Brooklyn’s streets are always moving. From Flatbush to Downtown, pedestrians constantly share space with cars, buses, bikes, and delivery vans across NYC. But when that balance breaks and a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the consequences can be devastating. If you or a loved one was hit by a car while walking in Brooklyn, you may be overwhelmed, in pain, and unsure of what to do next.
At Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, we help injured pedestrians navigate the legal aftermath of serious accidents. With decades of experience representing victims of negligence across Brooklyn and the greater New York City area, we’re here to make justice happen one case at a time.
This guide explains your rights, outlines the steps to take after a pedestrian accident, and shows how a Brooklyn personal injury lawyer can help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Pedestrian Accidents in Brooklyn: A Growing Concern
Brooklyn consistently ranks among the boroughs with the highest number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities in New York City. According to NYC DOT data, intersections near schools, transit hubs, and commercial corridors, like Atlantic Avenue, Eastern Parkway, and Flatbush Avenue, are especially dangerous.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use)
- Speeding or failure to yield at crosswalks
- Left-hand turns without checking for pedestrians
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
Even at low speeds, a vehicle striking a pedestrian can cause catastrophic injuries, including broken bones, spinal trauma, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries.
What to Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Car
If you’re physically able, taking the following steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
1. Call 911
Report the accident and request medical assistance. A police report will document the scene, which is critical for your claim.
2. Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, seek medical care right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately.
3. Gather Evidence
If possible, take photos of:
- The vehicle that hit you (license plate, damage)
- The scene (crosswalks, traffic signals, skid marks)
- Your injuries
Also, collect names and contact information from any witnesses.
4. Avoid Making Statements
Do not admit fault or speculate about what happened. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or insurance companies.
5. Contact a Brooklyn Auto Accident Injury Lawyer
Before speaking with the driver’s insurance company, consult a Brooklyn auto accident attorney who understands New York’s personal injury laws and can protect your rights.
Similar Post: What to Do Immediately After a Brooklyn Car Accident To Protect Your Rights & Your Claim
Who’s Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
In New York, drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. If a driver fails to uphold that duty and causes injury, they may be held liable for damages.
At Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, we’ve successfully represented injured pedestrians across Brooklyn, including children struck near schools, seniors hit while crossing at intersections, tourists unfamiliar with NYC traffic patterns, and delivery workers injured on foot. Founding attorney Roger V. Archibald brings decades of courtroom experience and a deep commitment to justice for Brooklyn’s injured. We understand the tactics insurers use, and we know how to fight back.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were hit by a car in Brooklyn, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgery, rehab)
- Lost wages (including future earning capacity)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means your own insurance (or the driver’s) may cover initial medical costs, but serious injuries often exceed those limits. That’s when a personal injury lawsuit becomes necessary.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In New York, the statute of limitations for pedestrian personal injury claims, including hit and run claims, is typically three years from the date of the incident. That said, if a government vehicle (like an MTA bus or sanitation truck) was involved, you may have as little as 90 days to file a Notice of Claim.
Don’t wait. Evidence fades, witnesses disappear, and deadlines matter. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
Why Choose Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC?
We’re not just lawyers. We’re advocates for Brooklyn’s injured. Our firm combines aggressive legal strategy with compassionate client care. We take the time to understand your story, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Clients choose us because:
- We have decades of experience in pedestrian and vehicle injury cases.
- We offer free consultations and contingency-based representation (you don’t pay unless we win).
- We’re deeply rooted in Brooklyn and serve clients across all five boroughs.
- We’re known for our courtroom readiness and negotiation strength.
Whether you were hit in Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights, or Downtown Brooklyn, we’re ready to help.
Injured as a Pedestrian in Brooklyn? Let’s Talk.
If you or someone you love was hit by a car while walking in Brooklyn, don’t navigate the legal system alone. At Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, we’re here to help you understand your rights, hold negligent drivers accountable, and pursue the compensation you need to heal.
Call us today at 718-237-1111or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. We’re ready to fight for you, and we don’t stop until justice is served.
Disclaimer: The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.