Riding a motorcycle may be fun, but it is undeniably risky. Apart from the fun factor, motorcycles are an easy way to commute through busy city streets. They cut down on travel time and commuting costs. However, motorcycles offer the least protection to the riders, and other drivers often complain that motorcycles are less visible compared to cars and trucks, which means motorcycle accidents can happen. However, Illinois motorists should understand that roads are available for all drivers, and there should be mutual respect among them.
Recently, an Illinois State Police motorcycle trooper was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer. The accident occurred on Interstate 55 near Litchfield, approximately 40 miles from Collinsville. The accident occurred in the morning hours when the motorcycle trooper was performing a traffic stop. The trooper died at the scene of the accident.
An investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing. At present, there is no information about charges filed or possible charges that may be filed against the tractor-trailer driver, if any.
Motorcycle accidents may result in serious injuries. The most common types of injuries suffered by motorcyclists include head injuries, leg injuries, bone fractures and joint fractures. And in this case, even though the trooper may not have been on his motorcycle, the lack of a police vehicle with flashing lights may have contributed to his lack of visibility. But that does not excuse the actions of the driver who hit the trooper.
Motorcycle accident victims may file a claim for damages against the other driver if negligence can be proved. The compensation awarded may include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and lost wages. In this case, since the man was killed in the line of duty, his family may also be entitled to survivors' benefits from his employer.
Source: The Telegraph, "State trooper hit, killed by tractor-trailer," Nov. 26, 2012
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