Fatal Accident At Illinois Intersection Involving 3 Vehicles

It would be great if all intersections were simple and easy to navigate. Then the number of motor vehicle collisions would probably drop because drivers would have one less thing to worry about when turning onto or crossing roadways. Unfortunately, there are some intersections in Illinois that are complex and driver-unfriendly - and occasionally, a serious auto accident occurs at these locations.

A three-vehicle crash in Cook County took place at a Niles intersection last week. A 63-year old woman tried to make a left turn from Milwaukee Avenue into a private drive on September 12. But her Honda Accord was hit by a Jeep Wrangler that was turning left from Oriole Avenue onto Milwaukee. The impact propelled the victim's car into oncoming traffic, where it was struck head-on by a Ford Explorer. The 63-year old was rushed to an area hospital, but succumbed to her injuries the next day.

As you can see, the intersection where the accident happened is a bit chaotic. In fact, a Niles police spokesman admitted that some drivers might have difficulties with sight lines when navigating that intersection.

Another problem with this accident is determining precisely who was at fault. Was it the driver of the Wrangler, who turned into the victim's car? Or was it the driver of the Explorer who caused the impact which likely led to the fatal injuries? And to what extent (if any) is the village of Niles responsible for the crash because of the flawed design of the intersection?

Also, does the 63-year old victim share part of the blame herself? After all, police cited her for driving in the wrong lane (in addition to the Jeep's driver being ticketed for failing to yield at an intersection). All of these questions have a direct effect on the outcome of any wrongful death lawsuit which might be filed in the future.