Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Seeking Justice and Recovering Compensation for Injured Pedestrians

If you’ve been hit while walking in the city, a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer at our firm is ready to stand up for you. We represent injured pedestrians throughout the Chicago area, helping them pursue compensation after serious car accidents.

Whether the incident happened downtown, near a school zone, or at a busy crosswalk in your neighborhood, our team fights to hold the at-fault parties accountable and seeks compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and mental anguish. Let a trusted local attorney handle your claim while you focus on healing.

Settlements Recovered by Our Pedestrian Accident Law Firm in Chicago

With a strong track record in securing pedestrian accident settlements, our law firm has helped victims throughout Chicago hold negligent drivers accountable and recover compensation for their losses.

• $733,333 Settlement – James, a 42-year-old teacher, was walking home near LaSalle and Chicago Avenue when a drunk driver ran a red light and struck him. He suffered head injuries and a fractured leg. Liability was clear, but proving long-term emotional distress increased the value of his claim.
• $667,000 Settlement – Marcus was crossing a busy street mid-block near Fulton Market when a construction company employee hit him in a private vehicle. Though he wasn’t in a crosswalk, we showed poor visibility and driver inattention. His injuries included a broken pelvis and internal bleeding.
• $499,999 Settlement – David was walking through a residential intersection when a delivery van blew through a stop sign and hit him. He suffered shoulder and back injuries. Witness statements and intersection camera footage were key in this lawsuit against the delivery company.

Why Choose Our Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Our top-rated Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys have recovered millions for injured victims, including numerous six- and seven-figure settlements. Recognized by Super Lawyers and maintaining a 10.0 score on Avvo, our team is trusted across Illinois for delivering strong results in severe injury cases.

Backed by decades of experience and a deep understanding of Illinois law, we fight for the full compensation our clients deserve.

Types of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle

Our Chicago law firm has extensive experience handling all types of pedestrian accidents throughout Chicago, including:

• Pedestrian Crossing Accidents
• Mid-Block Pedestrian Collisions in Residential or Retail Areas
• Turning-Vehicle Accidents (driver turning into a crosswalk)
• Backup or Reversing Accidents
• Bus-Related Accidents Involving CTA or Pace Vehicles
• Truck or Delivery-Van Collisions in Downtown Loading Zones
• Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents
• School Zone and Child Pedestrian Accidents
• Collisions Near CTA or Metra Stations
• Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents
• Sidewalk or Curb-Edge Strikes by Passing Vehicles
• Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
• Accidents Involving Emergency Vehicles
• Accidents During Road Construction or Lane Closures
• Bridge or Underpass Pedestrian Incidents (poor lighting or lack of barriers)
• Accidents Involving Bicycles or E-Scooters in Shared Paths
• Elderly or Disabled Pedestrian Accidents Near Senior Facilities
• Tourist Area Pedestrian Accidents in High-Foot-Traffic Zones (e.g., Navy Pier, Magnificent Mile)

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago?

Understanding the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Chicago can help injury victims and their families recognize who may be at fault and what legal options are available after a serious incident. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving (texting, GPS use, or in-car entertainment systems)
• Speeding or Reckless Driving in Urban Areas
• Failure to Yield at Crosswalks and Intersections
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
• Fatigued or Drowsy Driving
• Unsafe Left or Right Turns at Busy Intersections
• Backing Up Without Checking for Pedestrians
• Poor Visibility or Blind Spots in Large Vehicles
• Inadequate Lighting Near Crosswalks or Alleys
• Poor Road or Sidewalk Maintenance by CDOT or Local Municipalities
• Adverse Weather Conditions (snow, rain, fog reducing visibility)
• Obstructed Crosswalks or Sidewalks from Construction Zones
• Improperly Timed or Malfunctioning Pedestrian Signals
• Distracted Walking (pedestrian using phone or headphones)
• Jaywalking or Crossing Outside of Designated Areas
• High-Traffic Areas Near CTA or Metra Stations Without Safe Crossings
• Unmarked School Zones or Bus Stops
• Negligent Fleet or Delivery Vehicle Operation in Downtown Corridors
• Failure to Comply with Illinois Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws

What Are the Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries?

Pedestrian accident injuries can range from minor bruises to life-altering trauma, depending on the speed of the vehicle, point of impact, and the pedestrian’s age or physical condition.

Common injuries include broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and head injuries such as concussions or traumatic brain injury. Neck injuries and spinal cord damage are also frequent, especially in high-speed collisions.

Many injured victims suffer internal injuries or complications requiring surgery and long-term care. Mental anguish, including post-traumatic stress disorder, often follows a severe pedestrian crash. Even accidents that appear minor at first can lead to serious medical complications and costly recovery.

What Damages Can Injured Pedestrians Recover in Chicago?

In a Chicago pedestrian accident claim, injured victims may be able to recover compensation for a wide range of damages. These often include medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and costs related to long-term rehabilitation or disability. If the injuries result in emotional distress or post-traumatic stress disorder, those losses may also be included.

