Pedestrians encounter numerous hazards while navigating the bustling streets of Chicago. When accidents occur, the consequences can be quite devastating. Each dedicated Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer in our personal injury law firm at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers is committed to providing legal support and guidance to those injured in an accident caused by the negligence or carelessness of someone else.
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 for pedestrian fatalities. 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 when crossing a street or walking to school, they are entitled to pursue compensation just as adults are.
An adult, usually a parent or legal guardian, must file the Chicago pedestrian accident case on behalf of the minor and any settlement they receive from the personal injury lawsuit may require court approval to make sure it is fair compensation for his or her injuries and is in the best interest of the child.
What Should I Do When Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Some steps to take after a pedestrian accident are:
- Seek medical attention for the injured pedestrian, 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 details of a personal injury claim to insurance companies without consulting a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer first.
- Consult with experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys to explore your legal options.
What Should a Pedestrian Do If They Are Injured by a Hit-and-Run Driver?
In the case of severe or catastrophic injuries in hit-and-run car accident cases, try to gather as much information as possible about the vehicle and negligent driver as you can. Report the incident to the police immediately. Skilled pedestrian accident lawyers can help you investigate the case and guide you through the process of filing a claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage.
What Traffic Laws Protect Pedestrians in Illinois?
According to the Illinois Secretary of State, drivers of motor vehicles 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 be considered valid personal injury cases when pedestrians are harmed due to another party’s negligence or illegal actions. Such negligence may involve distracted, impaired, or reckless driving.
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 or construction and poor lighting also contribute to the risk of injuries and pedestrian deaths in traffic crashes.
Who Is Liable for Pedestrian Crashes in Chicago?
In the state of Illinois, liability for a pedestrian accident may rest with the driver of the vehicle that caused the serious injury or fatal 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 and car accidents, are:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBIs);
- Back and neck injuries;
- Facial fractures;
- Broken bones;
- Internal organ damage;
- Lacerations and contusions;
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs), and
- Pedestrian fatal injuries, calling for a wrongful death lawsuit.
Can I Recover Compensation for a Chicago Pedestrian Accident?
Victims of traffic accidents involving pedestrians may be entitled to various forms of compensation in pedestrian accident claims. These forms of compensation 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 in traffic accident was especially egregious.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover for My Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers can assess 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 in the car crash.
They also consider medical reports, lost wages, medical expenses, and the potential for long-term care. The attorney also evaluates non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of consortium.
Do I Need a Chicago Pedestrian Injury Attorney?
While not required, a pedestrian injury lawyer can help navigate the complex legal process and pursue the maximum compensation in your pedestrian-auto accident case. An attorney skilled at handling pedestrian accident cases 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 motor vehicle accident, do not hesitate to contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers for a free consultation about your accident.
Our team of skilled personal injury 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.
Can I Afford a Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
Our law firm works on cases involving pedestrian injuries on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your Chicago pedestrian accident claim. This arrangement allows individuals in pedestrian-auto accidents of all financial backgrounds to seek justice and recover damages without worrying about upfront legal fees.
(312) 223-1700