Crosswalk accidents aren’t rare. Pedestrians have the right of way in most cases, yet drivers still fail to yield, leading to serious injuries. If you’ve been hit while crossing the street, knowing your legal options can make all the difference.
Getting hit in a crosswalk can lead to long-term pain, medical bills, and time off work. That’s why reaching out to a law firm for personal injury early on is one of the most important steps you can take.
Know Your Rights as a Pedestrian
Most state laws require drivers to stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks. If the driver fails to stop, they can be held legally responsible. But even if you had the right of way, you still need to prove liability.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame. They may argue that the pedestrian was distracted or crossed against the signal. This is where an experienced personal injury lawsuit lawyer becomes critical. They can help gather the right evidence, like video footage or witness statements, to support your case.
What You Should Do After the Accident
If you’re able to move safely, take these steps:
● Call 911 right away.
● Get medical attention, even if injuries aren't visible at first.
● Take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle.
● Collect contact details from witnesses.
These actions can support your claim and show that the driver was at fault.
Avoid giving detailed statements to the driver’s insurance company without legal advice. Even something as simple as “I’m okay” could be used to downplay your injuries later.
Proving Negligence
To win compensation, you must show that the driver was negligent. That means proving four things:
- The driver had a duty to drive safely.
- They failed that duty—such as speeding or texting.
- Their actions directly caused the accident.
- You suffered serious harm as a result.
A law firm for personal injury can help you establish each of these points with the right evidence and legal strategy.
What You Can Claim
If you're injured in a crosswalk, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:
● Medical expenses (past and future)
● Lost wages due to time off work
● Pain and emotional distress
● Long-term disability or therapy needs
The exact amount depends on the injury, how it affects your daily life, and the costs involved. A personal lawsuit lawyer can work with doctors and financial experts to build a strong case for fair compensation.
Is There a Time Limit to File?
Yes. Every state has a statute of limitations—a time limit to file a lawsuit. In many states, it’s two or three years from the date of the accident. Missing the deadline means you lose your right to compensation, no matter how strong your case is.
It’s smart to talk with a lawyer early so that no important deadlines are missed.
Ending Note
Being struck in a crosswalk is terrifying—and the legal aftermath can be just as overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone. Getting help from a trusted law firm for personal injury or a qualified personal injury lawsuit lawyer can make the process easier and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
