Every year, thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed in accidents involving motor vehicles on Chicago’s busy streets. As a vibrant, walkable city, Chicago experiences high foot-traffic volumes, which increases the risk of vehicle-pedestrian collisions. At Blumenshine Law Group, we understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families.
Our experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of those injured by driver negligence. Whether you were struck in a crosswalk, hit by a distracted driver, or involved in any other type of pedestrian accident, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t let a pedestrian accident derail your life – let our skilled legal team advocate for your rights and future.
Vehicle versus pedestrian: who “wins” and who pays?
Vehicles injure and kill people. When struck by a moving vehicle, the human body is particularly vulnerable to severe or fatal injuries. Crash statistics and medical evidence prove that flesh and bones are not a fair match to a moving car or truck. Thus, severe injuries are common among pedestrians struck by vehicles.
Protect Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident—You deserve fair compensation if injured in a vehicle collision. Our Chicago legal team has decades of experience helping pedestrians injured in accidents. We’ll fight to ensure you receive the financial recovery you’re entitled to, whether from an individual’s insurance or a commercial entity. Contact us at (312)766-1000 to secure your future.
The other driver’s insurer pays compensation to the insured pedestrian. In some cases, the driver’s fault; in others, the fault is not so apparent and thus disputed. Some injuries are severe and permanent, and others heal within months. In any case, financial recovery is from the insurance company covering the car and the driver. If the vehicle is a business or commercial vehicle, the company’s insurance is the source of recovery.
In several decades of personal injury law practice, our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers have successfully represented seriously injured pedestrians in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
What is your Case Worth? Sample Recoveries for Our Clients
In 35 years of personal injury law practice, our Chicago pedestrian lawyers have successfully represented pedestrians seriously injured or their families when a fatality occurs in Chicago and Illinois. The amount of payment you may receive depends on all three settlement factors.
Every case is unique. Case value is based on the three major factors:
- The fault of the negligent driver,
- Severity of Injuries,
- Insurance policy limits.
Here are a few sample results we have obtained for our accident injury claims:
- $1,500,000 Recovered for our client who sustained leg crush injuries.
- $600,000 For a woman who suffered a brain injury after being hit by a tractor-trailer.
- $285,000 Settlement for a pedestrian who sustained an ankle fracture when struck by a vehicle driving close to the sidewalk.
- $250,000 (pursuit of $1,000,000 underinsured motorist coverage ongoing): Liability policy limits were recovered for a 65-year-old female pedestrian who was struck while in a crosswalk by a driver. The impact caused injuries to our client’s head, neck, and right knee. She was diagnosed with a concussion, cervical disc herniations, and a right knee lateral meniscus tear. An underinsured motorist claim is pending.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is unique and must be evaluated individually on its own merits.
What To Do After a Chicago Pedestrian Accident
- Get immediate medical attention — prioritize safety by seeking care. Injuries that appear minor at first can develop into serious conditions. For example, a headache could be a symptom of a brain bleed. A sore ankle could be multiple bone fractures. A stiff shoulder could be a sign of a torn rotator cuff. A herniated vertebral disc can cause neck or back pain. Get examined and diagnosed. Then, follow your doctor’s and therapist’s treatment plan.
- Your health and welfare are your primary concerns. First responders (likely paramedics) will provide prompt medical care at the scene of the collision, stabilize you, and transport you to the emergency room. After that, you should see your primary care doctor and, for serious pedestrian injuries, an orthopedic specialist, a neurologist, and a pain specialist.
- Gather information—other drivers, insurance, the scene, witnesses—is next. A police report is necessary, but your competent pedestrian accident law firm should get it immediately. Any information about the scene, the driver, the driver’s insurance, and witnesses is important evidence that is needed to prove your case.
- Record your day-to-day experiences. For example, you may be unable to sleep due to pain, have difficulty cleaning your home or cooking your meals, or struggle to work because of reduced strength. It’s best to record these details. A journal is a useful means to record the specific consequences of your injury beyond just medical bills and income.
Memories fade. Pedestrian injury cases take time to resolve. In the meantime, you will be experiencing mental, emotional, and physical consequences resulting from the vehicle collision. Your life at home, work, and recreation will all be affected by your injury. The day-to-day, moment-to-moment experiences in the first weeks of the collision may be forgotten if not recorded.
