FOLLOW US ON
If you sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, you likely have questions about your future. Many people face serious injuries, trauma, costly time off work, and expensive medical bills after such an incident, and sorting through your legal options can be overwhelming while trying to navigate recovery.
Enlisting the help of a compassionate pedestrian accident attorney could provide you with the guidance needed to pursue compensation. Contact McCready Law today to discover the important aspects of Chicago pedestrian accident claims and how a lawyer could help you.
It is important to note that a Chicago pedestrian accident will be viewed through the lens of both Illinois state laws and the Chicago Municipal Code. Determining fault and liability requires using a combination of these legislations.
A pedestrian’s rights and responsibilities are laid out in 625 ILCS 5/11-1001 and Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 9-60. Together, this legislation determines the expectations involved in safely sharing the road for pedestrians and motorists.
The laws make it clear that pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks when there are inoperable or no traffic signals present or when the traffic signals indicate it is safe to cross. Put simply, motor vehicle operators are responsible for monitoring crosswalks and avoiding pedestrians who are on their half of the roadway or close enough to make a collision likely.
The same laws state that pedestrians have a responsibility to exercise “due care” for their own safety by being aware of the conditions around them. They are prohibited from crossing intersections except at crosswalks and must obey traffic control devices at all times. Pedestrians who cross at any point other than a marked crosswalk are required to yield to vehicles on the roadway.
A Chicago pedestrian-involved collision can be a complex situation to examine, as it may involve many unique factors. Investigators must determine which laws, if any, were followed or broken by both the operator of the involved vehicle and the pedestrian. Everything from the speed of the vehicle, the location of the accident, and the functionality of the traffic control devices in the area will be considered. It is also likely that the parties involved will be evaluated for alcohol or drug use that may have contributed to the incident.
Investigators may speak to witnesses, bring in forensic analysis experts, and review video footage from nearby cameras to get a full picture of the collision. A motorist found to have violated laws and caused injury to a pedestrian could be held responsible for substantial costs.
Anyone who has been injured in a pedestrian accident should consult a Chicago attorney right away regarding the important aspects that may affect their claim. A lawyer could ensure the investigation is thorough and considers all liabilities. They could also offer advice about when to accept a settlement offer and how to negotiate for the most compensation to cover medical expenses and other costs resulting from the incident.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you deserve a dedicated attorney who will pay close attention to the details of your case. Reach out to McCready Law today to speak with an attorney about the important aspects of Chicago pedestrian accident claims.