Nightfall brings an elevated risk of serious injury to both drivers and pedestrians. Higher speeds, impaired judgment, and poor visibility spell disaster all too often on Illinois roadways.
Given this ongoing threat to our communities, our experienced team of personal injury lawyers takes your recovery seriously. We understand that navigating the insurance claims process can seem daunting, and we are here to help. Read on to learn more.
The Severity of Nighttime Pedestrian Injuries
Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists are simply no match for a vehicle in a collision. Their sheer size and weight put vehicles at an advantage, which unfortunately puts pedestrians at higher risk.
Because pedestrians lack the protection of a vehicle around them, these types of collisions often have tragic outcomes – including catastrophic injuries like these:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Severe lacerations
- Long-term disability
These serious injuries result in costly medical expenses, lost wages, and permanent disability or impairment. Even collisions at moderate vehicle speeds can leave pedestrians with life-threatening injuries that require prolonged care and rehabilitation.
Common Causes of Nighttime Pedestrian Collisions
1. Poor Visibility in the Dark
Darkness reduces visibility for both motorists and pedestrians, accounting for a large share of pedestrian deaths, according to crash data. Because low lighting impacts drivers’ depth perception, reaction time drops significantly. Even well-lit streets aren’t completely safe, with shadows and glare making the hours between 6 p.m. and midnight especially dangerous.
2. Drowsy Driving and Fatigue
Nighttime commutes make for sleepy drivers, with fatigue negatively impacting reaction time and attention span nearly as much as alcohol. Drowsy drivers not only put other drivers at risk for serious injury, but also pedestrians.
3. Irresponsible Decisions and Negligence
When the sun goes down, bars and restaurants become crowded with patrons, including those imbibing in alcohol and drugs. Research shows that a significant percentage of pedestrian fatalities involve impairment by alcohol and/or drugs – either from the driver, the pedestrian, or both.
4. Hazardous Weather Conditions
Poor street lighting or inclement weather conditions can limit visibility, a major cause of pedestrian incidents. Illinois’s diverse climate, including snow, rain, and fog, can make it difficult to see pedestrians sharing the road.
Tips to Protect Yourself After Dark
With pedestrian safety as the priority in many Illinois communities, infrastructure continues to improve. But there are several easy steps pedestrians can take to stay safer at night:
- Wear light-colored clothing and, if possible, reflective stripes.
- Use marked crosswalks when available and avoid crossing poorly lit streets.
- Never walk near traffic while intoxicated.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as checking your phone.
Your Personal Injury Case Deserves Serious Legal Representation – Contact Spiros Law
Nighttime pedestrian incidents often result in severe injuries with long-term consequences. But you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Spiros Law, we are dedicated to protecting injured pedestrians and holding negligent drivers accountable.
After a life-changing collision, your recovery and your family’s future may depend on your next steps. That’s why it’s important to contact a qualified personal injury attorney near you before you speak to the insurance company. Our team is available to help, using our legal knowledge to effectively pursue damages and file an insurance claim on your behalf.
If you were struck by a vehicle while walking at night in Illinois you deserve justice. This often comes in the form of financial compensation, including damages like these:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Compensation for injuries
You can trust our experienced attorneys at Spiros Law to investigate the incident, collect evidence, and determine liability. We will passionately advocate for the full value of your claim, especially in complex cases involving serious injuries.
We proudly serve clients throughout Illinois, with offices conveniently located in Champaign, Kankakee, and Danville. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.
Disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Past verdicts, settlements, case results, and client reviews do not guarantee similar outcomes. Every case is different and depends on its own facts, circumstances, and applicable law. Attorney advertising.
