When a pedestrian is injured by a vehicle striking them, the results can be devastating. Without protection, pedestrians are far more vulnerable to injury or death than occupants of vehicles. When such an accident is caused by a negligent driver, the pedestrian may be entitled to compensation for their pedestrian accident injuries. A Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm can manage a personal injury claim for injured pedestrians.
Do I Need a Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
If someone else’s negligence caused severe injuries, you can file a Chicago pedestrian accident claim without a lawyer. However, Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys from our law firm can greatly improve your chances of getting maximum compensation. Our legal team has the skills and resources to investigate the accident, gather evidence (such as accident reconstruction), negotiate with the auto insurance company, and take your case to trial if needed.
What Traffic Laws Protect Pedestrians in Illinois?
According to the Illinois Secretary of State, pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked and unmarked crosswalks, as well as intersections. Illinois law also requires drivers to exercise “due care” to avoid hitting pedestrians on any roadway.
Common Causes of Pedestrian-Car Accidents in Chicago
Pedestrian accidents caused by someone else can happen due to distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield at crosswalks or obey traffic signals, drunk or drug-impaired driving, and poor road conditions (such as cracks, bad lighting, or misplaced crosswalks).
What to Do When Pedestrian Accidents Occur in Chicago
In the event of accidents caused by negligent drivers:
- Seek medical attention immediately and keep all medical records to preserve evidence.
- Call 911, report the incident, and keep the police report.
- Get the driver’s name, contact info, and insurance companies’ details.
- Collect witnesses’ statements and contact information.
- Take photos of the accident scene and any serious injuries.
- Contact our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers for a free initial consultation.
Who Is Liable for Pedestrian-Traffic Crashes in Chicago?
In addition to a negligent, at-fault driver, other parties may be held liable for a pedestrian accident, including:
- Government agencies responsible for maintaining safe roads and sidewalks
- The vehicle manufacturer, in the case of a faulty car component
- A third-party driver who caused the primary driver’s failure to protect pedestrian safety
- The pedestrian, who may also be partially liable under Illinois comparative negligence rules
Can I Pursue Compensation for a Chicago Pedestrian Accident?
Under Illinois personal injury law, pedestrian accident cases may recover compensation, including:
- Medical expenses and future medical bills (including physical therapy for treatment of broken bones, neck injuries, back injuries, a traumatic brain injury or other head injuries, soft tissue injuries, or other internal injuries that commonly occur)
- Lost wages and future loss of income
- Pain and suffering (including physical pain, mental anguish, and diminished quality of life caused by the traumatic event)
- Disfigurement or disabilities
- A wrongful death settlement for pedestrian deaths
How Much Is My Chicago Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
When auto accidents involving pedestrians happen in Chicago, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can assess the value of cases for victims, taking into account factors such as:
- Severity of injuries/type and duration of medical treatment
- Extent and permanency of physical impairment or disfigurement
- Whether pedestrian accident victims can work after the accident
- The value of lost wages and income replacement
- Emotional distress or pain and suffering
- Traffic accidents that result in pedestrian fatalities
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations in Illinois for personal injury cases involving a pedestrian is generally two years from the date of the incident.
We Offer a Free Case Evaluation to Pedestrian Injury Victims
When pedestrian accidents happen, contact a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer at our law firm if you or a loved one has suffered a serious personal injury. We offer potential clients a free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys, who will discuss your options for pursuing full and fair compensation. We operate on a contingency fee basis, sparing injured clients up-front legal fees.
(312) 223-1700