Can I Sue if I Was Hit by a Car While Walking in Illinois?

 Posted on September 10, 2025 in Car Accidents

Walking through a crosswalk or along a street should not be dangerous, but careless drivers put pedestrians and everyone else on the road at risk. When a car hits a person, the injuries can be severe, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. 

If you were hit by a car, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Speaking with a Barrington, IL personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options.

How Does Illinois Law Handle Pedestrian Accidents?

As of September 2025, Illinois law continues to give pedestrians strong legal protections under the Illinois Vehicle Code, 625 ILCS 5/. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise due care to avoid hitting anyone on foot. When they fail to follow these rules, drivers can be held responsible through a personal injury claim.

What If I Was Not in a Crosswalk When a Car Hit Me?

You can pursue a claim if the driver was negligent and that negligence caused your injuries. Negligence can take many forms, including speeding, running a red light, distracted driving, or driving under the influence. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1, Illinois law states that drivers must use due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians at all times, not only in marked crosswalks. This means that even if you were crossing outside a crosswalk, you may still have a case if the driver should have seen you and failed to act with reasonable care.

What Compensation Can You Recover as a Pedestrian?

Pedestrian accident claims can include damages for medical costs, rehabilitation, lost income, and pain and suffering. If your injuries limit your ability to enjoy daily life or return to work, you may also be entitled to additional compensation to address these issues. In tragic cases involving fatalities, families may pursue wrongful death claims.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

After being hit by a car, getting medical help is a top priority. Once you are safe, take photos of the scene, get witness contacts, and ask for a copy of the police report. Tell your own insurer if needed, but do not give details to the driver’s insurance company until you talk to a lawyer. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better chance you have of gathering strong evidence for your case.

Contact a Lake County, IL Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can leave lasting injuries and financial hardship. If you were hit by a car, do not wait to get legal help. Contact a Barrington, IL personal injury attorney at Barrington Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Call 224-900-HURT today to discuss your case and learn how we can protect your rights.