CHICAGO — A major legal hurdle was cleared Thursday with the help of the Illinois Supreme Court.
Chris Guiracocha was hit by a vehicle while riding his bicycle near Montrose and Kimball about three years ago. His case has now taken a step forward.
“Make no mistake, this ruling is a victory for all Illinois residents,” said attorney Larry Disparti.
After the accident, Guiracocha and his family immediately filed a claim with Direct Auto Insurance.
The company initially denied the claim because he wasn’t in the vehicle listed on his family’s policy. The injury affected him for several months.
“At the time, I didn’t feel anything,” said Guiracocha. “I thought I was dead or knocked out. Then I woke up and after the incident I couldn’t move for about 6 months… my whole right side.”
He thought the case was over, but Disparti Law continued to fight, arguing that the insurance company could not deny a claim just because he was on a bicycle.
After months of back-and-forth appeals, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled in their favour.
“Today’s opinion gives residents of this state peace of mind that if they are injured by a hit-and-run or uninsured driver, their insurance will cover them,” said attorney Jonel Metaj of Disparti Law.
The lawyers haven’t won the whole case for Guiracocha yet, but the decision has cleared the way for her and others to move forward.
The family is relieved to know they can get some help with the medical bills from the incident.
“I was really happy about it, to be honest,” said Guiracocha. “I was at work when we got the call. Anything will help. Anything we can get out of this.”
A lengthy legal process still lies ahead, as lawyers must prove that Guiracocha is entitled to compensation for his injuries in the accident.
