1. What should I do if I’m hit by a car as a pedestrian in the Bronx?

If you’re hit by a car as a pedestrian in the Bronx, your first priority should be to seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time.

Document the accident scene if possible, including taking photos of the vehicle, the location, your injuries, and any nearby traffic signals or crosswalks. Obtain contact information from the driver, as well as any witnesses. It’s crucial to report the incident to the police and ensure an official accident report is filed.

Avoid making any statements about fault or discussing the accident with the driver’s insurance company before consulting with one of our experienced Bronx pedestrian accident lawyers. We can help you navigate the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and ensure your rights are protected while pursuing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

2. Who can be held liable for a pedestrian accident in New York?

In New York, the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian is typically held liable for the accident, especially if they were negligent, such as by speeding, failing to yield, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws.

However, liability may also extend to other parties depending on the circumstances. For example, if poor road conditions, defective traffic signals, or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, the city or municipality could be held accountable. In cases where multiple vehicles are involved, determining liability can be more complex and may involve several parties.

3. How is a pedestrian accident case different from other personal injury cases?

A pedestrian accident case differs from other personal injury cases primarily due to the severe nature of the injuries often sustained by pedestrians when struck by a vehicle.

Pedestrians have little protection in a collision, which can result in catastrophic injuries such as fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more. Additionally, these cases often involve a detailed examination of traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and the specific conditions at the time of the accident.

Proving negligence may require evidence from traffic cameras, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimony. Our Bronx pedestrian accident lawyers have extensive experience handling these unique challenges and are committed to ensuring that all liable parties are held accountable for their negligence.

4. How much compensation can I get for a pedestrian accident injury in New York?

The amount of compensation you can receive for a pedestrian accident injury in New York depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing treatment required. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your injury prevents you from working, as well as future lost earnings if the injury results in long-term disability.

Additionally, compensation may cover pain and suffering, which accounts for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly negligent or reckless behavior by the driver.

5. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a pedestrian accident in the Bronx?

In the Bronx, as in the rest of New York, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a pedestrian accident is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means you have a limited time to initiate legal action against the responsible parties.

However, if the pedestrian accident resulted in a wrongful death, the family of the deceased typically has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. It’s important to note that certain circumstances, such as cases involving government-owned vehicles or defective road conditions, may have different time limits.