Driver arrested re alleged hit-and-run car accident in Illinois

Walking along Illinois roads may prove to be extremely dangerous. The parents of a teenager who was only 16 years old have to face a future without their son after a tragic hit-and-run car accident on a recent Tuesday evening. While it is not uncommon for hit-and-run drivers to remain unknown for long periods, the efficiency of authorities in this case saw the alleged perpetrator behind bars in no time.

It was reported that three teenagers were walking along Edwardsville Road in Granite City when a car came up from behind and smashed into two of them. The driver apparently failed to stop at the accident scene and continued on his way. The one teen suffered injuries to his leg, but his friend who was by his side was killed on impact.

The driver was identified and apprehended soon after the accident and was jailed as against a bond of $100,000. Authorities said that, although the current charges only relate to the fact that he failed to remain at the accident scene, toxicology results may result in additional charges. The current felony charge is punishable by incarceration of up to 15 years.

Residents of Illinois who have suffered injuries — or lost a loved one — in a car accident that was the result of another party’s negligence are free to pursue recovery of medical expenses, and/or end-of-life expenses in the result of a fatality. This can be done by filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim in civil court. Properly documented evidence of negligence that is successfully presented may lead to the court awarding a monetary judgment in compensation of claimed expenses. Additional damages may be awarded pursuant to applicable state laws.

Source: ksdk.com, “Suspect charged in Granite City hit-and-run”, Brandie Piper, Jennifer Meckles, and Jimmy Bernhard, Oct. 8, 2014