reduce the risk of injuries to visitors or children coming to your home this holiday season:

-Instruct visitors to leave their pets home. Too many dogs under one roof and engaged in stressful situations can make for a disaster.

-Children should be taught to leave a dog alone. If the dog approaches a small child, teach the child to stand still and let the dog get used to him or her before they try to reach and pet the animal.

-Dogs are protective by nature so don't encourage any horseplay or unusual activity that may cause the dog to react by attacking.

-Put your pet in a crate or enclosed room with a chew toy or bone until all the visitors arrive. Once everyone is settled, let the dog out to get acclimated to all the visitors on the dog's own terms.

-Remind everyone sitting at the table not to feed the dog, especially small children.

-Keep children and pets supervised at all times by assigning an adult to each one and making sure no incidents arise.

-Keep a close eye on your pet's body language to pick up on any non-verbal cues they may be giving off.

If your pet is showing signs of anxiety or aggression, don't take any chances around small children or visitors. Put the dog in a contained area to prevent a dog bite incident and reduce the risk of injury caused when someone is being attacked by an anxious pet.

CPSC Recalls Inform Illinois Shoppers of What 'Not To' Buy This Holiday Season; Reducing Toy-Related Injuries in Chicago, Elsewhere

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:22:33 -0600

Parents and other toy buyers are busy closing out the last of the holiday shopping season with last minute toy purchases for their little ones. Hopefully you have had a chance to check out the latest toy recalls from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) because defective products are dangerous and can cause severe toy-related injuries to children in Chicago and throughout the country.

The CPSC anticipates that toy shopping will be a little easier this year with recent efforts made to keep defective toys out of the retail market completely. Several safeguards and stronger safety rules have been implemented to protect consumers from purchasing a defective toy that could later hurt a child. It is true that less toy recalls were made in fiscal year 2011 (34) than in 2010 (46) and that toy product recalls have gradually declined over the last several years. Still, 17 toy-related deaths and 181,500 toy-related injuries occurred in 2010 for children under the age of 15. This is far too many.

Cook County defective product injury attorneys know that in many cases a defect is not detected until reports are made that the toy caused an injury. Sometimes the report comes too late and a child suffers a choking, suffocation or strangulation accident or is exposed to a hazardous toxin like lead. We urge parents and other consumers to stay away from balloons, small rubber items or small balls because these products are often attributed to children choking or gagging hazards. Non-motorized scooters cause a high number of injuries like lacerations, contusions or broken bones that require a child to be treated at a hospital emergency room.

CPSC recalls can be found online. A few of the recent recalls include:

Baby Rattles from Toys Distribution Inc.: Units have been sold in toy stores before discovering the rattle can break into small parts causing a choking hazard to small children. The size of the handle on the rattle is also found to be small enough to fit into a baby's mouth putting children at risk of lacerations, bruises or choking when it becomes lodged in their throat. Consumers who have purchased the baby rattles should take them away from infants immediately.

Children's Henley Pima Cotton Pajamas from Bliss Collection LLC: approximately 2,300 units have been sold between January 2008 through June 2011 ranging in price from $48 to $58. The two-piece sleepwear offered in sizes from 2 to 12 for children doesn't meet federal standards for flammability and can pose a severe risk for burn injuries.

Parents, childcare providers, baby sitters and others are reminded that as children unwrap gifts during the holidays to discard excess cardboard, plastic wrappings or other packaging to avoid the risk of injury. Parents are also reminded to keep age-appropriate toys with their intended recipient or else smaller siblings could be at risk of a a toy-related injury from a toy meant for an older child.

Holiday Visits to Chicago Nursing Homes Can Help Detect Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:04:31 -0600

As you make plans to visit your elderly loved ones residing in a nursing home this holiday season, pay close attention to how they are being cared for. State budget cuts and medical or staff lay-offs at nursing homes have been leading to more and more cases of abuse or neglect at long-term care facilities in Chicago, and throughout Illinois.

The Nursing Home Monitor frequently reports of neglect and abuse occurring in homes throughout Illinois. Some examples of the content of recent articles posted on the website include:

-A nursing home in Jacksonville has recently been fined $2,000 by the Illinois Department of Public Health for failing to supervise a patient while she was choking. The incident resulted in the resident choking to death from food.