- Support in activities of daily living – home, work, recreation — If you are seriously hurt, you will likely need assistance at home, at work, and in your other activities for days, weeks, or months. Building a support team to assist you is essential. You may need to ask friends, family, and neighbors for help. You may also obtain assistance from community groups, such as churches or charitable organizations, of which you may or may not be a member.
- Zealous advocacy from a committed accident lawyer — Find a trusted pedestrian accident attorney and interview them. Review their reviews and results. See how you feel about them representing you. A good pedestrian accident firm will be well worth it by providing you with information and advice; most of all, they will provide you with vigorous representation. You can handle your claim on your own. Or not. In either case, get a free legal consultation. Any competent attorney will give you a no-obligation meeting to review your case and provide an evaluation. Insurance and legal claims arising from pedestrian injuries involve many rules and procedures – going it alone can be perilous.
How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Crash Lawsuit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including pedestrian claims, is generally 2 years from the date of the injury. You typically have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit seeking damages for your injuries.
If you are considering filing an injury lawsuit in Illinois, acting promptly is essential. Gathering evidence, such as witness statements and medical records, can be crucial to the success of your case, and it’s necessary to do so while the information is still fresh. Additionally, the longer you wait to file a lawsuit, the harder it may be for an attorney to locate and produce evidence that could support your claim.
Important: The statute of limitations varies depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Certain factors can extend or shorten deadlines. For example, claims against government entities may have notice requirements as short as six months. Missing a filing deadline can result in the loss of your right to compensation permanently. It is essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
The Most Common Pedestrian Injury Accidents
Chicago’s “High Injury Network”: The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has identified specific corridors where pedestrians are at the highest risk. If you were injured on any of these streets, you are likely not the first:
- Western Avenue: Consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous streets, with over 3,000 crashes reported in 2024 alone.
- Pulaski Road: A high-speed corridor that saw five traffic fatalities in 2024.
- Ashland Avenue: A frequent site for pedestrian injuries due to its width and heavy commercial traffic.
- Dangerous Intersections: The intersections of Milwaukee and Damen with North Ave, and of Cicero & Chicago Aves, are notorious hotspots for pedestrian and cyclist collisions.
What are the most Common Severe Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
The force exerted by massive, moving vehicles against human flesh and bones is always damaging. The body is no match for a car or truck. Accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe injuries and even life-threatening. Some of the most common severe injuries that can result from pedestrian and car accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage and can be caused by the head striking an object or by the brain being shaken violently inside the skull.
- Spinal cord injuries: These injuries can lead to paralysis and can be caused by damage to the vertebrae, discs, or ligaments in the spine.
- Fractures: Accidents can cause fractures of the arms, legs, feet, and hands, as well as the ribs, pelvis, and skull.
- Internal injuries: Injuries can vary from minor to severe and can include damage to the organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys.
- Amputations: In severe accident cases, it may be necessary to amputate a limb to save the person’s life.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is not medical advice. You should always seek care from qualified medical professionals for any injuries or health concerns.
Walking the Streets in Chicago and the Suburbs
Chicago is a great walking city with lively neighborhoods, great shopping and dining, beautiful parks, and sporting and recreational events. The terrain is mostly level, and most roadways have some safety features. Most of the time, many people are on foot. They are vulnerable in crashes involving motor vehicles because they are physically exposed and thus likely to be severely injured or killed when hit by a truck or car.
Notable pedestrian-vehicle encounters happen in heavily traveled locations such as train, bus, and subway stations, where people congregate. Other pedestrian accident injuries occur at airports, where travelers converge with taxis, buses, and rideshare vehicles. Motorized vehicles within the airport are a dangerous cause of collisions and injuries with travelers walking in airport terminals.
2024-2025 Chicago Pedestrian Accident Statistics & Trends
Pedestrian safety remains a critical issue in Illinois. According to preliminary data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), pedestrian fatalities in the state rose to 219 in 2024, a 9.5% increase from the previous year.
In Chicago specifically, the trends are concerning:
- Reckless Driving: A staggering 84% of traffic deaths in the city involved reckless behavior by drivers.
- The “SUV” Factor: Nearly half of all pedestrians killed in Chicago were struck by SUVs or larger vehicles, which are known to cause more severe injuries than sedans.
- Speed Kills: High-speed driving was cited as a primary factor in 68% of Chicago traffic deaths.
