Safety Precautions for Chicago Pedestrians

Although Chicago is recognized as the most walkable city in the United States, pedestrians must remain vigilant to stay safe. Understanding some of the main safety precautions for Chicago pedestrians can help avoid accidents and protect both residents and tourists. If you have been injured in an accident, a knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer could help you seek compensation.

Tips to Walk Safely Around the City

While the city does what it can to keep pedestrians safe, it is wise for individuals to do their part to prevent accidents. Whether you are a lifelong resident or just visiting, it is crucial to follow all safety measures for Chicago pedestrians, including:

  • Obey traffic patterns and laws (traffic signals, signs, and other markings)
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking during low-light times
  • Stay alert and yield to vehicles rather than expecting them to stop
  • Cross the street at crosswalks, intersections, or pedestrian footbridges
  • Walk facing traffic or on the sidewalk
  • Look left and right and try to make eye contact with drivers to avoid cars

Taking these easy precautions is a great way to increase safety, but specific laws also apply to pedestrians to lessen the risk of accidents.

Always Remember the Pedestrian Rules for Staying Safe

Certain rules apply to drivers, while others address pedestrians. For instance, 625 ILCS 5/11-1002 discourages pedestrians from stepping off the curb and into the street if a vehicle is close enough to create an immediate hazard. Other pedestrian laws and ordinances include:

  • Pedestrians must use a pedestrian bridge or crosswalk if one is available nearby
  • Pedestrians must yield right-of-way to vehicles if there is no crosswalk
  • Pedestrians must not pass crossing gates or barriers while in use
  • Pedestrians must also abide by traffic signals, especially if there is no signage at the crosswalk to alert drivers of their presence

In short, pedestrians must always use due care to ensure their safety and prevent accidents in Chicago.

What If There Is a Pedestrian Accident?

Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can still occur despite following all the Chicago rules and laws. When involved in an accident, take the following steps:

  • Move to safety if able
  • Call 911
  • Gather photographs or other information from the scene
  • Seek medical attention
  • If there is an injury or property damage, report the incident within 10 days
  • Speak with a lawyer

The pain you may experience after a pedestrian accident is indescribable, but you could seek compensation to help with medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact Our Chicago Lawyers About Safety Precautions for Pedestrians

While we cannot ensure that pedestrian accidents do not happen, we want everyone to know we are here to help if disaster strikes. Our lawyers have spent years studying the legal system and have extensive experience helping pedestrians seek compensation for their injuries. Contact McCready Law today to learn more about safety precautions for Chicago pedestrians and schedule a free case consultation.