Getting hit by a vehicle while walking in New York City can turn your life upside down. Medical bills, time off work, emotional trauma—it all adds up quickly. If you or someone close to you was hurt as a pedestrian, you may be wondering what to expect from the legal process. Understanding pedestrian accident claims is the first step toward seeking justice and financial recovery.
At the Law Offices of Supriya Kichloo, P.C., we help individuals who have been injured in pedestrian accidents navigate the legal system with confidence. Our firm serves New York’s multicultural communities with compassionate, knowledgeable representation. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of your rights, we are here to help.
What Is a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
A pedestrian accident claim is a legal process where an injured person seeks compensation for harm caused by a driver or another responsible party. In New York, pedestrians are often at risk due to distracted drivers, failure to yield at crosswalks, speeding, and poor road design.
To succeed in a claim, you must show that another party was negligent. That means proving:
- The person or entity owed you a duty of care,
- They breached that duty through their actions or inactions,
- The breach caused the accident, and
- You suffered measurable damages as a result.
You do not have to figure this out on your own. A personal injury lawyer can guide you through every stage of your pedestrian accident claim.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in New York City
The actions you take after an accident can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some steps to take to help protect yourself and your claim.
Get Medical Attention
Your health comes first. Even if you think your injuries are minor, some conditions take time to appear and worsen quickly without care. Delaying treatment can also negatively impact your injury claim, as insurance companies may argue that your injuries were less serious than they actually are.
Call the Police and File a Report
A police report creates an official record of the crash. This document can be critical evidence for your claim. Be sure to provide accurate information to the responding officers, and ask how you can obtain a copy of the report later.
Gather Evidence
If safe to do so, collect information at the accident scene. This includes:
- The driver’s license and insurance details;
- Contact information of witnesses; and
- Photos of your injuries, the vehicle, the intersection, and anything else relevant.
This evidence helps build a compelling claim. It may also prevent disputes later over who caused the accident.
Avoid Discussing the Accident with Insurance Companies
The driver’s insurer may contact you after the accident and ask for a statement. Do not say anything or accept a settlement offer before speaking to an attorney. Insurance adjusters may use this statement to try to minimize your injuries or pressure you into settling for less than your case is worth. Protect your interests by letting your lawyer handle all communication.
Contact an Attorney with Experience in Pedestrian Injury Compensation
Having professional legal support gives you the best chance of recovering full compensation and allows you to focus on healing. A personal injury lawyer can help guide you through the claims process and work to protect your rights. An attorney will also help gather medical records, communicate with insurers, and develop a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
This is a common question from clients. However, the answer depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate fairly.
Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take a year or longer. The timeline often includes:
- Medical treatment and recovery;
- Investigation and evidence collection;
- Filing of legal documents; and
- Settlement negotiations or, if necessary, a lawsuit and trial.
While a quick resolution may seem appealing, it is important not to settle before understanding the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs. Your attorney can help evaluate whether a settlement offer is fair or whether it makes sense to keep fighting.
What Compensation Is Available in Pedestrian Accident Claims?
If you were injured by a negligent driver or another at-fault party, you may be entitled to monetary damages. Pedestrian injury compensation can include:
- Medical expenses. Compensation for medical expenses covers emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and long-term treatment.
- Lost income. If you missed work due to your injuries, you may recover lost wages and any reduced future earning potential resulting from your condition.
- Pain and suffering. These damages address the emotional and physical impact of the accident on your daily life.
- Out-of-pocket costs. This can include transportation to medical appointments, medications, and assistive devices.
These forms of compensation aim to restore your financial and emotional well-being and help you move forward after a serious injury.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accident Claims
Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury claim. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely.
However, if the accident involved a government vehicle or public employee—such as a city bus or sanitation truck—you may be required to file a notice of claim within just 90 days. These deadlines are strictly enforced, and even one missed filing can jeopardize your entire case. Speaking with an attorney early can help ensure you understand which timeframes apply so that all necessary documents are submitted on time.
Why It Helps to Have Our Legal Team on Your Side
Navigating a pedestrian accident claim on your own can be intimidating. An experienced attorney offers many benefits for injured pedestrians, such as:
- Personalized guidance. Supriya Kichloo works directly with every client. You won’t be passed off to a case manager or assistant.
- Cultural understanding. We know that many of our clients come from immigrant backgrounds and may be hesitant to pursue a claim. Supriya speaks Hindi, Kashmiri, and English and strives to cultivate a respectful space where your voice will be heard.
- Strategic legal support. With nearly a decade of experience in personal injury law, Supriya will work to develop a strong case strategy to maximize your compensation.
Remember, you don’t pay unless we win your case. That means you can focus on healing without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Get the Help You Deserve
Pedestrian accident claims can feel overwhelming, especially when you are focused on recovering. At the Law Offices of Supriya Kichloo, we are prepared to walk you through the process step by step. From investigating the crash to negotiating a settlement or going to trial, we are here to fight for all New Yorkers to get the justice and compensation they need. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
