Pedestrians, due to their comparatively high level of exposure, are some of the most vulnerable parties sharing the road at any given time. People walk all over the City to get from point A to point B, and people generally consider walking to be a safe, cost-effective and healthy way to travel. However, if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, there is a good chance you will be looking to recover financial compensation. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrian accidents can be caused by several things, such as inclement weather conditions, like black ice or snow. Very often, these conditions will cause motorists to go skidding off the road, sometimes striking a pedestrian along the way. Additionally, poor road conditions, such as potholes, or even negligent road design contribute to pedestrian accidents. However, the most significant contributor to pedestrian accidents is driver negligence. Some examples of negligent driving behavior are as follows:
- Excessive speed
- Disciplining children while driving
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Eating, smoking or navigating directions while driving
- Failing to check blind spots
- Unsafely changing lanes
- Ignoring traffic signs and lights
- Disregarding other rules and regulations of the road
How can I recover compensation following a New York City pedestrian accident?
To recover the financial compensation you deserve, you must first prove you were injured due to another party’s negligence. An attorney can help you recover the necessary evidence to prove your claim.
How do I prove another party’s negligence?
Fortunately, you and your attorney can work together to assemble this evidence convincingly and transparently. You may recover security camera footage of your accident, or, if not, pictures or witness statements regarding the accident and how it happened. You should also seek medical attention immediately following your accident, as a physician will treat your injuries and provide you with medical documentation detailing their extent, which you may also use to prove your claim.
What is the statute of limitations in New York State?
In New York State, the statute of limitations is three years, meaning you have three years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. If you do not take action within that window, you may not be able to file a personal injury claim.
Contact our experienced New York City firm
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call 212-421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help cover the cost of your medical bills, in-home care, and more.