While the city has adopted the “Vision Zero” initiative to eliminate traffic fatalities, the data indicate that pedestrians must remain vigilant and that drivers must be held accountable.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has analyzed the factors contributing to pedestrian accidents and compiled the Traffic Safety Facts for pedestrians. The report cautions motorists about common errors that can be avoided by increasing awareness of the causes of pedestrian collisions.
National Pedestrian Safety Report: 2024-2025 Data
While Chicago faces local challenges, the pedestrian safety crisis is a national epidemic. The most recent data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and NHTSA highlights alarming trends that every pedestrian should know:
- Historic Fatality Rates: Pedestrian deaths have risen by 77% since 2010, while other traffic fatalities have increased by only 25%. In 2024, an estimated 7,300+ pedestrians were killed on U.S. roads.
- The “Darkness” Factor: Darkness is a massive risk multiplier. Over 75% of pedestrian fatalitiesnow occur after sunset. In contrast, daytime pedestrian deaths have remained relatively stable.
- Alcohol Involvement: In nearly half of all fatal pedestrian crashes, alcohol was a factor for the driver and/or the pedestrian.
- Demographic Shifts: While seniors remain vulnerable, the average age of pedestrian accident victims has shifted. Recent data indicates a sharp rise in fatalities among working-age adults (ages 30-59), often linked to distracted walking and driving.
Why This Matters for Your Case: Insurance adjusters often try to blame the victim, especially in cases involving night walking or “distraction.” Understanding these national statistics helps our attorneys counter their arguments. We know that structural issues—like poor lighting and lack of crosswalks—are often the real cause, not the pedestrian’s behavior.
Vision Zero & Chicago Safety Initiatives
Vision Zero & Chicago Safety Initiatives: Chicago is currently implementing the Vision Zero action plan, a commitment to eliminate deaths and serious injuries from traffic crashes. The city is actively redesigning “High Crash Corridors” with improvements like:
- Pedestrian Refuge Islands: Concrete islands that allow people to cross one direction of traffic at a time.
- Bump-outs: Extending the sidewalk at corners to shorten crossing distances.
- Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI): Traffic signals that give pedestrians a 3-7 second head start before cars get a green light.
Despite these efforts, negligence still occurs. When safety engineering fails to protect you from a reckless driver, legal action is often the only way to secure the funds needed for recovery.
Most Common Driver Errors
What are the primary physical reasons for negligent drivers of vehicles colliding with people? Failure to yield the right of way. What are the primary mental and emotional causes for drivers who cause pedestrian injuries and death? Distraction and failure to keep a lookout.
Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks. Motorists must yield to pedestrians because they are vulnerable to severe injury or death when struck by a car or truck. The Illinois Vehicle Code and City Ordinances require drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
Studies on pedestrian collisions reveal the common driver negligence that causes pedestrian crashes and injuries:
- Distracted driving: Common examples include talking on a cell phone, texting, emailing, eating, adjusting the radio, applying makeup, and even shaving.
- Going too fast. Speed limits exist for a reason—safety. A driver can go too fast even if traveling the speed limit if the presence of pedestrians, road conditions, or surrounding circumstances makes the speed unsafe.
- Turning without looking for pedestrians on the street or sidewalk.
- Turning without signaling.
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Safety starts with awareness. Drivers who recognize these common causes of collisions with people are more likely to avoid potentially injurious or fatal pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions.
Why Choose Blumenshine Law Group for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?
When you’re recovering from injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident, you need more than just legal representation—you need advocates who understand the unique challenges pedestrian accident victims face and who have the experience to fight for full compensation.
Over 37 Years of Experience in Illinois Personal Injury Law
Our attorneys have been serving pedestrian accident victims throughout Chicago and Illinois for over three decades. We understand Illinois traffic laws, insurance claim procedures, and the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. This experience allows us to anticipate challenges and build stronger cases for our clients.
Proven Track Record of Success
We have successfully represented pedestrian accident victims and recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. From minor injuries to catastrophic cases involving traumatic brain injuries and permanent disabilities, we have the resources and expertise to handle cases of all complexity levels.
Deep Understanding of Chicago’s Pedestrian Safety Issues
As Chicago-based attorneys, we understand the unique pedestrian safety challenges in our city. We’re familiar with the Chicago Pedestrian Accident Reduction Plan, high-risk intersections, and local traffic patterns. This local knowledge strengthens our ability to investigate your accident and build a compelling case.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. This allows you to access experienced legal representation without upfront costs during a time when you’re facing medical bills and potentially lost income.
