A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Dobbs Ferry

Hudson Valley Support

Comprehensive Guide to Pedestrian Claims

If you or a loved one was struck while walking in Dobbs Ferry, you may be facing serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Pedestrian collisions can lead to extended medical care, lost income, and ongoing rehabilitation needs. This guide explains what typically happens after a pedestrian accident in New York, how liability is determined, and what steps can help preserve your rights while you recover. The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC serves residents of the Hudson Valley and surrounding communities and focuses on helping people understand their options following a collision involving a pedestrian.

After a pedestrian accident it is important to document the scene, seek medical attention, and take steps to protect evidence and witness accounts. Insurance companies will often start investigations quickly, so knowing what to collect and how to describe your injuries can make a significant difference. The firm assists injured pedestrians with claim preparation, negotiation with insurers, and, when necessary, litigation to secure fair results. We encourage anyone affected by a pedestrian collision in Dobbs Ferry to reach out for a thorough case review and to discuss the steps that best fit their situation.

Why Pursuing a Claim Matters After a Pedestrian Crash

Pursuing a claim after a pedestrian crash is about more than recovering medical bills. It can provide the means to cover ongoing rehabilitation, replace lost wages, and address long term needs that arise from serious injuries. A carefully prepared claim helps ensure that the full scope of your damages is communicated to insurers or a court, including pain and suffering and future treatment costs. The process can also create an official record of the incident that supports applications for benefits and can deter similar incidents in the future by holding responsible parties accountable.

Overview of The Ahearne Law Firm and Allan J. Ahearne, Jr.

The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC, led by Allan J. Ahearne, Jr., focuses on personal injury matters arising throughout the Hudson Valley and New York. The firm represents individuals injured in pedestrian collisions involving vehicles, bicycles, or other hazards, guiding clients through insurance negotiations and court procedures when needed. The practice emphasizes clear communication, thorough investigation, and careful documentation of injuries and damages. Clients can expect timely updates, attentive preparation of medical and financial records, and representation aimed at achieving appropriate recoveries while addressing each client’s specific needs and circumstances.

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Claims in New York

Pedestrian accident claims in New York hinge on establishing how the collision occurred and who bears responsibility for the harm. Common elements include demonstrating duty of care, showing a breach of that duty, and proving that the breach caused measurable injuries and losses. Evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and traffic or surveillance footage can play a central role in building a claim. The state’s comparative fault rules may affect recovery if the injured pedestrian is found partially responsible, so a careful factual and legal review is important early in the process.

The insurance landscape in pedestrian cases often involves claims against drivers’ automobile policies and, in some cases, municipal entities if poor road design or maintenance contributed to the incident. Timely notice to insurers and preservation of evidence help protect recovery options. Medical documentation that links treatment to the accident, along with records of lost earnings and out-of-pocket expenses, establishes the foundation for a damages claim. Throughout, prioritizing care and keeping thorough records of symptoms, appointments, and impacts on daily life strengthens a claimant’s position.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary for Pedestrian Claims

Negligence

Negligence is the legal concept used to determine whether one party failed to act with appropriate care, leading to another person’s injury. In a pedestrian context, negligence might involve a driver failing to yield at a crosswalk, running a red light, or operating a vehicle while distracted. Demonstrating negligence typically requires showing that a duty of care existed, that the duty was breached, and that the breach caused the pedestrian’s injuries. Clear documentation of driver actions, road conditions, and witness observations supports a negligence claim and informs settlement or litigation planning.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a rule that allows damages to be divided when more than one party shares responsibility for an accident. In New York, recovery may be reduced by the injured party’s percentage of fault, which is determined based on the facts of the incident. For pedestrians, issues like crossing outside a crosswalk or failing to follow a signal can be factors considered in apportioning fault. Understanding how comparative fault may affect potential recovery helps claimants and their representatives frame arguments to minimize attributed responsibility and preserve the maximum possible compensation.

