In June, a motorcycle accident involving two Illinois residents occurred in Bensenville. The operator of the bike, a 47-year-old man, died in the accident. His 57-year-old female passenger lingered for some time before finally succumbing to her injuries. She died in late June while hospitalized at Park Ridge’s Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.

The motorcycle accident occurred on a Sunday afternoon where Illinois Highway 83 intersects with Thorndale Avenue. Reportedly, the motorcycle was stopped at a traffic signal when a Nissan Rogue struck the bike in its rear end. According to reports, the driver of the Nissan fled the scene of the crash on foot. Police officers attempted to find the driver but at the time of the news report, they still had not located the suspect.

In situations like this one, family members of the victims are left bereft and wondering how to pick up the pieces of their lives. It feels like nothing can start the healing that these people need. Even though the authorities are actively searching for the person responsible, this does little to help the bereaved cope with their loss.

Pursuing a legal solution – on top of any punishment the authorities mete out – may bring clarity and peace to survivors. Taking action can also empower the bereaved to play an active, healing role in making sure the responsible party is held to account for his or her negligence.

Although the police have not yet apprehended the driver (at the time of the news story) that caused the motorcycle accident, they have issued a warrant for the arrest of a 38-year-old Elk Grove man. The charges include “aggravated driving under the influence in an accident involving death” in addition to “leaving the scene of an accident involving death.” His bond will be set at $1.5 million.