Navigating the busy streets of Chicago, pedestrians face numerous hazards. When accidents occur, the consequences can be devastating. Each dedicated Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer in our personal injury law firm is committed to providing legal support and guidance to those injured in an accident caused by the negligence or carelessness of someone else.
We understand the complexities of pedestrian safety law and work tirelessly to ensure that our clients’ rights are protected while seeking the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.
What Laws Protect Pedestrians in Illinois?
According traffic laws and the Illinois Secretary of State, a driver must yield to a pedestrian when:
- A pedestrian is in an unmarked crosswalk on the roadway and there are no traffic control signals.
- Making a turn at any intersection.
- Making a lawful turn on a red light after coming to a complete stop.
When Are Pedestrian Accidents Valid Personal Injuries?
Illinois pedestrian accidents can constitute valid personal injury cases when the injured pedestrian has suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence or unlawful behavior. This negligence could stem from distracted, impaired, or reckless driving. Our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and build a compelling case to support the claim for compensation.
Who Are the Most Common Victims of Pedestrian Accidents?
Anyone on foot can fall victim to a pedestrian accident, but teenagers and children are at higher risk. According to a study by the City of Chicago, children are more likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents than adults. High school aged teenagers (15 to 18 years old) had the highest accident rate at 194.6 per 100,000 population. Primary school children suffered pedestrian accidents at the next highest rate of 137.5 per 100,000 population.
What If My Child Was Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
If your child has suffered severe injuries, they are entitled to the same forms of compensation as adults. An adult, usually a parent or legal guardian, must file the lawsuit on behalf of the minor and any settlement may require court approval to ensure it is fair compensation and is in the best interest of the child.
What You Should Do When Pedestrian Accidents Happen
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
Report the incident to the police and make sure an official report is filed.
Gather contact information from any witnesses and take photos of the accident scene if possible.
Do not discuss fault with anyone or provide statements of a personal injury claim to insurance companies without consulting with Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys.
What Should a Pedestrian Do If They Are Injured by a Hit-and-Run Driver?
In the case of a serious injury in a hit-and-run accident, try to gather as much information as possible about the vehicle and negligent driver and report the incident to the police immediately. Your experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you investigate the case and may also guide you through the process of filing a claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage.
Common Causes of Chicago Pedestrian Accidents
The primary causes of pedestrian accidents including fatal pedestrian accidents in Chicago include distracted driving, failure to yield at crosswalks, speeding, and disregarding traffic signals. Unsafe road design and poor lighting also contribute to the risk of pedestrian crashes.
Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident in Illinois?
In Illinois, liability for a pedestrian accident may rest with the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident, but it can extend to other parties in a pedestrian crash lawsuit such as governmental entities responsible for road design and maintenance, or even pedestrians themselves under comparative negligence rules.
Common Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Some of the most common injuries resulting from pedestrian accidents are:
- Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
- Back and neck injuries;
- Facial fractures;
- Broken bones;
- Internal organ damage;
- Lacerations and contusions;
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis; and
- Pedestrian fatal accidents.
Common Types of Compensation for a Chicago Pedestrian Accident
Victims of accidents involving pedestrians may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These can include reimbursement for medical bills, compensation for lost earnings both present and future, payment for pain and suffering, and even punitive damages where the conduct of the at-fault party was especially egregious.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover for My Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney assesses the value of a pedestrian accident lawsuit by considering the severity of injuries, the impact on the pedestrian crash victim’s quality of life, and the degree of negligence of the responsible party.
They consider medical reports, lost wages, and the potential for long-term care or disability. The attorney also evaluates non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of consortium.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Lawsuit, and Can I Afford One?
While not required, a lawyer can help navigate the complex legal process and pursue the maximum compensation in your pedestrian accident case. A skilled attorney will manage all negotiations with your auto insurance company, compile and present evidence to support your claim, and advocate on your behalf in court if necessary.
Contact an Experienced Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries in a pedestrian accident, do not hesitate to contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
Our team of skilled attorneys will listen to your story and provide sound legal counsel tailored to the specifics of your case. We are dedicated to helping you obtain the maximum compensation possible so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
Our personal injury law firm works on pedestrian injuries on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your Chicago pedestrian accident claim.
(312) 223-1700