International Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable users of the road. Unlike drivers and passengers, pedestrians have little protection when they are struck by a motor vehicle. Even accidents occurring at relatively low speeds can result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. Whether the collision occurs at a crosswalk, in a parking lot, or along a busy roadway, injured pedestrians may have the right to pursue compensation from the responsible party.
Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. represents individuals injured in pedestrian accidents throughout the United States and internationally. Our attorneys understand the complex legal and insurance issues involved in pedestrian injury claims and work diligently to hold negligent drivers and other responsible parties accountable.
Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Representing Injury Victims
Pedestrian accidents often cause severe, life-changing injuries due to the force of impact between a person and a motor vehicle. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple fractures, internal bleeding, permanent disabilities, or other serious medical complications. In the worst case scenario, such accidents can result in fatalities.
These cases require a thorough and immediate investigation. Our legal team handles every aspect of the claim, including:
- Investigating the circumstances of the accident
- Reviewing police reports and traffic camera footage
- Obtaining surveillance video from nearby businesses
- Consulting accident reconstruction and medical experts
- Negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing litigation when necessary
Drivers and their insurers often attempt to argue that the pedestrian was distracted, crossed outside of a designated crosswalk, crossed without having a walk signal, or otherwise contributed to the accident. Our attorneys work to gather the evidence needed to establish liability and pursue maximum compensation.
Serving Pedestrian Accident Victims Internationally And Domestically
Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. has successfully represented both domestic and international clients in complex pedestrian accidents and wrongful death cases. Examples include:
- A.H. v. J.S., Japan, Personal Injury: American client was injured as a pedestrian when hit by an automobile while in Japan. Worked with local counsel to initiate litigation in Japan, resulting in settlement for policy limits of approximately $300,000 (30,000,000 Japanese Yen).
- E.L. v. A.N., YCCO LLC, et al, Florida, USA, Wrongful Death: French client was temporarily working in Florida at an amusement park. After an evening out with friends, she was crossing a street and was struck and killed by a taxi owned by YCCO LLC and being driven by A.N. Although the taxi had the green light and the client was crossing against a red pedestrian crossing light, able to resolve the case after protracted litigation for $219,000.
- S.E. v. E.S., Florida, USA, Personal Injury: German client was a fulltime student at a Florida University. While crossing at a designated crosswalk, S.E. was struck by a truck being driven by E.S. and suffered abrasions and other soft tissue injuries. The lawsuit was filed in Florida Court resulting in a case settlement for at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits of $100,000.
- L.G. v. R.B., Connecticut, USA, Personal Injury: German client was temporarily working in the USA. While crossing at a designated crosswalk, the client was struck by a car driven by R.B., suffering a mild concussion and head and back pain. The case was settled for at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits of $100,000.
- A.K., E.K. v. S.M., Florida, USA, Personal Injury: German clients, husband and wife, were walking in a mall parking lot when they were struck by a car being driven by S.M. and suffered abrasions and other soft tissue injuries that fully healed. A confidential case settlement was reached in clients’ favor after initiation of a lawsuit.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents are entirely preventable and occur because of driver negligence. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting or using a mobile phone
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to check for pedestrians while turning
- Backing out of driveways or parking spaces without looking
- Poor visibility combined with negligent driving
Drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and to remain alert for pedestrians. When they fail to do so, injured pedestrians may have strong grounds for a personal injury claim.
What Should I Do After A Pedestrian Accident?
If you are struck by a vehicle, your actions immediately following the accident can significantly impact both your recovery and your legal claim.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries do not appear serious
- Contact law enforcement and ensure an accident report is prepared
- Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle, and your injuries if possible
- Obtain contact and insurance information from the driver
- Collect contact information for any witnesses
- Preserve medical records, receipts, and documentation of lost income
- Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney
Prompt action can help preserve valuable evidence and protect your legal rights. Contacting an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible allows important evidence to be secured before it is lost.
Who May Be Liable For A Pedestrian Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, liability may extend beyond the driver who struck the pedestrian. Potentially responsible parties may include:
- Negligent drivers
- Employers of commercial vehicle drivers
- Vehicle owners
- Government entities responsible for unsafe roadway design or maintenance
- Construction companies that create unsafe pedestrian conditions
- Other third parties whose negligence contributed to the accident
Our attorneys thoroughly investigate every case to identify all potentially liable parties and maximize available sources of compensation.
What Forms Of Compensation May Be Available?
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future medical care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Rehabilitation and long-term care costs
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members when applicable
Every pedestrian accident case is unique. We carefully evaluate the full extent of your injuries and losses to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Speak With An International Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, legal help is available. Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. has the experience and resources to handle complex pedestrian injury claims throughout the United States and internationally.
Call 212-256-9513 or complete our online contact form to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. We are ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
