Rochester Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Representing People Who Have Been Hit by Reckless Drivers in New York

Pedestrians who are struck by reckless drivers often suffer severe injuries because they have no protection from the impact. Insurance companies might not think those injuries are such a big deal, though, as evidenced by the countless cases in which insurers try to offer injured pedestrians next to nothing. If you’re worried about going up against an insurance company that is going to try to minimize your injuries, then you should team up with legal professionals who know how to challenge them.

Faraci Lange, LLP in Rochester and Buffalo offers top-tier legal services to injured pedestrians throughout our communities. For years, we have been making a name for ourselves by earning professional awards and securing big wins for our clients. Thanks to our contingency fees and free case evaluations, you can learn about filing a claim and retain our representation without reaching for your pocketbook first.

Contact our pedestrian accident lawyers in Rochester by calling (888) 997-4110.

What to Do When You Get Hit by a Car While Walking

Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunately common occurrence in New York. In New York City alone, there are more than 100 fatal pedestrian accidents each year, based on Vision Zero reports. Here in Rochester and Buffalo, there are fewer, but still far too many because one is already too much.

What you do after being in a pedestrian accident matters. The decisions you make shortly after the collision can dramatically affect your personal injury claim and your chances of getting a fair amount of compensation from the driver who hit you.

Let our attorneys know if you did any of the following after your pedestrian accident:

• Identified the driver: The driver who hit you should stop and provide their identifying and insurance information. Provide our attorneys with that information, so we can research their driving history and know who to file your claim against.
• Spoke to eyewitnesses: Passersby are more likely to try to stop and help after witnessing a pedestrian accident than compared to a typical car accident. Our attorneys will want to speak with those people to see if they have new information that wouldn’t otherwise be known.
• Received medical attention: Ideally, you will have received some form of medical attention shortly after your pedestrian accident. Even if you were not severely injured, you should have seen an urgent care doctor for a check-up. If you did, we can use your medical records when building your claim.

What are the Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is driver inattention. Driver intoxication is also a serious issue. When a driver is not paying attention to the road around them, they will be more likely to not notice pedestrians due to their smaller size compared to other vehicles.

Pedestrian accidents occur most often at intersections and in parking lots. Both locations are where pedestrians can lawfully enter the road, so it is natural for there to be an increased risk of a pedestrian accident there. In parking lots, drivers need to pay sharp attention while backing out of or swinging into parking spaces because people might be walking there.

Is a Pedestrian Ever at Fault for the Accident?

Although it can sometimes be assumed that a driver’s negligence is what caused a pedestrian accident, there is no way to guarantee that fault will be assigned to a driver. In fact, there are situations in which liability will mostly be assigned to the pedestrian. For example, pedestrians must yield to cars when there is no crosswalk or intersection. Pedestrians who enter the road unlawfully will have a difficult time arguing that they should be fully compensated by the driver who hit them.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

Pedestrian accidents could result in a range of damages, both tangible and intangible. Here are some common damages that may be recovered in a pedestrian accident claim:

• Medical Expenses: Injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents often require extensive medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Pedestrian accidents can result in temporary or permanent disability, preventing victims from returning to work. Compensation may include lost wages and future earnings, helping alleviate the financial strain caused by the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: The physical and emotional toll of a pedestrian accident is immeasurable. We understand the importance of seeking compensation for the pain and suffering endured by victims.
• Property Damage: Pedestrian accidents often involve damage to personal property, like clothing, electronic devices, or personal belongings. Compensation can be sought to restore or replace these items.
• Wrongful Death Damages: Tragically, some pedestrian accidents result in fatalities. In such cases, surviving family members could be qualified for compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

What is the Statute of Limitations in a Pedestrian Accident Claim in New York?

In the state of New York, the general statute of limitations for personal injury, including pedestrian accidents, is three years from the date of the incident.

However, exceptions may apply, and it is essential to consult with our pedestrian accident attorneys in Rochester at Faraci Lange, LLP, to understand the specific details of your case. Failing to file a claim within the specified timeframe could lead to the denial of your right to seek compensation.

Time is of the essence, so it is recommended to seek legal counsel promptly to preserve your rights and maximize your chances of a successful claim.

Contact Our Rochester Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

You deserve friendly and responsive representation for your Rochester pedestrian accident case. When you choose our attorneys, you can expect the highest caliber of service from start to finish. Our reputation for taking care of clients and casework in a stress-free manner precedes us, and you will see why when we are working on your behalf.

Demand compensation from the driver who hit you. Call our firm at (888) 997-4110 to get started with our Rochester pedestrian accident lawyers.