Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Each year, thousands of pedestrians are injured in accidents with motor vehicles. Many of these injuries are quite severe and can result in long-term health problems or death for the victims.
Pedestrians are vulnerable to danger in traffic accidents and are often not as visible to drivers as cars or trucks. Even when pedestrians are visible, drivers may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting them.
Pedestrians can also be injured by being thrown against objects or vehicles on the road or run over by a motor vehicle. The force of a motor vehicle hitting a pedestrian can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord damage, even causing fatal injuries.
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Injury Lawyer Team – Personal Injury Lawyers
The personal injury attorneys at Injury Lawyer Team, sponsored by Rosenfeld Law Offices, are legal advocates for an injured pedestrian harmed by negligent drivers.
Contact our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation in your pedestrian accident case. All confidential or sensitive information you share with our affiliate law offices remains private through an attorney-client relationship.
National Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, there were 5,987 pedestrian deaths in traffic crashes in the United States. The data reveals an increase of 11 percent from 2019.
The number of pedestrian mortalities in 2020 accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities. Pedestrian deaths have been increasing since 2009 after declining for several decades.
Most pedestrian deaths occur in urban areas, at night, and away from intersections. In 2020, 69 % of pedestrian mortalities occurred on roadways with speeds greater than 40 mph. The most common fatal accident circumstances where a pedestrian died were as follows:
- A motor vehicle struck a pedestrian who was walking in the roadway.
- A pedestrian crossing at an intersection where there is no signal or crosswalk
- A pedestrian walking on a roadway shoulder or crossing the median illegally
Illinois Pedestrian Accident Data
In Illinois, pedestrian crashes are unfortunately common. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Illinois ranks in the top 10 states for the most pedestrian fatalities.
In 2018, there were 105 pedestrian mortalities in Illinois, a rate of 1.8 per 100,000 people, and a slight increase from 2017, when there were 99 pedestrian mortalities.
Most of these accidents occur in urban areas, with more traffic and less space for pedestrians to walk safely. However, even small towns can be dangerous for pedestrians, as shown by an auto accident in Galena that resulted in the death of a 60-year-old woman.
If you were involved in a car accident involving a negligent driver, contact a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer to assist you with legal counsel with your pedestrian accident lawsuit.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents: Who Is At Fault In Pedestrian Crashes?
Pedestrian safety is a severe problem in the United States. Each year, thousands of people are injured or killed in accidents involving pedestrians. Most pedestrian collisions occur because of the negligence of drivers.
According to the National Safety Council, there are twelve common injuries sustained due to pedestrian collisions:
- Distracted walking: Looking at a phone or other device while walking can lead to trips and falls.
- Drunk walking: Alcohol impairs judgment and balance, leading to slips and falls.
- Drowsy walking: Walking when tired can lead to missteps and falls.
- Ignoring traffic laws: Crossing streets in undesignated areas or against signals can lead to accidents.
- Poor lighting/poor vision: About 75% of all pedestrian fatalities occur in areas where pedestrians have the right of way. However, the driver may not see them due to poor lighting.
- Pedestrian equipment failure: Broken sidewalks or incorrect traffic signals can lead to accidents.
- Pedestrian-vehicle collisions: Often the result of drivers not seeing pedestrians, violating right-of-way laws, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Road rage: Aggressive driving and confrontations between drivers and pedestrians can lead to accidents.
- Weather conditions: Ice, snow, and rain can make walking treacherous and increase the chances of slips and falls.
- Poor physical health: Children, the elderly, and those with disabilities are more likely to be injured in a pedestrian crash than physically fit people.
- Car doors opening/shutting Accidents can occur when people getting in or out of cars don’t look for pedestrians nearby.
- Running into traffic: Sometimes, pedestrians attempt to cross busy streets by running instead of walking, which can lead to disastrous consequences.
These are just a few factors that can lead to a pedestrian crash. Distracted driving is another factor that can lead to pedestrian crashes. If you are a driver, you must be aware of these dangers and take steps to avoid them. If you are a pedestrian, you must be mindful of your risks and take precautions to stay safe.
