Chicago, IL (October 3, 2024) – In an overnight accident, two women were critically injured after a wrong-way driver struck their vehicle on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago Thursday morning.
The incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. when the driver entered the southbound lanes of Lake Shore Drive traveling in the wrong direction near the 1100 block in the Streeterville neighborhood. The two women, in the vehicle that was hit, were rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the second vehicle, a man who was heading north, was also taken to Northwestern Memorial after complaining of chest pain. He was listed in good condition.
Authorities shut down both directions of Lake Shore Drive as they investigated the crash, reopening the northbound lanes shortly before 7:45 a.m. Police stated that citations against the wrong-way driver are still pending, though no official charges have been made at this time.
Link to full article: 2 in critical condition in wrong-way crash overnight on Lake Shore Drive (msn.com)
Your Next Steps After a Car Accident in Chicago
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect yourself and your rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be critical later on.
- Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved. Also, gather contact details from any witnesses.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be honest but avoid admitting fault.
- Contact a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer: Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complicated. Having a dedicated Chicago car accident lawyer on your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
At Walner Law, we’re here to guide you through each step. We understand the stress and confusion that can follow a car accident, and we’re committed to helping you every step of the way. Our experienced attorneys will handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
How to Get Your Payout
When you’re involved in a car accident in Chicago, you have several options for seeking compensation:
- Filing a Claim with Your Insurance Company: This is often the first step. We’ll work with you to ensure that your claim is filed correctly and that you’re not shortchanged by your insurer.
- Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver: If the other driver was responsible for the accident, you might be able to file a claim against their insurance. We’ll help you navigate this process to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Pursuing a Personal Injury Lawsuit: In some cases, a lawsuit may be necessary to secure fair compensation. Our team will fight for your rights in court if needed.
Walner Law is here to support you through this challenging time. We’ll handle the legal aspects so you can focus on healing and moving forward.