Recent Pedestrian Deaths: Why Are These Accidents So Deadly?

 Posted on November 25, 2024 in Car Accidents

A man died on November 7th  after he was struck by a car in Fuller Park. A 17-year-old boy was killed while riding a bicycle on November 10th in a Waukegan hit-and-run collision. On November 13, a pedestrian was struck by three separate vehicles in Portage and died from his injuries. At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., our thoughts are with the families.

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents typically result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident caused by negligence, you could qualify for compensation by filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim. One of our experienced Glenview, IL car accident lawyers can verify your eligibility and explain your legal options.

Who Is At Fault for Pedestrian Accidents?

Your initial thought might be that drivers are always responsible for pedestrian accidents. Although that is often true, pedestrians can also share the blame. Common causes of these collisions include:

• Driver or pedestrian distractions and inattention

• Speeding

• Motorists or pedestrians failing to yield the right of way

• Jaywalking

• Drivers being unable to see pedestrians, particularly at night

Like drivers, pedestrians must follow Illinois Rules of the Road. As with any type of personal injury accident, an investigation often determines fault. If you, as an injured pedestrian, are less than 50 percent at fault, you can recover damages from other at-fault parties under Illinois law.

Why Are Pedestrian Accident Injuries Severe?

Pedestrians have no protection against a car hitting them. Even at low speeds, these impacts are highly likely to cause severe injuries, such as:

• Head and traumatic brain injuries

• Spinal cord damage

• Broken bones

• Joint injuries

• Organ damage

• Facial injuries

Unfortunately, these injuries often prove to be fatal. Injured victims and their families deserve compensation if negligence caused the accident. However, you may encounter multiple complications as you attempt to get as much as you deserve. Working with a skilled attorney from Gruzmark Law, Ltd. is crucial to get the best possible resolution.

What Damages Might Be Available for a Pedestrian Accident?

Your accident and injuries caused several losses, otherwise known as damages. Your eligible damages are specific to your circumstances, meaning there is no one-size-fits-all amount. However, damages from a pedestrian accident often include reimbursement or compensation for:

• Current and ongoing medical treatment costs

• Property damage

• Replacement services and ongoing care

• Current and future lost income

• Medical equipment and home or vehicle modifications for a new disability

• Loss of society and consortium

• Inconvenience

• Mental and emotional pain and suffering

Funeral and burial expenses, along with other kinds of damages, may be available to eligible survivors of fatal pedestrian accident victims. Call Gruzmark Law, Ltd. to discuss your potential wrongful death action.

Call Our Determined Northbrook, IL Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

When your life is changed by someone else’s negligence, Gruzmark Law, Ltd. can help you hold him or her accountable for the harm you suffered. Call us at 847-729-7660 to schedule your free consultation with our respected Cook County, IL wrongful death attorneys.