Driver arrested after fleeing scene of fatal motorcycle accident

A 24-year-old man reported to be a student at the Northeastern Illinois University was arrested after an incident that occurred early on a recent Tuesday morning. The Chicago man is being accused of being involved in a motorcycle accident before fleeing the scene. His bail has been set at $100,000, and he is awaiting his next court appearance, which is scheduled for a date in August.

According to court documents, the man was traveling south on a roadway in Westchester when witnesses allegedly saw his vehicle crossing the center line. His car reportedly smashed into a motorcycle, and — according to the witnesses — the man backed up and turned down a road toward a forest preserve. The operator of the motorcycle reportedly suffered fatal injuries.

Police were directed to the preserve by witnesses, and the driver was located. Reportedly, he claimed to have fallen asleep while traveling to work. It is not known whether drugs or alcohol played any part in the crash. He is facing charges of failure to report a possible fatal accident along with reckless homicide.

The surviving family members of the deceased victim of the motorcycle accident may pursue financial relief to assist them with the unanticipated expenses related to end-of-life arrangements and loss of income. A wrongful death lawsuit may be filed in an Illinois civil court, and upon presenting sufficient proof of negligence, the court will consider documented claims before entering a monetary judgment. The claims may also cover emotional damages brought about by the tragedy such as loss of companionship and more.

Source: La Grange, IL Patch, “Chicago Man Charged With Leaving Scene of Deadly Motorcycle Crash“, Lorraine Swanson, July 22, 2016