New York Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Pedestrian accidents may occur in crosswalks, sidewalks, parking lots, bike lanes, or other public and private spaces. Our firm represents clients injured in a wide range of pedestrian-related incidents, including:

• Vehicle Collisions
  Accidents involving cars, trucks, buses, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.
• Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents
  Claims involving drivers who flee the scene, including uninsured motorist claims.
• Bicyclist and E-Scooter Incidents
  Certain bicycle and micromobility accidents are treated as pedestrian claims under New York law, particularly when a bicyclist is struck by a motor vehicle.
• Sidewalk and Property Hazards
  Injuries caused by unsafe or poorly maintained sidewalks, curbs, or adjacent property conditions.
• Catastrophic Pedestrian Injuries
  Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, permanent disability, and fatal pedestrian accidents.

Pedestrian crashes are frequently the result of driver negligence or unsafe roadway conditions. Common causes include:

• Failure to yield at crosswalks or intersections
• Speeding in residential or high-foot-traffic areas
• Distracted driving, including cellphone and GPS use
• Illegal turns and failure to obey traffic signals
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Rideshare and delivery driver negligence
• Poor lighting, obstructed signage, or malfunctioning signals

Identifying the cause of the accident is critical to determining liability and maximizing recovery.

New York’s No-Fault insurance system provides up to $50,000 in coverage for medical expenses and certain lost wages, regardless of fault. While these benefits help address immediate medical needs, they do not compensate for pain and suffering or long-term losses.

To pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party, an injured pedestrian must meet New York’s serious injury threshold. Qualifying injuries may include:

• Bone fractures
• Significant disfigurement
• Permanent loss or limitation of use of a body organ or function
• Medically determined injuries preventing normal activities for at least 90 of the first 180 days following the accident

Because pedestrians often suffer severe trauma when struck by vehicles, they frequently meet this threshold. Our attorneys carefully review medical records and expert evaluations to determine eligibility for additional compensation beyond No-Fault benefits.

Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be legally responsible for a pedestrian accident, including:

• Negligent drivers
• Rideshare companies such as Uber or Lyft
• Delivery companies and commercial vehicle operators
• Employers under vicarious liability principles
• Municipal entities responsible for unsafe crosswalks, signals, or roadway design
• Property owners responsible for hazardous sidewalk conditions

Our firm investigates all potential sources of liability to ensure no avenue of recovery is overlooked.

Pedestrian accident victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or impairment
• Wrongful death damages, including funeral expenses and loss of financial support

We work with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to fully assess damages and pursue fair compensation through settlement or litigation.

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?

Seek medical attention, report the accident to law enforcement, document the scene if possible, and consult an attorney promptly.

Can I recover compensation if no crosswalk was present?

Yes. Drivers have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid striking pedestrians, even outside of marked crosswalks.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. New York follows a comparative negligence standard, which allows recovery even if the pedestrian shares some responsibility.

What if the driver was uninsured or fled the scene?

You may be able to pursue compensation through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage or other available insurance policies.

Can I sue the City of New York for a pedestrian accident?

In certain cases involving unsafe roadway design, broken signals, or poor maintenance, claims against municipal entities may be possible. These cases involve strict notice and filing deadlines.

What if a bicycle or e-scooter caused the accident?

Liability may still apply depending on how the accident occurred and whether a motor vehicle or negligent operator was involved.

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

Most personal injury claims must be filed within three years, though shorter deadlines may apply for claims involving government entities.