Last year, 48 pedestrians and eight bicyclists were reportedly killed by motorists in Chicago. According to the Chicago Police Department, the number of pedestrians killed in 2012 was the highest in four years. Additionally, the number of fatal bicycle wrecks in Chicago allegedly rose by 38 percent between 2001 and 2011. Sadly, 23 of the 48 pedestrians and one of the eight bicyclists killed in 2012 reportedly died in a hit-and-run accident. Police said August was the most dangerous month for individuals traveling by foot in Chicago.
Some believe the increase in fatal Chicago pedestrian accidents was the result of milder temperatures. Others reportedly feel that drivers across the metro are more distracted than ever. Regardless, 2012 Chicago pedestrian accident statistics allegedly coincided with a nationwide increase in all types of fatal traffic wrecks. Data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that traffic deaths during the first nine months of the year were up 7.1 percent over the same time period in 2011. This was purportedly the largest spike in more than 35 years.
Chicago Department of Transportation Spokesperson Pete Scales said the high number of pedestrian and bicyclist deaths throughout the city last year was unacceptable. He added that the city unveiled a new pedestrian plan designed to increase the safety of those traveling on foot and by bicycle in 2012. New safety initiatives reportedly include increasing the number of protected bicycle lanes, implementing automated speed limit enforcement technology, and increasing the police presence at locations where crashes frequently occur.
Each year, nearly 6,000 pedestrians are involved in an accident with a motorist throughout the State of Illinois. Although a pedestrian may be struck by a vehicle anywhere, the bulk of such accidents occur on city streets. Regrettably, most pedestrian accidents result in some type of injury. In 2011, more than 100 pedestrians were killed in an accident with a motor vehicle throughout Illinois.
There is normally a lot of pedestrian traffic in the City of Chicago. Commuters, taxi drivers, and tourists often share the city’s intersections with individuals who are walking to public transit or other destinations. If you were hit by a Chicago driver while crossing the street, you may be entitled to receive compensation for any injuries you suffered. Pedestrian accident victims may be eligible to recover for their medical costs, lost wages and benefits, pain and suffering, and other damages. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can discuss your options for recovery with you in more detail.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, please contact the dedicated attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. Our experienced Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week to assist you with your personal injury case. For a free consultation with a diligent personal injury attorney, give Abels & Annes, P.C. a call at (312) 475-9596 today.
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Additional Resources:
A deadly year for pedestrians: 48 die in Chicago in 2012, by Tina Sfondeles, Chicago Sun-Times