Liability

Liability refers to the legal responsibility for harm caused by actions or omissions. In pedestrian accidents, identifying the liable party can be straightforward when a negligent driver is involved, but it can also include property owners or municipalities if unsafe sidewalks, poor lighting, or defective road design contributed to the incident. Establishing liability involves gathering evidence that links the defendant’s conduct or condition to the accident and resulting injuries. Clear chains of evidence and documentation are essential to holding the right parties accountable and obtaining fair recovery.

Damages

Damages are the monetary losses a person seeks to recover following an injury, covering economic and non-economic harms. Economic damages include medical bills, future care costs, and lost wages, while non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. In severe pedestrian collisions, damages can also address long-term rehabilitation needs, assistive devices, and modifications to living arrangements. Establishing a full record of both current and anticipated expenses supports a damages claim and helps decision-makers assess appropriate compensation.

PRO TIPS

Document the Scene Carefully

After a pedestrian collision, take photographs and record the scene as soon as it is safe to do so. Capture vehicle positions, road markings, lighting conditions, and any visible injuries, and collect contact details for witnesses who saw the incident. These steps preserve important evidence that can be lost or altered over time and help paint a clear picture of what occurred for insurers and investigators.

Seek Prompt Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor at first, obtain medical evaluation right away and follow recommended treatment and testing. Early medical documentation links injuries to the collision and supports claims for both immediate and later symptoms that may emerge. Retain all medical records, bills, and notes about symptoms to build an accurate picture of recovery and ongoing needs.

Preserve Evidence and Records

Keep copies of police reports, medical records, correspondence with insurers, and receipts for accident-related expenses. Write down your recollection of the incident soon after it happens, including details about weather, lighting, and what you remember seeing or hearing. Organized records make it easier to present a strong narrative and help ensure nothing important is overlooked during claim preparation.

Comparing Legal Options for Pedestrian Claims

When Comprehensive Representation Helps:

Serious Injuries and Ongoing Care

Comprehensive representation is often appropriate when injuries require long term medical treatment and rehabilitation, as these situations involve complex evaluations of future costs. A thorough approach helps assemble medical opinions, vocational assessments, and financial projections to quantify long term needs. This careful preparation is important when negotiation or litigation is necessary to secure compensation that addresses both present and future impacts of the injury.

Disputed Liability or Multiple Defendants

When the cause of the accident or the identity of responsible parties is contested, a comprehensive approach can be beneficial to investigate all potential sources of liability. This may include obtaining records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with professionals to reconstruct the event. A coordinated effort helps clarify responsibility and present persuasive evidence to insurers or a court when multiple parties may share blame.

When a Limited Approach May Be Appropriate:

Minor Injuries and Clear Liability

If injuries are minor and liability is plainly established, a focused, limited claim may resolve efficiently through the insurer’s claims process. In such cases, collecting medical documentation and submitting a concise damages summary can lead to a fair settlement without prolonged dispute. The key is maintaining thorough records so that even a streamlined approach accurately reflects the claimant’s losses.

Desire for Quick Resolution

Some individuals prioritize a prompt resolution to avoid extended legal proceedings, especially when damages are modest and recovery is expected to be complete. A limited approach focuses on negotiating an agreeable settlement while minimizing time and disruption. Even in these situations, careful documentation and clear communication with insurers help secure a reasonable outcome without unnecessary delays.

Common Circumstances That Lead to Pedestrian Claims

Crosswalk Collisions

Collisions at marked crosswalks often involve drivers failing to yield or misjudging pedestrian movement, resulting in significant injuries. These incidents require documentation of signals, signage, and witness descriptions to establish the sequence of events and responsibility.

Parking Lot Incidents

Pedestrian accidents in parking areas frequently occur when drivers are reversing or distracted, and visibility is limited, leading to abrupt impacts. Collecting surveillance footage, witness statements, and vehicle damage reports helps clarify how the collision occurred and who is responsible.

Sidewalk and Trail Hazards

Dangerous sidewalks, poor lighting, or obstructed pathways can contribute to falls or vehicle encroachments that injure pedestrians. Identifying responsible maintenance entities and documenting the hazardous condition are important steps in pursuing recovery for those harmed.

