When and Where Do Pedestrian Accidents Occur?
A pedestrian accident can happen anywhere, from a cozy suburb to a rural highway. Walkers, joggers and drivers must always stay vigilant. That being said, pedestrian accidents do tend to share some common characteristics. There are certain factors that will dramatically increase the likelihood that a serious pedestrian accident will occur. Specifically, three of the most important factors are:
- Urban settings: 73 percent of all fatal pedestrian accident happen in cities.
- Night time: Around 70 percent of all pedestrian accident occur at night, despite the fact that there are far fewer ‘walkers’ are out on the roads during these hours.
- Non-intersections: Somewhat surprisingly, four out of five fatal pedestrian accidents actually occur away from intersections.
Pedestrian Accident Liability in Chicago
Illinois has a modified comparative negligence statute. Under modified comparative negligence, an injured party may recover damages only if he/she is less than 50% at fault for the injury or damages. Under this theory, the amount of damages a plaintiff can recover is reduced by a percentage that reflects the plaintiff’s degree of fault. Pedestrian accident cases in which fault is disputed often proceed to trial so it is vital to select a pedestrian accident attorney with actual litigation experience like The Loop Law Group.
Some common examples of driver negligence that often lead to pedestrian accidents include:
- Failing to yield the right of way;
- Not stopping at traffic lights or stop signs;
- Not stopping at a crosswalk;
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions;
- Losing control of a vehicle;
- Distracted driving, caused by cell phones or other issues; and
- Any other type of unsafe or negligently unskilled conduct.
Injured Pedestrians Deserve Fair Compensation
Sadly, but unsurprisingly, when a pedestrian is hit by an automobile, they often sustain extremely severe injuries. Injured pedestrians need to be able to recover just compensation so that they can rehabilitate and recover. At The Loop Law Group, our Chicago personal injury lawyers may be able to help you obtain financial relief for:
- All of your medical bills;
- Expenses associated with physical or psychological rehab;
- Lost current or future wages;
- Long-term disability;
- Pain and suffering;
- Disfigurement; and
- Loss of limb.
Contact Our Office Today
If you or a loved one was injured while walking, jogging or biking in the Chicago metro area, we can help. At The Loop Law Group, our Chicago personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling pedestrian accident claims. To request your free initial legal consultation, please call our team today at 833-GET-PAID.