-A nursing home in Madison County has recently been sued by family members of a deceased resident for allegedly failing to provide proper care while the patient suffered from severe bed sores and developed a bone infection while in their care.

-A nurse from a Maryville nursing home has been charged for withholding medications for an estimated 45 days that were prescribed to an 83-year-old resident.

-A Rockford Nursing & Rehabilitation Center was cited by state officials for several deficiencies that included preventable accidents, catheter care, abuse and quality of care. The home is expected to be shut down.

-A 22-year-old nurse's assistant has been charged with aggravated criminal sexual assault at a Crystal Lake nursing home after abusing a 93-year-old resident.

Cook County nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys can't stress enough the importance of making routine visits to the nursing home where your parent or grandparent lives. We expect that these facilities are giving our loved ones the best possible care, but the truth is without ever monitoring the situation we never really know for sure. Mistreatment of patients is occurring more frequently so it is up to family members to keep elderly loved ones safe.

Some of the obvious signs of abuse and neglect to watch for include:
-Unexplained bruises, cuts, infected wounds or broken bones.
-Residents show signs of emotional distress. They have a fear of communicating when directly asked how they are feeling.
-Residents appear dirty. Examples include oily hair, soiled clothes or exuding a foul odor.
-Noticeable weight loss.
-Notice a more cantankerous mood when they generally show a happy personality.

Long-term care facilities are regulated, licensed, certified and inspected at state and federal levels by public and private agencies. Family members are encouraged to check quarterly reports of nursing home violations by visiting the Illinois Department of Public Health's Nursing Homes in Illinois website.

Staying informed of violations or insufficient conduct can help raise a red flag to notice something on your own as you visit your loved one this holiday season. Elders may not be able to stand up and fight for their rights alone so it is up to family members to ensure their safety and well-being during the autumn of their lives.

Illinois Motorists Preparing for Winter Weather to Reduce Risk of Chicago Car Accident

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 07:18:29 -0600

Driving in treacherous stormy weather on roadways layered with snow and ice can be stressful and dangerous. Motorists who are overly confident driving in these conditions put other motorists at risk of a car accident in Chicago or elsewhere in the state because they drive too fast and take unnecessary risks.

The Illinois Tollway, Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) have sent out a message to Illinois motorists recently to prepare for the winter dangers. Last year was a record year for snowfall in our area so being prepared is the first step in keeping everyone safe on roadways.

Illinois personal injury attorneys know that snowfall is inevitable in this part of the country so driving in winter weather can't be escaped if you want to get to work, drop kids off at school or run necessary errands to provide for your family.

Law enforcement officials and IDOT are encouraging motorists to drive safely by slowing down, buckling up and moving over when you see a snow plow. Winter crews have been preparing all spring and summer for the bad weather ahead. Last year they were tested with around-the-clock operation because of the heavy snowfall that hit several times throughout the state. Total expenses for snow removal last year was approximately $84.6 million which included 562,220 tons of salt being spread on highways, interstates and city streets throughout the state.

"Illinois State Police districts are coordinating road safety plans with the Tollway and IDOT to ensure that our traffic enforcement priorities include safe driving, safe roads, and safe access for all citizens during the winter months," said ISP Division of Operations Colonel Mark Piccoli.

This year, Illinois Tollway winter state crews are equipped with 183 plow trucks, other snow removal equipment, liquid calcium chloride, angular crushed stone, along with 80,000 tons of salt stockpiled and ready to use for the Tollway system which stretches 286 miles across Northern Illinois.

Motorists are encouraged to use the following safety tips this winter offered by IDOT:

-A snow plow needs plenty of room to operate so stay clear when you spot them doing their job.

-A snow plow operator has limited vision so just because you see them doesn't mean they see you.

-It is important to have an emergency kit containing flares, windshield wiper fluid, jumper cables, ice scraper, traction material, blankets, and a first aid kit.

-Check to make sure everyone is buckled in before you go.

-Black ice is often undetectable so if you suspect icy conditions slow down.

-Reducing speed on off-ramps, shady areas, bridges, and intersections can help reduce the chance of sliding or spinning on ice.

-Always know the weather conditions before you leave on a trip. Illinois motorists can call 1-800-452-4368, 1-800-TOLL-FYI or check online at gettingaroundillinois.com.

-Keep a charged cell phone with you at all times so that you can call for help if needed.

