Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in the Hudson Valley

Pedestrian Safety in the Hudson Valley: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Law aims to protect pedestrians, but it's important to understand both your rights and responsibilities for your own safety and in the case of an accident. Here's what you need to know:

• Drivers Must Yield: In most situations, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or when a pedestrian is attempting to cross.
• Obey Traffic Signals: Pedestrians should follow traffic lights and signals, only crossing when given the right-of-way.
• Use Designated Crosswalks: When available, always use marked crosswalks; if none are present, exercise extra caution when crossing.
• Stay Aware: Avoid distractions like your phone, and be mindful of cars, especially those turning or backing up.

Even if you were following the rules, accidents still happen. If you've been injured, our pedestrian accident lawyers will protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.

Navigating Pedestrian Accident Claims: How Our Attorneys Can Help

Pedestrian accident claims are often complex, especially when severe injuries are involved. Insurance companies may undervalue your claim or try to deny responsibility. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys will:

• Thoroughly Investigate: We'll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine all liable parties to build a strong case.
• Handle the Insurance Companies: We'll negotiate with insurers on your behalf, protecting you from aggressive tactics designed to minimize your settlement.
• Assess the Full Impact of Your Injuries: We’ll ensure your compensation covers medical bills, lost wages, and the long-term effects of your injuries.

Our goal is to maximize your compensation so you can focus on recovery, not legal battles. We will always fight for your best interests.

We Handle All Types of Pedestrian Accidents in the Hudson Valley

Pedestrians are vulnerable to various vehicles on the road. Our attorneys have the knowledge and resources to handle cases involving:

No Upfront Fees: Fight for Your Rights Without the Risk

We understand that after a pedestrian accident, financial worries are added to an already stressful situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won't pay any attorney fees out of pocket to start your case. Our fees are a percentage of your settlement or award, so you don't pay us unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This structure allows you to pursue the legal help you need without worrying about immediate financial burdens.

Avoidable Accidents: Common Causes of Pedestrian Injuries

Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are a serious issue in the Hudson Valley. Some of the most common factors contributing to these accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers talking on phones, texting, eating, or adjusting controls are a major hazard for pedestrians.
• Speeding: Drivers exceeding the speed limit, especially in residential areas, have less time to react and may cause more severe injuries.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but this right-of-way is often ignored.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant threat to pedestrian safety.
• Poor Visibility: Conditions like rain, fog, or darkness make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be incredibly stressful. We’ll handle the legal steps on your behalf while you work on recovering.

We Fight for All Types of Pedestrian Accident Claims

The severity of injuries in pedestrian accidents can vary widely, and so can the types of claims that arise. The Ahearne Law Firm has experience handling cases involving:

• Minor Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, sprains, and minor cuts and bruises may still entitle you to compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
• Serious Injuries: Broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting consequences requiring extensive medical care.
• Catastrophic Injuries: Spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and amputations significantly impact a victim's quality of life and future earning potential.
• Wrongful Death: If a loved one was tragically killed in a pedestrian accident, we can help you pursue a wrongful death claim.

Seeking prompt medical attention following your accident can help you heal and generate valuable medical records. We will use those records to support your claim and argue for damages that accurately compensate you for your losses. Being injured in an accident that was not your fault comes with numerous stressors. Financial distress should not be one of them, and we will work tirelessly to make you whole again.

Beyond Medical Bills: Seeking Full Compensation for Your Injuries

As the victim of a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: This covers past, current, and future medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost income and potential future lost earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries permanently impact your ability to participate in hobbies or activities, you may be entitled to compensation.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or recklessness, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver.

Damages are typically divided into economic and non-economic categories. Economic damages are tangible losses like medical bills, while non-economic damages are intangible losses like pain and suffering. Your attorney will take time to understand the ways in which you have been affected by your injuries in order to assess the losses you have experienced.

What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident

The moments after a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and disorienting. Here are crucial steps to take to protect yourself and your potential claim:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Call the Police: File a police report, which serves as official documentation of the accident.
• Obtain Information: Exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the driver involved. If possible, get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Take Photos: Use your phone to photograph the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.

Finally, contact an attorney. Our pedestrian accident lawyers offer free consultations. We’ll advise you on your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Don't Delay: Time Limits for Pedestrian Accident Claims

A strict legal deadline (known as a statute of limitations) for filing accident claims is imposed. For most pedestrian accident claims, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. 

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, the family generally has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. Additionally, if an injured pedestrian is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended.

It's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you don't miss important deadlines and jeopardize your right to compensation.