Most people in Illinois likely have no idea how they would react should they come upon a crash scene. For many, the scene of motor vehicle accidents can be overwhelming; however, officials say that two teenagers sprung into action to help a toddler whose mother was fatally injured in an accident. The driver believed to have caused the accident now faces criminal charges.
The incident happened at approximately midnight. According to reports, a 16-year-old and 17-year-old came upon a crash scene. One of the teens describes a great deal of damage to the front driver’s side of one of the vehicles involved, which contained a pregnant woman and her toddler daughter; the teens reportedly worked together to extricate the toddler. The mother passed away as a result of injuries suffered in the accident.
Reports indicate that the accident was caused by a 23-year-old male who was attempting to illegally pass a vehicle. He reportedly struck another vehicle, but its three occupants were uninjured. The man was arrested following his release from the hospital. He is suspected of possession of marijuana and driving under the influence.
Unfortunately, a little girl is left facing a lifetime without her mother. Family members are now left with the unexpected burden of funeral expenses and lost wages. Fortunately, victims of motor vehicle accidents in Illinois and across the country have the option of filing a wrongful death lawsuit when such an accident was caused by another’s negligence. If successfully presented, victims — including surviving family members in the event of a fatality — could receive a monetary award for documented monetary damages sustained.
Source: ktla.com, “2 Illinois Teens Rescue Baby Girl From Violent Crash That Killed Her Pregnant Mother“, July 6, 2017