Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyer | Scott DeSalvo

Late one Tuesday night last fall, my phone rang. A mother had just been hit by a car while crossing Michigan Avenue near Millennium Park. She was doing everything right—in the crosswalk, had the light, just heading home after dinner with friends. Some driver talking on his phone plowed right into her. Changed her whole life in two seconds.

That call reminded me exactly why I do this work.

When I was nine years old, my father was catastrophically injured at work. He was a truck driver, a Teamster, just a working guy trying to provide for his family. His injury case took 17 years to resolve. Seventeen years. And at the end of those 17 years of being run around by the insurance company and insurance defense lawyers, his own lawyer sued him to get more fees.

We grew up poor after my dad couldn't work anymore. I watched my family struggle. I watched my father get worked over by the legal system, by insurance companies, and by lawyers who only cared about themselves.

That's why I became a lawyer. Not to get rich. Not to work for insurance companies. But to make absolutely sure that what happened to my father never happens to you or your family.

So when you're walking in Chicago and you've got nothing protecting you—no airbag, no seatbelt, no metal frame—just you against a two-ton vehicle, and some driver who's not paying attention hits you? That's when you need someone who actually gives a damn about what happens to you.

Whether you got hit in a crosswalk in the Loop, by a turning car in Lincoln Park, in a parking lot in River North, on the street in Wicker Park, or anywhere else in Chicago or the suburbs—you deserve every dollar you can get under the law.

And here's how I work: You don't pay me anything unless I win your case. No money out of pocket, no upfront fees. I work on a contingency fee basis—I only get paid if you get paid first. And I'm available 24/7/365—call me any time, day or night, because accidents don't happen on a schedule.

Call me right now at (312) 500-4500. Let's talk about what happened and see how I can help.

What Happens When You Get Hit By a Car 

Getting hit by a car is terrifying. One second you're crossing the street, next second—BAM. Your world goes sideways.

The impact. The pain shooting through your body. The confusion. That awful moment of "what just happened?"

Then reality crashes in.

You're hurt. Maybe really hurt. Ambulance comes. Hospital. Tests. X-rays. Maybe surgery. Then the bills start showing up in your mailbox. Your boss is asking when you're coming back to work. And the insurance adjuster? They're already calling, trying to get you to make a statement.

You don't know what to say. You don't know what to do. You're overwhelmed.

This is where I come in.

I've been doing this for over 20 years. Thousands of cases. Recovered millions for my clients. And I can tell you—what happens right after a pedestrian accident is critical. The things you say, the decisions you make, the actions you take (or don't take)—all of it matters.

The insurance companies know this. They're counting on you being confused and overwhelmed. They're betting you don't know your rights.

But here's what they don't want you to know: You have powerful rights under Illinois law. And when you've got the right lawyer fighting for you—someone who's spent well over $100,000 on advanced trial training, who's a graduate of Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers College and "The Edge" program—those rights mean real money to help you rebuild your life.

Not one in 10,000 lawyers has the training I have. And I did it for one reason: so you get the very best, most cutting-edge and effective representation possible.

Why Chicago Streets Are Dangerous for People Walking

Look, I love Chicago. Born and raised here. Great city—amazing food, incredible architecture, beautiful lakefront. But our streets? They can be deadly if you're on foot.

Let me hit you with some numbers that should make everyone pay attention:

What's Happening Across the Country:

According to the Governor's Highway Safety Association (GHSA), here's the reality:

• About 7,500 pedestrians get killed by drivers every year in the United States
• That's more than 20 people dying every single day
• Since 2009, these deaths have gone up 83%—that's not a typo
• Pedestrian deaths make up 18% of all traffic fatalities
• In 2021, 7,485 pedestrians were killed—that's an 11.5% increase from 2020
• Tens of thousands more get seriously hurt and survive

Right Here in Illinois and Chicago:

The Illinois Department of Transportation statistics show that every year in Chicago:

• Approximately 2,919 vehicles hit pedestrians in our city
• About 38 pedestrians die in these crashes annually
• Around 2,751 pedestrians suffer injuries each year
• In 2021, 228 pedestrians died in Illinois traffic accidents
• That's a 30.3% jump from the year before
• The majority of these deaths? Right here in Chicago

Here's something that really gets me: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 80% of pedestrian accidents happen in cities like ours. And get this—roughly 30% of the deadly pedestrian accidents in Chicago happen in marked crosswalks.

Think about that for a second. You can be doing everything right, crossing where you're supposed to, and you're still at risk.

Why?

Because drivers aren't paying attention. They're on their phones. They're in a hurry. They're distracted. They're drunk. And pedestrians pay the price with their bodies and their lives.

The Most Dangerous Places for Pedestrians in Chicago

Not every Chicago street is equally dangerous. Some roads and intersections are just plain hazardous for people on foot.

