Motorists Sentenced After Malicious Pedestrian Accidents

June 24, 2010 - Two men who hit random bicyclists with their car -- on purpose -- were sentenced on Tuesday in a Cook County courtroom. According to reports at the Chicago Tribune, a 20-year-old man received 2 years of probation, while his 18-year-old friend received 10 days in jail in addition to 2 years of probation. Both men pled guilty to hit-and-run and aggravated battery; the 18-year-old also pled guilty to drunk driving.

Back in May 2009, the two men were driving on Washington Avenue when the 18-year-old, who was a passenger at the time, "dared" the other to hit a man riding his bicycle. The driver struck a 52-year-old man and then drove off. Later that day, the 18-year got in the driver's seat and hit a 34-year-old cyclist. Fortunately, both of the cyclists escaped serious injuries.

Groups that advocate for the rights of cyclists were unhappy with the light sentences the two men received. The Active Transportation Alliance said they were "outraged" at the sentences.

If you have been seriously injured in a car or pedestrian accident, you have legal rights that go beyond the criminal charges the other driver may or may not face. Contact a Chicago car accident lawyer for more information.