The physical and emotional recovery from serious injuries after a motor vehicle accident can be a tremendous challenge. The injuries and challenges are only increased if you were walking or riding a bike when hit by a motor vehicle. Without the protections afforded to automobile drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists often suffer severe injuries in these accidents.
At The Law Offices of Goldfine & Bowles, P.C., we can help you. Our Peoria pedestrian accident lawyers have decades of experience representing clients in Peoria, Bloomington and Galesburg, Illinois, and we take an aggressive, comprehensive approach to protecting our clients’ rights to full and fair compensation, having won more than $100 million for our clients in verdicts and settlements over the past 10 years alone. If you’ve been injured, you need an experienced Pedestrian injury attorney in Illionois.
If you have been injured or if someone you love has suffered a wrongful death in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, our attorneys can help you obtain the compensation you need.
We’re here to help you navigate the complex aftermath of a motor vehicle accident. As an experienced Peoria auto accident firm, we understand the tremendous stress and uncertainty you’re facing. Our dedicated lawyers for a car accident are committed to providing aggressive representation and securing the compensation you deserve. When you need a skilled attorney for an auto accident who will fight for your rights, you can rely on our proven track record of success. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation.
Handling All Types Of Pedestrian Accident Claims
We represent clients in all types of pedestrian and bicycle accident claims, including accidents involving:
- Crosswalks and parking lots: With a new outdoor mall in Peoria and a number of major shopping centers in the area, we see a significant number of accidents in parking lots.
- Low speed injuries: Even if your accident does not seem major, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately, because some major injuries are not immediately obvious.
- Bicycle accidents: With numerous bicycle trails and an enthusiastic bicycling community in the area, we represent clients injured in bicycle accidents. Our Peoria bicycle accident attorney can make all the difference.
Do not let the anxiety about physical recovery, medical bills or lost wages overwhelm you after a pedestrian or bicycle accident. Our attorneys can help you through the process. We will handle your case with dedication and care, and we take cases on contingency, so you will not have to pay any attorney fees until we are successful in your case. A qualified Peoria pedestrian accident attorney can make all the difference.
Call our Pedestrian accident lawyer Peoria today at (309-673-5144 toll free) or email us to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced lawyer from our firm.
Commonly Asked Pedestrian Accident Questions
1. The “Statute of Limitations”
Question: How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Peoria, Illinois? Answer: In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including pedestrian and bicycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. However, if the accident involved a government vehicle or occurred on public property, notice requirements may be much shorter. It is critical to consult a Peoria attorney early to ensure all filing deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.
2. The “Comparative Fault”
Question: Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for my accident? Answer: Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury determines you were 20% at fault for “jaywalking,” your final settlement would be reduced by 20%.
3. The “Insurance/Damages”
Question: What damages can I claim after being hit by a car in Peoria? Answer: Victims of pedestrian accidents can seek “economic” and “non-economic” damages. This includes reimbursement for medical bills (present and future), lost wages if you cannot work, pain and suffering, and disability or disfigurement. If the driver was uninsured, we can often help you explore “Uninsured Motorist” (UM) coverage through your own auto insurance policy.
4. The “Bicycle Specific”
Question: Do bicyclists have the same rights as motorists on Peoria roads? Answer: Under Illinois law, bicyclists have the same rights—and responsibilities—as drivers of motorized vehicles. Drivers are required to provide a “safe distance” (at least 3 feet) when passing a cyclist. If a driver’s failure to yield or improper lane usage caused your crash, they can be held liable for your injuries, even if there was no physical contact between the car and the bike (a “non-contact” accident).