According to the "Dangerous By Design 2021" report and data from transportation safety experts, here are the worst spots:

Streets Where Pedestrians Get Hurt Most Often:

• South Ashland Avenue – Tons of traffic, not enough safe crossing spots
• Lake Shore Drive – Cars going way too fast, drivers not expecting walkers
• South Stony Island Avenue – Multiple lanes, confusing intersections
• North Avenue – Crazy amounts of turning traffic
• South Archer Avenue – Poor visibility, high speeds

But honestly? Pedestrian accidents happen all over Chicago:

• The Loop – Packed intersections, rushing commuters who don't look
• Michigan Avenue – Heavy foot traffic meets heavy car traffic near Millennium Park and Navy Pier
• Lincoln Park – Residential streets where cars back out without looking
• Wicker Park – Busy shopping areas, parking lot accidents
• River North – Late night crowds, drunk drivers leaving bars and restaurants
• Hyde Park – University of Chicago students crossing, distracted drivers
• Around United Center – After games and concerts, people everywhere, drivers not paying attention
• Streeterville – Tourist areas with unfamiliar drivers
• West Loop – Restaurant district with parking lot hazards
• Near O'Hare and Midway – Rental cars, tourists, drivers who don't know the area

The city's tried to help—crosswalk timers, refuge islands, shorter crossing distances, curb bump-outs. It helps some. But people are still getting hit and killed at alarming rates.

What Causes These Pedestrian Accidents?

After handling thousands of injury cases, I can tell you the same patterns keep showing up. Most pedestrian accidents come down to one thing: a driver who wasn't paying attention or didn't care enough to be careful.

Let me break down what I see over and over:

Distracted Driving – This is the big one. Driver's texting. On the phone. Messing with the GPS. Eating. Putting on makeup. You name it. Eyes not on the road means they don't see you until it's too late. Many of these accidents result from what experts call "inattentional blindness"—where a driver may actually see a pedestrian, but due to inattention, they fail to react by slowing down, swerving, or stopping.

Failure to Yield – The law in Illinois is crystal clear: drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. But how many times have you been halfway across when some impatient driver turns right into you? Happens constantly. A key issue in most pedestrian accident cases is who had the right of way—and drivers ignore these rules all the time.

Speeding – The faster a car is going, the less time the driver has to react. And the harder you get hit. Simple physics, deadly results. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases impact severity.

Drunk and Impaired Driving – Bars close. People drive home drunk. Pedestrians walking home from dinner or leaving work late at night get hit. I've seen this too many times. Impaired drivers pose significant risks to everyone on foot.

Backing Up Without Looking – Parking lots, driveways, alleys. Driver throws it in reverse and guns it without checking. Kids playing. People walking to their cars. It's a recipe for disaster.

Poor Visibility – Night time, bad weather, crappy street lighting. Drivers say "I didn't see them." Yeah, that's the problem—you didn't look.

Reckless Driving – Aggressive jerks who treat city streets like a race track. Running reds. Blowing stop signs. Cutting corners. Pedestrians don't stand a chance against these dangerous driving behaviors.

Here's what you need to understand: In almost every case I handle, the driver could have prevented the accident. They just didn't care enough to be careful.

Your Rights Under Illinois Law 

Illinois law actually protects pedestrians pretty well. The Illinois Vehicle Code has specific rules about how drivers must treat people on foot.

What Drivers Are Required to Do:

As CyberDriveIllinois.com points out, drivers in our state must yield to pedestrians when making turns at any intersection, including lawful turns after coming to a complete stop at a red light, stop sign, or flashing red signal. They must also:

• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks (marked or unmarked)
• Exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians
• Give warning by honking when necessary
• Slow down near schools, parks, and residential areas
• Come to a complete stop before turning when pedestrians are present

When You Have the Right of Way:

Pedestrians have the right of way when they:

• Are in a marked crosswalk (or a child near a school zone crosswalk)
• Are in an unmarked crosswalk on the driver's side of the road with no traffic signals
• Walk with a green light or "walk" signal
• Leave or enter the road from a driveway, private road, or alley
• Enter an intersection with a flashing yellow arrow
• Enter a crosswalk before the light has changed

 That means they (well, their insurance company) has to pay for what they did to you.

What You Can Recover:

Economic Damages (The Bills and Lost Income)

Medical Expenses – Every penny you've spent and will spend. Emergency room, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment, future care. All of it.

Lost Wages – Every day of work you missed. Sick days you had to burn. Vacation days. If you can't go back to your old job because of your injuries, you get compensated for that lost earning capacity too.

Out-of-Pocket Costs – Rehabilitation costs, home modifications if you need them, any expense related to your injury.

Non-Economic Damages (The Human Toll)

Pain and Suffering – The physical pain you're going through. The emotional trauma. The sleepless nights. The fear. The anxiety. The depression. The way this has changed your life.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life – Can't play with your kids anymore? Can't do your hobbies? Can't be intimate with your spouse? That's all compensable. Impact on your relationships, loss of consortium—all of it counts.

