Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

New data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) offers a mixed bag of news regarding traffic safety in Illinois. While fatal vehicle crashes in 2024 fell to their lowest levels since 2020, the number of pedestrian fatalities remains alarmingly high. 

Encouraging Trends in Fatal Vehicle Crashes

In 2024, IDOT reported 1,103 fatal traffic crashes across Illinois, resulting in 1,196 deaths. These figures mark a 3.5% decline compared to 2023. Additionally, there were significant decreases in specific types of crashes:

• Cyclist fatalities: Dropped from 41 in 2023 to 35 in 2024, a 14.6% decrease, though still above the seven-year average of 30.
• Work zone fatalities: Plummeted from 24 in 2023 to just 13 in 2024.
• Motorcycle-related deaths: Fell by 9.3%, from 162 in 2023 to 147 last year.

These declines suggest progress in areas such as work zone safety and awareness campaigns targeting motorcyclists and cyclists.

The Persistent Problem of Pedestrian Deaths

While overall fatalities have decreased, pedestrian deaths have surged, highlighting a critical issue in Illinois traffic safety. In 2024, 219 pedestrians lost their lives in crashes, a 9.5% increase from the 200 fatalities recorded in 2023.

The six-county region of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties saw 144 pedestrian fatalities in 2024, up 6.7% from 135 the previous year. This rise mirrors a national trend that has been ongoing for over a decade. “Since 2010, there has been nationally a huge increase in the number of people killed while walking,” said Victoria Barrett, Senior Transportation Planner at the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP).

Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing?

Several factors contribute to the rise in pedestrian deaths:

Vehicle Design: Research by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveals that larger vehicles like SUVs, pickups, and vans with taller hood heights are significantly more likely to cause fatal injuries to pedestrians. Unlike sedans, which tend to strike a pedestrian’s legs, larger vehicles often hit the torso or head, where vital organs are located.

Distracted Driving and Speeding: Both Barrett and Alex Perez, Advocacy Manager at the Active Transportation Alliance, note that distracted driving and pandemic-era speeding habits remain major contributors to collisions. Reduced traffic enforcement has exacerbated these issues.

Street Design: Suburban roads like North Avenue, characterized by fast-moving traffic and multiple lanes, are especially hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists.

Long-Term Trends: Professor Ian Savage from Northwestern University points out that pedestrian and cyclist fatalities have made up an increasing proportion of total traffic deaths in Illinois since the pandemic, rising from 18.3% in 2019 to 21.2% in 2024.

Efforts to Improve Safety for Vulnerable Road Users

State and local authorities are taking action to address these alarming trends. Here are some of the ongoing initiatives:

• IDOT’s Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment: This recently completed report identifies high-risk areas and crash trends to prioritize safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Safe Travel for All Program: CMAP is working with Cook and neighboring counties to develop strategies aimed at reducing traffic deaths and injuries. An open house for the program will be held on February 22 at the Centre of Elgin.

• Increased Focus on Pedestrian Safety: “One fatality is one too many,” said IDOT Communications Director Guy Tridgell. The department is investing more time and resources into identifying tools and policies that improve safety for vulnerable road users.

The Road Ahead

While progress has been made in reducing overall fatal crashes, the rise in pedestrian deaths underscores the urgent need for further action. Enhanced vehicle design standards, stricter traffic enforcement, and improved road infrastructure could all play a role in reversing this trend. For pedestrians and cyclists, safety on Illinois roads remains a pressing concern that requires attention from policymakers, drivers, and communities alike.

After what can feel like a long process, the time has come for your workers’ compensation case to either win a verdict or reach a settlement. So now what? When dealing with a workers’ compensation case or any legal matter that involves a settlement, understanding the process can ease a lot of confusion. 

At the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we do everything we can to have your funds dispersed to you in a timely manner. The process is two-fold; there’s the final work your attorney needs to do to complete your file, as well as an operational component that ensures all guidelines have been followed in order to have your funds dispersed free and clear of any more ‘red tape.’ Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens from the time of verdict/settlement to the final disbursement of funds.