Pedestrian crashes can often result in severe injuries, as people are not as protected when they are out in the open. Most pedestrian collisions occur in urban areas, where high traffic volumes and pedestrian activity can lead to dangerous situations.
Many severe injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, which can be very costly. In some cases, pedestrians may never fully recover from their injuries.
Did a driver hit you or a loved one in a car accident? Contact your Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer. We offer a free consultation to determine fair compensation in your personal injury lawsuit and to bring the negligent driver responsible to justice.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
The injuries can be quite severe when pedestrians are involved in a car accident. Even at low speeds, pedestrians can suffer broken bones, lacerations, and other serious injuries. Injuries often become more severe when the pedestrian is thrown onto the ground or against a hard surface.
Common injuries suffered by pedestrians in a car accident include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a common injury in pedestrian accidents. They can be caused by a direct blow to the head or objects penetrating the skull. A traumatic brain injury can lead to long-term cognitive function, motor skills, and sensory processing problems.
- Concussion and other head injuries can occur when the head strikes a hard surface. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive function, memory, and balance problems.
- Spinal cord or neck injuries are other common injuries from pedestrian accidents. These injuries can cause paralysis, often resulting in a lifetime of disability.
- Broken bones are also typical in pedestrian accidents. The force of the impact can cause serious fractures, which may require surgery to repair. In some cases, broken bones can lead to long-term problems with mobility.
- Lacerations and contusions are often caused by the accident’s impact or flying debris. These injuries can be harrowing and may require stitches or other medical treatment.
- Injuries to the knees, ankles and feet are common in pedestrian accidents. These injuries can be caused by the accident’s impact or broken bones piercing the skin. In some cases, these injuries can require corrective surgery.
- Emotional trauma from a pedestrian collision can also cause emotional trauma, which may require counseling or therapy. This type of injury is often overlooked in the aftermath of an accident but can seriously impact a person’s quality of life.
- Burns can be caused by crashes or contact with hot surfaces or chemicals. These injuries can be excruciating and may require hospitalization for treatment.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage: These injuries can occur when the force of the impact damages internal organs. This type of serious injury is often life-threatening and may require surgery to repair.
- A wrongful death accident usually occurs when a large vehicle or truck strikes an individual. Sudden death accidents leave the family members and loved ones struggling to cope with their loss.
If you or someone you love has been involved in Chicago pedestrian accidents, it is essential to seek legal advice concerning personal injury lawsuits as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and options in your personal injury claim and fight for the financial recovery you deserve.
The Cost of Pedestrian Accidents
Hundreds of pedestrians are killed in car accidents annually on America’s roads. The cost of these fatal pedestrian accidents is staggering in terms of financial costs and loss of human life.
In 2019, there were 4,280 pedestrian mortalities in the United States. The direct cost of these car accidents was over $10.5 billion, and the indirect cost was over $37.2 billion, with the total cost of pedestrian accidents being over $47.7 billion.
Pedestrian accidents also have a human cost. In 2019, 4,280 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes, an equivalent to 11 people dying every day. These deaths are tragic, and they leave families and friends grieving for years.
How To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents
One must be aware of the dangers posed to pedestrians to avoid accidents. Pedestrian accidents occur anywhere, anytime, and to anyone. However, there are some things you can do to help reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
According to the National Safety Council, pedestrians are more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a traffic accident when not using a crosswalk.
There are numerous ways to avoid serious injury in pedestrian accidents:
- Always use a crosswalk when crossing a street.
- Make sure you are visible to drivers. Wear bright colors during the day and reflective materials at night.
- Obey all traffic signals and signs.
- Cross streets only in designated areas.
- Avoid crossing between parked cars.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially when wearing headphones or talking on the phone.
- Watch for cars turning or backing up.
- Stay on the sidewalk whenever possible.
- Look both ways before crossing and ensure enough time to cross safely.
- Practice looking to your left last before crossing a street
- Cross the street in groups whenever possible.
- Distracted driving is another danger pedestrians should at all times consider
- Use caution when walking in bad weather conditions or near busy streets or construction zones.
- Familiarize yourself with the area where you are walking, including any blind spots for drivers
- Ensure that correct footwear is worn that promotes balance, preventing accidental falls.
