Chicago is a bustling metropolitan city known for its dense traffic, busy intersections, and millions of daily commuters. With so many pedestrians navigating crowded streets, crosswalks, and public transportation hubs, accidents can happen in an instant. Because of this high level of urban activity, injured pedestrians often need legal guidance from professionals familiar with Chicago’s unique road and traffic conditions.
When you’ve been struck by a car while walking, you need more than just sympathy — you need serious legal help. The pedestrian accident attorneys at Chicago firms like Abels & Annes, P.C., bring years of experience and a genuine commitment to supporting injured pedestrians. Choosing the right attorney can be the difference between a lowball insurance offer and the full compensation you deserve.
Understand the Importance of Experience
First and foremost, you’ll want a lawyer who has handled many pedestrian accident cases before. At Abels & Annes, their Chicago pedestrian accident attorneys focus specifically on these kinds of injury claims. Their familiarity with urban pedestrian risks — crosswalk collisions, distracted drivers, parking-lot mishaps, and more — means they know what to look for and how to build your case.
A seasoned attorney also understands common pitfalls: drivers may try to minimize fault, or insurance companies might use aggressive tactics. A lawyer who has successfully tried pedestrian cases before will be more prepared for negotiations and, if needed, litigation.
Look for a Track Record of Success and Local Knowledge
When evaluating attorneys, ask about their track record with pedestrian accident claims. Abels & Annes, for example, have secured significant verdicts and settlements for injured pedestrians. This establishes that they not only know the law — they know how to win.
In addition, local experience matters. Lawyers who practice in Chicago are familiar with the local court system, judges, and even common insurance practices in the area. That local insight can make a real difference in how your case is handled.
Evaluate How They Investigate Your Case
A strong pedestrian accident attorney doesn’t just rely on your word. They launch a full investigation to prove negligence. Abels & Annes leverages multiple tools: they review police reports, collect witness statements, obtain surveillance or traffic camera footage, and even consult accident reconstruction experts when necessary.
If distracted driving is involved, these lawyers know how to uncover evidence such as phone records or driver behavior at the time of the crash. By doing this, they can build a compelling case that shows the driver was negligent and that you deserve fair compensation.
Make Sure They Will Advocate for All Your Losses
When you’re injured as a pedestrian, the financial and emotional fallout can be huge. The right attorney should help you recover not only your current medical bills but also future costs, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. Abels & Annes emphasizes a full-scale evaluation, making sure future treatment and long-term impact are part of their demands.
Additionally, they fight for non-economic damages, such as emotional distress or loss of enjoyment of life, which can be harder to quantify but are just as real.
Confirm Their Commitment and Fee Structure
Hiring a lawyer is a big decision — especially when you’re already dealing with mounting bills and stress. One of the big advantages with pedestrian-injury attorneys like those at Abels & Annes is their contingency fee model. That means you don’t pay unless they win.
During your free initial consultation, you should feel out how responsive they are, whether they take time to understand your concerns, and whether you feel respected and supported. This relationship is important: you’ll be working with this lawyer or firm throughout recovery and potential legal steps.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right attorney after a pedestrian accident can shape your entire recovery — both legally and personally. Look for experience, local insight, a strong investigative strategy, a full-value approach to your losses, and a fee structure that doesn’t add to your financial stress.
If you take the time to find a pedestrian accident attorney who meets all these criteria, you’ll increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve — and of having a supportive advocate by your side when you need it most.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a pedestrian accident attorney with extensive experience handling similar cases.
- Look for a proven track record of successful verdicts and settlements, especially within Chicago.
- Make sure your attorney conducts a thorough investigation using evidence like reports, witnesses, and videos.
- Select a lawyer who will pursue full compensation, including future costs and non-economic damages.
- Confirm that the attorney offers a contingency fee structure and communicates clearly throughout the process.
Dorothy I. Johnson is the heart and soul of Flash Flyer Blog’s writing team. Dorothy loves storytelling and finds the extraordinary in everyday life. She has a unique voice for sharing travel stories, tech trends, wellness tips, and food finds. Her relatable style makes complex ideas easy to grasp. She also turns simple moments into captivating stories. Dorothy’s background and curiosity inspire her to make content that connects with readers. They can find either practical tips or new viewpoints in her work. When she’s not writing, she likes to explore new places. She experiments in the kitchen or dives into a new personal growth book.
