New York Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Aggressive Representation for Severely Injured Victims in New York & New Jersey

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 6,000 pedestrians died in traffic-related accidents in the United States in 2017 (the latest year for which data is available). Each year, many more people suffer serious, life-altering injuries.

The problem of pedestrian accidents is especially significant in New York City, where walking is the primary mode of transportation for millions of people. Pedestrians have, for example, been hit while in a crosswalk, struck while getting out of a bus or car, or sideswiped by an automobile. Too often, accidents occur because drivers are not attentive to pedestrians and do not look carefully in the direction they are going. The urban environment exacerbates these risks with its heavy traffic and fast-paced lifestyle. Many drivers fail to yield the right-of-way or do not adhere to traffic signals, contributing significantly to the high number of pedestrian accidents.

If you or someone you love was hit by a motorist or bicyclist while on foot, our New York pedestrian accident attorneys can help. At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we proudly represent clients in New York City and New Jersey. We provide compassionate, personalized service and aggressive advocacy in negotiation and litigation. Our attorneys have secured more than $200 million for our clients. Our commitment to each client goes beyond mere representation; we aim to offer peace of mind by handling the complexities of each legal situation, allowing our clients to focus on recovery.

Injured in a pedestrian accident in New York? Call Simonson Goodman Platzer PC today at (800) 817-5029 or contact us online for a FREE consultation with our pedestrian accident attorney in New York!

Types of Pedestrian Accidents

Accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles are not the only type of pedestrian accident that can cause serious injuries. Slips, trips, and falls due to unsafe conditions inside a building or outside on the street, on a sidewalk, or in a parking lot can also result in debilitating injuries. Many of these accidents occur due to poor maintenance of sidewalks, improper pedestrian signals, or poor lighting. Weather conditions, such as rain and snow, also contribute to hazardous walking conditions, making it essential for property owners to take preventive measures. Moreover, construction zones on busy sidewalks present added peril if not properly marked and secured.

Injuries from slips, trips, and falls occur frequently in New York City, especially in Manhattan, where walking is prevalent and pedestrians are very vulnerable. In fact, according to a 2013 report issued by Health Resources in Action, pedestrian accidents are the second most common cause of injury deaths in New York City for children 5 to 14 years old and adults over 45. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and rigorous enforcement of traffic laws to protect pedestrians.

Slip, trip, and fall pedestrian accidents often occur because of the following dangerous conditions:

• Dangerous cracks and holes in streets, sidewalks, or parking lots
• Slippery streets and sidewalks
• Inadequate lighting outside buildings
• Accumulated ice or snow
• Defective stairs, steps, and handrails

This is not a comprehensive list; if you were injured as a pedestrian due to unsafe conditions on private, public, or governmental property, you could have grounds for a claim. Addressing these hazards promptly can prevent numerous accidents and ensure safer walking conditions.

Understanding New York Pedestrian Laws for Safe Crosswalks

Crosswalks are integral to pedestrian safety, and New York law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Yet, failures to comply with this basic rule are frequent. The New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1151(a) stipulates that vehicles must slow down or stop for pedestrians crossing within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. Ignoring this can lead to serious accidents and significant legal consequences. Additionally, the law emphasizes that pedestrians should exhibit caution, meaning they must not suddenly leave a curb or other safe place and walk or run into the path of a vehicle so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.

Understanding these laws is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to ensure safety on the bustling streets of New York. Noncompliance can result in hefty fines and increased insurance premiums for drivers. Knowing these laws can help pedestrians advocate for their rights, especially if they are involved in an accident. Simonson Goodman Platzer PC stands ready to offer guidance and support to pedestrians who must navigate these complex legal waters post-accident.

Who Is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?

If you or a family member has been a victim of a slip, trip, or fall accident, or if you have been hit by a vehicle while walking, you could be entitled to sue the person/party responsible for the unsafe condition that led to your injury. Legal responsibility can extend to multiple parties, including property owners who fail to maintain safe environments and motorists who disregard traffic laws. Determining liability is essential in such cases, as it dictates who should be held accountable and how victims can receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and related expenses.