- Utilize pathways and pedestrian-friendly crossings whenever possible
- Remember that drivers have blind spots.
- Don’t just rely on traffic signs, as many drivers fail to acknowledge them.
Speak to an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer from the Injury Lawyer Team for legal counsel regarding your pedestrian accident case.
Pedestrian-friendly Designations
Using options that promote pedestrian safety when planning a route is always wise. There are many options available to pedestrians to ensure they are not involved in Chicago pedestrian accidents.
Crosswalks
Lines are drawn onto the roadway to designate the areas where pedestrians can legally cross the street. Pedestrians can only cross the street lawfully between these lines or unless they are at intersections with the correct signs.
Public Pedestrian Tunnels And Bridges
Pedestrians are prohibited from crossing limited-access streets or highways. Should crossing these roadways be inevitable, pedestrians should use marked crosswalks and constructed facilities, including tunnels or bridges assigned to pedestrian usage by signs or fencing.
Railroad Grade Crossings and Bridges
It is prohibited for pedestrians to cross around, over, under, or through and shut gate or barrier; or railroad grade crossing or bridge that opens and closes.
Walking Along the Roadways
In the absence of sidewalks, pedestrians are only allowed to walk on the left side of the roadway or shoulder, facing oncoming traffic from the opposite direction.
Traffic-control Signs
Pedestrians must also adhere to the same restrictions and allowances set out by traffic control signals that motorists obey.
Pedestrians Yielding Right-of-way
Motorists have the right of way at roadway points not marked with a crossway, and pedestrians must yield to motorists.
Pedestrian’s Duty to Exercise Reasonable Care
Pedestrians also have a responsibility to act in a manner that will ensure their safety, following the laws and designated pedestrian-friendly areas to keep pedestrians safe.
Personal injury cases can be filed by any pedestrian involved in a collision. Speak to a personal injury attorney from our law office for legal advice.
What to Do If You Are Involved in A Pedestrian Accident
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, the first thing you should do is call 911. If you are not injured, but the other driver has fled the scene, also call 911 to send law officers to the accident scene. If injuries are sustained by yourself, passengers, or the other driver, tell the operator where you are and what hurts.
If you can, stay on the scene until the police arrive. They will take a report and may give you a ticket for violating a traffic law. You can also expect the police to ask for your identification.
If the other driver leaves the accident scene, try to get their license plate number and description of their car. If you can’t get their license plate number, try to get a good description of their car and driver. Once you have this information, call the police and report the hit-and-run.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Once you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you will likely have to deal with the insurance companies. If the other driver were at fault, their insurance company would be responsible for your medical bills and any other damages incurred.
Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your insurance company may be responsible for your damages and the reasoning behind adequate insurance coverage.
Dealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating experience. They may try to lowball you or deny your claim altogether. Therefore it is essential to have an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
An attorney can help you gather evidence in your Chicago pedestrian accident claim, negotiate with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Compensation You Could Receive for A Chicago Pedestrian Accident
You could be entitled to significant compensation if you are injured in a Chicago pedestrian accident. Pedestrian crashes often cause serious injuries, including head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
The driver of the car or truck that hit you may be liable for your damages, which could include:
- Hospital bills and medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost future earnings
- Loss of consortium
- Property damage
- Medical devices and equipment
- Rehabilitation costs.
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Pain and suffering of deceased pedestrian’s family members
- Attorney fees and costs
- Interest in judgments or settlements awarded
Punitive Damages
When a person is severely injured in a pedestrian accident, they may be able to seek punitive damages from the driver responsible. Punitive damages are awarded in pedestrian accident cases, and compensatory damages are meant to punish the defendant for their actions.
These damages are not meant to compensate the victim for their injuries but instead to punish the defendant and deter them and others from behaving similarly in the future.
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to consult with experienced pedestrian accident attorneys as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you determine who is at fault for the accident and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
You may be entitled to receive a settlement that covers all your damages. Contact Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys who can assist with Illinois pedestrian accidents and the resulting personal injury claim.
The Injury Lawyer Team offers a free consultation in your pedestrian accident lawsuit to determine financial recovery and possibly punitive damages for medical expenses for pedestrian injuries.
