Pedestrian accidents rose nationwide again in 2019. Projections from the GHSA reveal 2019 as the deadliest year for pedestrians in over 30 years. The reasons why pedestrian fatalities are increasing vary. Distracted driving and other reckless driving behaviors continue to be a factor in many pedestrian accidents. The increase in the number of SUVs on the roads may also be a factor in the increase in pedestrian deaths.
Dangerous intersections can also be a contributing factor in some pedestrian accidents. A Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer helps pedestrians file injury claims seeking compensation when a vehicle crashes into them at an intersection.
Five Dangerous Intersections in Chicago
A pedestrian accident can occur at any intersection in Chicago. Some characteristics of a dangerous intersection include, but are not limited to:
- Poor lighting
- No crosswalks
- Traffic signals that are not timed correctly or do not work
- Multiple lanes
- No pedestrian signals
Dangerous intersections are the result of inadequate planning and maintenance. The result is pedestrian injuries and deaths.
The Time Out Group identified five of the worst intersections in Chicago:
- I-55 at Cicero
- Damen and Milwaukee
- Kedzie and Belmont
- Milwaukee, Cicero Avenue, & Irving Park
- South Chicago, 79th, & Stony Island
The Patch named South Chicago Avenue and Stony Island Avenue as the most dangerous intersection in Illinois.
How Dangerous Are Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles at intersections sustain traumatic injuries and life-threatening conditions. A pedestrian has no protection from injuries in an accident. The person’s body receives the full force of the impact.
Common injuries sustained by pedestrians include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic brain injury
- Skull fractures
- Paralysis and spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Chest injuries
- Loss of limbs
A pedestrian can sustain multiple injuries in an accident. The initial impact with the vehicle can cause one set of injuries. However, crashing into another object or the ground after being thrown into the air can cause a second set of injuries.
Filing a Claim for Damages Caused by a Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian is injured in an accident involving a motor vehicle, the driver may be liable for the pedestrian’s damages. Damages can include physical injuries, financial losses, pain, and suffering. However, the pedestrian must prove that the motorist was responsible for causing the accident.
If the pedestrian was negligent and contributed to the cause of the accident, the amount of compensation paid to the pedestrian can be reduced because of the pedestrian’s negligence. Insurance companies might try to blame pedestrians for contributing to the cause of an accident as a way to limit liability.
To protect your rights, steps to take after a pedestrian accident include:
- Report the accident to the police
- Seek medical treatment immediately to document your injuries
- If possible, ask bystanders for their name and contact information
- Document damages by keeping detailed notes and copies of all documents
- Do not discuss the accident or your injuries with anyone other than your attorney
- Avoid using social media while your personal injury case is pending
- Do not accept a settlement offer from the other party or an insurance company until you complete medical treatment
- Talk with a lawyer before settling your claim to ensure the offer of settlement is fair
If you have questions or need assistance with a claim, an Illinois personal injury attorney can help. Contact us today.