Comprehensive Case Handling
From the initial investigation through settlement negotiations or trial, we handle every aspect of your case. We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economists to document your injuries and calculate the full value of your claim. You can focus on your recovery while we fight for your rights.
24/7 Availability and Free Consultations
We understand that pedestrian accidents don’t just happen during business hours, and questions about your legal rights shouldn’t have to wait. Contact us anytime at (312) 766-1000 for a free, confidential consultation.
Client-Focused Approach
Every client is unique, and we take time to understand your specific circumstances, concerns, and goals. We keep you informed throughout the legal process and make ourselves available to answer your questions. Our goal is not just to win your case, but to make the legal process as stress-free as possible during an already difficult time.
Professional Credentials:
- Licensed to practice in all Illinois state courts
- Members of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA)
- Members of the American Bar Association (ABA)
- Serving Chicago and Illinois communities since 1987
- Listed Distinguished by Martindale-Hubbell
Consult with a Chicago Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, consulting an attorney can be invaluable. You need an advocate who will investigate and discover whether a driver, owner, or both should be held liable for your accident and the financial recovery to which you may be entitled. Don’t hesitate to contact the Chicago accident attorneys at the Blumenshine Law Group by phone or text at (312)766-1000 or email us at [email protected] for a free consultation and case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Pedestrian Accidents
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including pedestrian accident cases, is generally two years from the date of the accident under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. However, certain circumstances can shorten or extend this deadline. For example, claims against government entities may require as little as 6 months’ notice. Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to compensation forever. Contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.
What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?
First and foremost, seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel your injuries are minor. Injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, or fractures may not be immediately apparent. Call 911 for emergency medical care and to create an official accident report. If possible, gather information about the driver, witnesses, and the accident scene. Take photos of the location, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Most importantly, contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.
Who pays for my injuries in a pedestrian accident?
Compensation for pedestrian accident injuries typically comes from the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. In cases involving commercial vehicles, the company’s insurance may be the source of recovery. An experienced attorney can identify all potential sources of compensation to maximize your recovery.
Recovering damages from a driver with no insurance is complex, but often possible through your own policy. Read our complete guide on Pedestrian Accidents with Uninsured Motorists here to understand your coverage options.
What types of compensation can I recover after a pedestrian accident?
Pedestrian accident victims may recover compensation for medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability or disfigurement, rehabilitation costs, and property damage. In wrongful death cases, families may recover funeral expenses and loss-of-companionship damages. The specific compensation available depends on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of your case.
How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?
Case value depends on three major factors: the fault of the negligent driver, the severity of your injuries, and available insurance policy limits. Every case is unique and must be evaluated individually. During a free consultation, we can review the specific facts of your case and provide an assessment of potential compensation. Call (312) 766-1000 to discuss your case with an experienced attorney.
What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
If an uninsured driver strikes you, you may still recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Most auto insurance policies in Illinois include UM coverage. Even if you don’t own a car, you may be covered under a family member’s policy. Our firm specializes in uninsured motorist claims and can help you navigate this process.
Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident claim?
While you’re not legally required to hire an attorney, insurance companies often take advantage of unrepresented accident victims. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney understands the actual value of your claim, can handle negotiations with insurance adjusters, and will fight to maximize your compensation. Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, so you pay no fees unless you win. At a minimum, get a free consultation to understand your rights and options.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Chicago?
The most common causes include distracted driving (texting, phone calls, eating), failure to yield the right of way at crosswalks, turning without looking for pedestrians, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and failure to signal turns. Many accidents occur at intersections and in parking lots where pedestrians and vehicles converge. Poor visibility, inadequate lighting, and adverse weather conditions can also contribute to accidents.
How long does a pedestrian accident case take to resolve?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case and the severity of your injuries. Some cases settle within a few months, while others—particularly those involving severe injuries or disputed liability—may take a year or more. It’s generally advisable not to settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement and understand the full extent of your injuries. We work efficiently while ensuring we secure the full compensation you deserve.
What if I were partially at fault for the accident?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as you were less than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault you bear. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 20%. An experienced attorney can help minimize any fault attributed to you.
Scott Blumenshine has practiced personal injury law in Illinois for over 37 years and has extensive experience representing pedestrian accident victims throughout Chicago and the surrounding communities. He is licensed to practice in all Illinois state courts and is a member of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. Scott has successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for injured clients.