The Attorney Process

Settlement Contracts

Once the settlement agreement is reached, the plaintiff’s attorney drafts a document called a settlement contract.

This document outlines the settlement terms, including the payment amount, any bills that will be paid from the settlement, and legal releases for the defendant from any further liability for the incident in question.By signing this document, the plaintiff agrees not to pursue any additional claims related to the same event.

Limited Power of Attorney

Once settlement documents are executed,the attorney provides a Limited Power of Attorney (LPOA) form to the client for their signature. This allows the attorney to deposit the settlement funds into the client’s trust account once received. It also permits the attorney to negotiate and resolve liens or outstanding medical bills related to the case, which helps maximize the client’s net recovery.

Settlement Fund Timeline

After all paperwork is signed and submitted, it typically takes 60-90 days for the settlement funds to be processed and sent to the plaintiff’s attorney.

The Operational Process

After the funds are deposited into the client trust account and all bills and liens are resolved, the attorney prepares a settlement disbursement packet, which includes a breakdown of the settlement amounts. This packet is passed to the operations or accounting team for processing.

Disbursement of Funds

Once all numbers align with the total settlement amount, checks are issued in the names of the client and any medical providers.

The client is invited to the attorney’s office for a final disbursement meeting, where they review the settlement breakdown, ask any questions, and sign the closing statement.

Final Steps

After signing the closing statement, the client authorizes the attorney to send checks to medical providers for their portion of the settlement. The client receives their net settlement check, which reflects the amount left after deductions for liens, legal fees, and other case-related expenses.

Once all payments are made, the case file is officially closed. 

The settlement process can seem complex when your personal injury case is resolved, but with a knowledgeable attorney here at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem guiding you, it’s designed to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. From negotiating the terms of the release to ensuring every dollar is accounted for, this process ensures that you receive what you deserve while addressing any financial obligations tied to your case.

Workplace injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. Fortunately, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act is designed to protect injured employees by requiring employers to cover medical treatment, lost wages, retraining if you can no longer perform your previous job, and compensation for any permanent disabilities. However, the process is not always straightforward, and securing your benefits may require navigating a complex system.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we are here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation system and are dedicated to ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to while alleviating much of the burden from your shoulders.

Common Challenges in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation claims can be costly for employers, which may lead to disputes over your eligibility for certain benefits. Additionally, the process involves legal and bureaucratic complexities that can be overwhelming, especially while you are recovering from an injury. This is where the guidance of an attorney becomes invaluable.

Our skilled team will file your initial claim, manage the necessary documentation, represent you in hearings, ensure you get proper medical treatment, and handle settlement negotiations to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. If your claim is unjustly denied, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Process

To help you understand what to expect, here is an overview of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation process:

Notice of Injury

Notify your employer of the injury as soon as possible, but no later than 45 days after the incident. Prompt notification makes it harder for your employer to dispute that the injury occurred at work.

Initial Treatment

After a workplace injury, seek medical attention immediately. If possible, go straight from the accident site to a hospital or clinic for diagnosis and treatment. You have the right to choose your healthcare provider, and all medical expenses should be covered by your employer without any out-of-pocket costs to you. If symptoms emerge later, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Notice of Work Restrictions

Obtain documentation from your healthcare provider regarding any work restrictions and inform your employer. This ensures that you comply with medical advice and establishes a record of your limitations.

Filing a Claim

We will file an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, accompanied by an Attorney Representation Agreement naming our firm as your legal advocate. Our team will closely monitor your case and address any issues that arise, including appearing before the Commission to protect your rights.

Ongoing Medical Treatment

Your employer is responsible for covering all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI signifies the point at which further treatment will no longer improve your condition.

Independent Medical Examination (IME)

Your employer may request that you undergo an IME conducted by a non-treating physician to assess your condition, treatment needs, and work restrictions. Consult with your attorney before attending an IME to ensure your rights are protected.

Resolving Treatment Disputes

If there is a disagreement between your treating doctor and the IME physician, your attorney can request a hearing to resolve the dispute and advocate for your best interests.

