Walking is one of the most common ways to get around New York City. With millions of pedestrians navigating Manhattan streets every day, pedestrian safety remains a major concern. Busy intersections, heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and crowded sidewalks can create dangerous conditions for those traveling on foot.
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the injuries can be severe. Unlike occupants of cars, pedestrians have little protection from the force of impact. Knowing what steps to take after a pedestrian accident can help protect your health and your ability to pursue compensation.
Common Causes of Manhattan Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but driver negligence is one of the most common causes. These accidents may occur because of:
- Distracted driving, including texting or using a mobile device
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Speeding
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving under the influence
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Failure to check for pedestrians when turning
Certain areas of Manhattan with heavy vehicle and foot traffic, including busy intersections and major avenues, may present increased risks for pedestrians.
Common Injuries After a Pedestrian Accident
Because pedestrians are directly exposed during a crash, injuries can be serious even when vehicles are traveling at lower speeds.
Common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Permanent disabilities
Some injuries may require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or changes to a person’s daily life.
What Should You Do After Being Hit by a Vehicle?
After a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can help protect your health and any potential personal injury claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries appear minor, it is important to receive medical care. Some serious injuries may not show immediate symptoms, and medical records provide important documentation of your condition.
Call the Police
A police report can provide valuable information about the accident, including statements from involved parties and witnesses.
Gather Evidence
If you are able, document the accident scene by taking photographs of:
- The intersection or roadway
- Vehicle damage
- Traffic signals and signs
- Your visible injuries
- Any hazardous conditions
Also collect contact information from witnesses who saw what happened.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Insurance companies may review statements made after an accident. Avoid making assumptions about who was responsible and focus on providing accurate facts.
How Does New York No-Fault Insurance Apply to Pedestrians?
New York’s no-fault insurance system provides benefits to many injured pedestrians after an accident. In many cases, the pedestrian may be covered through the insurance policy of the vehicle involved or another applicable policy.
No-fault benefits may help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Certain accident-related costs
However, pedestrians who suffer serious injuries may also have the ability to pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible driver.
When Can a Pedestrian File a Personal Injury Claim?
A pedestrian may have a claim when another party’s negligence caused the accident. To recover compensation, an injured person generally must establish that the driver failed to use reasonable care and that this negligence caused the injuries.
Compensation may include damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability
Each pedestrian accident case depends on the specific facts, including the circumstances of the crash and the severity of the injuries.
Why Pedestrian Accident Cases Can Be Complex
Insurance companies may dispute liability, argue that a pedestrian contributed to the accident, or attempt to minimize the value of a claim. Investigating the accident thoroughly is often essential.
Important evidence may include:
- Traffic camera footage
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Medical records
Acting quickly can help preserve evidence that may become unavailable over time.
Contact Sullivan Papain After a Manhattan Pedestrian Accident
A pedestrian accident can result in serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you have been injured while walking in Manhattan, understanding your legal rights is an important step toward protecting your future.
The attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. have extensive experience representing injured New Yorkers in complex personal injury cases. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, our team can help evaluate your claim and explain your available options.