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If you’ve been hit by a vehicle while walking in Chicago, you need experienced legal representation immediately. At Shea Law Group, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for injured pedestrians since 1997. We handle everything while you focus on recovering.
Insurance companies will contact you quickly, often within hours of your accident. They’ll pressure you for statements and offer quick settlements far below what you deserve. Don’t speak with them. Don’t sign anything. Call us first for a free consultation.
What Our Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Do for You
Our Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys handle every aspect of your case. We investigate the accident, gathering evidence before it disappears. We deal with insurance companies, so you don’t have to. We document all your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. And we fight for maximum compensation, whether through settlement or trial.
You pay nothing upfront. We work on contingency, meaning no attorney fees unless and until we win your case. This allows us to provide all potential clients with access to quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
Common Causes of Chicago Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents result from some type of driver negligence. This includes distracted driving, intoxicated driving, running red lights, failing to yield, and forgetting to check for pedestrians before turning.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than three-quarters of pedestrian fatalities occur after dark. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s 2023 Crash Facts, over 200 pedestrians and bicyclists died on Illinois roads in 2020. These alarming statistics represent preventable tragedies caused by driver carelessness.
Your Rights to Compensation
Illinois law entitles pedestrian accident victims to comprehensive compensation. This encompasses:
- All medical expenses, including emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and future care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous work
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
Even if you were partially at fault (perhaps jaywalking or crossing against the signal), you may still recover damages under Illinois law. You’re entitled to compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible for the accident.
You have two years from the accident date to file a claim, but evidence disappears quickly. Security footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget details. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
The moments after a pedestrian accident are critical for both your health and your legal case. If you were involved in a Chicago pedestrian accident, you should:
1. Get Medical Treatment:
You should see a doctor even if you feel ok. Some serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, don’t exhibit symptoms immediately. Medical records also provide crucial evidence for your case.
2. Document Everything:
If able, photograph the accident scene, the vehicle, and your injuries. You should also try to get contact information from witnesses and file a police report.
3. Call Us:
The sooner we start working on your case, the better your outcome. We’ll handle everything while you focus on healing.
4. Don’t Talk to Insurance Companies:
They’ll call quickly, sounding sympathetic while trying to minimize your claim. Refer them to your attorney.
Following these steps protects your rights and creates a strong foundation for your case. Every action you take now matters for your future recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire you?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us a portion of your recovered damages if and when we win. Initial consultations are always free.
What if I were hit by an uninsured driver?
We’ll explore every option, including your own uninsured motorist coverage, which often applies even when you’re a pedestrian.
How long will my case take?
Most cases settle within 6-12 months. Complex cases may take longer. We won’t rush the settlement at the expense of fair compensation.
What’s my case worth?
Every case is different. Compensation depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and impact on your life. We’ll evaluate your case for free.
Should I accept the insurance company’s offer?
Never accept an offer without legal advice. Initial offers are typically far below the actual value of the case.
Why Choose Shea Law Group?
Since 1997, our family-owned firm has helped thousands of Chicago pedestrian accident victims. We’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts. We know local courts, local laws, and how Chicago insurance companies operate. Most importantly, we treat every client with respect and personal attention.
We’re not a high-volume firm that treats you like a number. When you call, you’ll speak with people who care about your recovery. We’ll keep you informed throughout your case and are always available to answer questions.