Negotiating Additional Benefits

In cases where your injury prevents you from returning to your previous occupation, your employer may be required to cover retraining costs or provide a lump-sum settlement. We will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Why Choose Parente & Norem?

When you are dealing with a severe workplace injury, focusing on your recovery should be your top priority. Let us handle the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation process. Our attorneys have years of experience representing clients before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission and in court. From filing claims to negotiating settlements, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has suffered a work injury, don’t navigate the Workers’ Compensation system alone. Contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., at 312.641.5926 for a free consultation. Let us provide the support and legal expertise you need to secure your benefits and focus on healing.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. would like to congratulate Christopher Norem on joining the leadership of the Illinois Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) as their Secretary/Treasurer. 

Founded in 1958, ABOTA is a national association of experienced trial lawyers and judges. ABOTA and its members are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the civil jury trial right provided by the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. ABOTA membership consists of more than 7,300 lawyers—equally balanced between plaintiff and defense—and judges spread among 95 chapters in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. 

ABOTA is an invitation-only organization. Members must have at least five years of active experience as trial lawyers, have tried at least 7 civil jury trials to conclusion and possess additional litigation experience.

A father from Arlington Heights is taking legal action against KinderCare after his 5-year-old daughter was left on a school bus for several hours in sub-freezing weather. The incident, which took place last week, has left Wamui Mwiya angry and determined to seek justice for his child.

According to Arlington Heights police, the child, Dior Mwiya, had been on a bus returning to a KinderCare daycare center after attending kindergarten at Forest View Elementary School. She was discovered hours later by a concerned teacher, asleep on the bus.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Mwiya expressed his disbelief: “It’s like, how can you lose a child? It’s not a coat. It’s not a jacket. It’s a whole human being.”

The day began normally for the Mwiya family. Wamui dropped Dior off at KinderCare at around 6 a.m. on Jan. 14. From there, she was transported to Forest View Elementary School for her morning kindergarten class. However, when the bus returned to KinderCare, Dior was mistakenly left on board. She remained there for two to three hours as temperatures outside hovered around a frigid 14 degrees.

It wasn’t until later that morning that the daycare staff noticed Dior was missing. Wamui received a phone call from the center’s director, who initially claimed that Dior had never been dropped off at school that day.

Dior was rushed to a local hospital, where it was determined that she had not sustained any physical injuries. However, her father said she suffered emotional trauma from the experience.

While KinderCare declined to comment on the pending lawsuit, the organization did issue a statement acknowledging the incident and their failure to follow safety protocols.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the children in our care. We have strict safety protocols specific to bus safety that should have prevented this kind of situation. Unfortunately, those protocols were not followed. As a result, the staff member involved, and our center director, are both currently out of our center on administrative leave while we work with our agency partners to investigate,” the statement read. “We reported this issue to state licensing and are working with them and the police to determine what happened and what can be done to prevent this from happening again.”

Mwiya has since filed a lawsuit against KinderCare and hopes that his legal action will lead to systemic changes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“I almost lost my kid, and I just want everybody to know that that’s what they did to me,” he said. “I want justice for Dior.”

Attorney Jake Esp, representing the Mwiya family, said their team is focused on uncovering the details of what led to the incident. “After filing this lawsuit, we will be investigating this claim, trying to figure out what really happened,” Esp explained.

This incident has underscored the importance of rigorous safety measures when caring for young children. Mwiya’s determination to seek accountability serves as a reminder to childcare providers about the gravity of their responsibilities. As the legal process unfolds, the hope is that justice for Dior will pave the way for stronger safeguards to protect all children in daycare settings.

If you or a loved one have been harmed by another’s negligence, The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is here to help. Call/text us today for a free case evaluation at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. Your path to justice begins with us. 

A personal injury case arises when someone suffers harm due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. In Illinois, the legal framework allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for injuries caused by incidents such as car/transportation accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and more. These cases aim to provide financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. On today’s blog, we’ll break down the essentials of personal injury cases in Illinois to help you understand your rights and options.