In severe cases involving permanent injury or disfigurement, the value of the claim increases significantly. When a crash leads to wrongful death, surviving family members may pursue additional damages. Each legal claim is evaluated based on the facts, evidence, and extent of harm.

What Is the Average Pedestrian Accident Case Worth in Chicago?

The average pedestrian accident claim in Chicago is approximately $1,741,455, with a median value of $228,986. Settlement and verdict amounts range from $5,000 to over $20 million, depending on the facts of each case.

Several factors influence the final value of a claim, including:

• Severity of the pedestrian’s injuries
• Medical expenses and future care needs
• Lost income and impact on long-term earning ability
• Pain and suffering, including PTSD
• Liability and fault disputes
• Strength of evidence
• Testimony from expert witnesses
• Willingness of the insurance company to settle

An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can evaluate these elements to help maximize your compensation.

Example Pedestrian Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$20 Million Settlement – Pedestrian Dragged by CTA Bus in Street Crossing Incident

Diane Schachner, a 57-year-old nurse, was hit and dragged 27 feet by a CTA bus while crossing Fairbanks Court in Chicago. Though she was just outside the crosswalk, her legal team argued the driver hit her despite daylight conditions.

She suffered severe injuries, including a degloving injury, fractured ankle, and permanent damage to her leg, along with PTSD. The defense argued contributory negligence, but evidence showed the driver turned without confirming a clear path. The case settled pretrial for $20 million.

$18.15 Million Verdict – Teen Suffers TBI After Truck Collision

Gustavo Cornejo Jr., 17, was standing on the shoulder of I-394 when a semi-truck hit him while inspecting a trailer. He was thrown over 30 feet and suffered a traumatic brain injury, fractured ribs, and permanent cognitive damage.

The lawsuit claimed the driver failed to practice defensive driving, and the shipping company was vicariously liable. The defense blamed a third vehicle and minimized the injury impact. A jury awarded $18,150,750 in total damages, covering future care, emotional trauma, and loss of normal life.

$7.5 Million Verdict – City Worker Killed After Being Pinned by Semi-Truck

Julian Mitchell, a 37-year-old CDOT worker, was killed while unloading materials when a semi-truck pinned and dragged him 20 feet. He suffered an abdominal evisceration and died hours later in the hospital. His estate sued the truck driver, owner, and contracting company.

The jury awarded $7.5 million, including damages for wrongful death, pain and suffering, and loss of support for his children. The case centered on disputed agency liability and independent contractor defenses.

Why You Need a Chicago Pedestrian Injury Attorney

Hiring an attorney is critical when facing the legal and financial challenges that follow a serious crash. These cases often involve disputed liability, especially when drivers claim the pedestrian was outside a crosswalk or not following traffic signals. Victims may face pushback from the auto insurance company, which may downplay serious injuries or delay payment.

In Cook County courts, proving fault requires strong evidence, such as police reports, accident reconstruction, medical records, and witness statements. Defendants may include individuals, corporations, or public entities like the CTA, each with their own legal team.

Without an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer, injury victims risk settling for less than they deserve. A skilled attorney can help preserve evidence, build a strong case, and fight for full compensation under Illinois law.

How Common Are Pedestrian Crashes in Chicago?

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s 2023 crash summary, there were 2,492 traffic accidents involving pedestrians, resulting in 48 pedestrian deaths and 2,537 reported injuries. Among those injured:

• 430 suffered incapacitating injuries such as permanent disability or amputation
• 1,580 had serious but non-incapacitating injuries like fractures or deep lacerations
• 527 sustained minor injuries such as sprains and bruises

An additional 2,924 pedestrians were involved in crashes but showed no apparent injury at the accident scene. Ninety-six incidents were reported as property damage only.

Where Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen Most Often in Chicago?

Chicago pedestrian accidents often occur in areas with high foot traffic, limited visibility, or fast-moving vehicles.

Busy intersections like Michigan Avenue and Lake Street, Cicero and Madison, and 95th and Western are frequent sites of serious crashes. Accidents also happen near CTA stations, including the Red and Blue Line stops, where pedestrians cross near buses, cars, and rideshare vehicles.

Retail corridors, downtown office buildings, and school zones near Chicago Public Schools see high pedestrian volumes during peak hours. Delivery trucks and rideshares contribute to crashes near hospitals, loop-area hotels, and university campuses like UIC.

Most pedestrian accident injuries also occur in marked or unmarked crosswalks near large employers such as Rush University Medical Center and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where heavy oncoming traffic and frequent turning vehicles put pedestrians at risk.

What Laws Govern Chicago Pedestrian Accident Claims?

Under Illinois law, drivers are legally required to stop for pedestrians who are crossing within both marked and unmarked crosswalks. According to 625 ILCS 5/11-1002, failure to yield may be considered negligence, making the driver liable for any resulting pedestrian accident injuries or wrongful death.

State law also demands a higher level of care in vulnerable situations. 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1 requires all drivers to avoid hitting pedestrians and exercise special caution around seniors, children, and people with disabilities. Ignoring this duty often leads to liability in cases involving serious personal injury or pedestrian fatalities.

Chicago’s Municipal Code further strengthens these protections.

