According to statistics offered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, Chicago experienced 2,224 pedestrian crashes in 2022.
Of those crashes:
- 2,104 resulted in an injury
- 431 injuries were incapacitating (A-injuries)
- 53 injuries were fatal
With so many pedestrian accidents occurring on a regular basis, it’s crucial for anyone walking on the streets of Chicago to know how to protect themselves. Our personal injury lawyer in Chicago shares a few tips that can give you the best chance of safely making it to your destination.
Plan Your Route
One of the keys to staying safe while walking in Chicago is knowing a bit about where you are going and how to get there. Consider planning your route using the walking directions on Google Maps.
Apps like this give you the advantage of knowing how far away your destination is and helping you avoid busy intersections. They can also give you updates along the way to let you know whether you’re moving in the right direction.
If possible, you may want to try to identify a few landmarks that are easy to point out on your chosen route (such as a store, restaurant, or famous attraction). Doing so can help you avoid getting lost and having to wander around unfamiliar territory.
Use the Sidewalks
The sidewalk is the safest place for pedestrians in Chicago. When walking on the sidewalk, it’s best to travel in a direction that’s going against the traffic.
Additionally, you should be walking as far to the left side as possible without standing in the way of others who may be moving in the opposite direction. Both of these actions make it so that you can see all cars coming your way (and move out of the way quickly if needed).
Use Crosswalks and Signals
As a pedestrian, it’s a good idea for you to use the crosswalk instead of trying to make it across the street without one. Crosswalks are safer since Chicago drivers are required to stop for pedestrians who are walking on them.
If the intersection uses pedestrian signals (such as walk/don’t walk signs), honor them to avoid stepping into oncoming traffic. If you’re a resident or visitor in need of accessible signals that use voice tones or vibrating surfaces to communicate when it’s safe to walk, be aware of which intersections have them. Try to plan a route that includes those roads if possible.
Take Advantage of the Pedway
If your destination is within the roughly 40 blocks of Chicago’s Central Business District, consider using the Pedway. This is simply known as a network of underground tunnels and overhead bridges connecting 50+ public and private buildings and mass transit stations. The Pedway allows people to walk safely to their destination without having to navigate car traffic.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Undoubtedly, both drivers and pedestrians can sometimes be unpredictable. For that reason, you should definitely stay aware of your surroundings when walking in Chicago.
Try to avoid using your phone to text, talk to others, or listen to music while walking. Instead, look around and stay alert. Glance to your left and right before crossing to ensure motorists aren’t coming through the intersection. You should also make sure that all belongings are secure so you don’t drop anything and have to run back for it.
A Little Research Can Go a Long Way Toward Keeping You Safe
The safest way to walk anywhere in Chicago is by knowing as much as possible about getting to your destination before you go. This can help you bypass streets with heavy traffic and reduce the possibility of an accident. If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, however, make sure to seek medical treatment and contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Though pedestrians should stay aware and obey traffic rules, drivers are obligated to do the same. It’s only through both parties working together in this way that the city of Chicago can stay safe for all.
Contact the Chicago Personal Injury Law Firm of Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for Help Today
For more information, please contact the experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and its surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 726-1616
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 726-1616
