Whether you visit a big city like Chicago or stay in Peru, Morris, or Ottawa here in North Central Illinois, crosswalks are almost everywhere. It’s commonplace to see them in downtown or residential areas and near religious institutions, recreational centers, and schools.

The main purpose of crosswalks is to ensure pedestrians make it from one side of the street to the other safely. However, many Illinois pedestrians and motorists aren’t clear about how to act when they encounter crosswalks. Knowing Illinois crosswalk laws can help keep you safe and can help prevent a crosswalk accident.

Pedestrian travel does not guarantee safe arrival.  There are dangers wherever we walk or get out for exercise.  Between navigating cracked sidewalks, searching for crosswalks, and dodging cars in areas with little to no pedestrian infrastructure, a leisurely stroll can lead to danger while you are on your way to your intended destination.

With advances in vehicle technology and heightened pedestrian safety awareness, you might think that anyone traveling on foot, in a wheelchair, or with the use of a mobility aid would at least face better conditions than in the past. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In a troubling trend, pedestrian fatalities are on the rise in Illinois and across the rest of the country.