New Data Shows Illinois Traffic Deaths Decline, But Pedestrian Fatalities Surge: What’s Behind the Increase?

According to the Daily Herald, Illinois experienced a notable decline in overall fatal car accidents in 2024, reaching the lowest levels since 2020. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reported 1,103 fatal traffic crashes resulting in 1,196 deaths, marking a 3.5% decrease from 2023. However, the Daily Herald reports that this positive trend was overshadowed by a concerning 9.5% increase in pedestrian fatalities, with 219 fatal pedestrian-involved crashes compared to 200 in the previous year.

The Rising Concern of Pedestrian Fatalities

This rise in pedestrian deaths is part of a broader national trend observed since 2010. Research has shown that the increasing popularity of larger vehicles, such as SUVs, pickups, and vans, contributes significantly to pedestrian fatalities. For example, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicates that vehicles with hood heights greater than 40 inches are approximately 45% more likely to cause pedestrian deaths in crashes than those with shorter hoods. The design of these larger vehicles, featuring blunt and vertical front ends, exacerbates the severity of injuries to pedestrians upon impact.

In the six-county region encompassing Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties, pedestrian accident fatalities totaled 144 in 2024, a 6.7% increase from 135 in 2023. This regional data underscores the pressing need for targeted interventions to enhance pedestrian safety in Chicago and the suburbs.

Factors Contributing to the Increase in Pedestrian Fatalities

Studies have shown that several factors contribute to the alarming rise in pedestrian deaths. Some of these factors include:

1. Larger Vehicles on the Road – As mentioned earlier, the growing popularity of SUVs and trucks has led to a higher risk of severe injuries and fatalities in pedestrian-involved crashes.
2. Distracted Driving and Walking – The widespread use of smartphones and other distractions affects both drivers and pedestrians, leading to an increase in accidents.
3. Lack of Safe Infrastructure – Many urban areas lack proper pedestrian infrastructure, such as well-lit crosswalks, pedestrian islands, and sufficient sidewalks.
4. Speeding and Reckless Driving – Higher vehicle speeds increase the likelihood of fatal pedestrian crashes, as drivers have less reaction time and the force of impact is greater.
5. Impaired Driving – Alcohol and drug use remain significant contributors to traffic accidents, including pedestrian-related incidents.

Measures to Improve Pedestrian Safety

Addressing the issue of increased pedestrian fatalities here in Illinois requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Vehicle Design Modifications – Lowering hood heights, redesigning front ends to be more pedestrian-friendly, and incorporating advanced pedestrian detection systems can reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
2. Urban Planning and Infrastructure Improvements – Implementing traffic calming measures, enhancing crosswalk visibility, and creating pedestrian-only zones can significantly reduce pedestrian fatalities.
3. Stricter Traffic Laws and Enforcement – Increased penalties for speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving can deter dangerous behaviors that put pedestrians at risk.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns – Educating both drivers and pedestrians about the risks associated with larger vehicles and the importance of shared road safety is essential. Encouraging drivers to exercise increased caution in areas with high pedestrian traffic and promoting the use of alternative, smaller vehicles in urban settings may also contribute to reversing the upward trend in pedestrian deaths.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured as a Pedestrian

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can help protect your legal rights and get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

1. Call the Police and File a Report

A police report will serve as an official record of the accident and can be crucial for any legal claims. Provide law enforcement with all relevant details, but avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able, collect as much evidence as possible, including:

• Photos of the accident scene, vehicle, and any visible injuries.
• Contact information of the driver and any witnesses.
• Video footage from nearby surveillance cameras or dash cams if available.

3. Obtain Contact Information from Witnesses

Eyewitnesses can provide critical statements that support your case. Get their names, phone numbers, and email addresses.

4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health should be the top priority. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, some injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen over time. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible and follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment.

5. Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

An experienced Illinois pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to seek fair compensation for your injuries.

6. Do Not Speak to the Driver’s Insurance Company Without Your Attorney

Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or get you to accept a quick settlement that is lower than what you deserve. It’s best to consult with a personal injury attorney in Illinois before speaking with insurance representatives.

What Compensation Is Available After A Pedestrian Crash?

If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages due to time off work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of quality of life

“The alarming rise in pedestrian fatalities is a crisis that demands immediate attention. Every pedestrian deserves to walk safely without fear of being struck by a reckless or distracted driver. As larger vehicles dominate the roads, John J. Malm & Associates helps advocate for stronger safety measures to protect our most vulnerable road users.” – John J. Malm, Naperville pedestrian accident attorney

Contact the Illinois Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

While the overall decline in traffic fatalities in Illinois is a positive development, the concurrent rise in pedestrian deaths highlights a critical area that demands immediate attention. By implementing comprehensive strategies that encompass vehicle design, infrastructure enhancements, stricter traffic enforcement, and public education, it is possible to create a safer environment for all road users and curb the disturbing increase in pedestrian fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. Our top-rated Illinois car accident attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of your pedestrian accident case and fight for the compensation you deserve.