Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable individuals commuting from place to place. They are completely exposed to the elements and do not enjoy the protections of a rigid vehicle body equipped with airbags and seatbelts. Additionally, the people who are injured in these accidents are often particularly vulnerable to injury, such as young children walking to and from school or people who have limited mobility. That being said, pedestrian accidents can happen to anyone and commonly result from a driver not paying attention or one who is breaking traffic laws. When these accidents result because of driver negligence, Illinois tort law allows injured pedestrians to recover for their losses by filing a personal injury claim. The most effective way for victims to ensure that they are compensated fully and fairly for their injuries is to retain a Chicago personal injury lawyer as soon as is feasible after an accident happens.

Driver negligence can take many forms

Data published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that over 75,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents in 2012. This means that on average, an injury-causing pedestrian accident occurs in the United States every 7 minutes. In order to be able to recover, an injured pedestrian must be able to establish that their accident was the result of someone else’s negligence. Some of the more common forms of driver negligence that have the potential to result in pedestrian accidents include the following:

• Distracted driving
• Driving while impaired
• Failing to account for adverse weather
• Speeding
• Failing to observe traffic signals
• Improper vehicle maintenance
• Failing to stop at a crosswalk
• Ignoring a school bus stop sign
• Driving recklessly
• Ignoring stop signs
• Driving while fatigued
• Failing to look while making a right turn

When pedestrians are struck by cars or other vehicles, their injuries can be severe. Issues such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or amputations are not uncommon after a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle. These injuries and their associated complications can easily result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses as well as an inability to work for an indefinite period. As a result, it is imperative that people injured in pedestrian accidents ensure their financial security by getting the full value of their injuries from those responsible.

Contact a Chicago pedestrian accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation

Pedestrian accidents can be catastrophic for victims and their families. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is often the first step in obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled. Chicago personal injury lawyer John Buchmiller is dedicated to helping people injured by driver negligence recover for their losses.

To schedule a free consultation, call the Law Offices of John Buchmiller at 312-690-4194.