Every day, Springfield pedestrians are at risk of being involved in an accident when they step off the curb and cross the street. Whether there is a crosswalk or other barriers protecting pedestrians, it is vital to always pay close attention to your surroundings to reduce the risk of falling victim to a pedestrian-related accident.
Springfield sees more than 3,600 accidents annually, and approximately 65 of those accidents are pedestrian-involved. [1] Without the safety features found in vehicles, pedestrians are more likely to be injured in an accident.
The Springfield personal injury attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers understand that pedestrian victims need to be compensated for medical expenses, lost income, as well as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Springfield, Illinois?
According to a report by the Illinois Department of Transportation Division of Traffic, more than 3,200 accidents occur annually in Springfield, most occurring when the roads are dry and the weather is clear [1]. The report claims other weather conditions, such as rain and snow, were also risk factors.
The 2022 report claims the number of pedestrian-involved accidents in Springfield includes:
- 37 vehicles
- Two fatalities
- One involving property damage
Some pedestrians can walk away from an accident without injury, while some experience severe injuries. While pedestrian accidents make up only 1.3 percent of all crashes, they account for 17.5 percent of fatal crashes and 5.6 of injury accidents [2]
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Understanding the common causes of pedestrian-involved accidents is crucial for implementing effective community safety measures. Several factors contribute to the number of pedestrian accidents, including the following:
- Distracted driving occurs when drivers pay attention to something other than the road ahead, such as texting, playing with the radio, daydreaming, or being focused on something else in the car.
- Impatient drivers are in a hurry to get somewhere. They often roll through stops and drive erratically.
- Fatigue occurs when drivers become tired from not getting enough sleep or driving for extended periods of time.
- Speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit and fails to slow down in heavy pedestrian areas.
- Drunk drivers who shouldn’t be behind the wheel.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs and other impairing medications can have the same effect as drunk driving.
- Ignoring traffic signs, rules, and laws can result in failing to stop, yield, or allow pedestrians to cross a crosswalk.
- Reckless driving occurs when the driver is typically in a hurry, speeding, and constantly switching lanes.
- Weather conditions can impact visibility and cause roads to be slippery.
- Road construction can create obstructions and, if the driver fails to slow down, could cause an accident involving those working.
- Poor weather conditions often cause poor visibility, but physical obstructions, such as trees, larger vehicles, and buildings, can also cause it.
- The pedestrian is wearing dark clothing while walking at night.
- Jaywalking occurs when the pedestrian crosses the road somewhere else besides where the crosswalk is located.
- Distracted pedestrians occur when the pedestrian fails to pay attention to traffic signals or where the crosswalk is.
- Intoxicated pedestrians can cause accidents when they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and walk into lanes of traffic.
Common Pedestrian Injuries
Exploring the range of injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents sheds light on the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for preventive measures. From minor bruises to life-altering traumas, understanding these common injuries is essential for enhancing road safety for all. Common injuries suffered include the following:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Amputation
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Permanent disabilities
- Back injuries
- Psychological trauma
- Death
What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Springfield, Illinois?
Swift and decisive action is crucial in the aftermath of an accident for both the injured party and those involved. Beyond the initial shock and confusion, navigating the situation with clarity and care is essential. From seeking medical treatment to documenting the incident, each action taken can significantly impact the subsequent litigation process and outcome.
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, you should:
- If you’re the driver, stop the car immediately after pulling over to the side of the road.
- Provide first aid, including CPR, to anyone injured and have everyone involved in the accident get to safety off the side of the road.
- Call 911 for emergency medical care to assist those injured quickly.
- If there are no significant injuries, exchange information with all persons involved in the accident, but never admit guilt, apologize, or claim you feel bad about causing the accident. If you cannot get everyone’s information due to someone being rushed to the hospital, contact the police later for an accident report, which should include everyone’s contact information.
- Cooperate with police officers, answering all their questions the best you can without admitting fault to the accident.
- Take photographs, including the accident scene, nearby obstacles, weather conditions, injuries, and damage.
- Notify your insurance company to provide notice of the accident.
- Contact a Springfield car accident attorney, to help you better understand your legal options.
Who Is at Fault for Pedestrian Accidents?
Many accidents are the fault of the driver, who can be held liable. If it is determined that the driver violated their duty to drive with reasonable care by obeying all Illinois traffic laws, the pedestrian can sue the driver for negligence.
Though it is more common for the vehicle driver to be at fault in a pedestrian-involved accident, there are some situations where the pedestrian is at fault. Common cases where the pedestrian is responsible for the accident include the following:
- Running out into traffic without looking
- Failure to use designated crosswalks
- Crossing the road when traffic signals instruct pedestrians not to cross
- Failure to look both ways before crossing the street
Additionally, there are some cases in which it is determined that both the pedestrian and vehicle driver are at fault for causing the accident.
What Are Your Rights in Case of a Pedestrian Accident?
Illinois law gives pedestrians more rights, especially in an accident with injuries. In general, drivers must exercise due care and do everything possible to avoid hitting another vehicle or pedestrian.