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Illinois

Car Accidents Car accidents are among the most common personal injury cases in Illinois. Often caused by negligent actions like distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving, these incidents can result in severe injuries. Illinois is a fault-based state, meaning the responsible party’s insurance covers damages.

Example: A driver runs a red light and collides with another vehicle, injuring the other driver. The injured driver can file a claim for medical expenses and lost wages.

Truck Accidents Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These cases may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers of defective truck parts. Federal regulations, such as those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), also come into play.

Example: A truck driver falls asleep at the wheel, causing a multi-vehicle collision on I-294. Victims can pursue claims against the driver and trucking company for negligence.

Slip and Fall Accidents Slip and fall cases, or premises liability claims, occur when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on another’s property. Illinois law requires property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe. Plaintiffs must prove that the owner knew or should have known about the danger but failed to address it.

Example: A grocery store customer slips on a wet floor without warning signs and breaks their arm. The injured party can sue the store for negligence.

Dog Bites Illinois has a strict liability law for dog bites. Dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their pets, provided the victim was lawfully on the property and did not provoke the animal.

Example: A child playing in a neighbor’s yard is bitten by their dog. The parents can file a claim for medical costs and emotional distress.

Wrongful Death When a person dies due to someone else’s negligence or intentional conduct, their family can file a wrongful death claim. Eligible family members, such as a spouse or children, may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

Example: A pedestrian is struck and killed by a drunk driver. The family files a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver for their losses.

Product Liability These cases arise when defective or dangerous products cause injury. Illinois follows strict liability, meaning plaintiffs need only prove the product was defective and caused harm—not that the manufacturer was negligent.

Example: A defective airbag deploys improperly, causing injuries. The injured party can sue the manufacturer for producing a faulty product.

Key Legal Principles in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Negligence Proving negligence involves demonstrating that:

• The defendant owed a duty of care.
• The defendant breached that duty.
• The breach caused the plaintiff’s injury (causation).
• The plaintiff suffered damages.

Comparative Negligence Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re partially at fault for your injury, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Statute of Limitations In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of injury. Missing this deadline likely forfeits your right to compensation.

Damages in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Economic Damages These include measurable financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

Non-Economic Damages Compensation for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

Punitive Damages In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly reckless or malicious behavior.

Navigating Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Burden of Proof The plaintiff must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence—meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant’s actions caused the injury.

Insurance Involvement Insurance companies often defend claims and negotiate settlements. An experienced attorney can help ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Settlement vs. Trial Most cases settle out of court. However, if a fair resolution isn’t possible, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

How We Can Help

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how overwhelming a personal injury can be. Our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. From car accidents to wrongful death claims, we’re here to fight for justice on your behalf.

Contact us today at 312.641.5926 to schedule a free consultation. Your path to justice begins with us.

As the calendar turns to 2025, Illinois residents will experience the impact of hundreds of new laws. From minimum wage hikes to changes in digital ID issuance and subscription management, these updates cover several aspects of daily life. Here’s an overview of some key changes:

Minimum Wage Increases

Starting January 1, 2025, Illinois’ minimum wage will reach $15 per hour. Tipped workers will also see their minimum wage rise from $8.40 an hour to $9 an hour. The law ensures that tipped workers earn at least 60% of the state’s minimum wage, providing greater financial stability for many in the service industry.

Digital Driver’s Licenses and IDs

Under HB4592, Illinoisans can now opt for digital driver’s licenses and IDs. While physical IDs remain available, the state is introducing a smartphone application to register digital versions, with a maximum fee of $6. However, private entities and agencies are not required to accept digital IDs, so physical copies may still be necessary in some situations.

Simplified Gym Membership Cancellations

HB4911 offers more convenience for gym-goers by allowing memberships to be canceled online, via email, or over the phone. This change eliminates the hassle of in-person cancellations.

Subscription Renewal Transparency

SB2764 protects consumers by requiring businesses to notify customers at least three days before an automatic renewal kicks in following a free trial period of 15 days or more. This measure aims to prevent surprise charges and encourage mindful spending.

