Joliet Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When you are hurt in a pedestrian accident, the experience is undoubtedly distressing. The physical pain, emotional turmoil, and financial strain can feel insurmountable. As dedicated personal injury attorneys, our goal at La Justicia Legal is to help you navigate this challenging time with compassion and expertise.

When someone else is responsible for your harm, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Our Joliet pedestrian accident lawyers are here to protect your rights throughout each step of the process. Together, we can work toward securing the justice you need to move forward with your life.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), speed, location, and vehicle type are significant risk factors for pedestrian accidents. Alarmingly, nearly half of these accidents occur when drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Most incidents happen on busy urban roads with speed limits between 45 and 55 miles per hour. Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) often result in more severe injuries due to their larger size. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, reaching out to a Joliet attorney for assistance is a wise choice.

What if I am Partially at Fault for My Accident?

The law establishes various rules regarding pedestrian right-of-way. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in most scenarios. Drivers are required to stop and yield when they are in a crosswalk or a school zone. Even if a pedestrian enters an intersection or crosswalk before a traffic light changes, they still retain the right of way. However, under Illinois’ modified comparative compensation law, pedestrians can still be found partially liable for an accident.

When both parties are partially liable, courts determine compensation based on their percentages of responsibility. For instance, if a pedestrian receives $100,000 in compensation but is found to be 15 percent at fault, they would ultimately receive $85,000. If the pedestrian is deemed 50 percent or more responsible, they are barred from suing the driver for damages.

Consulting a law firm like La Justicia Legal could significantly benefit injured Joliet pedestrians by guiding them through the legal process.

What To Do if You Are Hit by a Car

Regardless of the circumstances, an injured person should prioritize seeking medical care. Even if injuries are not immediately apparent, visiting a medical professional for a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan is crucial. Additionally, contacting law enforcement to file a formal report is necessary, as most insurance companies require this documentation.

In addition to securing medical attention and filing a report, an injured pedestrian should gather the following information if possible:

  • Contact details for the driver involved
  • The driver’s insurance company information
  • Names and contact information for any witnesses
  • Photos or videos of the accident scene

Joliet pedestrian accident attorneys could help identify essential information and outline the next steps in your case.

Statute of Limitations

Personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Typically, injured pedestrians negotiate with their insurance company and the responsible driver until a settlement is reached. If negotiations do not yield the desired results, our team could represent an injured person’s best interests in court.

What Compensation Is Available for a Pedestrian Accident?

Injured pedestrians may receive compensation for economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Economic damages cover the financial impacts of the accident, such as past and future medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and a diminished earning capacity. Non-economic damages address the more subjective effects of the event, including pain and suffering, emotional trauma, loss of quality of life, and disfigurement.

If the driver exhibited particularly reckless behavior, such as driving while drunk, punitive damages may also be assessed to deter them from repeated behavior—although these types of damages are rare. A Joliet attorney could help an injured pedestrian determine the value of their claim and pursue maximum compensation for their losses.

Consult a Joliet Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Legal Guidance

Located just 35 miles southwest of Chicago, Joliet is known for its high number of pedestrian accidents. If you or someone you know has been struck by a motor vehicle, a Joliet pedestrian accident lawyer could help negotiate settlements and gather evidence.

Our accomplished attorneys are committed to obtaining the best results for every case. We understand that each situation is unique and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Contact us today to protect your rights and discuss the next steps.