Sunday, November 15, 2015

Crash That Killed Joliet Bicyclist Remains Under Investigation

Attorneys Representing Illinois Bicyclists
Joliet police are awaiting the toxicology results and conducting a further investigation into a bicycle crash that left a Joliet bicyclist dead. The fatal crash took place at around 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11th. The collision between the motor vehicle and the bicyclist took place when the driver of a Chevrolet Avalanche turned from northbound Boulder onto Westbound Washington in Joliet. According to reports, the motorist only became aware of the collision when he heard a noise. The motorist reported that he never saw the bicyclist. 

The driver found the fatally injured bicyclist underneath the Avalanche truck and called 911. Joliet fire department personnel that responded to the scene had to use a jack to lift the Avalanche in order to extract the bicyclist from underneath the truck. The bicyclist was taken to Silver Cross Hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.  The bicyclist was identified as 57-year old Joliet resident Raul Weeks. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Weeks's family and friends and all those affected by this tragic event. 

The Joliet Police Department has yet to issue any citations as they await the results of toxicology results and conduct a further investigation into the crash. Because the motorist claims that he did not see the bicyclist prior to the crash it is currently unknown as to what direction the bicyclist was traveling and his location on the roadway prior to the crash. Police departments typically conduct major accident investigations when a crash involves a fatal injury or death. The police department will then issue a final Illinois Traffic Crash Report that summarizes their investigation and will state whether any traffic citations were issued.

Keating Law Offices is the premiere personal injury law firm representing victims of bicycle accidents in Illinois. The firm is based in Chicago, Illinois and represents clients throughout Illinois. If you have any questions regarding this post or have a question regarding personal injury law, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-239-6787 (Office) or 312-208-7702 (Nights/Weekends). Our staff and operators are available around the clock. You can also email Mike@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free.