Lake Forest, IL (December 7, 2025) — A woman was hospitalized on Thursday, December 4, after being struck by an SUV while walking her dog in Lake Forest, an incident that also left the pet fatally injured, according to local fire officials.
The collision happened around 12:30 p.m. at the intersection of Green Bay Road and Old Elm Road. Emergency crews from the Lake Forest Fire Department and Lake Forest Police Department arrived to find an adult female pedestrian who had been hit by a small SUV while out walking her dog.
The pedestrian was transported by Lake Forest Fire Department ambulance to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital for treatment. Her condition has not been released. Tragically, the dog did not survive and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said the driver, also an adult woman, remained on-site and cooperated with first responders. The Lake Forest Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
Our thoughts are with the injured woman during her recovery.
Pedestrian-Involved Crashes in Lake Forest
Pedestrian-related collisions remain a serious concern in Lake Forest and across Lake County, particularly in areas where residential neighborhoods meet higher-traffic corridors like Green Bay Road. Intersections that combine steady vehicle flow, turning movements, and periods of reduced visibility can increase the likelihood of incidents involving walkers, runners, and cyclists.
Local and state transportation data show that pedestrian crashes, while less frequent than vehicle-to-vehicle collisions, tend to result in more severe injuries. Factors such as driver distraction, failure to yield, speeding, and limited sightlines at intersections often contribute to these incidents.
Even at slower speeds, the force of a vehicle striking an unprotected pedestrian can cause traumatic injuries, including head trauma, internal injuries, spinal damage, and complex fractures. When pets are involved, their smaller size and quick movements near traffic create additional risk during roadway encounters.
Investigations into pedestrian crashes typically include reconstruction of the scene, review of surveillance or dash-camera footage, analysis of driver visibility, and interviews with involved parties and witnesses. Authorities may evaluate whether the pedestrian had the right of way, whether the driver was distracted, and whether roadway design or traffic patterns played a role.
For injured victims and their families, the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Medical treatment, rehabilitation needs, transportation disruptions, and emotional trauma, especially when a pet is lost, can add significant strain. Insurance questions often arise as well, including coverage for medical bills, lost income, and long-term care needs.
A car accident attorney experienced in Illinois pedestrian cases can help victims protect their rights, secure critical evidence, and navigate communication with insurance providers. Legal guidance ensures that victims and families understand their options for pursuing compensation related to medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a crash in Lake Forest or the broader Lake County area, you do not have to manage the aftermath alone. Contact The Law Office of Jack M. Shapiro at 847-243-8917 today to learn how our skilled legal team can help you pursue compensation for your pedestrian accident.
Note: This post has been prepared using information gathered from publicly available secondary sources. The details of the incident have not been independently verified. If you identify any inaccuracies, please contact the Law Office of Jack M. Shapiro, P.C. so our team can promptly review and update the content to maintain accuracy and reliability.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this post is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. This content does not create an attorney–client relationship and is not intended as a solicitation for legal services. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention. Any photographs included in this post are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual scene of the accident.