Expunging Criminal Records

SB3463 amends the Juvenile Court Act, mandating the automatic expungement of juvenile criminal records two years after sentence completion. Expungement hearings will now be scheduled at the time of release, accelerating the process for justice-impacted individuals.

Regulations on Artificial Intelligence

• Child Pornography Laws: HB4623 ensures Illinois’ child pornography laws apply to AI-generated images and videos.
• AI Digital Replicas: HB4875 prohibits the use of unauthorized AI-generated digital replicas in certain content.
• Fair AI in Hiring: HB3773 bars employers from using AI-powered predictive analytics to consider an applicant’s race or zip code when making hiring or firing decisions.

Pay Transparency in Job Postings

An amendment to the Equal Pay Act requires Illinois employers with 15 or more employees to disclose salary ranges and benefits in all job postings. The law applies to remote positions performed in Illinois and includes a 14-day grace period for compliance before fines of $500 are imposed.

Workplace Freedom of Speech

Under SB3649, the Worker Freedom of Speech Act protects employees from disciplinary action for not attending mandatory workplace meetings discussing political or religious views. Nonprofit and advocacy organizations are exempt from this rule.

Preventing Catalytic Converter Thefts

HB4589 targets catalytic converter thefts by requiring recyclers to record vehicle identification numbers (VINs) and obtain proof of ownership from sellers.

Enhanced Protections Under Scott’s Law

HB5370 strengthens Scott’s Law, requiring drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching emergency scenes, stopped emergency vehicles, or construction zones.

Employment Verification Standards

HB0508 prohibits employers from suspending or terminating employees due to discrepancies with E-Verify and bars additional verification requirements beyond federal mandates.

Child Abuse Awareness

HB4350 creates the Child Abuse Notice Act, requiring businesses like schools, daycare centers, hospitals, and bus stations to post notices informing children about physical and sexual abuse and how to report it.

Updated Language in Criminal Justice

An amendment to the Illinois Crime Reduction Act replaces the term “offenders” with “justice-impacted individuals.” The law also establishes the Adult Redeploy Illinois Oversight Board to assist reintegration into public life post-incarceration.

These legislative updates reflect Illinois’ efforts to address economic fairness, consumer protection, public safety, and inclusivity. Stay informed to ensure compliance and take advantage of the benefits these new laws provide.

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but it’s also one of the most dangerous nights of the year to be on the road—or even walking near one. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reveal that nearly half of all fatal car crashes on New Year’s Day involve drunk drivers. Late night celebrations combined with drinking and driving make this holiday particularly hazardous. Tragically, it’s also one of the deadliest days for pedestrians crossing the street.

As the clock strikes midnight and celebrations wind down, millions of people hit the roads to head home. The sheer volume of traffic, coupled with impaired drivers, creates a perfect storm for accidents. More than 50% of crashes on New Year’s Day involve high blood alcohol concentrations. Law enforcement agencies across the country respond with initiatives like the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which emphasizes education and rigorous enforcement to keep the roads safer.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we want you and your loved ones to start the New Year safely. Here are our top safety tips to protect yourself and others.

Essential Road Safety Tips

1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt
   Seatbelts save lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelt use saved nearly 15,000 lives in 2017 alone.

2. Secure Children Properly
   Ensure kids are buckled into age and size appropriate car seats in the back seat. These measures can reduce serious injuries to children by 50%.

3. Obey Speed Limits
   Speeding contributes to many fatal accidents and is entirely preventable. Drive within the posted limits.

4. Avoid Distractions
   Put down your phone, avoid adjusting the radio, and don’t eat or groom while driving. Anything that takes your focus off the road, even briefly, increases the risk of an accident.

5. Plan Ahead
   Arrange for a designated driver, book a hotel, or schedule a ride via shuttle, limo, or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

6. Consider Sober Ride Programs
   Many cities offer free or low-cost sober ride programs during the holidays. Research your local options and share them with friends.

7. Use Public Transportation
   Buses, trains, and other public transit options can be reliable and safe alternatives to driving.

