St. Charles, IL Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Trusted Injury Attorneys for Injured Walkers Serving St. Charles and Kane County

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating a pedestrian accident can be. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the consequences are often catastrophic. These accidents result in serious injuries, permanent disabilities, or even fatalities. Our experienced St. Charles pedestrian accident lawyers have helped countless victims and their families recover compensation after being harmed by negligent drivers.

We are a trusted, local law firm serving clients in St. Charles and throughout Kane County. Our team of six award-winning personal injury attorneys all live and work here in Kane County. For over 30 years, we have built a reputation for exceptional client service and results, with over 90 years of combined legal experience.

Understanding the Risks: Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Illinois

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), pedestrian accidents are an increasing concern:

• In 2022, Illinois reported over 4,800 pedestrian-related crashes.
• Nearly 200 pedestrian fatalities occurred statewide in 2022.
• Kane County reported 42 pedestrian crashes in 2022, resulting in 9 serious injuries and 3 fatalities.

Pedestrian crashes often happen in urban and suburban areas like St. Charles, where busy intersections and distracted driving put pedestrians at risk. National data confirms that pedestrians are among the most vulnerable roadway users, facing a high risk of traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and permanent disabilities when struck by vehicles.

Most Dangerous Locations for Pedestrians in St. Charles

Based on IDOT crash reports and local law enforcement data, the following locations in St. Charles are identified as high-risk areas for pedestrian accidents:

1. Route 64 (Main Street) & 7th Street: High pedestrian foot traffic, multiple lanes, and distracted drivers contribute to frequent crashes.
2. Randall Road & Prairie Street: Heavy vehicle volume, lack of crosswalk visibility.
3. Route 31 & Illinois Street: Dangerous left turns and high foot traffic.
4. Route 64 & 5th Avenue: Frequent jaywalking incidents and poor lighting.
5. Fox River Trail Crossings at Illinois Street and Prairie Street: High pedestrian and bicycle use with limited motorist visibility.

Common Causes of Accidents in St. Charles

Pedestrian accidents in St. Charles often result from driver inattention and negligence, including:

• Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
• Speeding
• Failing to yield at crosswalks
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

In some cases, poorly marked crosswalks or inadequate pedestrian signals may also contribute to these accidents.

Serious Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians have no physical protection when struck by a motor vehicle. According to the Mayo Clinic, pedestrian accident victims commonly suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fractures and broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and soft tissue injuries
• Permanent disability or death

Medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term support can place enormous financial burdens on victims and their families.

Your Right as a Pedestrian to Compensation in Illinois

Under Illinois law, injured pedestrians may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Emotional distress

Our St. Charles pedestrian accident attorneys will investigate your case, gather evidence, and aggressively pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf.

“At John J. Malm & Associates, we have seen firsthand how devastating pedestrian accidents can be. These cases are about more than physical injuries — they are about lost livelihoods, emotional trauma, and families whose lives are changed forever. Our mission is to fight for justice and secure the financial recovery our clients need to rebuild.” – John J. Malm, St. Charles pedestrian accident attorney

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in St. Charles

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident:

1. Seek immediate medical attention.
2. Report the accident to local law enforcement.
3. Gather witness information and take photographs of the scene.
4. Keep records of all medical treatments and expenses.
5. Contact an experienced St. Charles pedestrian accident lawyer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Illinois?
   1. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
2. What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
   1. You may still have a claim under your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or other avenues of recovery. Our attorneys can help you pursue these options.
3. What damages can I recover in a pedestrian accident case?
   1. Victims may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and emotional distress.
4. Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident claim?
   1. Yes. Pedestrian accident cases are complex. An experienced personal injury attorney can gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and protect your rights.
5. What if I were partially at fault for the accident?
   1. Illinois follows a comparative fault rule. If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How to Choose the Best Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in St. Charles, Illinois

Choosing the right attorney after a pedestrian accident can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. You should look for a law firm with:

1. Proven Track Record: At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully recovered millions of dollars for injury victims, including significant settlements for pedestrian accident victims and their families.
2. Experience and Resources: Our team has over 90 years of combined legal experience. We understand the complexities of pedestrian accident cases and have the resources to investigate, gather evidence, and take cases to trial if necessary.
3. Local Reputation: As a trusted local firm, all six of our award-winning attorneys live and work right here in Kane County. For more than 30 years, we’ve built a strong reputation for client service, compassion, and aggressive advocacy throughout St. Charles and the western suburbs.

Our Proven Results in Pedestrian Accident Cases

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully handled numerous pedestrian accident cases in St. Charles and throughout Kane County, including recent results such as:

• A $250,000 settlement for a 17-year-old who was struck by a vehicle while walking in a crosswalk on Route 31 in Kane County, suffering serious leg injuries.
• A policy limits settlement on behalf of the family of a young man who was tragically killed while skateboarding on Route 25 in Kane County.

These outcomes reflect our commitment to achieving justice and financial recovery for local families affected by pedestrian accidents.

Contact the 5-Star Rated St. Charles Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a walking or jogging accident in St. Charles, do not hesitate to protect your legal rights. Our team of dedicated St. Charles car crash attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates is ready to help you pursue the compensation and justice you deserve.

We proudly serve clients throughout St. Charles, Kane County, and the surrounding communities. Our local office is conveniently located in St. Charles, and we can be reached at 630-524-2323 or 844-MALMLAW. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you move forward after a serious pedestrian accident.