Motorists traveling on the Illinois Tollway are reminded if you break down, are involved in an accident or need emergency assistance call 999 for a H.E.L.P. truck operator to dispatch an assistance truck to your location. The dispatcher will need the name of the roadway and what direction you are traveling, the closest mile marker, how many vehicles involved in the accident and a description of the vehicle(s) in need of assistance.

Chicago Restaurant Owners' Negligence Could Result in Injuries to Patrons

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:32:40 -0600

Imagine sitting in a restaurant and the next thing you know a taxi cab lands inches away from where your table is located. Seems unlikely but alarmingly it happens in Chicago establishments. It just goes to show that patrons who dine out are not immune to a variety of dangers and possible injuries caused by a restaurant-related accident in Chicago or elsewhere.

Patrons at a newly opened restaurant in West Town found themselves in this situation recently but thankfully lived to tell about it. Chicago Sun Times reports the restaurant, with a full wall of storefront plate glass windows, is located on W. Division Street with nothing but a sidewalk between the restaurant and street. A handful of patrons were dining in the establishment around 10:15 a.m. when a taxi cab came crashing through the windows and landed partially inside the restaurant. The taxi cab hit tables and booths where the diners were sitting and injured two people. Local authorities report the cab driver lost control, possibly due to wet pavement, causing the cab to crash through the front windows. One injured patron was taken to Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center, and authorities stated there were two passengers in the cab that may have also been injured.

Illinois personal injury lawyers can only imagine how scary a restaurant-related accident like this is when it occurs without warning and as quickly as the blink of an eye. We can assure you that restaurant and business owners have a responsibility to keep patrons, customers and employees safe. When an injury does occur, negligence or premise liability can often be traced back to the store or restaurant owner. In situations like these, establishment owners should take necessary precautions such as parking stops or protective barriers that keep vehicles from entering a building. A restaurant or store that lacks safety features or preventative measures, especially when lined with windows along the storefront, can lead to serious injuries or death for anyone dining or shopping at the time of an accident.

InsuringMyRestaurant.com offers these potential liabilities that can injure or harm patrons or employees:

-Food contamination through food poisoning or injury from hazardous substances located in the food.

-Property damage as a result of something done by the owner or one of your employees.

-Slip and fall accidents from objects displaced or left obstructing a path or lack of signage displayed to alert customers of a hazardous area on the premises.

-Liquor liability when an intoxicated patron causes property damage or personal injury.

-Assault or violent act either to a worker or patron by another employee or customer.

-Auto-related accidents either from valet service, delivery service, or any other accident that may involve a vehicle.

Patrons should always consider potential dangers before being seated in a restaurant. Look for wet floor signs to avoid a slip accident. Ask to be seated away from a patron you suspect could be intoxicated to avoid violence or an assault incident. Diners may also want to check reviews written for restaurants in your area to make sure there are no reported cases of contamination or food poisoning.

Check Defective-Product Recall List Before Holiday Shopping in Chicago

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:47:51 -0600

Before you head out for your holiday shopping in Chicago and surrounding areas, you might want to check out the list of recalled products on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's website to help you make wise decisions. The last thing consumers want is to purchase a toy or other gift only to find out later that it posed a danger that could cause personal injury or wrongful death in Chicago or elsewhere.

Defective-product injuries are complex and often require going head-to-head with large companies that retain powerful representatives. If you are ever involved in such a situation, consult with a qualified legal professional.

Illinois personal injury attorneys understand the potential risks that consumers take when purchasing gifts. There are thousands of defective toys and other products on the market that can cause serious injuries to children and adults alike. With a little research and intuitiveness, consumers can feel more at ease with the gift choices they are making.

Some recent recalled products posing potential hazards include:

Toulouse-LapTrec Magnetic Sketchboards: These items have been recalled for a choking hazard to small children. No injuries have been reported, but there have been 19 reports filed with the product's manufacturer, Battat Inc., regarding the magnetic tip separating from the pen. Roughly 95,000 of the sketchboards have been distributed in the U.S. and another 4,300 in Canada. Various online retailers have sold the units, as well as Target and Barnes & Noble stores nationwide from March 2010 to March 2011. If you have this product, don't allow children to use it and contact Battat Inc. to receive a replacement at no cost.

