Springfield, IL Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Sangamon County Law Firm Fighting for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Anyone who spends a lot of time walking in the Springfield area knows that drivers often fail to yield to the right of way. Motorists frequently make moves that place the lives of walkers, joggers, and others who share the city streets at risk. Unfortunately, when these accidents happen, the pedestrian often suffers extremely serious injuries that require extensive medical care.
At Haxel Law, we stand up for pedestrians who have been hurt by negligent drivers. You shouldn’t have to worry about how you will cover enormous medical bills or lost income due to missed work. We are prepared to fight aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve, and our case results speak for themselves.
If you recently suffered injuries after being hit by a vehicle, one of our Springfield, IL, pedestrian accident lawyers can help you understand your legal options for recovering damages. Schedule a free consultation by calling (217) 215-4166 or contacting us online.
We Understand How to Take on Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Accident
Insurance companies try to settle pedestrian claims for as little as possible, regardless of the extent of your losses. You will likely receive an initial settlement offer that does not reflect the true value of your claim.
Both of our lawyers have experience in the insurance industry. Our partner attorney, Martin Haxel, used to represent insurance companies in personal injury claims. Now, he devotes his firm’s sole attention to helping people fight back against these same insurers. We are familiar with and understand how to effectively combat insurance company strategies and can leverage that knowledge to fight for the outcome you deserve.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Many collisions between automobiles and pedestrians are the result of driver negligence. When a negligent driver harms you in a pedestrian accident, you are entitled to compensation under the law, which is why it is important to have an attorney investigate your accident to determine what caused it and ascertain liability.
Common forms of driver negligence that lead to pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving. Whether it's texting, using a smartphone, or adjusting the car's infotainment system, any distraction diverts a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the risk of missing pedestrians crossing streets or stepping into roadways.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to unexpected movements by pedestrians. It also compounds the severity of any accident that does occur, turning split-second reactions into life-threatening incidents due to the high velocity of the vehicle.
- Failure to yield. Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way. This is particularly common at crosswalks and intersections where vehicles are required to allow pedestrians to cross safely. A lack of awareness or disregard for traffic laws often leads to these dangerous situations.
- Driving under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment and reaction times, making it much harder to respond to pedestrians on the road.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Our pedestrian accident attorneys in Springfield, IL, can help explore your legal options if you suffered any of the following types of injuries due to negligence:
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Brain injuriesHead and brain injuries can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The impact of a vehicle can cause a pedestrian's head to collide with the car itself or the ground, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions requiring immediate medical intervention. The long-term effects of head injuries can include cognitive impairments, emotional changes, and physical disabilities.
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Fractures and Broken BonesPedestrians struck by vehicles frequently sustain fractures in the limbs, ribs, or pelvis. The impact's force can easily break bones, necessitating surgeries, prolonged recovery periods, and sometimes rehabilitative therapy for full restoration of mobility and functionality.
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Spinal Cord InjuriesThese injuries are especially devastating, as they can result in partial or complete paralysis. The impact of an oncoming vehicle may lead to a loss of function or sensation below the injury site. Victims often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
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Internal InjuriesBlunt force trauma from a pedestrian accident can cause internal injuries to organs, such as the liver, spleen, or lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can quickly become life-threatening without prompt medical treatment. Internal bleeding and damage require surgical intervention and close monitoring.
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Lacerations and ContusionsWhile often considered less severe, cuts and bruises can still pose significant health risks. Deep lacerations may lead to infections, and contusions can cause lasting pain and stiffness. Proper medical attention and wound care are essential for recovery.
Illinois Pedestrian Laws That Could Impact Your Case
The state of Illinois enforces several laws that require vehicles and pedestrians to share the road. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in many scenarios, and, in general, motorists should never drive unnecessarily close to pedestrians.
Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians when:
- A pedestrian is using a marked crosswalk
- A pedestrian enters an intersection
- Children are approaching or using a school zone crosswalk on school days
- Making a turn at an intersection
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Compensation and Legal Timeframes in Illinois
Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Illinois
In a personal injury claim, you can obtain compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover all calculable expenses and losses resulting from the accident, while non-economic damages refer to the non-financial consequences you may suffer after an accident. We always work to get our clients maximum compensation for pedestrian accident injuries.
Our Springfield, IL pedestrian accident lawyers can fight to get you full and fair compensation for all of your losses, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Lost earning potential
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Disability
- Disfigurement
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accident Claims in Illinois
In Illinois, you usually have two years from the date of your pedestrian accident to file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you will lose your right to seek damages. Starting the legal process sooner rather than later can help our team investigate your accident, preserve evidence, and secure witness testimony, so do not wait to get in touch.
We understand how difficult it can be to move forward after a pedestrian accident. We are prepared to do everything possible to make this process more manageable for you, so call (217) 215-4166 or contact us online today.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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"Thanks For All You Have Done!"Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.