This may include the following liable entities:

• Individual motorists
• Property owners
• Businesses
• Government entities

Local Resources for Pedestrian Accident Victims

After experiencing a pedestrian accident, accessing local resources can be pivotal in recovery and legal recourse. New York City hosts multiple organizations dedicated to pedestrian safety and accident recovery. The NYC Department of Transportation offers valuable resources and up-to-date information regarding ongoing street safety improvements and available assistance programs for accident victims. Moreover, pedestrian safety initiatives like Vision Zero aim to eliminate traffic fatalities through safety campaigns and street redesigns.

Hospitals such as NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and NYU Langone Health have excellent trauma centers equipped to handle severe injuries resulting from pedestrian accidents. Meanwhile, support groups and rehabilitation centers offer necessary psychological and physical therapy to aid recovery. At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we encourage our clients to leverage these local resources as part of a holistic approach to healing and pursuing justice. Our attorneys guide the integration of these resources with legal actions to optimize settlement outcomes.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney

In pedestrian accident cases, it is essential to have an experienced attorney knowledgeable of all the issues involved in pedestrian accidents and injuries. The lawyers at Simonson Goodman Platzer PC have been representing victims of pedestrian accidents and vehicular knockdowns for decades. They will work tirelessly to help you fight to recover the maximum amount owed for your injuries. Understanding the intricacies of pedestrian accidents—such as the nuances in traffic law, liability issues, and the significance of timely medical documentation—can make a substantial difference in the outcome of a legal claim. Our legal team is dedicated to navigating these complexities on your behalf to secure a fair resolution.

If you or a family member has been injured in a pedestrian accident in New York or New Jersey—whether it be an accident involving an automobile or a slip, trip, or fall due to unsafe conditions—contact the experienced New York pedestrian accident attorneys at Simonson Goodman Platzer PC to schedule a free consultation. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and can help you build a solid, individualized claim to recover the full financial compensation you are entitled to. Each claim is unique, and we work collaboratively to ensure that every aspect of your situation is considered, providing you with support and vigorous representation from start to finish.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in New York Today

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our New York pedestrian accident attorneys are here to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the full settlement you deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can cause, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation to learn more about your case and how we can help you pursue justice and recovery.

If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, contact now to get the legal support you deserve with our New York pedestrian accident lawyer!

Pedestrian Accident FAQs

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

After a pedestrian accident, ensure your safety and call 911 to report the incident. Obtain medical assistance, even if injuries are not immediately apparent, as some conditions can manifest later. Collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses, noting vehicle license plate numbers and insurance details. Document the scene with photos, capturing road conditions, traffic signals, and visible injuries if possible. Avoid making any statements about fault at the scene. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Pedestrian Accident in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally three years from the accident date. However, if you intend to file a claim against a government entity, such as for poor road maintenance or signage, a notice of claim must typically be filed within 90 days of the event. Given these time constraints, it is crucial to consult with a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and your claim is filed timely.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover from a Pedestrian Accident?

Victims of pedestrian accidents can seek various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation costs. In some instances, punitive damages may also be awarded if the defendant's reckless or egregious conduct. Compensation aims to restore the financial and physical well-being of the victim as much as possible. An experienced attorney from Simonson Goodman Platzer PC can help assess the value of your claim and negotiate with insurance companies to achieve a fair settlement.

Who pays for my medical bills after a pedestrian accident?

New York’s no-fault insurance law often means the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover your initial medical bills, regardless of who caused the accident. If your expenses exceed no-fault limits or you suffer severe injuries, you may pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?

Yes. Even if you were not in a crosswalk, you may still have a valid claim. New York applies comparative fault, so your compensation may be adjusted according to your percentage of responsibility, but you do not lose your right to seek damages for your injuries.