Pedestrian Accident Fatalities
According to data, in the United States, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every eight minutes. Pedestrian crashes are often fatal, accounting for most traffic fatalities in the United States.
When struck by a car or truck, the lack of protection for pedestrians often leads to severe injuries or death.
A pedestrian accident can be a fatal event. In 2019, 4,743 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents, and another 76,000 were injured. That’s a lot of people who are at risk when they walk down the street.
Many of these accidents could be prevented if drivers paid more attention to the road and followed the traffic rules. Pedestrians must also remain aware of their surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.
The Survivors’ Legal Options
When a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident, the family can be left feeling overwhelmed and confused about their next steps. Here are some things that you can do to help during this challenging time:
- Contact an attorney. Pedestrian crashes can be complex, and it’s essential to have someone on your side who knows the law and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
- Grieve your loss. It’s natural to feel sad and angry after losing a loved one, and giving yourself time to mourn is essential. Seek out support from friends and family, or consider joining a support group for grieving pedestrians.
- Keep track of expenses. There may be medical bills, funeral costs, and other expenses related to the car accident that you must pay for in the months or years after the car accident. Keep track of all related costs so you can submit them to your attorney later.
- File a wrongful death lawsuit. If you believe that your loved one’s death was due to a negligent driver, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Compensation can help provide financial relief for your family during this difficult time.
A Chicago pedestrian accident attorney can help you determine who is at fault for the car accident. The negligent driver of the car may be liable for your injuries, or the city or state may be responsible. Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers can help you file a claim against the responsible party or parties.
Illinois Law And the Statute of Limitations On Bicycle/Motor Vehicle Accidents
The Illinois law and the statute of limitations on bicycle/motor vehicle crashes is the time limit within which you must file a lawsuit to have any chance of recovering damages. If you are involved in a car accident, you have limited time to take legal action. If you do not file a lawsuit within that time limit, you will likely lose your chance to do so altogether.
A few things can affect the statute of limitations in Illinois involving bicycle/motor vehicle accidents. For example, if the accident resulted in death, the statute of limitations is two years. Seek legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after accidents involving pedestrians to understand your specific rights and options.
How Our Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Resolve Personal Injury Claims and Wrongful Death Lawsuits
You must consult with an experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorney if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys resolve personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits arising from a pedestrian crash.
We understand the devastating effects that these accidents can have on victims and their families, and our pedestrian accident attorney is committed to obtaining the compensation they deserve.
Every pedestrian accident lawyer from the Injury Lawyer Team will go the distance to ensure success and win your case with the following:
- Investigate the accident scene and collect evidence, including police reports
- Contact witnesses and get their statements.
- Work with experts to determine the cause of the accident.
- Negotiate with the auto insurance company on your behalf.
- File a lawsuit if necessary.
- Represent you in court proceedings.
- Provide legal guidance and support throughout the process.
- Ensure you receive proper medical care and treatment.
- Keep you updated on the progress of your case.
- Handle all the paperwork and bureaucracy for you.
- Make ourselves available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
- Maintain a proven track record of success in pedestrian accident cases
Our affiliate law firm of attorneys has decades of experience handling these cases and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the best possible outcome. We understand that no money can undo the harm that has been done, but we hope that it will help you move forward with your life.
If you or a loved one suffered pedestrian accident injuries, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer on our legal team for a free consultation.
Hire Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Who Can Protect Your Rights
Were you injured in a pedestrian accident and need to file a Chicago pedestrian accident claim against those responsible for your damages? Our legal team handles injury and fatal pedestrian crashes to ensure our clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages.
The affiliate law offices of personal injury attorneys at Injury Legal Team specializes in accidents involving the negligence or intentional acts of others. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Contingency ‘No Win, No Fee’ Promise
Our pedestrian accident lawyers accept all personal injury cases and wrongful death lawsuits on a contingency-fee-basis. This agreement ensures you pay no upfront fees until your case is resolved through a negotiated settlement or jury award.
All confidential or sensitive information you share with a personal injury attorney remains private through an attorney-client relationship.