Cook County Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Trusted Injury Attorneys for Accident Victims Throughout Cook County

Cook County, home to Chicago and dozens of surrounding suburbs, sees more pedestrian accidents than any other county in Illinois. In a region where nearly 40% of Illinois residents live, the risks to people on foot are far greater than most realize. In 2023, more than 60% of the state’s pedestrian fatalities occurred in Cook County alone. These aren’t isolated incidents, they represent a crisis in public safety. At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these accidents can be. Our firm is dedicated to helping injured Cook County walkers and joggers get the compensation they deserve after a serious accident.

“When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the outcome is rarely minor. Lives are changed in seconds,” says founding attorney John J. Malm. “We treat these cases with the urgency they deserve because the physical, emotional, and financial impact on victims is profound.”

Where Are Pedestrian Accidents Most Common in Cook County?

The density of Cook County means pedestrian incidents can occur anywhere, from downtown Chicago intersections to suburban crosswalks. But data from IDOT and the City of Chicago highlight several high-risk corridors:

• Western Avenue: One of the longest streets in Chicago, with multiple lanes and frequent pedestrian crossings.
• Ashland Avenue: High volumes of traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure.
• Cicero Avenue (IL Route 50): Especially dangerous in suburban areas like Cicero, Oak Lawn, and Midlothian.
• 95th Street, 63rd Street, and Division Street: Busy east-west thoroughfares with a history of high injury counts.
• Suburban hubs: Areas like Skokie, Oak Park, Evanston, and Blue Island have seen increased pedestrian injuries in recent years.

Who’s Most at Risk in Cook County Pedestrian Crashes?

Much like in other Illinois counties, the most vulnerable populations include:

• Children and teens, particularly around school zones
• Older people, whose reaction times and physical resilience may be diminished
• Pedestrians at night, when visibility is reduced and speeding more common

Chicago’s diverse communities and high foot traffic mean that even short neighborhood trips can turn dangerous, particularly in areas with poor signage, inadequate lighting, or outdated traffic control.

When Do Most Cook County Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

Time of Day Patterns:

Most Cook County pedestrian accidents occur during the evening rush: between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. This coincides with heavy vehicle traffic, tired commuters, and limited daylight during much of the year.

Weekly Trends:

Fridays and Saturdays see the highest rate of pedestrian crashes, often tied to nightlife activity, increased alcohol consumption, and distracted driving.

Seasonal Conditions:

Fall and early winter remain the most dangerous seasons for pedestrian fatalities. Reduced daylight hours, slick roads, and holiday traffic all contribute to increased risk.

Common Injuries in Cook County Pedestrian Crashes

Due to the force involved in vehicle-pedestrian collisions, injuries are often catastrophic:

• Skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord trauma
• Broken hips, femurs, or pelvis
• Complex facial or dental injuries
• Road rash, internal bleeding, and lacerations

These injuries frequently require surgery, extended hospitalization, and long-term rehab. Mental trauma can also lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Your Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Accident in Cook County

Victims of pedestrian accidents have the right to seek compensation for:

• Emergency care and hospitalization
• Ongoing physical therapy or rehab
• Emotional suffering
• Disfigurement or disability
• Lost wages and loss of normal life

Illinois law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and even in cases where a pedestrian may be partially at fault, comparative negligence laws allow for partial recovery. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or flees the scene, your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can play a critical role in your recovery.

Real Case Experience: Advocating for Cook County Victims

At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve represented Cook County pedestrians hit in crosswalks, parking lots, school zones, and residential streets. Our legal team recently resolved a case involving a woman struck while crossing Ashland Avenue. She suffered multiple fractures and underwent three surgeries. We secured a $400,000 settlement that covered her medical expenses and future treatment.

Each case requires thorough investigation, timely filing, and skilled negotiation or litigation. Our team of dedicated Cook County pedestrian accident lawyers works closely with accident reconstruction experts, medical providers, and insurance carriers to fight for maximum compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cook County Pedestrian Accidents

What should I do if I’m hit in a crosswalk?

Call 911, seek immediate care, and obtain contact information from witnesses. Then, speak to an experienced Cook County personal injury lawyer about your rights.

Can I still sue if I was jaywalking?

Yes. Illinois allows injured pedestrians to recover compensation even if they were partly responsible, so long as they were not more than 50% at fault.

What if the driver fled the scene after hitting me?

You may be able to file a UM claim under your auto policy if the driver is never identified.

Are pedestrian claims harder to prove in urban areas?

Not necessarily. With the right evidence, like surveillance footage and expert analysis, liability can be clearly established.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim?

The general statute of limitations in Illinois is two years, but municipal claims and other circumstances may have shorter deadlines.

Will my insurance pay if I’m hit as a pedestrian?

Yes, in many cases your own policy’s UM/UIM coverage may apply, even if you weren’t in a vehicle at the time.

Do I really need a lawyer if I was hit by a car?

Yes. A lawyer can ensure your rights are protected, maximize your compensation, and handle negotiations while you focus on healing.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for your Cook County Pedestrian Crash?

With over 90 years of combined personal injury experience, our firm has recovered millions of dollars for accident victims across Cook County. From our offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we proudly represent clients from all parts of the Chicago metro area.

• Free case evaluations
• No legal fees unless we win your case
• A trusted record of results in pedestrian injury law

We understand what’s at stake, and we’re here to help you move forward.

Contact the Respected Cook County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

Pedestrian accidents in Cook County can leave victims and families facing overwhelming medical bills, lost income, emotional trauma, and long-term recovery challenges. When these crashes are caused by negligent drivers, unsafe road design, or insufficient city infrastructure, victims have rights, and they deserve dedicated legal representation. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the unique dangers pedestrians face in Chicago and Cook County, and we are committed to advocating for fair compensation, accountability, and justice. If you or a loved one has been struck while walking, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation so we can begin protecting your rights and help you focus on recovery.