In addition to pedestrians having rights on roadways, they have even more rights in court after an accident where the driver is at fault. Under Illinois law, as the victim of an accident, you have the right to receive compensation for the following:
- Medical bills (past, present, and future-related expenses)
- Money for missed time from work
- Loss of future earning capabilities
- Pain/suffering
- Property damage
How an Experienced Attorney From Our Team Can Help
It may be tempting to accept the first quick payout from an insurance company, but you must first consider its motive for making a quick settlement offer. Accepting their first offer often includes you signing a form stating you will not go after them for additional money in the future, and you release all parties from any further liability.
The problem is that some injuries may take longer to diagnose and treat, leaving you with the bill for future medical costs. Insurance companies may also push you to accept a settlement offer before you have time to speak with a pedestrian accident attorney.
The experienced attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers provide legal assistance for accident victims. We provide essential guidance and help navigate the complexities of an accident and pedestrian accident case. Our team of legal professionals can help an injured victim with the following:
- Providing free consultations
- Filing a claim
- Negotiate with your insurance company and that of the negligent driver
- Pursue legal action for cases with severe injuries or wrongful death
- Collect evidence to show liability
Types of Cases Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Handle
Navigating the bustling streets and sidewalks, pedestrians face many potential hazards that can result in accidents and injuries. From collisions with vehicles to slips and falls on poorly maintained walkways, accidents involving pedestrians can occur in various forms, each presenting challenges and potential injuries. Some common types include:
- Vehicle vs. pedestrian: This is the most common type of accident occurring when the pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle.
- Bicycle vs. pedestrian: Pedestrians may also be involved in accidents with bicycles, particularly in areas where cyclists share paths or sidewalks with pedestrians.
- Slip and fall accidents: Pedestrians can be injured when they slip, trip, or fall on uneven sidewalks, poorly maintained walkways, or debris left in pedestrian areas.
- Public transportation vs. pedestrian: Pedestrians may be involved in accidents with buses, trains, or other public transportation, either while boarding or alighting vehicles or while walking in and around transit stations.
- Backover accidents: These accidents occur when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle moving in reverse, often in parking lots or driveways.
- Crosswalk accidents: Despite having the right of way, pedestrians can still be struck by vehicles or bicycles while crossing at designated crosswalks.
Damages a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help You Recover
After an accident, compensation helps cover the losses victims face. This list outlines the types of damages our law firm can help you recover, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional support, and rehabilitation services.
- Medical bills
- Counseling and therapy costs
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Disability and impairment
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium
- Punitive damages
- Wrongful death
The Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Illinois
In Illinois, there is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents. This means a pedestrian involved in an accident has two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Two years may seem like a long time, but it can go faster than expected when dealing with doctors’ appointments, injury treatments, and recovery, making it vital to seek counsel from an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
How Can I File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Springfield?
Although managing a personal injury lawsuit independently is an option, securing legal counsel can significantly enhance your likelihood of receiving just compensation. A seasoned pedestrian accident attorney has the expertise to navigate intricate legal matters, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and safeguard your legal rights throughout the process.
If you have been in an accident in Springfield, it is always a good idea to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer. The attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers offer various services and benefits, helping ensure injury victims are adequately represented and fully compensated.
When you hire an attorney, they will walk you through filing a pedestrian claim in Springfield. Your attorney will help create a plan for moving forward and share every step with you, while doing all the work for you, including reviewing information, collecting evidence, and necessary paperwork.
Our attorneys also file all the required paperwork, set up meetings, and handle negotiations associated with your case. Letting us handle your pedestrian accident case allows you to focus your thoughts and energy on your recovery.
Is Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Expensive?
Hiring a lawyer is less expensive than most people believe. We handle cases through contingency fee arrangements, ensuring every accident victim can recover compensation.
The benefit of this contingency fee model is clients don’t have to cover costs, expenses, or fees upfront during the legal process. If the case doesn’t result in financial compensation, the client avoids losing significant amounts of money that would have been paid out of pocket.
Under a contingency fee agreement, clients don’t incur any initial charges for legal services, nor do they have to bear out-of-pocket expenses. The fee for the lawyer’s services is contingent upon the case’s outcome, with payment coming from the negotiated settlement or jury decision. Should the case be unsuccessful, the client is not responsible for any payment to the attorney.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team of pedestrian accident attorneys is steadfast in our mission to assist those injured in receiving financial compensation for their losses. With a track record of representing thousands of clients and successfully resolving their pedestrian accident claims, our lawyers are ready to advocate for your rights and interests.
Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today!
Hiring an attorney is paramount to securing the compensation and justice you deserve. Our expertise in navigating the complexities of Illinois pedestrian accident law, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for your rights can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
By entrusting your case to us, you can alleviate the burdens of legal proceedings and focus on your recovery. Don’t delay in seeking legal representation; take action today to protect your rights and pursue compensation. Your future well-being may depend on it.
Call us today at (888) 424-5757 to schedule a free consultation with one of our pedestrian accident attorneys.