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Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in Illinois
At The Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates, we have noted a steady increase in pedestrian accidents in Illinois due to a variety of reasons, ranging from distracted driving to failing to yield right-of-way at crosswalks. This has a tremendous impact on both the victims and their families. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys has worked not only to provide legal representation for those affected, but also to provide crucial knowledge on the process involved in navigating pedestrian accident claims in Illinois.
Pedestrian Accident Laws in Illinois
Illinois law offers a degree of protection to pedestrians. An integral part of our law states that all drivers must stop and yield right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, sidewalks, or any other pedestrian pathway. However, pedestrians, too, are required to obey traffic laws and signals, and use sidewalks and crosswalks where available.
Breaching these laws can lead to calamitous pedestrian accidents. When a pedestrian accident occurs, liability often comes down to the concept of negligence. If a driver fails to exercise reasonable care, and their negligence leads to pedestrian causalities, they can be held legally responsible.
Navigating Illinois Pedestrian Accident Claims
Irrespective of all the precautions involved, if you find yourself as a victim of a pedestrian accident in Illinois, arriving at an optimal claim settlement can be a complex process. There are several key points to consider:
The Role of Insurance Companies in Pedestrian Accident Claims
Insurance companies play an important part in the aftermath of a pedestrian accident. While Illinois is an at-fault state, meaning that the person at-fault for the accident is responsible for compensating the injured party, insurance companies often have a significant role in determining what that compensation looks like.
However, securing a fair settlement from insurers is often easier said than done. Insurance companies are, after all, businesses looking out for their bottom line. They may employ several tactics to reduce, delay, or even deny your claim. This is precisely why it is so essential to have an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
The Importance of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Navigating the complex processes involved in a pedestrian accident claim without professional assistance can be difficult. An experienced personal injury lawyer can thoroughly investigate your accident, gather and analyze evidence, consult with experts if necessary, and handle all communication with the insurance company.
In addition to these tasks, your attorney can accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering, and fight for a fair settlement on your behalf. For this reason, victims represented by personal injury attorneys often receive higher compensation than those who try to navigate the process alone.
The Illinois Courts also provide resources to the public regarding court procedures, and your attorney can help interpret these procedures for you.
Final Thoughts
While being involved in a pedestrian accident can be traumatizing, the path to recovery, both physically and financially, need not be. With the right knowledge, professional guidance and insistence on fairness, victims can navigate pedestrian accident claims in Illinois with confidence.
At The Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates, we pride ourselves on offering quality representation with a personal touch. We believe in educating our clients and helping them step-by-step through the litigation process. Whether it’s dealing with insurance companies or standing up in the court, our dedicated attorneys are prepared to fight for your best interests.
