Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Illinois

How Pedestrian Accidents Happen And Why They’re So Devastating

Pedestrian accidents often occur because a driver failed to pay attention or follow the law. While every crash is unique, most involve some level of carelessness or distraction. When a vehicle collides with someone on foot, the results can be catastrophic.

Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
• Speeding through intersections or neighborhoods
• Failing to yield at crosswalks, stop signs, and traffic signals
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Turning without checking for pedestrians
• Poor visibility, lighting, or weather conditions

Pedestrians have no protection from impact, making even low-speed collisions hazardous. Broken bones, spinal injuries, or head trauma can occur instantly. Recovery may take months, and the financial strain can last far longer. When you reach out to the Goldwater Law Firm, we can connect you with a lawyer who understands what it takes to build a strong compensation case.

Your Rights as a Pedestrian Under Illinois Law

Illinois law gives pedestrians the right-of-way in many circumstances, especially at marked crosswalks. Drivers must remain alert and take reasonable care to avoid collisions with pedestrians. When a driver fails to do so, they may be held liable for the harm they cause.

Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, meaning fault can be shared between the driver and pedestrian. If you are found partially responsible, with a percentage of 50% or less, your recovery may be reduced by that percentage. An attorney can review your situation and determine how these rules apply to your case.

You should also be aware that you typically have a two-year statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Missing this deadline could cost you. The courts could bar your case, and the insurers will not negotiate. However, an attorney could protect your rights and secure evidence before it is lost if you take prompt action.

The Toll of a Pedestrian Accident: Injuries and Losses

Being struck by a car can cause life-altering injuries. The physical and emotional impact can be enormous, especially when recovery takes months or prevents a return to work.

Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken or crushed bones
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries
• Severe lacerations or disfigurement

Our law firm partners can help you pursue compensation for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or loss of mobility
• Emotional and psychological trauma

While financial recovery cannot undo what happened, it can help provide stability and security during your recovery.

How an Attorney Can Protect Your Future

Insurance companies often work quickly to limit payouts. Having a personal injury lawyer by your side can help you level the playing field. A pedestrian accident attorney can:

• Investigate how the accident occurred
• Collect and preserve key evidence
• Work with medical professionals to document your injuries
• Communicate with insurers and negotiate settlements
• Prepare your claim for court if necessary

When you contact the Goldwater Law Firm, we can connect you with an attorney near you who handles pedestrian accident cases throughout Illinois. That lawyer can guide you through each step and focus on protecting your best interests.

A Network Built to Support the Injured

At the Goldwater Law Firm, we believe the client and their need for results are paramount. Every client has a family and community that depend on them; that’s what drives us to go further.

We have strategic partnerships with many of the largest and most successful law firms in the country, enabling us to connect injured individuals with attorneys who possess the necessary experience and resources to handle complex cases. Our network comprises industry specialists, including medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and other experts, who help strengthen personal injury claims and clarify the events that occurred.

We help people in all 50 states and remain committed to ensuring that injury victims have access to justice and accountability.

Standing Up Against Insurance Companies and Corporate Negligence

For decades, corporate greed and irresponsibility have been allowed to go unchecked. Too often, insurance companies and large corporations prioritize profits over people, leaving victims struggling to recover from accidents that weren’t their fault.

We refuse to sit back while injured people are taken advantage of. With help from the Goldwater Law Firm, you can be connected to a lawyer who stands up to these companies and fights for fair treatment.

What You Should Do Right After a Pedestrian Accident

The minutes and hours after a crash can be confusing and painful. Taking the proper steps can protect your health and strengthen any future claim.

• Call 911 so law enforcement can document the accident.
• Seek medical attention immediately to identify and treat your injuries.
• Collect the driver’s information, including name, contact details, and insurance.
• Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle if possible.
• Do not talk to insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.

Contact the Goldwater Law Firm to connect with an attorney near you who handles pedestrian accident cases in Illinois.