Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyers Helping Victims Struck By Cars in Chicago

Being hit by a car is one of the most terrifying and traumatic experiences a person can go through. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are far too common on the busy streets of Chicago. Whether it happens at a crosswalk, intersection, or sidewalk, the injuries pedestrians suffer are often severe—and the aftermath can be overwhelming.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, the experienced Chicago personal injury attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates is here to help. With over 90 years of combined experience and millions recovered for injury victims, we provide the legal representation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Pedestrian Accidents Are a Growing Problem in Chicago

Chicago is a walkable city, but that doesn’t always mean it’s a safe one. Each year, hundreds of pedestrians are struck by motor vehicles in Chicago. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 7,300 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2021—the highest number in decades. Urban areas like Chicago see a disproportionately high number of these tragic incidents.

Some of the most dangerous intersections and areas for pedestrians in the city include:

• Michigan Avenue and Lake Street
• Ashland Avenue and Division Street
• Cicero Avenue and 79th Street
• Downtown Loop during rush hour

Even in marked crosswalks, drivers can be distracted, aggressive, or impaired—putting pedestrians at serious risk.

Statistics on Chicago Pedestrian Fatalities

Over the past decade, pedestrian fatalities in Chicago have steadily increased, underscoring the vulnerability of those on foot. In 2013, the city recorded 27 pedestrian deaths. By 2021, that number had more than doubled to 60, with 52 fatalities still reported in 2022. This alarming trend is illustrated in the chart below, based on data from the City of Chicago’s traffic fatality summaries. Despite ongoing safety efforts, pedestrians continue to face serious risks on city streets—especially in crosswalks and high-traffic areas.

Crosswalk Dangers: A Recent Tragedy Highlights the Risk

A case handled by our firm underscores the dangers pedestrians face, even when using designated crosswalks. Our client was crossing a busy street in a crosswalk, when she was struck by a turning motorist. As a result of the accident, our client suffered severe injuries, including a tibial plateau fracture. After securing dash cam footage of the collision from the at-fault driver, we settled the case for $400,000.

Unfortunately, this tragic event is not isolated. In fact, nearly 30% of Chicago’s pedestrian fatalities occur in crosswalks, highlighting the critical need for increased driver awareness and pedestrian safety measures.

Common Causes of Chicago Pedestrian Accidents

Most pedestrian accidents are preventable. They often occur due to driver negligence or recklessness. Common causes of pedestrian crashes in Chicago include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, GPS use, or other distractions prevent drivers from noticing people on foot.
• Speeding: Drivers going too fast have less time to react and cause more serious injuries.
• Failure to Yield: Many drivers ignore pedestrian right-of-way laws at intersections or crosswalks.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time, judgment, and coordination.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Pedestrians are at risk when drivers disobey basic traffic laws.
• Poor Weather or Visibility: Rain, snow, or darkness can make pedestrians harder to see, but drivers are still responsible for driving safely.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents in Chicago

According to Northwestern Medicine, pedestrian accident victims often suffer multiple, severe injuries due to the lack of protection. These include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Caused by head impacts or violent jolts.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Resulting in permanent disability.
• Fractures and broken bones: Especially in the legs, hips, arms, and ribs.
• Internal organ damage: Often hidden and life-threatening.
• Soft tissue damage: Including ligament tears and deep bruising.
• Emotional trauma: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common in survivors.

These injuries may lead to long hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, lost wages, and long-term disability. If someone else was at fault, you shouldn’t be left to deal with these burdens alone.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Chicago

If you’ve been hit by a vehicle while walking, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Get medical attention immediately. Even if you feel okay, injuries may not show symptoms right away.
2. Call the police. An official accident report will document what happened.
3. Get contact information from the driver, any witnesses, and take photos if possible.
4. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies until you’ve spoken to a Chicago pedestrian accident attorney.
5. Contact an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer who has experience handling pedestrian accident cases.

Your Rights as an Injured Pedestrian

Pedestrians have legal rights under Illinois law. If a driver was negligent and caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death (if a loved one was fatally injured)

Insurance companies may try to minimize your injuries or shift blame. That’s why having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for your Chicago Pedestrian Accident Case?

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have decades of experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Our award-winning team of six attorneys is known for compassion, integrity, and results.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• 90+ years of combined legal experience
• Millions recovered for injured clients
• Top-rated attorneys by clients and peers
• Personalized attention and support from start to finish
• No fees unless we win

We work closely with doctors, accident reconstruction experts, and financial analysts to build strong cases and pursue maximum compensation.

“Pedestrian accidents are uniquely devastating. Victims are completely exposed—no airbags, no seatbelts—just their bodies against two-ton vehicles. The injuries are life-altering, and the emotional toll runs deep. That’s why our firm fights so hard: because pedestrians deserve protection, respect, and justice.” — John J. Malm, Chicago pedestrian injury attorney

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chicago Pedestrian Accidents

1. Do I need a lawyer after a pedestrian accident?
Yes. A skilled attorney can help you protect your rights, prove fault, and maximize your compensation.

2. What if I was jaywalking? Can I still recover damages?
Possibly. Illinois follows comparative fault rules, meaning you may still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault.

3. How long do I have to file a claim in Illinois?
The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

4. What does it cost to hire John J. Malm & Associates?
There are no upfront fees. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win your case.

5. What damages can I recover in a pedestrian accident case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

6. What if the driver fled the scene?
We can help investigate hit-and-run accidents and pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.

7. Can I sue the city if unsafe road conditions caused the accident?
Possibly. Claims against government entities are complex but may be viable if negligence is proven.

Real Help. Real Results.

Our clients often tell us how relieved they felt knowing we were handling everything. From the moment you contact us, we take on the legal stress so you can focus on healing.

We’ve successfully handled cases involving:

• Crosswalk accidents
• Hit-and-runs
• School zone pedestrian injuries
• Drunk driver collisions
• Pedestrians struck by delivery trucks, buses, or rideshare vehicles

Whether your injury happened downtown, in a neighborhood, or while jogging in the suburbs, we’re ready to stand up for you.

Contact the Award-Winning Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Chicago, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be. Call 844-MALMLAW or visit www.malmlegal.com to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Let John J. Malm & Associates put our experience and dedication to work for you. Experience you can count on. Justice you deserve.