NYC Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Fighting for pedestrians struck by negligent drivers in New York City
Experienced Pedestrian Accident Representation
New York City streets are dangerous for pedestrians. With millions of residents walking daily and congested traffic, pedestrian accidents are tragically common. When a 4,000-pound vehicle strikes an unprotected pedestrian, the results are often devastating—broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and sometimes death.
Drivers owe pedestrians a duty of care. They must yield at crosswalks, watch for pedestrians when turning, avoid distractions, obey traffic signals, and drive at safe speeds. When drivers fail to meet these obligations and strike pedestrians, they must be held accountable.
Gammons Injury and Malpractice Lawyers, P.C. fights for injured pedestrians throughout New York City. We investigate accidents, obtain traffic camera footage, interview witnesses, and pursue maximum compensation from negligent drivers and their insurance companies.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Failure to Yield
Drivers not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections
Distracted Driving
Phone use, texting, or other distractions preventing drivers from seeing pedestrians
Speeding
Excessive speed reducing reaction time and increasing impact severity
Running Red Lights
Drivers ignoring traffic signals and striking crossing pedestrians
Turning Without Looking
Right and left turns without checking for pedestrians in the crosswalk
Drunk Driving
Impaired drivers with reduced awareness failing to see pedestrians
Backing Up
Drivers backing out of parking spaces or driveways without looking
Poor Visibility
Night driving, weather conditions, or inadequate street lighting
Aggressive Driving
Road rage, aggressive behavior endangering pedestrians
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken bones and fractures
Internal organ damage
Soft tissue injuries
Hip and pelvis fractures
Knee and leg injuries
Facial injuries and dental damage
Road rash and lacerations
Permanent disability and scarring
Your Rights as a Pedestrian in NYC
Right of Way in Crosswalks
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
Protection from Aggressive Drivers
Drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians on any roadway.
Vision Zero Initiative
NYC has committed to eliminating traffic deaths, including increased enforcement and safer street design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is at fault in a pedestrian accident?
Drivers have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid striking pedestrians. Even if a pedestrian wasn't in a crosswalk, the driver may still be liable if they could have avoided the collision. New York's comparative negligence rules apply, but pedestrians often recover even when partially at fault.
What if I was jaywalking when I was hit?
Jaywalking can reduce but doesn't automatically bar recovery. If the driver was speeding, distracted, or could have avoided hitting you, you may still recover substantial compensation. New York's comparative fault system reduces your award by your percentage of fault, but doesn't eliminate it.
What compensation can I recover as an injured pedestrian?
You may recover medical expenses, future medical care, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent disability, scarring, and loss of quality of life. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries leading to substantial compensation.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit?
Generally three years from the accident date. However, if a government vehicle struck you or the city failed to maintain safe crosswalks, you may have only 90 days to file a Notice of Claim. Contact an attorney immediately.
What should I do after being hit by a car as a pedestrian?
Call 911 immediately for police and medical help. Get the driver's information and insurance details. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any traffic signals or crosswalks. Get witness contact information. Seek medical treatment even if you feel okay—some injuries appear later. Contact an attorney before speaking to insurance companies.
Why Choose Gammons Injury and Malpractice Lawyers, P.C.?
Pedestrian Rights Expertise
We understand NYC pedestrian laws and know how to prove driver negligence in crosswalk accidents.
Evidence Gathering
We obtain traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident scene documentation quickly.
Maximum Compensation
We fight for full compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
No Fees Unless We Win
Contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Hit by a Car While Walking?
You have rights. Contact us today for a free consultation about your pedestrian accident case. Available Available 24/7.