Dobbs Ferry Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Why Choose The Ahearne Law Firm for Pedestrian Claims

The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC represents injured pedestrians throughout the Hudson Valley with focused attention on personal injury matters. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and the firm provide careful review of medical and accident records, manage communications with insurers, and prepare cases for negotiation or court when required. Clients receive practical guidance on documenting injuries and understanding potential recovery, including medical expenses, lost earnings, and non-economic harms. The firm aims to handle the procedural demands so clients can concentrate on recovery while pursuing appropriate compensation.

Representation includes timely investigation of scenes, gathering witness accounts, and securing relevant records such as police and medical reports. The firm emphasizes clear communication and responsiveness, keeping clients informed about case progress and settlement options. For residents of Dobbs Ferry and surrounding areas, this local focus helps ensure that claims reflect regional practices and available resources. Prospective clients are encouraged to discuss their situation to learn how the firm approaches case preparation and negotiated resolutions.

Contact The Ahearne Law Firm Today

People Also Search For

Dobbs Ferry pedestrian accident lawyer

Hudson Valley personal injury attorney

pedestrian collision claim New York

pedestrian injury compensation Dobbs Ferry

car hits pedestrian Westchester County

pedestrian accident medical bills recovery

lost wages pedestrian accident claim

Ahearne Law Firm pedestrian accidents

FAQS

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Dobbs Ferry?

Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries do not seem severe at first, because some symptoms can appear later and timely documentation strengthens any future claim. Call the police so an official report is created, and if possible, take photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, road signs, and visible injuries. Obtain names and contact information from witnesses and note weather, lighting, and traffic conditions that may have contributed to the collision. Keep all medical records and bills related to the accident and write down your own account of events as soon as you are able, including how the injury has affected day to day activities and work. Notify your insurer and keep copies of any communications from the other party’s insurance company. Preserving this documentation from the outset supports case preparation and helps ensure you can accurately present the scope of losses and treatment.

How is fault determined in a pedestrian accident case?

Fault is determined by examining the actions of the parties involved, the applicable traffic laws, and any evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and video or photographic documentation. Investigators will look at whether a driver failed to yield, violated a traffic signal, was distracted, or otherwise acted in a way that a reasonably careful person would not have. For pedestrians, conduct such as crossing against a signal or stepping into traffic without looking can also factor into the analysis. In New York, comparative fault rules allow damages to be apportioned if more than one party shares responsibility, so even if a pedestrian’s actions contributed to the incident, recovery may still be possible. Each case is fact specific, and a careful review of the available evidence is necessary to determine how fault may be allocated and the likely impact on potential recovery.

Can I still recover if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, recovery may still be available if you were partially at fault due to New York’s comparative fault rules, which permit a reduction in damages proportional to your percentage of responsibility. The court or negotiating parties will assess evidence to assign a percentage of fault to each party based on the circumstances, and your final award typically reflects that allocation. It is therefore important to document all factors that may mitigate attributed responsibility, such as unclear signals or sudden driver conduct. Careful case preparation aimed at clarifying the sequence of events and highlighting the other party’s actions can reduce the share of fault attributed to the injured pedestrian. Even where some responsibility is found, preserving strong medical, witness, and scene documentation supports a recovery that addresses medical bills, lost income, and other harms despite a partial fault determination.

What types of damages can I recover after a pedestrian collision?

Damages in a pedestrian collision commonly include economic losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, prescription medications, assistive devices, and lost wages or diminished earning capacity. These concrete losses are supported by bills, treatment records, and employment documentation to establish their necessity and connection to the accident. Future care and projected medical needs can also be included when supported by medical opinions. Non economic damages may also be available to compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other subjective harms tied to the injury. The exact categories and amounts depend on case facts, severity of injuries, and supporting documentation, so assembling a full record of impacts on daily life and mental health helps ensure that non economic harms are considered in any settlement or award.

