Springfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Walking in Springfield is a common mode of transportation as well as a popular form of exercise. While pedestrians should be able to walk safely on sidewalks in downtown Springfield and along neighborhood streets, pedestrians are frequently injured and killed in collisions involving automobiles. Much too often, pedestrian collisions are avoidable, but they happen because of a motorist’s negligence. If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, you should find out more about your legal options. Our firm can help. Contact our experienced Springfield pedestrian accident lawyer today.
Facts About Pedestrian Accidents in Springfield
Pedestrian accidents happen more often than you might expect, and they frequently result from a driver’s careless or reckless behavior. The following are some key facts about pedestrian accidents and injuries from the National Safety Council (NSC) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA):
- More than 9,000 pedestrians were killed in pedestrian accidents in 2022, and thousands more sustained nonfatal injuries (more than 7,500 of those deaths happened on public roads);
- Serious and deadly pedestrian accidents occur most often in collisions with automobiles that occur on roads, driveways, and parking lots;
- Nearly 85 percent of pedestrian deaths occur in urban areas, and about 25 percent occur at intersections, including crosswalks;
- About three-quarters, or 75 percent, of all serious and deadly pedestrian accidents happen after dark; and
- Pedestrian injuries and deaths have risen in recent years in Illinois, and 200 pedestrians sustained fatal injuries in accidents in 2022.
Springfield Pedestrian Accident Prevention
Pedestrians should not have to fear that they will be struck by a car when they are out walking because a driver is distracted or speeding. However, recognizing that pedestrian collisions do occur, and pedestrians cannot prevent motorist negligence, it is important for anyone traveling on foot to take safety precautions. The NSC recommends the following:
- Walk on a sidewalk when one is available, and if there is no sidewalk, walk in the direction facing oncoming traffic;
- Obey traffic signs;
- Cross at a crosswalk when one if available, and if you cannot cross at a crosswalk, ensure that you only cross at an area where your view of oncoming traffic is not blocked;
- Avoid any distractions while walking, including listening to music or walking while texting;
- Avoid alcohol and drugs before walking to prevent impairment and slowed reaction times;
- Wear clothing that will make you as visible as possible to drivers, and carry a light if possible when you are walking at night; and
- Always be aware of vehicles potentially backing out of parking spots or driveways.
How to Seek Compensation After a Springfield Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident occurs, it may be possible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. It will be critical to get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible to begin gathering evidence and to ensure that your lawsuit is filed before the two-year statute of limitations runs out.
Contact Patel Law, PC Today
Pedestrian accidents can be devastating, and it is important to hold negligent drivers accountable. With help from an injury attorney, you may be able to obtain compensation to help cover medical bills, lost wages, and more. Contact our experienced Springfield pedestrian accident lawyer today for assistance with your case.