Section 9-24-050 makes it unlawful for drivers to fail to yield when no traffic signals are present. Section 9-24-030 of the Municipal Code also reinforces that pedestrians have the right-of-way at intersections when crossing with a green light or a walk signal. Drivers who turn into a crosswalk during a pedestrian’s right-of-way may be held responsible in a lawsuit.

A Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer can use these legal standards to help prove driver negligence and support your claim for full compensation.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, pedestrians injured in Chicago have up to two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. In cases involving pedestrian fatalities, surviving family members typically have two years from the date of death to bring a wrongful death claim.

A lawyer can guide you through filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit, ensuring your case meets all legal deadlines and is backed by substantial evidence.

Who Is Legally Liable for Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago?

Legal responsibility for pedestrian accidents in Chicago can fall on several parties, depending on how the crash occurred. The driver is most often liable, especially in cases involving careless drivers, speeding, or failure to yield. If the vehicle was a company car, delivery van, or public transit bus, the employer or agency may also be held accountable.

In construction zones, contractors or property owners may share fault for unsafe walkways. Local governments could be liable for poor road conditions or malfunctioning traffic control signals. Identifying the at-fault party is key to any personal injury lawsuit, and often requires a thorough investigation by an experienced attorney.

Common Defenses Following Pedestrian Crashes

In a pedestrian accident case, drivers and their insurers often raise common defenses to reduce or avoid liability. One frequent claim is that the pedestrian was outside a crosswalk or jaywalking, but under state law, drivers must still use reasonable care, and pedestrians often retain the right to recover compensation, even if partially at fault.

Another defense is that the pedestrian was distracted, such as using a phone. We counter this by showing the driver still had a duty to avoid the crash. In cases involving low visibility or poor weather, we use expert testimony to prove the driver failed to adjust accordingly.

Claims of shared fault are addressed using accident reconstruction, police reports, and witness statements to establish that the driver’s negligence caused the crash.

How to Strengthen Your Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit

To strengthen your Chicago case, it’s essential to act quickly and protect key evidence. Start by calling the police so an official report documents the crash. Get immediate medical attention—even for minor injuries—as gaps in care can be used against you. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage.

If possible, gather contact information from witnesses. Avoid giving statements to the auto insurance company without consulting an attorney immediately. Keep all medical records, bills, and proof of missed work. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help preserve evidence, coordinate expert evaluations, and build a strong case for full and fair compensation.

How Our Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help

Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys provide full legal support from the moment you contact us.

We start by conducting a thorough investigation of the accident scene, preserving key evidence, and reviewing accident reports, surveillance footage, and medical records. If fault is disputed, we bring in expert witnesses to help prove liability.

We also work closely with your doctors to document the severity of your pedestrian accident injuries and the impact on your daily life. Throughout your case, we handle all discussions with the insurance company to protect you from unfair tactics.

Whether your case involves a settlement or a personal injury lawsuit, we build a strategy focused on securing maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering.

FAQs

How much do Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys charge?

Our Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we recover compensation on your behalf.

Who can file a pedestrian crash lawsuit in Illinois?

In Illinois, injured pedestrians or family members of deceased victims may file lawsuits to pursue compensation from the at-fault party.

How is liability determined for a Chicago traffic crash involving pedestrians?

To establish liability in a pedestrian accident lawsuit, four elements must be proven:

• Duty – The driver had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.
• Breach – The driver failed to meet that obligation, such as by speeding or failing to yield.
• Causation – The driver’s actions directly caused the crash and the pedestrian’s injuries.
• Damages – The pedestrian suffered measurable harm, including medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.

We can build a strong case by gathering evidence that clearly supports each of these elements.

What evidence is needed to support a pedestrian accident claim?

Strong evidence includes accident reports, medical records, witness statements, crash scene photos, surveillance footage, and expert testimony when needed.

What if the pedestrian was jaywalking?

Under Illinois comparative negligence law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), a jaywalking pedestrian can still pursue compensation, but their recovery may be reduced based on their share of fault.

How can pedestrian accidents be prevented?

Auto accidents involving pedestrians can be prevented when drivers obey speed limits, follow traffic control signals, avoid distracted driving, and stay alert in crosswalks and high-foot-traffic areas.

Do pedestrians have to see a doctor before filing a personal injury claim?

Yes. Medical care is essential to document injuries and prove they were caused by the crash. Without records, your personal injury case is weaker.

Should victims accept the initial insurance settlements?

No. The insurance company often offers less than the claim is worth. Always consult a lawyer before accepting any settlement.

How long does it take to settle a pedestrian accident case in Chicago?

Timelines vary. Some cases resolve in months, but more serious injury claims or disputed cases may take over a year to settle.

Do all cases end up in court?

No. Most pedestrian accident cases settle without trial, but filing a lawsuit may still be necessary to pressure the insurance company into fair compensation.

Consult a Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian crash, an experienced Chicago traffic accident lawyer can help you take the proper steps forward. We offer a free consultation, and you won’t pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Our team understands the profound impact of pedestrian accident injuries and works aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable.

From dealing with the insurance company to building a strong case for your legal claim, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.