What if I was crossing outside a crosswalk?

You may still have a claim. Comparative negligence rules in most states allow recovery even if you were partly at fault, with compensation reduced by your share of responsibility. An attorney can evaluate your case.

Can a family file a claim after a fatal pedestrian accident?

Yes. Family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs, lost financial support, and loss of companionship. Time limits apply, so it's important to act promptly.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim?

Statutes of limitations vary by state. Wrongful death claims often have shorter deadlines, so contact an attorney as soon as possible.

What if the driver fled the scene?

Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents can still be pursued through your own uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help identify all available sources of compensation.

Home/Pedestrian Accidents

Crosswalk, sidewalk & hit-while-walking crashes

Pedestrian Accidents — Your Rights and Options

When a vehicle strikes a person on foot, there's no contest — the pedestrian almost always loses. Pedestrian accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries or death, and victims are often left facing enormous medical bills and a long, painful recovery. Drivers owe pedestrians a duty of care, and when that duty is broken, victims have the right to full and fair compensation. Our network connects you with attorneys who fight for injured pedestrians and their families.

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Where and Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen

Most pedestrian crashes happen at intersections and crosswalks, where drivers fail to yield or turn into a person crossing the street. Many occur at night or in poor visibility, often involving speeding, distracted, or impaired drivers. School zones, parking lots, and bus stops are also high-risk areas.

In nearly every case, the crash was preventable — caused by a driver who was speeding, texting, running a light, failing to yield, or driving under the influence.

Severe Injuries for Pedestrians

Without any protection, pedestrians suffer devastating injuries: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage and paralysis, broken bones, internal injuries, and severe road injuries. Many victims require lengthy hospital stays, multiple surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation.

Because the injuries are so serious, the compensation at stake is significant. A proper claim covers emergency care, ongoing treatment, future medical needs, lost income, and the lasting impact on the victim's life.

Your Rights as a Pedestrian

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise reasonable care. When a driver violates traffic laws or fails to watch for pedestrians, they can be held fully liable for the harm they cause.

You have the right to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and — in tragic cases — families have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim for the loss of a loved one.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you're able, call 911, get medical attention immediately, and gather the driver's information and witness contacts. Take photos of the scene, the vehicle, your injuries, and any crosswalk or signage. Even if you feel okay, get a full medical evaluation — serious injuries can be hidden at first.

Then connect with an attorney before speaking to any insurance company. The driver's insurer may try to shift blame to the pedestrian, so early legal protection is critical.

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