Two Pedestrians Struck Within 24 Hours in Chicago

 Posted on February 07, 2019 in Pedestrian Accidents

On February 4, a 15-year-old pedestrian was fatally injured when she was struck by a drunk driver in Chicago Ridge. The young girl was a student at Oak Lawn’s Richard High School. The very next morning, a 20-year-old woman was struck by a vehicle near the Rush University Medical Center. According to Chicago police, the woman suffered a broken hip and was treated at Chicago’s Stroger Hospital. 

For pedestrians in the greater Chicago area, the risk of being struck by a motor vehicle is very serious and all too familiar. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 4,600 pedestrians were injured in car accidents in 2016 across the state. Of those injuries, 150 ultimately proved fatal. 

Avoiding Car Accidents as a Pedestrian 

Over the past decade, pedestrian deaths have increased by 27 percent nationwide, according to statistics compiled by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). Throughout the United States, approximately 6,000 pedestrians were killed by motor vehicles in 2016. While many pedestrian accidents are unavoidable, there are a few steps you can take to decrease your chance of injury due to driver error.

Avoid Walking at Night

A large number of pedestrian accidents occur after dark. Walking at night comes with increased risk, due to the fact drivers are less likely to notice you. If you do decide to walk at night, wearing bright clothing can help increase visibility. 

Do Not Walk After Drinking

Walking home after a night of drinking can be a responsible choice, but also a dangerous one. Much like drinking and driving, walking while inebriated lowers your reaction time, impacts your vision, and can lead to reckless choices. If you plan to drink, it may be wise to find a safe ride home. 

Be Cautious During Winter Months

Walking during winter can come with a number of potential dangers. Many pedestrians suffer serious slip and fall injuries, ranging from hip fractures to severe brain trauma. It can also be more difficult for drivers to react quickly to a pedestrian’s movements if snow or ice are on the road. 

Follow Traffic Laws

When traveling on foot in urban areas, it is important to follow all traffic laws. Only cross the street at marked walkways and when the traffic light allows. Walking on the side of the road, rather than utilizing sidewalks can also be a dangerous decision. 

Contact a Lake County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrians injured in motor vehicle collisions often suffer severe or even fatal injuries. At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our legal team understands just how difficult a car accident injury can be for the whole family. If you are struck by a motor vehicle, and the driver was acting in a reckless or negligent manner, you deserve financial compensation for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation with a Waukegan personal injury attorney, call us today at 847-662-3303.  

Sources:

https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/woman-hit-by-car-while-crossing-street-near-illinois-medical-district/

https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2019/02/04/oak-lawn-student-killed-crash/

http://www.idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/files/Transportation-System/Resources/Safety/Crash-Reports/crash-facts/2016%20Crash%20Facts.pdf

https://www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2018-03/pedestrians_18.pdf