Permanent Injuries – Scars, disabilities, chronic pain—if your injuries are permanent, you get additional money for how this affects the rest of your life.

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Was Outrageous)

These are rare, but available in cases where the driver's conduct was really outrageous or egregious—like drunk driving, extreme reckless driving, or intentional acts. Punitive damages punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior.

Now here's something important about Illinois law: We have what's called "comparative negligence."

In plain English? Even if you screwed up a little bit—maybe you were jaywalking or not paying perfect attention—you can still recover money as long as you were less than 51% at fault.

If you're found 20% at fault, your damages get reduced by 20%. But you still recover.

Insurance companies love trying to blame pedestrians. "Dark clothes." "Not in a crosswalk." "Looking at their phone."

These are tactics to pay you less. Don't fall for it. That's why you need someone who knows how to fight back.

Why You Should Call Me 

There are lots of personal injury lawyers in Chicago. Some are good. Some... not so much.

So why call me? Fair question. You already know my story about my father. But let me tell you what I've built since then.

My Three Principles of Excellent Representation

Principle #1: Treat All Injury Victims Like Family

People who have been injured in an accident deserve to have their phone calls answered. They deserve to have an injury lawyer who they like, trust, and respect. They deserve to know where their case stands, to have their questions answered. And they deserve a lawyer who works hard and smart on their case.

I make sure everyone on my team understands that winning your case while helping you and being there for you is our #1 goal. Honesty, care, and respect—that's how we treat every single person who walks through our door.

Principle #2: World-Class Legal Ability

To get every dollar our clients deserve, whether at settlement or trial, I've spent the last two decades studying with the best of the best. I've spent well over $100,000 for advanced settlement and trial training that most other lawyers never even consider doing.

I fly all over the country (and continue to do so) to study with top legal minds. I'm a graduate of the world-renowned Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College and the prestigious "The Edge" program. Not one in 10,000 lawyers has completed the training I have.

And I did it for one reason: so you get the very best, most cutting-edge and effective representation possible.

Principle #3: Proprietary Case Processing = Fast & Excellent Results

From our one-of-a-kind, in-house developed automated case management software to our proprietary pre-suit case process, my firm discovers more about your case, earlier. We beat the insurance company to the punch, and that means better results and faster case settlements for all of my injury clients.

How I'm Different

You Don't Pay Me Anything Upfront – Not one penny. I cover all the costs—medical records, expert witnesses, filing fees, everything.

I Only Get Paid If You Do – Contingency fee basis. In personal injury cases it's 33 1/3% if we settle, or 40% if we have to go to court or trial. These are standard Illinois rates. If I don't win, you don't owe me anything.

Call Me Any Time – 24/7/365. Middle of the night? Weekend? Christmas? I'm here. (312) 500-4500

I Only Represent Injured People – Never insurance companies. Never defendants. Only victims. My loyalty is 100% to you.

I've Handled Thousands of Cases – Over 20 years of experience. Recovered millions of dollars for my clients. When insurance companies see my name, they know I'm serious.

I Win Nearly All My Cases – Studies show that accident victims who hire lawyers recover up to three times more than those who try to handle it themselves. Three times more. That's not because lawyers are magic. It's because we know what your case is actually worth, we know how to prove it, and we know how to deal with insurance companies.

How I Treat People

I don't pressure anybody. I don't chase clients. I don't use sleazy sales tactics. We talk like friends. You decide if you want to hire me. Zero pressure. Ever.

Here's how it goes:

• You call for free (or I can call you)
• I listen to your story
• I answer your questions and concerns
• I tell you my plan
• You can hire me or not hire me—your choice
• Either way, we end up as friends

Sound good?

Your fight is my fight. That's not just words. That's how I run my practice.

How I Handle Your Pedestrian Accident Case

When you hire me, here's exactly what happens:

Step 1: Free Consultation (Zero Pressure)

We talk. I listen to your story. Answer your questions honestly. Explain your rights and options. Tell you what I think your case is worth. You decide if you want to hire me. No pressure. No sales pitch.

Step 2: Immediate Investigation

If you hire me, I get to work right away. Time is critical—evidence disappears fast.

I'll conduct a thorough investigation that may include:

• Obtaining the police accident report
• Contacting the insurance company and putting them on notice
• Sending preservation letters for surveillance video before it's erased
• Collecting and studying accident scene photos
• Photographing the accident scene myself
• Inspecting the driver's vehicle if possible
• Talking with eyewitnesses while memories are fresh
• Analyzing available video footage
• Subpoenaing the driver's cell phone records if necessary
• Examining chemical test results if police got them
• Downloading electronic data recorder information if available
• Starting to gather your medical records and bills
• Requesting the driver's debit/credit card receipts from before the crash
• Identifying all available insurance coverage

Step 3: Build Your Case

I work with top experts when necessary:

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts who can testify about your injuries
• Life care planners for permanent injuries
• Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Vocational rehabilitation specialists

I also:

• Get all your complete medical records
• Document your lost wages
• Calculate everything you're owed
• Determine why the driver hit you and who should be held responsible

Sometimes the driver isn't the only one who should be held liable. The driver's employer, a bar that over-served them, or even government agencies responsible for unsafe roads could share responsibility. I identify every potential defendant and all sources of compensation available to you.

