New York City is a pedestrian’s city. Every day, millions of people walk to work, school, the subway, or the store. Unfortunately, the very nature of this walkable city also creates frequent opportunities for danger. Pedestrian accidents happen far too often in NYC—and they can leave victims with devastating, lifelong injuries. When drivers fail to yield, speed through intersections, or drive distracted, it’s pedestrians who suffer the consequences.
If you or someone you love has been injured in one of the many pedestrian accidents that occur on New York’s streets, you have legal rights. At The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore, we fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and help injured pedestrians obtain what we call Moorejustice—fair, full compensation and respect.
The Growing Problem of Pedestrian Accidents in NYC
Pedestrian accidents have become a rising concern in New York despite citywide initiatives like Vision Zero. Even with better signage, speed limits, and awareness campaigns, the city continues to see thousands of pedestrian injuries and deaths every year. Urban congestion, distracted driving, and aggressive behavior behind the wheel make crossing the street more dangerous than it should be.
Most pedestrian accidents happen at intersections, crosswalks, driveways, and near bus stops or schools. Many of these incidents could be prevented if drivers followed traffic laws and paid closer attention. Pedestrians have the right of way in most situations—but too often, drivers ignore that right.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents is essential for identifying liability and building a strong legal claim. Some of the most common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, eating behind the wheel)
- Speeding in pedestrian-heavy zones
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Making turns without checking for pedestrians
- Illegal U-turns or backing up without checking surroundings
These actions violate traffic laws and put innocent lives at risk. If a driver caused your injuries due to reckless or negligent behavior, a legal claim can help you recover compensation and hold them responsible.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Because pedestrians have no protection from impact, pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries. Even collisions at relatively low speeds can cause serious harm. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones, including legs, arms, ribs, or hips
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries, which can result in paralysis
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Lacerations, contusions, and disfigurement
- Emotional trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Many victims of pedestrian accidents require emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and months—or years—of rehabilitation. In the most tragic cases, families lose loved ones and are left to deal with the emotional and financial consequences.
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(917) 809-7014We are 100% committed and dedicated to maximizing your recovery and obtaining the justice and compensation that you deserve.
What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
The moments after a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and overwhelming. However, taking the right steps early can make a big difference in protecting your health and your legal claim. Always seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel pain immediately. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, can take hours or days to show symptoms.
If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicle involved, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from any witnesses and the driver. Do not engage in arguments or accept blame. Instead, call 911 and make sure a police report is filed.
Finally, contact a lawyer who has experience handling pedestrian accidents. The sooner you speak to legal counsel, the sooner your rights are protected, and your case can begin.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Pedestrian Accident
After a serious accident, the last thing you want to deal with is insurance paperwork or legal forms. That’s where an experienced attorney comes in. A lawyer who focuses on pedestrian accidents will handle all aspects of your case—from gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses to dealing with insurance adjusters and, if necessary, going to trial.
Your lawyer will investigate the circumstances of the crash, analyze traffic camera footage, review the driver’s history, and consult with medical experts to assess your damages. Most importantly, your lawyer will fight for maximum compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, rehab, medications)
- Future medical needs and therapy
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
At The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore, we don’t just file claims—we fight to make sure your voice is heard and that you receive Moorejustice.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
In most cases, the driver of the vehicle is the person responsible for a pedestrian accident. However, other parties may also share liability. For example, if a city agency failed to repair a broken traffic light or if a construction site failed to post proper signage, these entities may also be held accountable.
In hit-and-run pedestrian accidents, victims may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage or state-funded programs like the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). Your attorney will explore every possible source of compensation based on your unique circumstances.
What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Claim?
In New York, victims of pedestrian accidents generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the accident involves a city vehicle or public agency, you may have as little as 90 days to file a Notice of Claim.
Missing these deadlines can mean forfeiting your right to compensation. That’s why contacting an attorney as soon as possible after the incident is vital. Early legal action also allows your lawyer to collect fresh evidence, interview witnesses, and build the strongest case possible.
How Moorejustice Makes a Difference
At The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore, we know how overwhelming life becomes after a serious accident. You may be facing physical pain, emotional distress, lost income, and pressure from insurance companies—all while trying to recover. We believe that every injured pedestrian deserves not just representation, but Moorejustice: a legal team that listens, takes action, and fights to restore what was taken from you.
We don’t accept lowball offers. We don’t rush to settle cases to move on to the next one. We commit fully to every client, every case, and every battle for justice.
Talk to a Lawyer About Pedestrian Accidents Today
If you’ve been injured in one of the many pedestrian accidents that occur in New York City every day, you don’t have to face the process alone. Contact The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore for a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights, help you understand your options, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Let us help you move forward with strength, support, and the Moorejustice you deserve.
