Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Why Choose Walner Law for Your Chicago Pedestrian Accident Claim

At Walner Law, we understand how physically, emotionally, and financially devastating a pedestrian accident can be. You shouldn’t have to face this challenge alone. Our firm, proudly serving Chicago since 1961, is committed to treating clients like close friends, not just another case number. We know that every pedestrian accident is unique, and your story matters.

The legal team at Walner Law provides unwavering dedication to results and empathy for those we represent. Over the years, we’ve secured significant settlements and verdicts for personal injury victims, including $45 million for a near-fatal motor vehicle crash. Our experienced attorneys are prepared to fight against the tactics of insurance companies and negligent drivers who try to downplay your suffering. At every step of your legal journey, we’ll provide both the professional representation and moral support you need to heal, recover, and see brighter days.

From Lincoln Park to Pilsen, we work tirelessly to support injured pedestrians in every corner of the city. With Walner Law, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining an advocate who is deeply committed to helping you move forward after a traumatic accident.

How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago, IL?

Thousands of innocent victims are injured or killed each year in the United States when they try to do the seemingly harmless act of crossing the street. Driver negligence results in an astonishing number of pedestrian accidents each day, with nearly 70,000 people injured and nearly 4,500 people killed annually in pedestrian accidents across the U.S.

Pedestrian accident victims can be anyone, but the greatest number of serious injuries and fatalities involve children and the elderly. Left exposed at a crosswalk, even the slowest moving vehicle can leave an innocent bystander with severe injuries or even result in the death of a pedestrian.

At Walner Law, our team of Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers works hard to get accident victims justice. After all, a crash can really change things for victims and their family members. It’s important to be able to focus on recovery from a pedestrian accident and not about lost income or other financial woes.

Do I Have a Pedestrian Accident Case?

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering whether you have a valid legal case. Most personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, are based on negligence. Negligence occurs when someone fails to act with reasonable care, and their actions (or lack thereof) result in harm to another person. To build a successful pedestrian accident claim, four key elements must be established:

1. Duty of Care
   The driver owed you a duty to operate their vehicle responsibly and follow traffic laws. Motorists have a legal obligation to prioritize pedestrian safety, particularly in designated crosswalks and residential areas.
2. Breach of Duty
   You must show that the driver breached this duty by acting negligently. Examples include speeding, running a red light, failing to yield, or driving while distracted.
3. Causation
   It must be proven that the driver’s negligent actions directly caused the accident and your injuries. This could involve connecting the driver’s failure to yield with the impact you suffered.
4. Damages
   Finally, you’ll need to demonstrate that the accident caused you significant harm. Damages may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

By working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney at Walner Law, you can ensure these elements are meticulously investigated and clearly presented. Remember, time is of the essence. Illinois places a statute of limitations on personal injury cases, so don’t wait to find out if you have a claim.

What Duty Do Motorists Owe to Pedestrians?

When it comes to preventing pedestrian accidents, drivers bear a significant responsibility. Under Illinois law, motorists must follow strict rules to maintain a safe environment for pedestrians. Some key duties drivers owe to pedestrians include:

• Yielding the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked.
• Keeping a vigilant lookout for pedestrians, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.
• Reducing speed in school zones, near parks, construction areas, or anywhere pedestrians are likely to be present.
• Avoiding distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or other behaviors that take their focus off the road.
• Never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or while overly fatigued.

However, pedestrian safety isn’t solely the responsibility of drivers. Pedestrians also have an important role in protecting themselves by following certain regulations, including:

• Obeying traffic signals, such as not crossing on a red light or “Don’t Walk” sign.
• Using marked crosswalks where available and avoiding jaywalking.
• Staying vigilant by avoiding distractions, like looking at a phone, when crossing a street.
• Ensuring visibility by wearing reflective clothing or using a flashlight when walking at night.

The tragic reality, though, is that even when pedestrians follow every rule, accidents can still happen because of a driver’s negligence. That’s where Walner Law steps in. We tirelessly advocate for pedestrian accident victims, ensuring that irresponsible motorists are held accountable for their actions.

What if I’m Partly to Blame for My Injuries?

