As a pedestrian in Northbrook, you have the right to safely navigate the state’s sidewalks, crosswalks, and roadways without fear of harm. You trust that motorists will uphold their duty to drive responsibly, remain alert, and yield the right of way when appropriate. Unfortunately, not all drivers honor this obligation. When a negligent motorist strikes a pedestrian, the consequences can be catastrophic, leaving victims with devastating injuries, significant medical expenses, and uncertain futures.
At Stein & Shulman, LLC, our compassionate attorneys have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that pedestrian accidents can have on individuals and families throughout the Northbrook area. With over six decades of combined experience fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians, we understand the numerous difficulties you face in the aftermath of a serious collision. Our team is here to provide the guidance, support, and advocacy you need to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Northbrook
Pedestrian accidents can occur in various ways, many of which come down to driver negligence. Some typical causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, chatting with passengers, or adjusting the radio while driving
- Speeding or driving too fast for current conditions
- Failing to yield the right of way at crosswalks and intersections
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Making improper turns or failing to signal
- Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Failing to watch for pedestrians in parking lots and driveways
- Inadequate vehicle maintenance, such as broken headlights or turn signals
Understanding Your Legal Rights as an Injured Pedestrian
If a Northbrook driver hit you while you were on foot, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses by filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. To succeed, you must demonstrate that the driver failed in their responsibility to avoid causing harm, injured you in doing so, and caused you to suffer actual losses, such as medical expenses and lost income.
However, proving negligence in pedestrian accident cases can be challenging. Insurance companies may use their significant legal and financial resources to their advantage by attempting to blame you for your injuries and minimize your claim. They may argue that you were jaywalking, wearing dark clothing, or distracted by your phone during the collision.
To counteract these strategies and construct a robust case in your favor, you’ll need an experienced pedestrian accident attorney who will collect compelling evidence and champion your rights. A skilled lawyer will conduct an investigation into your accident by reviewing:
- Police accident reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Medical records and bills documenting your treatment
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals
Your attorney will also manage all interactions and discussions with the insurance company, striving relentlessly to pursue the highest compensation for your losses while giving you the time and space you need to focus on your physical recovery. Pedestrian accident claims frequently settle outside of court through adept negotiation.
Compensation Available in Pedestrian Accident Claims
With the help of an experienced attorney, you may recover significant compensation for the losses you have suffered due to a pedestrian accident. Depending on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the extent to which you’re likely to physically recover, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including future medical costs related to your injuries
- Lost income and reduced future earning capacity if your injuries cause permanent impairment or disability
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment and quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident or injuries
- Property damage resulting from the collision
Protecting Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident in Northbrook, there are a number of steps you can take to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek prompt medical attention, regardless of whether your injuries seem minor
- Call 911 to establish an official record
- Exchange information with the driver
- Take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and any damage
- Collect names and phone numbers from any eyewitnesses
- Retain all bills, records, and correspondence related to your accident
- Don’t discuss the accident on social media or with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney
- Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer right away to discuss your case
Insurance companies will not prioritize your interests following a pedestrian accident. Their objective is to reduce payouts and safeguard their financial interests, rather than ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. To that end, they may resort to tactics to get you to admit fault. Collaborating with a proficient attorney protects your interests and enables you to balance the scales and counter any efforts to undervalue or reject your claim.
Hurt in a Northbrook Pedestrian Accident? Contact Our Attorneys Today
At Stein & Shulman, LLC, we understand the substantial repercussions a pedestrian accident can have on your life. You might be confronting a difficult journey to recovery, grappling with the trauma of the incident, and anxiously pondering how to support yourself and your loved ones. Our caring team is here to alleviate your legal burdens, enabling you to concentrate on your healing and welfare.
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident in Northbrook, do not wait to seek the experienced legal help you need and deserve. You have a limited amount of time to initiate an injury claim. Contact Stein & Shulman, LLC today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys. We will review your case, discuss your legal options, and explain how we can help you fight for justice, accountability, and full compensation.
The law office of Stein & Shulman routinely represents victims in Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, Glenview, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Skokie, Wheeling, Palatine, Crystal Lake, Mundelein, and Lake and McHenry counties.