Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 7,388 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in 2021. Additionally, another 60,000 were injured. These pedestrian accidents, on average, kill a person every 71 minutes.
Pedestrian accidents in urban areas like Chicago are often more severe due to higher traffic density, complex road layouts, and a mix of foot traffic, bikes, and vehicles. In neighborhoods like River North, The Loop, and Lincoln Park, pedestrian accidents are more frequent during high-traffic periods, particularly near intersections or roads without crosswalks.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a pedestrian accident in Chicago, contact a Chicago pedestrian accident attorney at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. We can investigate your case and help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Call us today at (312) 236-2900 to schedule a free consultation.
Research performed by the NHTSA and other sources shows some of the most prevalent reasons that pedestrian accidents occur. These include:
In Chicago, particularly in areas with narrow sidewalks or construction zones like West Loop or Wicker Park, pedestrians may be forced to walk on the road.
This significantly increases the risk of being hit by a car. Construction work in busy neighborhoods often forces pedestrians into the roadway.
Pedestrians should be cautious and try to use available sidewalks, but if you must walk in the street, always stay alert and face traffic.
Visibility issues at night, especially during the winter months when days are shorter, contribute to accidents. Pedestrian accidents in Chicago are particularly common near Navy Pier and Grant Park, where pedestrian traffic is high, and street lighting may not be adequate.
If you’re walking at night, wear light-colored or reflective clothing, especially in less-lit areas like Rogers Park or Hyde Park.
In high-traffic areas like Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue, drivers turning left may fail to see pedestrians crossing at the intersection.
This is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents in downtown Chicago. Pedestrians should be extra cautious at intersections and wait for clear signals before crossing.
Many areas in Chicago, particularly in outer neighborhoods like Cicero and Evanston, may lack clearly marked crosswalks.
Pedestrians are often forced to cross streets where traffic signals and crosswalks are not easily accessible. These areas increase the risk of accidents, especially in high-speed zones.
If you need to cross a road, find a well-lit area and ensure you have enough time to cross safely.
With the rise of cell phone use, distracted walking has become a significant contributor to pedestrian accidents. In busy neighborhoods like Logan Square or Bucktown, where traffic is high and streets are bustling, it’s easy to get distracted by your phone.
Make sure to stay aware of your surroundings when crossing streets or walking near traffic.
Roads like Western Avenue and Cicero Avenue are designed for fast-moving traffic and are notorious for being dangerous for pedestrians.
These arterial roads often lack pedestrian safety features like crosswalks and pedestrian signals, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Pedestrians should avoid these roads if possible or stay as far from traffic as they can.
In nightlife districts like Old Town and Wrigleyville, pedestrian accidents are more common when people under the influence of alcohol are walking home late at night.
Alcohol slows reaction times and impairs judgment, putting pedestrians at risk. Always consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft after a night out rather than walking home intoxicated.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs like Naperville or Joliet, knowing how to handle your accident claim is crucial for securing compensation. Here are the steps you should take:
If you have suffered in a pedestrian accident in Chicago, do not hesitate to contact our experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.
We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket for your medical bills.
Our pedestrian accident attorneys serve clients throughout Cook County and nearby suburbs, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. To schedule a no-cost consultation, contact us today at (312) 236-2900.
When you’re fighting for maximum compensation, we know what it takes to get it.
