Are Pedestrian Accidents Worse for Children and the Elderly?

 Posted on June 17, 2025 in Personal Injury

Summer weather means more people are outside enjoying it. Whether in residential neighborhoods, at events, or elsewhere, many people enjoy walking while the weather is warm. Pedestrian accidents can happen to anyone, but children and older adults have specific characteristics that make them more likely to be hit and more vulnerable in these collisions. Catastrophic and fatal injuries are common.

If someone else’s negligence causes a pedestrian accident, injured victims or their families may have grounds to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. These cases can be complex, and making a mistake could threaten your compensation. Our skilled Orland Park, IL pedestrian accident attorney can handle all aspects of your case and fight to help you secure maximum compensation.

Are Pedestrian Accidents Common in Illinois?

In 2023, there were 4,533 pedestrian accidents in Illinois. These collisions produced 195 deaths and 5,292 injuries. Although pedestrian crashes only accounted for 1.5 percent of all crashes in the state that year, they represented 17.3 percent of fatal and 6.8 percent of injury-producing accidents.

If you are riding in a vehicle, you have some protection in a collision. Airbags, seatbelts, and the vehicle’s structure can absorb some of the impact force, potentially reducing the severity of injuries. Pedestrians have no protection. Even at a low speed, a vehicle striking a pedestrian is likely to have devastating effects.

Why Are Children Likely to Be Hit As Pedestrians?

Children do not always understand traffic rules. They may not look both ways before crossing the street or think that drivers will not hit them. Many children also have trouble judging how fast a car is moving or how long it will take to stop. That can lead to dangerous decisions when a child crosses a street.

Children might suddenly dart out onto a street, and their smaller size can make it more difficult for drivers to see them. Even when drivers are paying attention, it can be hard to react in time when a child suddenly appears in their path.

Why Are Mature Adults at a Greater Risk of Being Hit?

Older pedestrians often move slowly and need more time to cross the street. They may also have hearing or vision problems that make it harder to detect oncoming traffic. Some elders may use walkers or canes, which can affect balance and mobility.

If a car hits an older adult, the injuries are often serious because an elder’s body is usually more fragile. The same impact that would produce minor injuries in a younger person can cause much more severe wounds for a mature adult.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer for a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

The damages for pedestrian accidents are usually extremely high. Medical bills, lost wages, and different kinds of pain and suffering can strain your finances and diminish your quality of life. Although you may deserve high amounts of compensation, that means the liable insurance company is more likely to use various tactics designed to sabotage your claim.

Many claimants settle for a much lower amount than they are entitled to. Your attorney knows how to build a strong case and fight insurers for the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Discuss Your Case With Our Experienced Orland Park, IL Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

You can trust Issa Law, LLC to handle all aspects of your pedestrian accident case skillfully, always focused on protecting your best interests. Request your free consultation with our highly effective Orland Park, IL personal injury attorney today by contacting us online or calling 708-966-2408.