Pedestrian accidents happen every day in New York City, and many of these result in serious injuries. Even common pedestrian accident injuries can change your life forever. At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight for the rights of injured pedestrians. We can fight for you as well.
You should not be responsible for the following bills if the pedestrian accident was not your fault. A pedestrian accident lawsuit could be a way to recover compensation to handle those medical expenses. Our New York pedestrian accident lawyers would be honored to represent you. Learn more about pedestrian accidents in New York City below. Then, contact our New York City pedestrian accident lawyer to schedule a free case consultation.
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OUR NEW YORK PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT LAWYER HAS HANDLED COUNTLESS CLAIMS
The "City That Never Sleeps" is notorious for busy street traffic, subways, bike lanes, and crowded sidewalks. People constantly move about the boroughs as pedestrians, from residents and commuters to tourists. Walking is excellent exercise and good for the body and mind. Still, NYC has risks, with pedestrian accidents occurring every day, many of which lead to serious, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. As reported by NYC DOT, 43% of the pedestrians who lose their lives in an accident in Manhattan are not residents of the city. You need an experienced New York City pedestrian accident attorney if you or your loved one is injured.
COMMON CAUSES OF PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
A person can encounter all kinds of dangers when walking in NYC. A person texting and driving, a commercial truck's failure to yield, and countless other negligent acts can be why a loved one does not make it home. Common causes of pedestrian accidents in the city are:
- Speeding: Most New Yorkers are unaware that the city's speed limit is 30 mph, and they drive at whatever speed the traffic will allow.
- Distracted driving: Texting, adjusting the GPS, eating, talking, or other distractions are common reasons drivers hit pedestrians.
- Drunk driving: When a person gets behind the wheel while under the influence, they make very poor decisions, lack awareness, and are the cause of many serious or fatal pedestrian accidents.
- Low visibility: Some NYC crosswalks are very difficult for drivers to see, and the glare at sunrise or sunset can affect pedestrians' ability to see them.
- Aggressive driving: New York drivers are in a hurry and may drive aggressively, colliding with an innocent pedestrian.
Injuries We See in Pedestrian Accidents
- Broken bones. Pedestrians often suffer broken bones in accidents, especially in their legs, arms, and ribs. These injuries can result from a direct impact with the vehicle or the ground.
- Head injuries. Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, are common in pedestrian accidents. Traumatic brain injuries can occur even if the head does not hit the ground or vehicle directly.
- Spinal injuries. Spinal cord injuries can lead to serious, long-lasting complications, including partial or full paralysis. The impact from a vehicle can easily damage the delicate spinal column. Spinal cord injuries are always serious.
- Lacerations and abrasions. Many pedestrian accident victims receive lacerations from the vehicle's impact or abrasions from sliding across the pavement. These injuries can require extensive cleaning, stitching, or even surgery to heal properly.
- Internal injuries. Internal bleeding and damage to organs are a serious concern in pedestrian accidents. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Emotional trauma. Psychological impacts such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common following pedestrian accidents. Emotional trauma can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.
- Soft tissue injuries. Sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries are typical in pedestrian accidents. Though less severe, they can still cause substantial pain and require lengthy recovery times.
Steps You Need To Take After a Pedestrian Accident in New York City
- Ensure your safety. If possible, move to a safe place away from traffic immediately following an accident. Avoid moving too much if you're seriously injured.
- Call for help. Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. It's important to get police and medical records of the incident.
- Exchange information. If the driver remains at the scene, exchange contact and insurance information with them. Do not discuss the fault or details of the accident excessively.
- Gather evidence. Take photos of the accident, including the vehicle, your injuries, and any relevant street signs or signals. This evidence will be crucial for your claim.
- Find witnesses. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can support your version of the events.
- Seek medical attention. Visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Consult a lawyer. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights. An experienced lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies and any necessary legal actions.
WHO IS AT FAULT?
When drivers hit a pedestrian, they may jump out of a vehicle, blaming the stricken pedestrian. Usually, the driver is at fault. You must never accept fault or apologize when a driver has hit you while walking in New York City. You should seek medical attention immediately and then seek help from a New York City personal injury attorney with the skills to file a claim to pursue compensation for all damages. New York is a no-fault insurance state, and it would be in your best interest to work with an attorney to guide you through the legalese and negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf.
WHAT IS MY CASE WORTH?
While every case is unique with varying factors, there are standard issues that are considered when it comes to evaluating the damages in a pedestrian accident claim:
- The severity of injuries, both physical and mental, and the extent of necessary medical treatment, whether short-term or ongoing.
- The defendant's insurance coverage and the policy limits that can be accessed to compensate you for your injuries.
- The strength of your case and the legal understanding of the attorney representing you. The more evidence collected that supports your claim and the skills of your attorney will play an important role in the value of a settlement or jury award.
An attorney who makes promises is being reckless with an already vulnerable victim. It would help if you had an attorney who is honest, empathetic, and dedicated to fighting for justice and the maximum compensation possible and who will be honest with you about the value of your case.
DAVIDOFF LAW IS READY TO FIGHT FOR YOU
If you or your loved one were hurt in a pedestrian accident in New York City, contact Davidoff Law immediately. When we take on a case, we are by your side throughout the legal process. We have recovered millions in damages for our clients and are relentlessly pursuing justice for the people we serve. Many personal injury cases are settled outside of court, but if it is in our client's best interest, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and take the case to a jury to decide.
The Advantages of Partnering With Our New York Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
- Experience and expertise. Our lawyers specialize in pedestrian accident cases and are familiar with New York's specific laws and regulations. This expertise ensures that your case is handled correctly and efficiently.
- Maximizing your settlement. We work diligently to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. Our team negotiates with insurance companies and, if necessary, will take your case to court.
- No upfront costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don't pay unless we win your case. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without financial risk.
- Personalized attention. Each client receives personalized attention and communication. We understand each case is unique and provide tailored advice and updates.
- Stress reduction. Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. Partnering with our firm allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
FAQs
How long will my claim take to resolve?
The time it takes to resolve a claim can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the extent of your injuries. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take several years.
Do I need to take my case to trial?
Not all cases need a trial; many settle out of court. However, if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, going to trial might be necessary to get fair compensation.
How do I know if I'm getting a fair settlement offer?
Consulting with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is the best way to determine if a settlement offer is fair. A lawyer can evaluate the offer in the context of your injuries and other losses to ensure it meets your needs.
Contact Our New York City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Consultation
A hit-and-run accident in New York City could result in pedestrian fatalities. All pedestrian accidents should be taken seriously. At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced pedestrian accident attorney, we would be honored to fight for you. We offer a free consultation to review your case and explain your options. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let our legal team fight on your behalf.
WE OFFER A FREE CASE CONSULTATION IN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT CASES. REACH OUT TO US AT 212-900-0000.
