Pedestrian accidents occur in a variety of situations, from the obviously dangerous – crossing an interstate highway or busy intersection – to simply walking through a neighborhood in the middle of the day. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 76,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents in 2012 alone.
Collisions between pedestrians and vehicles often result in serious injuries for pedestrians not only from initial impact, but also from being thrown from the spot of impact into oncoming traffic in high-speed accidents. Fortunately, Illinois allows for these victims to recover for both economic and non-economic losses when these accidents are caused by another’s negligence.
Common examples of injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
– Broken bones – Burns – Concussions – Contusions – Dislocations – Nerve damage – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – Spinal cord damage
What you say and do in the hours, days, and even weeks following an accident can have a significant impact on your ability to earn compensation for your injuries. It is imperative to do the following:
– Seek medical attention – This is important even if you do not believe you’re seriously injured. This ensures that any injuries you may have are properly identified and treated, and that you will have an official medical record which shows your injuries and any treatment which has been necessary.
– Record important information about the accident – To avoid losing important details to fading memory, record as much as you can immediately following the accident. This includes the names, license plate numbers, and contact information of those involved in the accident, as well as any witnesses.
– Seek legal representation – It is absolutely imperative to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. The more time on your side, the better – not only for you and your well-being, but for your case and pursuit of the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident as a pedestrian, contact Mike Agruss Law, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, Mike Agruss Law is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.