Step 4: Negotiate Aggressively

I know how insurance companies work. I know their games. I know what your case is really worth. And I negotiate hard.

I'll prepare a persuasive demand package and fight for every dollar you deserve. About 90% of my cases settle at this stage because insurance companies know I'm prepared to go to trial if they lowball you.

Step 5: File Suit If Necessary

If they won't pay fair value, I file a lawsuit. I'm not scared of court—I actually love trial work. It's what I've trained for my whole career.

I prepare every case as if it's going to trial. We'll work with top safety experts, accident investigators, medical experts, and other specialists to prove the severity of your injuries and determine what your case is worth.

Filing suit often motivates better offers. But if it doesn't, I'm ready to take your case to a jury.

Step 6: Keep You Informed

You'll always know what's happening. I return calls. Answer emails. Explain things in normal English. I'll advise you of any settlement offers and help you make decisions that affect your case and your future.

You're not a case number. You're a person going through hell, and I'm here to help you through it.

What to Do Right After the Accident

The actions you take right after getting hit can significantly impact your case. Here's what I tell everyone:

At the Scene or Hospital

Get Medical Help Immediately – Even if you think you're okay, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain. Brain injuries, internal bleeding, spinal damage—they don't always show symptoms right away. A doctor will know how to examine you and conduct the proper tests. The longer you wait, the longer you'll prolong your recovery.

Call the Police – You need an official accident report. This documentation becomes crucial evidence later. Contact the Chicago Police Department or the law enforcement agency that responds.

Get Information If You Can – If you're able: driver's name, contact info, insurance information, license plate number, witness names and phone numbers. Take photos of the scene, the vehicle, and your injuries.

Don't Give a Statement to Their Insurance Company – They'll call you. Maybe even show up at the hospital. Do NOT give them a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss the accident with them. Politely tell them your lawyer will contact them, then call me immediately at (312) 500-4500.

In the Days Following

Save Everything – Keep the clothes and shoes you were wearing. Take photos of your injuries as bruises develop, swelling appears, scars form. Write down what happened while it's fresh. Save all medical records, bills, and receipts. Hold onto accident scene photos and witness information.

Follow Your Doctor's Orders Completely – Go to all appointments. Take medications as prescribed. Do your physical therapy. Insurance companies look for any reason to claim you weren't really hurt. Don't give them ammunition.

Keep a Journal – Document your pain levels, how the injuries affect your daily activities, your emotional state, sleep problems. Write about how your injuries impact your ability to work and engage in other activities. This becomes powerful evidence later.

Stay Off Social Media – This is critical. Insurance companies monitor Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok—all of it. They'll twist innocent posts to claim you're not injured. Posting photos, checking in, or commenting on your recovery might feel harmless, but insurers will use this information against you. Just stay offline until your case is resolved.

Don't Talk About Fault – Don't admit fault. Don't apologize. Don't speculate about what happened. These statements can and will be used against you.

Report to Your Auto Insurance – Give your insurer notice about the accident, especially if you'll need to file a claim. For instance, if you were injured in a hit-and-run crash, you may need to file an uninsured motorist claim.

Don't Deal With the Driver's Insurance Company – After a pedestrian accident, expect calls, letters, maybe even home visits from insurance representatives. They'll want statements, try to get you to speculate about fault, or push you to accept a quick settlement. Don't take the bait. Everything you say can be used against you. Refer them to me. I know the games insurers play, and I don't let them get away with it.

Call Me Right Away – The sooner you call, the sooner I can protect your rights. (312) 500-4500

Injuries I See All the Time

When a car hits a pedestrian, there's no protection. The injuries can be catastrophic. Here are the most serious injuries I see regularly:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

When your head strikes the vehicle, windshield, or pavement, the results can range from concussions to severe brain damage. TBIs can cause cognitive problems (memory, concentration, processing), personality changes, chronic headaches and migraines, balance and coordination issues, and sometimes permanent disability requiring lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact can damage your spine, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, loss of bowel or bladder control, permanent disability, and need for wheelchairs and lifelong adaptive care.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The force commonly causes leg and ankle fractures, broken pelvis, rib fractures (which can puncture lungs), arm and wrist fractures, facial fractures, and skull fractures. Many need surgery with pins, rods, and plates, followed by lengthy rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys), punctured lungs, and other life-threatening injuries requiring emergency surgery.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Torn ligaments (ACL, MCL, rotator cuff), muscle tears, tendon damage, herniated discs, whiplash, and chronic pain conditions are common, particularly in accidents involving sudden impacts.

