Michael Rapp Killed In Morton Grove Car Accident on Dempster Street
August 23, 2024
Michael Rapp Died In Morton Grove Bicycle Accident Involving Pickup Truck On Dempster Street
MORTON GROVE, ILLINOIS (August 23, 2024) – A cyclist identified as Michael Rapp, of Skokie, has tragically died in a Morton Grove car accident along Dempster Street.
Cook County officials are saying that the incident took place around 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Michael Rapp crossed Dempster Street and was heading north when he was struck by a pickup truck headed west.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Michael Rapp was taken to Lutheran General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
A full investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for Morton Grove Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists are disproportionally injured and killed in vehicle collisions. According to the NHTSA, “for the last 5 years (2017–2021), the yearly average has been 883 people on bicycles killed in police reported traffic crashes (NCSA, 2022; Stewart, 2023). Bicyclists accounted for 2.2% of total traffic fatalities in 2021 (Stewart, 2023).” The majority of bicycle accidents take place at intersections.
- Bicycle collisions are more likely in urban areas.
- Bicycle collisions with light trucks, SUVs, and vans were involved in the most fatalities.
- Bicycle collisions were more likely to take place in low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk.
All drivers have a legal obligation to use caution in order to avoid causing collisions. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1, every driver must exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian. They must also use their horns when necessary and exercise the proper precautions to avoid colliding with any child or obviously confused person. Victims of bicycle accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries.
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Organ damage
The vast majority of bicycle accidents are preventable. They tend to involve situations where drivers are not paying attention to the road ahead of them. Liability for a collision could extend beyond any driver. If a driver was working at the time of a collision, their employer could be held at fault. This is why it is so important that evidence is properly preserved after any collision.
Investigating Cook County Bicycle Accidents
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Michael Rapp. Any person who may have more information about what took place should reach out to the police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong so that other tragedies can be averted.
Do you need more information about a Morton Grove bicycle accident? Our team of bicycle safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