How long do I have to file a claim after a pedestrian accident in New York?

In New York, the general statute of limitations for personal injury actions is two years from the date of the accident, meaning that a lawsuit must typically be filed within that timeframe to preserve legal claims. Certain exceptions may apply in situations involving claims against government entities, where shorter notice periods and distinct procedures can be required. It is important to verify deadlines promptly to avoid losing the right to pursue recovery. Because time limits and notice rules vary depending on the parties involved and the nature of the claim, initiating a case review early helps identify any special requirements and ensures that evidence is preserved and procedural steps are taken within required timeframes. Early action also facilitates a more complete investigation while witness memories and physical evidence remain fresh.

Will my case likely involve dealing with an insurance company?

Yes, most pedestrian injury matters involve dealing with insurance companies, including the at fault driver’s auto insurer and possibly other carriers if multiple policies are implicated. Insurance adjusters will evaluate claims based on submitted documentation and may negotiate settlements aimed at resolving matters quickly and for a fixed amount. It is important to provide accurate information while protecting your interests, because early statements and recorded interviews can influence how insurers assess liability and damages. Maintaining thorough medical records and a clear account of the incident allows for a stronger presentation of the claim when negotiating with insurers. If liability or damages are disputed, or if the insurer’s offer does not reflect the full extent of losses, additional steps such as filing suit or engaging in more formal dispute resolution may be necessary to pursue appropriate recovery.

What evidence is most important in a pedestrian accident claim?

Critical evidence in pedestrian cases includes the police report, medical records that link treatment to the accident, photographs or video of the scene, witness statements, and any available traffic or surveillance footage. Vehicle damage reports, skid marks, lighting and weather information, and documentation of nearby signage or crosswalks also help reconstruct the event and establish responsibility. The more contemporaneous and detailed the evidence, the stronger the claim tends to be. Consistent records of symptoms, treatment notes, and out of pocket costs are essential for proving damages, while witness accounts and photographic evidence assist in establishing fault. Promptly collecting and preserving this material is important, as physical evidence may be altered, and memories can fade over time.

Should I speak to an insurance adjuster without legal guidance?

It is often advisable to be cautious when speaking to an insurance adjuster before understanding your full medical picture and legal options, because early statements can be used to minimize or deny claims. Adjusters may ask detailed questions and request recorded statements that can influence their evaluation of liability and damages. Providing basic facts about the incident is reasonable, but avoid making definitive statements about fault or downplaying injuries before you know the full extent of medical findings. Keeping a record of all communications and consulting with a legal representative for guidance on how to respond can help protect your interests. If an adjuster requests a recorded statement or pushes for a quick settlement, seeking advice first ensures you make informed decisions and avoid unintentionally undermining potential recovery.

What happens if the driver fled the scene?

If the driver fled the scene, report the incident to law enforcement immediately and provide as many details as possible, including vehicle description, license plate fragments, direction of travel, and witness contact information. Police investigations may locate the driver or identify the vehicle, and an official report documenting the hit and run is an important part of any subsequent claim. If the vehicle cannot be identified, uninsured motorist protections under your policy may provide a recovery avenue. Insurance options vary, so reviewing your coverage and promptly notifying your insurer allows you to explore claims against your own policy if needed. Preserving any physical evidence, such as clothing or vehicle paint, and seeking medical care right away remains critical to document the injury and support any claim that follows.

How can I prepare for a consultation about my pedestrian injury?

Before a consultation, gather any police reports, medical records, photographs, witness contact information, and correspondence with insurers related to the accident. A clear timeline of events and documentation of treatment and expenses will allow a productive discussion about the strengths and needs of your claim. Having pay stubs or records of missed work also helps quantify economic losses that may be recoverable. Be prepared to describe the accident in your own words, including immediate symptoms and follow up care, and bring any questions you have about timelines and possible outcomes. A well organized file of information helps the review process and enables practical recommendations about the next steps for claim preparation and resolution.

Personal Injury Services in Dobbs Ferry

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services