8. Secure Your Vehicle
   If you need to leave your car overnight, park in a well-lit, populated area. Lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight.

9. Drink Responsibly
   Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment, reaction times, and vision. Avoid driving if you’ve had anything to drink, and remember that prescription drugs can also impair driving abilities.

10. Call for Help if Necessary
    If you’re unable to secure a ride home, call 311 for assistance. It’s better to seek help than risk an accident.

Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident? Help Is Available

Unfortunately, even with precautions, accidents happen. If you or a loved one is involved in a drunk driving-related incident, it’s critical to act quickly. The experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem are here to help. We understand the complexities of personal injury law and are committed to securing justice for our clients.

Contact us for a free consultation by calling 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. Don’t let the poor decision-making of an intoxicated driver ruin your New Year.

Stay safe, make smart choices, and let’s all work together to ensure a happier, healthier start to the year!

Source: [American Safety Council – New Year’s Eve Safety Tips]

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. Millions of people rely on these platforms daily, but with their rapid rise, safety concerns have also come to the forefront. By examining accident rates from 2020 to today, we can shed light on the safety of rideshare services, the factors contributing to incidents, and what companies are doing to enhance safety for both passengers and drivers.

The Safety Concerns Surrounding Ridesharing

Ridesharing platforms have become staples of urban mobility, but the increased presence of Uber and Lyft vehicles on the road has raised important questions about safety. Several factors can influence rideshare accident rates, including:

• Driver Behavior: Speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue are common issues among rideshare drivers, many of whom work long hours.
• Road Conditions: Hazards such as poor weather, construction zones, or damaged roadways increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Other Drivers: Rideshare accidents often involve third-party drivers engaging in reckless or negligent behavior.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues, can play a role in rideshare accidents.
• Passenger Behavior: Distracted or disruptive passengers may unintentionally contribute to dangerous situations.

The Numbers Behind Rideshare Accidents

Uber and Lyft have marketed themselves as safe alternatives to traditional transportation, particularly by reducing incidents of drunk driving. Studies support this claim to an extent, showing decreased DUI rates in areas where ridesharing is prevalent. However, rideshare services are not without risks.

Key Statistics:

• Research from the University of Chicago attributes a 3% annual increase in traffic fatalities to the rise of rideshare services, equating to approximately 987 roadway deaths each year.
• Uber’s safety reports indicate that nearly 100% of rides between 2019 and 2020 concluded without safety incidents. Still, 0.0002% of trips involved critical safety events.
• Between 2017 and 2018, Uber vehicles were involved in 97 fatal crashes, resulting in nearly 110 deaths. Passengers, drivers, and third parties each accounted for significant portions of these fatalities.
• Lyft’s data echoes similar trends, with slightly lower accident involvement rates compared to Uber.

The Impact of the Pandemic on Ridesharing:

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant shifts in transportation trends. While public transit usage in the U.S. dropped by 53%, Uber trips declined by only 27%, signaling a growing preference for ridesharing over traditional public transportation. This shift may have long-term implications for urban traffic patterns and safety dynamics.

What Are Uber and Lyft Doing About Safety?

Both Uber and Lyft have made efforts to increase transparency and improve safety through regular safety reports. These reports outline accident statistics, fatality rates, and initiatives aimed at mitigating risks. Key safety measures include:

• Enhanced Driver Screening: Comprehensive background checks and driving history reviews.
• In-App Safety Features: Emergency assistance buttons, real-time location sharing, and ride verification tools.
• Driver and Passenger Education: Awareness campaigns about seatbelt use, proper behavior, and adherence to road safety laws.

Government Oversight and Safety Regulations

Government agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) monitor rideshare accident rates and enforce safety standards. These agencies play a vital role in analyzing data, conducting investigations, and implementing regulations to improve rideshare safety.

Injured in a Rideshare Accident? We Can Help.

Rideshare services have undeniably transformed how we travel. While they offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional transportation, safety concerns persist. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or third party affected by a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 today. Call or text us for a free case evaluation, or fill out the contact form on our website.