Since the 1990s, the number of pedestrian fatalities in the United States has consistently increased each year. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), there were nearly 6,000 fatalities and over 125,000 reported injuries in just 2017 alone. If involved in such an accident yourself, call the pedestrian accident lawyers in Peoria IL at Schierer & Ritchie.
Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to determine fault in these accidents because liability is often shared between the pedestrian and the driver. If you’ve sustained injuries due to the negligent actions of a car or truck driver, it’s imperative that you retain the services of an experienced legal representative immediately. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, our Peoria pedestrian accident attorneys can represent your case in court, negotiate with insurance companies your behalf, and do everything in our considerable power to maximize your damages.
Contact our Peoria pedestrian accident lawyers at (309) 250-1871 if you’ve been injured by a negligent driver.
Determining Negligence & Protecting Your Claim
The success of your personal injury lawsuit hinges on your legal representative being able to prove that the driver is responsible for the accident. It’s not unusual for a defendant’s insurance company to manipulate the narrative if it means protecting their client and saving money. They may try to claim that you were acting irresponsibly by walking in front of the car or jaywalking and are therefore responsible for the accident.
The driver may be found liable if they were participating in any of the following behaviors during the accident:
Using a cell phone
Speeding
Driving while intoxicated
Falling asleep at the wheel
Eating or drinking
Fortunately, there are a few important steps you can take to protect your claim. If you’re unable to complete these steps because your injuries are too severe, contact our Peoria legal team so that we can compile the necessary evidence in your place.
Follow these steps after a pedestrian accident:
Call 911
Take pictures of the accident scene, any vehicles involved, and your injuries
Write down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Seek immediate medical attention
Request copies of your medical record and the police report
Do not speak to rival insurance company representatives
Contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney
You need to remember that your legal team isn’t the only party conducting a thorough investigation. An insurance company’s main priority is to save money. They can achieve this by offering you an inadequate settlement and by tricking you into undermining your own claim. This is why it’s so important for you to direct any phone calls or messages regarding your case directly to your attorney.
Some injured claimants accept a settlement just to avoid the complicated legal process. While it may be tempting, it’s important to note that these settlement amounts rarely cover the full extent of a claimant’s medical and financial needs. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we can negotiate with the insurance companies for a higher settlement amount and ensure that you’re awarded fair compensation.
With a background in prosecution, we know how the other side thinks—and how to build stronger defenses and smarter injury claims.
Local Experience, Proven Results
Born and raised here, we’ve handled thousands of cases across Illinois and recovered millions for clients in your community.
Trial-Ready Custom Strategy
Every case is prepared as if it’s going to court, giving you maximum leverage whether we’re negotiating or litigating.
24/7 Availability & Clear Communication
We’re always just a call away—and we make sure you’re informed at every stage of your case.
Seek Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Peoria IL
The statute of limitations in Illinois grants claimants 2 years to file their personal injury claims. We understand that seeking justice while you’re struggling to recover from your injuries is difficult. However, our pedestrian accident lawyers in Peoria IL can handle all the legal details of your case so that you can focus on healing. With our guidance, you can recover damages that account for your present and future medical expenses, any lost wages, and even the cost of lifelong professional care.
If you’re to file a claim and pursue maximum damages, contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC at (309) 250-1871 to schedule a free consultation.
“The results of having them on my case were better than I could have ever imagined and the level of care and compassion I received was next to none. On top of all of that, their skills and knowledge prevented me from receiving an undeserved felony charge.”
