Limousines are not regularly used for travel but rather are used by most people for special events. Whether it is a wedding, a family reunion, prom night, a party, a celebration, an anniversary, or even just a night out on the town with friends, a limo can add a touch of luxury to your occasion and allow you to enjoy your time worry-free.
Unfortunately, the celebration can turn to tragedy in only seconds when your mode of transportation is in a wreck. And that's when Chicago limousine accident lawyers are available to help.
In March of 2016, there was a fatality and injuries to 6 others in a Chicago limousine crash on the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway. This incident put a spotlight on the limousine industry. Many were questioning whether riding in a limo was safe, and if not, what risks were present.
In the year 2018 there were 33,654 fatal crashes in America with 36,560 losing their lives. Nationwide, there were 1,894,000 people injured in car accidents during that same year. In Illinois alone there were 319,146 crashes involving motor vehicles in 2018. Tragically, there were 1,045 fatalities. While car crashes are an everyday occurrence in Chicago, these collisions should not be excused as mere accidents when they are caused by the carelessness of others.
What is Limousine Company Negligence?
The U.S. Department of Transportation enforces strict regulations to ensure limousines travel safely. However, all too often limousine companies operate negligently by failing to comply with these safety regulations. Companies’ failure to observe and maintain these standards substantially increases the likelihood of death and injury.
Some common violations include:
- Hiring under-qualified and/or underage drivers
- Using drivers with poor traffic records
- Failing to inspect vehicles
- Not performing background checks on potential drivers
- Failing to maintain proper repair and maintenance
- Not enforcing hours of service limitations
Failure to follow these standards places both passengers and drivers at risk. Overworking drivers and not providing them with the necessary training can place them in a dangerous situation.Failing to maintain vehicles can create risks as well.
If you or a family member sustains injuries in a limo accident, you have rights under Illinois law and you should seek legal guidance as soon as practicable.
What are The Dangers of Limousine Travel?
Innocent passengers can be tricked into believing their chosen limo service is safe and reliable. It is very easy for individuals to present themselves as credible limo drivers or as a reputable company. However, it's possible they do not carry proper licensing to operate the vehicle or follow necessary regulations.
Passengers should always be vigilant in checking the credibility of the company they choose to contract for their special occasion. Inquiring how long the company has been in business and asking for proof of insurance can provide an extra safety check. Passengers should not be afraid to ask questions if something seems off. The Illinois Limousine Association also provides a list of reputable companies to help guide your search.
Given the nature of a limousine, the likelihood of injury or death during a collision is higher than a comparable car accident. Limos are more vulnerable to rollover accidents and T-bone collisions, given their length and size. Making turns in a limo can be difficult as well.
A limousine is a passenger-carrying vehicle capable of transporting up to 9-15 people at a time. These vehicles are made by stretching a car. A vehicle is cut in half and its framework is extended out from the middle, “stretching” the structure to create the elongated shape. This results in drastic changes in the structure of the vehicle, which means it can react differently during a collision.
How Can a Chicago Limousine Accident Lawyer Help?
The burden from the negligence of others should not fall on you. If a limousine accident in Chicago caused you to suffer or caused harm to someone you love, you may have the legal right to seek relief for your damages through a civil claim.
Obtaining a limo accident attorney in Chicago can be critically important, especially when injuries are severe. The time following a serious accident can be overwhelming and confusing. However, delaying too long in pursuing your claims can lead to important evidence and rights being lost. Do not hesitate to obtain the help you rightfully deserve.
If you have been in a limousine accident or someone you love has been injured or killed in an accident, call the personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes. We have experience helping accident victims through every aspect of claims and we are ready to help you.
Call us toll-free at (855) LAW-CHICAGO (529-2442) or locally at (312) 924-7575. If you prefer, contact us online at your convenience. The consultation is free, and, if we agree to take your case, we will not charge you any fee unless a recovery is made on your behalf. We will investigate your accident and fight for your right to recover. This, while you concentrate on the important and difficult task of healing following a collision.
If you were injured in a Chicago Limousine Accident, call Abels & Annes, P.C. at (312) 924-7575 for a no-cost, no-obligation case consultation.