Cook County Woman Dies from Pedestrian-Vehicle Accident

 Posted on March 23, 2015 in Personal Injury

After being hit by a motor vehicle driver in Arlington Heights, a 58-year-old woman died from her injuries. A 16-year-old driver was responsible for the accident that occurred on Grove Street. The victim was walking her dog around in the morning near her Arlington Heights homes. Illinois Pedestrian Deaths According to a 2012 report, car crashes involving pedestrians in Illinois make up only 1.7 percent of the accidents across the state. However, more than 94 percent of the crashes are fatal to the pedestrian and more than 72 percent of the crashes result in an injured pedestrian. Moreover, in 2012, pedestrian deaths reached a high of 139. In 2013 vehicle-pedestrian accidents totaled 4,718 and resulted in 125 pedestrians killed and 4,419 pedestrians injured. While these numbers are relatively low, Illinois is one of the few states across the country that is facing an increase in motor vehicle crashes over the years. It is believed this is because more employees are commuting longer distances for work. This is especially true in the most populous areas in and around Chicago. Almost half of the total crashes statewide occurred in Cook County, and 130 pedestrians were killed in accidents. Excessive speed, alcohol, and distracted driving were the main causes of the accidents. Interstate Deaths Interstate crashes make up a significant portion of pedestrian-vehicle deaths across the country. AAA reported in its latest report in March that an average of 515 pedestrians were struck and killed by vehicles on interstates each year from 1993 to 2012. Interstate accidents accounted for 10 percent of pedestrian deaths. Midwestern states have been recorded to have the highest rates, including Illinois. Twice as many interstate pedestrian deaths occur in urban areas and occur on the weekend. Typically, pedestrians are hurt on the interstate when they are on the side of the road, usually exiting from their vehicle or tending to a downed vehicle. Why are pedestrian-vehicle accidents so dangerous? Most importantly, unlike cars and other motor vehicles, pedestrians have no outer protection, putting them at a much greater risk of sustaining serious injuries in an accident. Because of this, pedestrians should always take necessary precautions to decrease their chances of being struck by a vehicle. An Attorney Can Help You if You Have Been Injured Being involved in a pedestrian-vehicle accident can be devastating, and may result in catastrophic injuries or death. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian-vehicle accident, you may be able to sue the driver for compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other costs. Contact our experienced DuPage County pedestrian accident attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices today to discuss your case.