Disney Fairies Plastic Racing Trikes: This product, manufactured under the Disney license by Kiddieland Toys Limited, injured a 3-year-old who suffered a laceration to her face near an eye. The trike contains plastic fairy figures on the handle bar that pose a laceration danger if a child falls on it. The product has been remedied by enclosing the rotating display. If you have this item in your household, contact Kiddieland for a replacement.

General Electric Monogram® Pro Rangetop with Grill: There have been six reports of explosions from units using LP gas. There is a risk of delayed ignition or explosion when the gas control knob is left between off and lite. Approximately 470 units were sold from May 2008 through August 2011. For a full list of model and serial numbers being recalled, visit CPSC. If yours is on the list, two places to look for the model number and serial number on the grill are the bottom and behind the far left burner knob. If you have a defective product, contact GE to make an appointment for a free repair.

All consumers should be cautious of the gifts they are buying. Reduce the risk of injury by checking for product hazards before you buy.

2010 Chicago Pedestrian Deaths Remembered with Mannequins on Wacker Drive

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:33:39 -0600

A citywide awareness campaign organized by the Illinois Department of Transportation, Chicago law enforcement officials and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was kicked off recently by placing 32 mannequins along Wacker Drive to represent those who were killed in 2010 Chicago pedestrian crashes. The shock effect is meant to make motorists more cautious of pedestrians.

The Chicago Tribune reports a new city study found roughly 80 percent of crashes in Chicago involving a pedestrian and a vehicle occur at intersections. Most crashes happen while a pedestrian is using a crossing signal, which indicates that motorists are not yielding to people using the crosswalk. In looking at pedestrian crash data from 2005 to 2009, Chicago reported almost 17,500 crashes involving more than 18,350 pedestrians. The pedestrian fatality total for 2010 was only two fewer than the 34 reported in 2009.

Cook County pedestrian accident attorneys have been told that cab drivers were involved in almost 30 percent of the 3,000 pedestrian-vehicle crashes in 2010. Aggressive driving by drivers who are on the clock doesn't excuse negligence when a pedestrian is hit. Contact an attorney on how to proceed with a claim if you have been injured in a crosswalk by a vehicle.

Other key awareness and safety initiatives include safety messages written on sidewalks in high traffic areas; citywide awareness messages in ad spaces; crosswalk flags to be held while crossing the street; reaching out to schools, cab companies and senior citizen centers; and safety messages placed at bus shelters or on trash bins. Plainclothes police officers will also pose as pedestrians in crosswalks crossing the street and will ticket any driver that fails to stop. Illinois recently passed a law that drivers must stop -- not just yield -- to pedestrians. Violators could be cited with a penalty ranging anywhere from $50 to $500.

The goal for city officials is to reduce pedestrian deaths to zero by 2020. There was a hint of this months ago when the Chicago Pedestrian Plan was introduced. The Chicago Tribune reports the city was given $545,000 in federal grant money to conduct a study on pedestrian-related deaths, hit-and-run accidents and frequent crash areas where pedestrians seem to be most at risk.

New legislation has recently been introduced that would permit speed cameras to be installed throughout most of Chicago. The cameras would catch speeders similar to how red light cameras nab motorists who fail to stop for a red light. Broader "safety zones" would be utilized with the cameras rather than the high-accident locations identified in the recent city study.

Another effort being made by city officials during the pedestrian safety blitz worth mentioning is that stickers will be placed inside cabs to remind customers to call a non-emergency hotline if a cabbie is driving dangerously. A cab driver who is reported three times will be pulled in for a one-on-one with the Chicago Department of Transportation and could have his or her license revoked.

If you are riding in a cab with an aggressive or reckless driver, call 311 to report the driver. A pedestrian's life could be on the line if you fail to make the call.

Car Door Openings, Distractions Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Chicago

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:11:43 -0600

Chicago is well known for scenic riding tours enjoyed by so many bicycling residents and visitors. The Lakefront Trail alone brings the peacefulness of nature to the big city and a picturesque view for all to enjoy. According to the City of Chicago , there are 30 miles of shared lanes, 117 miles of on-street bike lanes, and many more miles of off-street paths. Plus, more than 12,000 bike racks and bike-parking areas make it convenient for riders. Plenty of reasons why bicycling is such a popular mode of transportation in our area.

Like with most good things though, there are certain dangers involved when bicycling on congested roadways in a vastly urban area. So-called "doorings" are probably the most common cause of Chicago bicycling accidents, which is when motorists open their vehicle door into a bicyclist riding along the street.