Road Rash and Lacerations

When pedestrians are thrown onto pavement, they suffer severe abrasions and "road rash," deep cuts requiring stitches, scarring and disfigurement, and sometimes need skin grafts.

Psychological Trauma

Beyond physical injuries, many victims experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and panic attacks, depression, fear of walking near traffic, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress.

Overall, pedestrian accident injuries can vary widely in severity, but even seemingly minor incidents can have lifelong physical, emotional, and financial impacts on victims.

All of these injuries deserve full compensation—not just for your immediate medical bills, but for all future treatment, lost earning capacity, and the lifetime impact on your quality of life.

Time Limits You Need to Know About

This is critically important: Illinois law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits. These are called "statutes of limitations."

For Personal Injury Cases: You have TWO YEARS from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

For Wrongful Death Cases: You have TWO YEARS from the date of death to file a lawsuit.

Miss the Deadline?

Your case gets thrown out. Done. The court won't hear it. You lose your right to any money. Forever. It's crucial to initiate legal action within this timeframe, as failure to do so can result in the court dismissing the case.

There are very limited exceptions to these deadlines (like if the victim is a minor), but don't count on exceptions. The rule is two years, and that deadline is firm.

Why You Shouldn't Wait:

Even though you have two years, don't sit on this:

• Evidence disappears (surveillance video, physical evidence, witness memories fade)
• Witnesses move away or become unavailable
• Your own memory of what happened gets less clear
• The insurance company is building their defense from day one
• The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better your outcome typically is

Consulting with a pedestrian accident attorney promptly can ensure you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, and file within the statute of limitations to protect your legal claim.

Don't wait. Call me today: (312) 500-4500

How to Stay Safe Out There

I spend my days fighting for injured pedestrians, but I'd rather prevent these accidents from happening in the first place. Here's how everyone can help make Chicago safer:

Who Can Help Reduce Pedestrian Accidents?

Everyone plays a role in improving pedestrian safety and making Chicago communities walkable. This includes pedestrians, passenger car drivers, commercial truckers, parents and caregivers, government agencies, law enforcement, vehicle and parts manufacturers, transit companies, and road designers.

When we work together, the people of Chicagoland can help save hundreds of lives and prevent thousands of people from suffering severe, even disabling, pedestrian accident injuries.

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Walkers

It's easy to get distracted while walking in a busy city like Chicago. Sometimes walkers step out into traffic, disobey traffic signals, walk in unsafe locations, or don't take steps to make sure they're seen. As pedestrians, there are things we can do to stay safe:

• Only cross at intersections and marked crosswalks
• Look both ways before crossing—and keep watching for oncoming traffic as you cross
• Don't assume drivers will stop—even if you have the right of way
• If you must walk in the street, walk facing traffic
• Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night
• Carry a flashlight when walking after dark
• Put your phone away and stay alert
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Parents

Approximately one in five pedestrian fatalities in the United States are children under age 15. Young children and toddlers are most likely to suffer disabling or deadly injuries after getting hit by a car. Parents can make a significant difference:

• Don't allow children under 10 to cross streets alone
• Hold young children's hands in parking lots and near streets
• Teach kids not to play in parking lots and driveways
• Instruct children to only walk on sidewalks and in protected pedestrian areas
• Make sure kids wear reflective clothing and carry flashlights if they must walk before dawn or after dusk
• Teach them to look left, right, then left again before crossing
• Be especially vigilant near schools, parks, and playgrounds

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Drivers

Most of the time, negligent drivers cause or contribute to pedestrian accidents that cause severe injuries and deaths in Chicago. By following a few safety tips, motorists can reduce the risk of striking walkers:

• Slow down at intersections and crosswalks
• Yield to pedestrians in the roadway—they always have the right of way in crosswalks
• Put your phone away—it can wait
• Anticipate children darting into traffic, especially near parks, playgrounds, schools, bus stops, and where there are lots of parked cars
• Don't drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Watch for pedestrians when backing up
• Be extra careful when making turns
• Look for pedestrians before turning, even on green lights
• Exercise extra caution in school zones and congested areas

Questions People Ask Me

What should I do if the driver's insurance company calls me?

Don't talk to them. Be polite, but tell them your lawyer will contact them. Then call me immediately at (312) 500-4500.

Insurance adjusters are trained professionals whose job is to save their company money. They'll ask questions designed to get you to say things that hurt your case. They'll downplay your injuries. Try to get you to accept a lowball settlement before you even know how badly you're hurt.

You should talk to your lawyer before you give any statement to the insurer and before you accept any settlement offer. Let me handle all communication with them. That's what I'm here for.

Can I still get money if it was partly my fault?

