How Can a Brooklyn Pedestrian Accident Attorney Help?
Pedestrian accident cases can be very frustrating for victims with no legal experience. Unfortunately, insurance companies typically try to pressure or confuse the accident victim hoping they will accept far less compensation than what they’re entitled to for their injuries and other damages.
At Parker Waichman LLP, our legal team will fight for your rights and help you recover the financial compensation you deserve. We’re here to help guide you through the legal process, every step of the way and provide the knowledgeable, compassionate legal representation and support you need during this difficult time.
When you work with a Brooklyn pedestrian accident attorney on our legal team, they can help by:
- Using their in-depth knowledge of state pedestrian laws
- Conducting an in-depth investigation to determine what caused the accident and who is at fault
- Gathering evidence to build your case, including expert testimony and witness statements
- Calculating damages
- Communicating and negotiating with claims adjusters
- Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court
Pursuing Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrians are still subject to the state’s no-fault insurance laws, but pedestrian accident cases are handled differently. The victim of a pedestrian accident can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company for medical bills, lost wages, and other reasonable expenses. If the insurance policy includes supplemental coverage, that may also be available to the accident victim.
The pedestrian can also file a claim under their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage.
Proving Fault in Pedestrian Accident Cases
If you plan on filing a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver, you must prove the individual was at fault for the accident. At Parker Waichman LLP, our pedestrian accident lawyers can help you gather important evidence, such as witness statements, medical records, and the police report, to help prove liability. Our legal team also works closely with accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, forensic accountants, and private investigators, to establish liability, how the accident occurred, and to accurately assess damages.
NY Laws that Protect Pedestrians Struck By Vehicles
To avoid car crashes, New York has implemented laws that govern the behavior of pedestrians and motorists.
These laws include:
- A pedestrian only crosses the street when instructed. They must also yield to drivers when there is a don’t walk sign flashing, however, they can walk across an intersection if the walk sign was on when they started crossing the street.
- A driver must exercise care to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Drivers must yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk when there are no traffic lights present or when the green walk sign is lit.
- A driver should never pass another vehicle in a crosswalk
- A pedestrian should avoid entering any restricted areas
Even when all traffic rules are obeyed, pedestrian accidents can still happen.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Pedestrian Accident?
The economic and non-economic damages you’re entitled to will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your case.
Examples of economic and non-economic damages you may recover after a pedestrian accident include:
- Pain and suffering
- Lost past and future wages
- Rehabilitation
- Personal property damage
- Loss of quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress
And more.
Your attorney will use evidence, such as medical bills, medical records, statements from your employer, statements from your treating physicians, and more, to support your demand for compensation.