Cook County bicycle accident attorneys know that distractions caused by texting is another common cause of bicycle accidents in Chicago, which is why some thought is being given to banning the dangerous behavior.

The Chicago Tribune reports that state officials want to hold all roadway users to the same standards and principles in order to reduce distraction-related fatalities on Illinois roadways. The Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Committee is proposing to make it illegal to text or talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device while riding a bike. In 2010, there were more than 1,600 crashes that involved a cyclist, five of which resulted in fatality. The bike text ban ordinance proposes that violators be fined $20 to $50 for the first offense. A second offense would incur a $50 to $75 penalty, and three or more cited violations would be fined $75 to $100. Any bicycling texter involved in a crash could be fined as much as $500.

Even with separate bike-only lanes and off-road bike paths, bicyclists have a considerable amount of fear for accidents while riding. Common fears that can lead to a serious accident include: inclement weather causing icy conditions, aggressive drivers, distractions, car doors opening, and motorists or pedestrians veering into a bike path.

The City of Chicago Department of Transportation hopes to erase some of these fears by developing safety strategies in the Bike 2015 Plan. The plan was adopted in 2006 but is a work in progress. With more than 150 strategies, the bicycle program looks to improve three areas of bicycling: bikeways, parking, and safety and education. By placing emphasis on these three areas, Chicago can become safe for more and more bicyclists.

If you want to enjoy the sites of Chicago while building a healthier you, visit City of Chicago online for bicycling information, bike maps, bike parking and bike safety. Having a bike map, knowing where to rack your bike, and keeping a few safety tips in mind can make riding more enjoyable and safer for everyone.

Halloween Risk of Child Pedestrian Accidents Resulting in Injuries in Chicago

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:54:19 -0600

Halloween night is the most dangerous evening of the year for child pedestrian accidents in Chicago and statewide. Children are not only at risk of being struck by a motorist, but they may also be involved in a trip-and-fall accident that could lead to a variety of injuries.

Illinois child injury lawyers know that parental concerns are magnified on this particular holiday, which is why talking to your children about Halloween dangers is important before they head out to trick-or-treat.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from 1975-1996 and published the results. During that time period, there were a total of 89 child pedestrians between the ages of 5-14 killed on October 31 from 4 to 10 p.m. On average, four children died every year on Halloween during these hours from 1975-1996 compared to an average of one death every other day of the year. It can be surmised that children are four times more likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident on Halloween night than any other day.

AAA Chicago offers these Halloween reminders to motorists:

-Watch for mid-block crossers. Children may want to get to a house across the street rather than wait for an intersection so stay alert for children appearing in odd places.

-Pay special attention to traffic signs or markings in neighborhoods on this particular day of the year.

-Reduce your speed to 5 mph below the posted limit.

-Children dressed in costumes or wearing masks may not see you, so it is important to notice them. Look for bright costumes or reflector tape that makes children more visible.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) in Rosemont, Ill., reports that Halloween is one of the top three holidays for children requiring a trip to the emergency room. In looking at ER reports from 1997 to 2006, finger and hand injuries were the most common types of injuries treated on Halloween visits (17.6 percent). Children between the ages of 10-14 accounted for more than 30 percent of visits needing medical attention on Halloween during this time period. The study indicated that lacerations (33.3 percent) and fractures (20.1 percent) were the most common types of finger and hand injuries.

AAOS offers these injury prevention tips to parents this Halloween:

-Send your children trick-or-treating in comfortable, slip-resistant and exact-sized shoes.

-If a costume doesn’t contain bright features, sew on reflective tape or put a flashlight in their treat bucket to make children more visible.

-Make sure the costume your child chooses is flame-resistant and fits properly. Fall accidents and burn injuries are common on Halloween.

-Instruct children to stay on sidewalks and driveways rather than cut through yards or dark alleys.

-If carving pumpkins is a Halloween tradition, help children to hold a knife and never leave them unsupervised.

-Remind children of the dangers of talking to strangers and instruct them to only go to well-lit houses and homes they are familiar with.

-Children should only trick-or teat with adult supervision. Send a cell phone with your children if they are trick-or-treating in a group with others.

-Remind children to watch for moving cars and use extra caution by walking slowly across the street. Use crosswalks whenever possible.