Yes. Under Illinois' comparative negligence law, you can recover damages even if you were partly at fault—as long as you were less than 51% responsible for the accident.

Your money gets reduced by your fault percentage. So if you were 20% at fault, your damages get reduced by 20%. But you still recover.

For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your damages will be reduced by 20%. If you're found more than 50% at fault, you'll be barred from recovering damages.

Insurance companies love blaming pedestrians. "Jaywalking." "Dark clothes." "Not paying attention." These are tactics to pay you less.

Don't let them get away with it. Call me and I'll fight to prove the driver was at fault.

How much does hiring you cost?

Nothing upfront. Zero. Zip. Nada.

I work on a contingency fee basis. That means:

• No money out of pocket from you
• I advance all case costs (medical records, expert fees, filing fees, everything)
• I only get paid if you get paid first
• If I don't win your case, you don't owe me a penny in attorney fees

In personal injury cases, my fee is 33 1/3% of your recovery if we settle before filing a lawsuit, or 40% if we have to go to court or trial. These are standard Illinois rates.

You get paid first. Then I get paid from your recovery. You never pay me out of pocket.

Pretty good deal, right?

What if the driver took off? (Hit and Run)

If the driver fled the scene and can't be located, you still have options. Don't lose hope.

Your Own Car Insurance Even though you were walking, your own auto insurance's uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage might cover you. You may be able to file claims against your own uninsured motorist coverage to recoup some of your costs.

Other Coverage Options

• Your medical payments (MedPay) coverage can help with medical bills
• Your health insurance should cover treatment
• If you were working when it happened, workers' compensation may apply
• If a family member's car insurance has UM coverage, you might be covered under their policy

The key is acting fast. Report the hit and run to police immediately. Try to get any info you can—partial license plate, make/model/color of vehicle, direction they fled, any witnesses. Then call me right away so I can investigate all possible sources of recovery.

Hit and run cases are complicated, but I've handled many of them successfully.

How long will my case take?

I wish I could give you a definite answer, but every case is different. Here's the range:

Faster Cases (3-12 months):

• Clear liability (driver obviously at fault)
• Moderate injuries that heal completely
• Cooperative insurance company
• Good evidence
• Settlement before lawsuit

Longer Cases (1-3 years):

• Disputed liability
• Severe or permanent injuries
• Multiple parties involved
• Insurance company refuses to make fair offer
• Need to file lawsuit and go through discovery
• Trial necessary

My approach: I move your case as fast as possible while still getting you maximum compensation. I don't drag cases out unnecessarily. About 90% of my cases settle without going to trial.

But I also won't settle your case for less than it's worth just to close it quickly. Your recovery is more important than speed.

Can I get punitive damages?

Possibly, but punitive damages are rare in Illinois personal injury cases.

Punitive damages are only awarded when the defendant's conduct was particularly reckless, egregious, or intentional. Think:

• Drunk driving
• Extreme speeding or racing
• Intentionally running someone down
• Driving while texting after multiple warnings
• Other willful and wanton conduct

If the at-fault driver or other liable party acted maliciously or without regard to your safety, the jury may award punitive damages in your case. These damages punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior.

Most pedestrian accident cases involve "ordinary" negligence (distracted driving, failure to yield, etc.), which doesn't qualify for punitive damages. But you can still recover substantial compensation through economic and non-economic damages.

If punitive damages apply to your case, I'll pursue them aggressively.

Will I have to go to court?

Probably not. About 90% of cases settle without trial.

Here's how it typically goes:

1. I investigate and build your case
2. I send a demand package to insurance
3. We negotiate back and forth
4. We reach a settlement agreement
5. You get paid

However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, I'm 100% prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators. We'll prepare a persuasive case for a settlement or, if necessary, we'll be ready to go to trial.

Having a lawyer who's not afraid of trial actually makes settlement more likely. Insurance companies know I'm not bluffing. They know I've got elite trial training from Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers College and "The Edge" program. They know I'll fight for you in court if necessary.

So while most cases settle, my willingness to go to trial is exactly what gets you a better settlement.

What if my injuries weren't that serious?

First off—if a car hit you, your injuries are serious. Period.

But I understand what you're asking. Maybe you didn't break any bones. Maybe you "only" have soft tissue injuries, bruising, or whiplash. Maybe you were treated and released from the ER.

Here's the thing: you still deserve compensation for:

• All your medical bills
• Time missed from work
• Pain and suffering
• Any ongoing symptoms or problems

Don't minimize your injuries. Insurance companies will do plenty of that without you helping them.

Also, some injuries don't show up immediately. Traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, and spinal problems can take days or weeks to manifest symptoms. Many injuries such as TBI can be difficult to detect initially.

That's why you should always get checked out by a doctor and call a lawyer—even if you think you're "fine."

