Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in Illinois, with a record number of fatalities in 2024. Personal injury lawyers like Paul Greenberg are urging caution ahead of the summer tourist season, highlighting the importance of simple actions like reducing speed and being attentive to crosswalks. The city has implemented measures to enhance pedestrian visibility, such as improved crosswalk signage and traffic signal timing adjustments. As the summer season approaches, it's crucial for pedestrians and drivers to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. With the help of experienced personal injury lawyers, victims of pedestrian accidents can seek compensation for their injuries and hold responsible parties accountable. The topic of pedestrian accidents and personal injury lawyers is a pressing concern for individuals and families affected by these tragic events.
Summer Safety Alert: Pedestrian Accident Attorney Warns of Record Fatalities in Illinois
As the summer tourist season approaches, a record number of pedestrian fatalities in Illinois has left personal injury lawyers like Paul Greenberg sounding the alarm. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, 2024 saw the highest number of pedestrian fatalities in the state’s history, with a staggering 145 pedestrians losing their lives. This alarming trend has prompted Greenberg to urge caution and emphasize the importance of simple actions like reducing speed and being attentive to crosswalks.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
“Reducing speed and being attentive to crosswalks can make a significant difference in preventing pedestrian accidents,” Greenberg emphasizes. “As a personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact these accidents can have on families and individuals. It’s crucial that we take proactive steps to ensure pedestrian safety.” Greenberg recommends that pedestrians stay aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions like using their phones while walking, and follow traffic signals and signs. Drivers, too, can play a crucial role in preventing pedestrian accidents by being mindful of pedestrians and yielding to them when necessary.
City Efforts Fall Short, But We Can Do Better
While the city has implemented measures to enhance pedestrian visibility, including improved crosswalk signage and traffic signal timing adjustments, Greenberg emphasizes that these efforts are only part of the solution. “While the city’s efforts are commendable, it’s up to each of us to take responsibility for our own safety and the safety of others,” he said.
Pedestrian Accidents Can Happen Anywhere, Anytime
Pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere, at any time, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including distracted driving, speeding, and poor road design. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian fatalities account for 15% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States.
Reducing speed and being attentive to crosswalks can make a significant difference in preventing pedestrian accidents
Quick Stats
Record number of pedestrian fatalities in 2024: 145
Seeking Justice and Compensation
For those who are involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. “As a personal injury lawyer, my goal is to help victims of pedestrian accidents receive the compensation they deserve and hold responsible parties accountable,” Greenberg said.
Summer Safety Tips
As the summer tourist season approaches, it’s crucial that pedestrians and drivers alike take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. By being aware of their surroundings and taking proactive steps to ensure safety, we can work together to reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities in Illinois and make our roads safer for everyone.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. By taking simple steps to stay safe and seeking justice and compensation when needed, we can work together to create a safer and more responsible community.
For more information on pedestrian safety and personal injury law, visit [Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers].
FAQs
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
- Distracted driving (e.g., phone use)
- Speeding or failing to yield at crosswalks
- Poor visibility (nighttime or bad weather)
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Jaywalking or crossing outside of crosswalks
What should I do if I'm involved in a pedestrian accident?
- Call emergency services and seek medical help
- Report the accident to police
- Collect evidence (photos, witness contacts)
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements
- Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible
Can I file a claim for a pedestrian accident?
Yes, if the driver was negligent, you can file a personal injury claim. Even if partially at fault, you may still be eligible for compensation depending on your state laws (comparative negligence).
How can I seek compensation for a pedestrian accident?
- File a claim against the driver’s insurance
- Include medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering
- An attorney can negotiate or file a lawsuit if needed
- In hit-and-run cases, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply
What are the legal options for victims of pedestrian accidents?
- File a personal injury lawsuit for damages
- Settle out of court through insurance
- Sue for wrongful death (if applicable)
- Seek punitive damages if driver was reckless or DUI
