Key Facts Relating to Chicago Pedestrian Accidents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines a pedestrian accident victim as anyone on foot, running, jogging, walking, sitting, lying down or hiking who is involved in a motor vehicle accident. Every year, around 4,000 pedestrians are killed in motor vehicle accidents in the United States, and another 70,000 get injured. It is needless to say that such accidents can be physically and emotionally devastating. The effects of the injuries can be severe and long lasting. In fact, the injuries do not just affect the individual, but also their families and communities. Unfortunately, Chicago pedestrian accidents are a far too common occurrence, and they occur everywhere and can affect anyone.

Statistics show that one serious car accident injuries related to pedestrian fatalities occurs every two hours. Furthermore, every 8 minutes a pedestrian injury occurs. Education is one of the most effective ways to prevent such accidents. With better education, pedestrians can keep themselves safe and protect their rights in event if an accident. In this post, we will discuss some key facts related to pedestrian accidents.

Serious traumatic injuries caused by pedestrian car accidents

The biggest difference between a car accident and pedestrian accident is that the person who is hit by a vehicle has absolutely no protection against the crash. There are no airbags, seat belts or even steel frames to take the impact of the crash. This leaves the pedestrians susceptible to serious injuries including internal injuries and even paralysis. Such severe injuries often have lifelong implications so it is important to seek compensation for both present and future medical and other related expenses.

Who is at the highest risk of such accidents?

Children and older adults are at the highest risk when it comes to pedestrian car accidents. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 1 in 5 children killed in motor vehicle accidents in the age group of 5-9 years were pedestrians. Also, 20 percent of all pedestrian victims are elderly.

Risk factors

Living and travelling around in a city such as Chicago exposes you to the risk of pedestrian-car accidents. The crowded streets and a large number of pedestrians increase the likelihood of pedestrian crashes. So, it is extremely important to be alert and careful when driving or walking in the city. Cross the street only it is permitted and ensure that others follow this rule as well. One major risk factor is alcohol impairment. Although most of us are aware of dangers of drunk driving and walking, it still goes on unabated. It is important not to drive or even walk under influence as it can increase your chances of getting involved in an accident. One must remain extra careful at night time.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian-car accident, chances are you will be faced with huge medical expenses. To get compensation for both your economic and non-economic expenses, it would be in your best interests to speak with a pedestrian accident law firm with experience handling such claims. An injury attorney at Willens Law Offices would happy to answer any questions you have regarding your claim, free of charge.

Call (312) 957-4166 for a free consultation