Hit by a Car While Walking?
Being struck by a vehicle can leave you with serious injuries, financial stress, and uncertainty about what to do next. Understand your rights and protect your claim today.
What Makes Pedestrian Accidents Unique?
Pedestrian accidents are different from other vehicle crashes because pedestrians have no physical protection at the time of impact. Even low-speed collisions can cause life-altering injuries.
No Physical Protection
Unlike car occupants, pedestrians have no seatbelts, airbags, or metal frames to absorb impact. Even a low-speed strike can cause catastrophic injuries.
Clear Driver Duty of Care
Drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise reasonable care. Failure to do so typically forms the basis of a negligence claim.
Evidence Can Disappear Quickly
Traffic camera footage, skid marks, and witness memories fade fast. Acting quickly to preserve evidence is critical to building a strong claim.
Complex Insurance Issues
Multiple insurance policies may apply. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own coverage or other legal avenues may still provide compensation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Understanding how accidents happen is critical when building a claim. Most pedestrian crashes are caused by preventable driver behavior.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Drivers who ignore crosswalk signals or fail to stop for pedestrians are one of the most common causes of pedestrian injuries.
Distracted Driving
Phone use, navigation systems, and other distractions cause drivers to miss pedestrians crossing legally in their path.
Speeding in Pedestrian Areas
Higher speeds dramatically reduce stopping distance and increase the severity of impact when a pedestrian is struck.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug impairment slow reaction times, impair judgment, and significantly increase the risk of hitting a pedestrian.
Poor Visibility Conditions
Nighttime driving, bad weather, and poor street lighting make pedestrians harder to see, increasing accident risk.
Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Because pedestrians are completely unprotected, injuries from vehicle strikes are often severe and long-lasting. Medical documentation is a key part of proving damages.
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries that may permanently affect mobility
- Broken bones and fractures, often in legs, arms, and hips
- Soft tissue injuries including severe muscle and ligament damage
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
- Road rash and deep lacerations from pavement contact
- Nerve damage causing long-term sensation or motor loss
- Psychological trauma, PTSD, and severe emotional distress
Your Legal Rights After a Crash
If you were struck by a vehicle through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation.
No obligation. 100% confidential.
Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident
A pedestrian car accident attorney can help explain your legal options and whether you may be eligible to file a claim based on the facts of your case.
🏥 Medical Expenses
Emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and all future medical care related to your injuries.
💼 Lost Income
Wages lost during recovery and reduced future earning capacity if injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
❤️ Pain & Suffering
Physical pain, emotional distress, PTSD, and the overall diminished quality of life caused by the crash and injuries.
🪐 Rehabilitation
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, ongoing care, and any assistive equipment needed for your recovery.
📷 Property Damage
Replacement of personal items such as phones, clothing, or other belongings damaged or destroyed in the collision.
⚖️ Wrongful Death
If a loved one was fatally struck, families may recover funeral costs, lost income, and compensation for loss of companionship.
Evidence Used to Prove Fault
Proving fault is a critical part of any pedestrian accident case. The right evidence can make the difference between a fair settlement and a denied claim.
Police Accident Reports
Official reports document the scene, officer observations, and any citations issued — foundational evidence in any claim.
Witness Statements
Eyewitness accounts of what happened before and during the crash can help establish driver negligence and fault.
Traffic Camera & CCTV Footage
Video footage from nearby cameras can provide clear proof of driver behavior, speed, and failure to yield.
Scene Photographs
Photos of the accident location, vehicle damage, road markings, and your visible injuries document conditions at time of impact.
Medical Records
Detailed medical documentation connects your injuries directly to the accident and is essential to calculating damages.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after being hit by a car can protect both your health and your legal claim.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Get evaluated right away even if you feel fine. Serious injuries including internal bleeding and spinal damage may not show symptoms for days.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Contact police and request an official accident report. This document is critical evidence when filing a pedestrian accident claim.
Document the Scene
Photograph the vehicle, road conditions, crosswalk markings, traffic signals, and any visible injuries while still at the scene.
Collect Witness Information
Get names and contact details from anyone who saw the accident. Witness accounts can be essential in proving driver negligence.
Avoid Discussing Fault with Insurers
Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer. Your words can be used to minimize your settlement.
Consult a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Speaking with an attorney early helps protect evidence, understand deadlines, and ensures you don’t accidentally damage your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to the most common questions pedestrian accident victims ask after being struck by a vehicle.
Need Legal Help?
Our pedestrian accident attorneys are available 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Get Free Consultation →
Get a Free Case Review Today
If you were injured while walking, getting the right legal information early can make a significant difference. Our pedestrian accident attorneys are ready to help you understand your options.