If you’ve sustained serious injuries in a pedestrian accident due to someone else’s negligence, it’s crucial to consult an experienced Des Plaines pedestrian accident lawyer. Our personal injury law firm is prepared to provide the guidance you need to pursue rightful compensation and hold the responsible party accountable with a personal injury lawsuit.
Which Traffic Laws Safeguard Pedestrians in Illinois?
According to the Illinois Secretary of State, pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked and unmarked crosswalks, as well as in intersections. Illinois law also requires drivers to exercise “due care” to avoid hitting pedestrians on any roadway.
Do I Need a Des Plaines Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
When pedestrian accidents happen, the negligent party’s insurance company will often seek to downplay the severity of the injuries sustained. They may even attempt to shift blame onto the pedestrian, arguing that they were not following traffic laws or were distracted.
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help you gather evidence, build a strong case to counter these tactics, and ensure you receive rightful compensation for your severe injuries.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Des Plaines
Accidents, including pedestrian fatalities, are often preventable. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Des Plaines include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failing to yield
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless driving, such as running red lights or stop signs
What to Do When Pedestrian Accidents Occur in Des Plaines
In the event of accidents caused by negligent drivers:
- Seek medical attention immediately and keep all medical records.
- Call 911, report the incident, and keep the police report.
- Get the driver’s name, contact, and insurance details.
- Collect witnesses’ statements and contact information.
- Take photos of the accident scene and any injuries.
- Contact our IL pedestrian accident lawyers to discuss a personal injury claim.
Who Is Liable for Pedestrian Crashes in Des Plaines?
Liability for a pedestrian accident can extend beyond the driver to include government agencies for unsafe infrastructure, vehicle manufacturers for faulty parts, or third-party drivers who caused distractions. Under Illinois’s comparative negligence laws, pedestrians may also share liability if their actions contributed to the accident.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Des Plaines
Pedestrians are highly vulnerable in accidents with vehicles and often suffer severe, life-altering injuries like:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
Can I Recover Compensation for a Des Plaines Pedestrian Accident?
Under Illinois personal injury law, pedestrian accident cases may recover:
- Current medical expenses and future medical bills
- Lost wages and future loss of income
- Pain and suffering (including physical pain, mental anguish, and diminished quality of life)
- Compensation for disfigurement or disabilities
- A wrongful death settlement for fatal accidents
How Much Is My Des Plaines Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
Experienced pedestrian accident lawyers evaluate the worth of cases for injured pedestrians by considering factors such as the severity of injuries, required treatments, long-term physical effects, impact on future employment, lost wages, and emotional distress.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for pedestrian personal injury cases is two years from the incident date.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
Contact a Des Plaines pedestrian accident lawyer at our law firm if you or a loved one has sustained serious injuries due to a pedestrian accident. We offer potential clients a free consultation to review their case with one of our personal injury attorneys, who will discuss options for pursuing fair compensation.
(312) 223-1700