It’s not uncommon for pedestrian accident victims to wonder if they can still recover compensation when they may have contributed to the circumstances of the accident. While many pedestrian accidents are caused primarily by driver negligence, pedestrians can sometimes play a role, such as jaywalking, crossing against a signal, or failing to pay attention to their surroundings while walking. However, if you are partially at fault, don’t lose hope.

Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your ability to recover damages depends on your level of fault. Even if you are determined to bear some responsibility for the accident, you may still be eligible for compensation. For example, if the court finds the driver 80% at fault and you 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of the awarded damages. This principle ensures that individuals are not completely barred from seeking justice, even when their actions may have contributed in some way. At Walner Law, we’ll carefully analyze every detail of your case to minimize your share of blame and help secure the compensation you truly deserve.

The Insurance Company Made Me an Offer. Should I Take It?

Receiving an offer from an insurance company shortly after an accident might seem like a straightforward way to resolve your case, but it’s important to proceed cautiously. Insurance companies often act quickly to settle claims, not because they care about your well-being but because they want to minimize their payout. These offers are frequently lowball settlements that don’t truly account for the full extent of your injuries, long-term medical needs, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

Before accepting any offer, you should consult an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer. At Walner Law, we can negotiate on your behalf to ensure the insurance company isn’t taking advantage of your vulnerable situation. We are familiar with the strategies insurers use, such as downplaying the severity of injuries, shifting blame to the victim, or pressuring you to settle before you fully understand the impact of your accident. By partnering with us, you can level the playing field and protect your right to fair compensation.

The Insurance Company Made Me an Offer. Should I Take It?

After a pedestrian accident, receiving an offer from an insurance company might seem like a quick and easy solution. However, accepting it without consulting a lawyer could leave you with far less than you deserve. Insurance companies are primarily focused on protecting their bottom line, not your well-being.

These companies often use tactics to minimize your payout. They might pressure you to settle quickly before you understand the full extent of your injuries or ongoing treatment needs. They might also argue that your actions contributed to the accident in an attempt to reduce their liability. By speaking with a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer at Walner Law, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that any settlement reflects the full scope of your losses. With our experience handling insurance companies, we’ll help you fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

Compensation Available to Pedestrian Accident Victims in Chicago, Illinois

Being injured as a pedestrian in an accident can disrupt your life in countless ways. From financial hardships to emotional distress, the impact runs deep. Under Illinois law, injury victims may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses
  This includes costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost Income and Loss of Future Earnings
  If your injuries prevent you from working either temporarily or permanently, you can recover compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering
  The physical pain and emotional distress caused by your accident are valid damages that warrant compensation.
• Wrongful Death Damages
  If a loved one tragically loses their life in a pedestrian accident, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation can cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

Every pedestrian accident case is unique, and the compensation you may receive depends on the specifics of your situation. At Walner Law, we are dedicated to helping you recover the maximum amount possible for your injuries or loss.

Chicago Pedestrian Accident Claims FAQs

Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding pedestrian accident claims:

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney for my case?

At Walner Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything upfront. Instead, our fees are a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure for you. If we don’t recover compensation in your case, you don’t owe us any attorney’s fees. This ensures that anyone, regardless of financial situation, can access high-quality legal representation.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your claim within this time period, or you risk losing your right to recover compensation. However, there are exceptions to this rule depending on the circumstances, so it’s best to consult an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.

What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. Many Illinois residents carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. This type of coverage can provide compensation for your injuries. An experienced attorney can help you explore every avenue to secure the compensation you deserve.

How long will my pedestrian accident claim take to resolve?

The timeline for a personal injury case varies depending on factors like the complexity of the accident, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. Some claims settle in a matter of months, while others may take over a year. At Walner Law, we prioritize resolving your case efficiently while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?

After a pedestrian accident, prioritize your health and safety. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Document the scene by taking photos, gathering the driver’s information, and speaking with witnesses. Then, contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer to protect your rights and build a strong case.

Contact the Trusted Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Walner Law Today

Dealing with a pedestrian accident claim can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Walner Law, our experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers are here to:

• Investigate your accident thoroughly to determine the cause and establish fault.
• Handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome.
• Fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
• Provide compassionate, personalized guidance every step of the way.

Don’t wait to get the support and legal advice you need. Contact Walner Law today at (312) 410-8496 or through our online form for a free consultation. You owe us no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation in your case.