Table of Contents
With close to three million full-time residents, Chicago is easily one of the largest and most crowded cities in the U.S. But while many Chicagoans embrace the fast-paced, busy lifestyle that comes with living in the “City of Big Shoulders,” it also comes with a level of risk.
When traveling on Chicago’s congested and narrow streets, drivers must be constantly aware of their surroundings, as pedestrian accidents can happen in an instant, often with lifechanging consequences. Below are a few tips that can help drivers protect both themselves and those around them.
1. Be Especially Carefully in High Foot Traffic Areas
Certain areas of Chicago naturally have more pedestrian activity, and frequenting them requires drivers to be more alert. For example, retail districts, parks, school zones, and transit hubs often experience crowded sidewalks and frequent crossing activity. When traveling through these areas, be sure to scan a wide area in front of you, moderate your speed, and prepare to stop at any moment.
2. Always Yield to Pedestrians
Always be aware of pedestrians around you and give them full right of way. Drivers must stop for anyone crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks, and even at a green light, you must yield to pedestrians still in the street. Once the last person has safely crossed, check both directions one final time before moving again.
3. Exercise Caution When Passing Stopped Vehicles
There are several situations where passing a stopped or parked car could result in a pedestrian accident. A car may be stopped at a crosswalk or intersection to allow someone to cross, or it could be parked along the curb with passengers entering or exiting. In both cases, pedestrians may be hidden from view, so always slow down and stay alert.
4. Obey Speed Limits and Adjust Accordingly
Speed is one of the most important factors when it comes to both the likelihood and severity of pedestrian accidents. The faster a driver is going, the more likely it is that they will not be able to stop in time. The same goes for the injury itself; if you do hit a pedestrian, the faster your speed is, the more likely it is that their injuries will be fatal or life-threatening. Always obey posted speed limits, and if you’re unsure of the speed limit in a given area, play it safe and slow down as a precaution.
5. Avoid Distractions While Driving
One of the most effective ways that every driver can reduce their risk of hitting a pedestrian is to minimize all distractions while the car is in motion. This includes eating, fidgeting with the radio or GPS, and cell phone use. Always keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel while driving, and if you must look at directions or respond to a text message, it’s best to pull over to do so. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Chicago, and taking extra precautions can go a long way to minimize your chances of hitting someone.
6. Be Extra Vigilant at Night and in Poor Weather
It goes without saying that driving at night and during poor weather comes with added risk. While downtown areas are typically well-lit, the less metropolitan neighborhoods, such as Albany Park, West Pullman, or parts of Austin, where street lighting may be limited and pedestrians can be harder to see.
The same goes for weather conditions. Chicago is a notoriously challenging city to drive in during the winter months when snow, ice, and slush can make streets slippery and reduce tire traction. Rain and fog at other times of the year can also limit visibility, and pedestrians may not be apparent until they are within a few feet of the vehicle. Drivers should adjust their speed, increase following distances, and use headlights appropriately to account for these conditions.
7. Never Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
As shown by Chicago traffic fatality reports year after year, substance use and driving do not mix. Getting behind the wheel while intoxicated by alcohol, recreational drugs, or even prescription medication can dramatically impair judgment, slow reaction times, and reduce coordination, making it far more likely that a driver will fail to notice pedestrians or respond appropriately.
Even one or two drinks can be the difference between an uneventful night and the death of a pedestrian. If you feel that you might be even slightly intoxicated, it’s best to take a rideshare, get a ride from a friend, or utilize one of Chicago’s many public transit options.
What If You Are a Pedestrian Who Has Been Hit?
Driving safely in Chicago requires constant attention and awareness. Knowing which areas are busiest, what situations are most risky, and following the law can greatly reduce your chances of an accident. But even if you follow all these safety tips as a driver, many others unfortunately do not.
If you are struck while walking, it’s critical to take immediate steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Call 911, take photos of your injuries and the accident scene, and collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses. After receiving medical care, follow all treatments and reach out to a Chicago pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you determine whether you may be able to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages and guide you through the process of filing an injury claim.