And here's something else: I take cases of all sizes. All Chicago law firms want large, easy-to-win cases, but large or small, we handle them all. Other lawyers might turn their noses up at smaller cases. I don't. I grew up in a working-class family. I know that even a "small" case can mean the difference between paying your bills and falling behind.

We firmly believe that once a client works with us, even on a small case, they will know they are working with a top, serious-minded Chicago personal injury lawyer who has assembled a team 100% dedicated to client satisfaction.

Call me. Let's talk about what happened. I'll tell you if I think you have a case.

Do I really need a lawyer? Can't I just handle it myself?

You can try to handle it yourself. The law doesn't require you to have a lawyer.

But here's what studies show: pedestrian accident victims who hire lawyers recover up to three times more than those who don't.

Three times more.

Why? Because:

Insurance Companies Lowball Unrepresented Victims They know you don't know what your case is worth. They know you don't know how to prove it. They know you'll probably accept their first offer because you need money now. Only about 51% of accident victims who handle their cases without hiring a lawyer recover compensation for their losses.

You Don't Know What You Don't Know How do you calculate future medical expenses? How do you value pain and suffering? What evidence do you need? How do you counter their arguments? What are your rights under Illinois law? How do you prove liability? What about comparative negligence?

The Process is Complicated Medical records. Police reports. Witness statements. Statute of limitations. Discovery. Depositions. Negotiation tactics. Settlement agreements. Legal terminology. Accident reconstruction. Expert witnesses. It's overwhelming when you're trying to recover from injuries.

Insurance Companies Have Lawyers The driver's insurance company has an entire legal team working against you. Adjusters trained to minimize payouts. Defense attorneys whose job is to pay you as little as possible. Do you really want to go up against them alone?

Look, I'm obviously biased—I'm a lawyer. But I've seen what happens when people try to handle these cases themselves. They get taken advantage of. They accept settlements that are a fraction of what their case is worth. They miss deadlines. They say the wrong things that destroy their case.

Don't let that be you.

The consultation is free. The advice is free. You have nothing to lose by calling me.

The most important step you can take is to get help from an experienced Chicago pedestrian accident attorney. We will provide a free and immediate review of your case, with no strings attached.

What if I was jaywalking or crossing outside a crosswalk?

You may still have a case. Seriously.

While pedestrians generally should use crosswalks, drivers still have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid hitting pedestrians—even if the pedestrian is jaywalking.

Under Illinois law, comparative negligence applies. This means:

• The court will determine what percentage each party was at fault
• If you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover
• Your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault

For example, let's say you were jaywalking (maybe 30% at fault) but the driver was speeding and texting (70% at fault). You could still recover 70% of your damages.

Accidents happen when drivers ignore the rules of the road and fail to stop, or when they come dangerously close to pedestrians. If a driver's failure to yield caused you or a loved one to suffer injuries, you should take immediate steps to protect your legal rights and pursue all compensation you are due.

Don't assume you have no case just because you weren't in a crosswalk. Call me and let's discuss the specific facts. Every case is different.

Who else might be liable besides the driver?

Good question. In most Chicago pedestrian accidents, the at-fault driver is liable. But other parties may share responsibility depending on how the crash occurred.

Liability is determined by investigating the cause of the accident and identifying everyone who contributed to it. We will work hard to determine why the driver hit you and who should be held responsible for your physical, emotional, and financial harm.

Potentially Liable Parties:

• The driver who failed to yield, drove distracted, sped, or drove under the influence
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers if a defect (like faulty brakes) contributed to the crash
• The driver's employer if the driver was on the job when the accident occurred
• Bars or social hosts who provided alcohol to the driver (dram shop liability)
• Government agencies or contractors responsible for unsafe roads, missing signs, or malfunctioning traffic signals

Because multiple parties may be involved, proving liability in a pedestrian accident case often requires accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and legal knowledge and experience.

We will want to identify every potential defendant and all sources of compensation available to you. In order to determine the cause of the accident and to fully calculate your losses, we may also consult with experts in accident reconstruction, life care planning, and other fields.

Will my health insurance cover my medical bills?

Your health insurance should cover your medical treatment (subject to your deductible and co-pays).

However, here's what you need to know:

Health Insurance Liens If you recover money from the driver's insurance company, your health insurance may have a right to be reimbursed for what they paid. This is called a "subrogation lien."

The Good News As your lawyer, I negotiate these liens. I often get them reduced significantly, which means more money in your pocket.

Medicare/Medicaid If you have Medicare or Medicaid, they have strict lien rights. These liens must be repaid, but I can still negotiate to minimize them.

No Health Insurance? If you don't have health insurance, don't let that stop you from getting treatment or hiring me. Many doctors will treat injury victims on a "lien" basis, meaning they wait to get paid from your settlement.

I can help you find doctors who will treat you, even if you don't have insurance or can't afford to pay upfront.

Serving Chicago and All Surrounding Communities

I represent pedestrian accident victims throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Whether your accident happened in the city or the suburbs, I'm here to help.

