Many people may have heard the term “pedestrian accident,” but they might not be aware of the full range of circumstances that can lead to one. Pedestrians can be injured in a broad array of situations, from walking along the side of the road without a sidewalk to crossing the street outside of an official crosswalk. Regardless of the setting, pedestrian accidents can result in severe or fatal injuries. For that reason, it’s crucial to understand how pedestrian accidents happen and what victims should do if they are involved in one.

The first thing you should do is seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel badly injured. Many pedestrians are unaware of the extent of their injuries after an accident, since adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms in the immediate aftermath. It is also important to take pictures of the scene and vehicle, if possible, to document the crash. Likewise, it’s helpful to get witness contact information. This evidence will prove invaluable in proving the case.

A New York pedestrian accident lawyer can perform a thorough investigation into the cause of your collision. In some cases, surveillance footage can provide clear evidence of a driver’s negligence. Police reports and accident reconstruction can also help in establishing the sequence of events leading up to the crash.

It’s also critical to avoid speaking to investigators working for the driver or their insurance company until you’ve spoken with your attorney. You could inadvertently admit fault, which can seal your case if it goes to trial.

Whether the accident is minor or severe, it’s important to consult with an experienced New York pedestrian accident lawyer immediately. Pedestrians are protected by New York’s pure comparative negligence laws, meaning that they can recover damages even if they share some fault in an accident. In fact, in a recent case Block O’Toole & Murphy handled, our client was struck by a car while walking against a “Don’t Walk” sign backwards, trying to figure out where he was.

An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help you recover compensation for your losses and ensure that the person responsible for your injuries is held accountable. Your legal team can file a lawsuit against the negligent driver and their insurer, seeking compensation for your current and future foreseeable expenses. This can include medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

The attorneys at Block O’Toole & Murphy have handled pedestrian accident cases in many jurisdictions, including New York City. We have a proven track record of success and a reputation for excellence. We can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a claim and securing fair compensation for your losses. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our firm is available 24 hours a day, so you can reach us whenever it is most convenient for you. We look forward to hearing from you!