Uniondale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Uniondale is one of the busiest communities in Long Island. Vehicles and pedestrians alike are traveling from point A to point B with the intent of doing so safely and without issue. It can be the regular work commute, going to class at Hofstra University, or just simply going out and about town. Pedestrians are considered most vulnerable when it comes to accidents, especially with vehicles of almost every type.

Injuries and fatalities are unfortunate incidents that may see a rising trend. As such, if you or a loved one has been a victim of a pedestrian accident, the idea of legal action won’t always be off the table. You may want to consider a Uniondale pedestrian accident lawyer in this situation to ensure that a strong enough case for fair compensation is possible. Our personal injury attorneys will help you determine whether or not legal action may be the best course of action.

Why Are Pedestrian Accidents Serious Incidents?

Pedestrians have no protection against collisions. Meaning they have no seatbelts, airbags, or other safety features at their disposal compared to motorists. The human body versus thousands of pounds of steel will be a lopsided contest favoring the latter (even if a vehicle is going at a reasonable rate of speed). Still, pedestrian accidents are serious as they can cause injuries such as:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries
• Disfigurement and amputations
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Fatalities

These injuries can change a person’s life to the point where regular long-term care becomes normal. Some of them can lead to permanent disabilities. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Uniondale understands how life can be for an accident victim who has experienced serious injuries. For this reason, their mission is simple: they are advocates for accident victims and can make sure their clients are compensated fairly for medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages.

What Are The Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Uniondale?

Each accident case is unique. However, there are numerous common causes that contribute to it. In Uniondale, pedestrian accidents may be caused by the following:

• Distracted driving: This includes a driver using their smartphone for texting, adjusting their GPS or radio, or eating while driving. Such distractions could cause a driver to not notice a pedestrian crossing the street.
• Speeding: Drivers who drive at speeds above the limit in urban or suburban areas have less time to react to pedestrians. This can lead to serious injuries in pedestrian-involved collisions.
• Failure to yield: Pedestrians in crosswalks may be struck if drivers fail to yield. This is common in intersections where no traffic signals are present.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs experience impairment issues. As a result, they can misjudge distances, ignore signals, or drive erratically. Aside from civil liability, drivers under the influence can be criminally penalized.
• Poor visibility: Common situations include inclement weather or nighttime conditions. Intersections that are improperly lit can lead to pedestrian accidents.
• Left-turn accidents: Drivers that turn left at intersections may overlook the presence of pedestrians crossing the roadway. This may be due to the fact that a driver is more focused on oncoming vehicles, making it difficult to notice other key parts of their surroundings.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, knowing the cause will be key. A knowledgeable crosswalk accident lawyer in Uniondale can investigate the accident in order to determine who is at fault. Once fault is established, that’s when they can work on your behalf to make sure you’re getting the compensation that will be fair for you.

Who Could Be Held Liable For Pedestrian Accidents?

Since determining fault is critical in pedestrian accidents, this can be done through a Uniondale attorney based on the investigation they perform. They are better suited to do this despite the complexities of determining fault, especially if multiple parties may be liable. Such parties may include:

• Negligent drivers
• Rideshare companies (e.g: Drivers for Uber or Lyft)
• Commercial truck operators
• Municipalities (e.g.: If road conditions or poor signage was a factor)
• Vehicle manufacturers

Once you consult with an attorney, they can work to see if you have a strong enough case. As they look to determine fault, they will utilize available evidence such as police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and surveillance footage to determine who was at fault.

What Needs To Be Done After A Pedestrian Accident?

After a pedestrian accident, you want to take the necessary actions as soon as possible. You want to carefully follow these steps to ensure that you have a strong case. This includes:

• Call 911: If you are able to, call 911 and request medical help and law enforcement assistance. You will need to include your version of the events in the official police report.
• Seek medical attention ASAP: If your injuries are minor or not even immediate, a medical examination from a medical professional will be highly recommended. Without prompt care, such injuries could worsen such as internal damage.
• Document the scene: Take pictures or videos of the vehicle involved in the accident. You’ll also want to document the location, your injuries, street signs or signals, and anything that may be key to the investigation.
• Collect witness information: Bystanders who were present at the time of the incident may provide testimony that may match your version of the events. Make sure you get their names and contact information if possible.
• Never speak to insurance companies alone: If you attempt to speak to insurance companies, they will overpower you with tactics that will leave you with less compensation than what is considered fair. In addition, they could get you to admit fault even if it isn’t. That’s why a Uniondale pedestrian accident attorney can fight the insurance companies on your behalf to make sure the compensation you get is what you deserve.

What If The Driver Fled The Scene?

Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are common. The at-fault driver may flee and cannot be identified. Still, there is a possibility that you can receive compensation by way of the following:

• Your own auto insurance: This is if you own a vehicle and carry uninsured motorist coverage).
• Insurance that may belong to a household member such as your spouse: May apply in certain cases.
• New York’s Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC): A program that is operated by the State of New York that is available to victims who are not properly insured.

Once again, do not reach out to these insurance companies without the assistance of a skilled hit-and-run pedestrian accident attorney in Uniondale. They are familiar with the tactics and processes of working with insurance companies in these situations. Be sure to consult with them first before making contact.

What Are The Time Limits for Filing A Pedestrian Accident Claim in New York

After a pedestrian accident, it is a race against the clock. It is important that you make sure you take the necessary steps for legal action. There are statutes of limitation based on the following situations:

• For personal injury claims, the statute of limitation in New York is three years from the date of the accident.
• If you are filing a wrongful death claim, the statute of limitation is two years from the date of death.
• If a pedestrian accident involve a vehicle that belongs to a government or public entity (e.g. – a NICE bus or a municipal vehicle) you will need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident.

Missing the deadlines can make building a case more difficult. This is one more reason why a Uniondale lawyer should be contacted after a pedestrian accident.

Injured in a Uniondale Pedestrian Accident? Contact a Duffy & Duffy Attorney Now

Pedestrian accidents are potentially increasing in numbers. This means the likelihood of you getting injured may increase as well. However, if you have been involved in a pedestrian accident and wish to pursue legal action, Duffy & Duffy may be able to help. To schedule a consultation with a Uniondale pedestrian accident lawyer, please call our office today.