Chicago Neighborhoods: The Loop • River North • Lincoln Park • Wicker Park • Bucktown • Logan Square • Lakeview • Hyde Park • South Loop • West Loop • Gold Coast • Old Town • Streeterville • River West • Ukrainian Village • Pilsen • Bridgeport • Beverly • Chinatown • Little Italy • Bronzeville • Andersonville • Edgewater • Rogers Park • Uptown • Ravenswood • Albany Park • Irving Park • Portage Park • Jefferson Park • Norwood Park • Edison Park • Austin • Humboldt Park • Garfield Park • North Lawndale • South Shore • Chatham • Englewood • Auburn Gresham • Washington Heights • Morgan Park • Mount Greenwood

Surrounding Suburbs: Evanston • Skokie • Wilmette • Winnetka • Glencoe • Northbrook • Glenview • Morton Grove • Niles • Park Ridge • Des Plaines • Mount Prospect • Arlington Heights • Schaumburg • Hoffman Estates • Elk Grove Village • Rolling Meadows • Palatine • Oak Park • River Forest • Forest Park • Berwyn • Cicero • Lyons • Riverside • Brookfield • La Grange • Western Springs • Hinsdale • Clarendon Hills • Downers Grove • Westmont • Oak Brook • Elmhurst • Villa Park • Lombard • Glen Ellyn • Wheaton • Carol Stream • Naperville • Aurora • Bolingbrook • Romeoville • Joliet • Orland Park • Tinley Park • Oak Lawn • Burbank • Chicago Ridge • Worth • Palos Hills • Palos Heights • Homer Glen

Cook County and Beyond: I represent clients throughout Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, Lake County, Kane County, and all surrounding Illinois counties.

You want a lawyer the insurance companies know can afford the expensive rent downtown. And who is ready, willing, and able to fight and go to Court on your injury case if there are any problems.

Of course, I visit my clients all over Chicago and the suburbs. We can meet at your home or at a local restaurant. Really, anywhere you feel comfortable.

Whether you want to meet in person or handle things remotely, I'm here to help you every step of the way.

Don't Wait—Call Me Right Now

Every day you wait is another day that crucial evidence could disappear. Surveillance video gets erased after 30 days. Witnesses forget what they saw. Physical evidence gets cleaned up or destroyed. The insurance company is building their case against you from day one.

You're dealing with pain, medical appointments, bills piling up, stress about work, and uncertainty about your future. Let me handle the legal fight while you focus on getting better.

Here's what happens when you call:

1. We Talk (Free, No Obligation)

• You tell me what happened
• I listen to your story
• I answer all your questions
• I explain your rights and options
• I give you my honest assessment

2. You Decide

• Hire me or don't hire me—your choice
• Zero pressure, ever
• Either way, we end up as friends

3. If You Hire Me, I Get to Work Immediately

• I handle everything
• You focus on healing
• I fight for every dollar you deserve

Remember:

• ✓ Free consultation any time, day or night
• ✓ No money out of pocket ever
• ✓ No fee unless we win your case
• ✓ Available 24/7/365 when you need me
• ✓ I only represent injured people never insurance companies
• ✓ Over 20 years of experience
• ✓ Elite trial training from Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers College and "The Edge"
• ✓ Handled thousands of cases and recovered millions for clients

No matter how you or a loved one has been hurt, I truly hope to hear from you to see how I can help. You can call my office any time, night or day.

The call and consultation are always 100% free and no obligation.

Call me right now: (312) 500-4500

You can also text me, email me, or fill out the contact form on my website. But the fastest way to get answers is to pick up the phone and call.

I'm here. I'm ready to help. Let's talk about what happened and what I can do for you.

Final Thoughts From Me

If you've read this far, thank you. I know it's a lot of information.

Here's what I want you to remember: Getting hit by a car while walking is one of the most traumatic things that can happen to a person. You didn't ask for this. You don't deserve this. And you shouldn't have to go through it alone.

When I was nine years old, my father was catastrophically injured. His injury case took 17 years to resolve. At the end of those 17 years, his own lawyer sued him for more fees. We grew up poor. I watched my family struggle.

That's why I became a lawyer. To make sure what happened to my father never happens to you or your family.

This isn't just marketing talk. It's my life's mission.

I have made it my mission to do everything in my power to ensure that injured people get the respect and case outcome they deserve from a highly skilled injury lawyer from a law firm of good people doing excellent work on behalf of injury victims.

When you hire me, you're not just getting a lawyer. You're getting someone who actually cares about what happens to you. Someone who will fight for you like I'd fight for my own family. Because after what my family went through, I understand what you're going through.

Your fight is my fight.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Scott DeSalvo
Personal Injury Attorney
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 500-4500

Call me any time. Day or night. Weekend or holiday. I'm here when you need me.

Please realize that we are here to help, whether you have a viable case or not. Feel free to call.

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