• People

    Advanced Search

  • Services
  • All Services

  • Vehicles may become safer annually, but the same can’t be said for walking, the most basic form of transportation. According to the latest crash statistics, in Pennsylvania, pedestrian-related crashes accounted for 3,199 incidents, representing 2.9% of all reported traffic crashes. However, these collisions resulted in 186 fatalities, making up 15.4% of all traffic-related deaths.

    Recovery from a pedestrian accident can be long and painful, both physically and emotionally. It’s a significant life event. If you or a loved one has been injured, you need committed legal advocates who can help you get your life back.

    Stark & Stark is here to help. A Pennsylvania pedestrian accident attorney will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and outline your legal options. Call (800) 535-3425 today for a free consultation.

    SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

    Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Guide

    Why Choose Stark & Stark for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

    Selecting the right legal representation can influence the outcome of a pedestrian accident claim. Stark & Stark is committed to helping injured pedestrians in Pennsylvania pursue fair compensation for their losses.

    Proven Experience in Pedestrian Injury Cases

    The attorneys at Stark & Stark have handled a wide range of pedestrian accident claims, including cases involving distracted drivers, reckless behavior, and hazardous road conditions. Their experience as a Pennsylvania personal injury attorney allows them to advocate for injured pedestrians and their families effectively.

    Individualized Legal Strategies

    Every pedestrian accident case presents unique circumstances. The firm carefully evaluates each situation, gathering evidence, consulting relevant experts, and developing a legal strategy tailored to the client’s needs.

    Advocating for Maximum Compensation

    Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by shifting blame or undervaluing injuries. Stark & Stark works to secure full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation.

    No Financial Risk to Clients

    Legal fees should not be a barrier to seeking justice. Stark & Stark represents clients on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and payment is only required if compensation is recovered.

    Legal action can provide financial relief and accountability for those affected by a pedestrian accident. Stark & Stark is prepared to guide injured pedestrians through the claims process and fight for the compensation they deserve. Call us today for a free case evaluation. 

    Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in Pennsylvania

    Pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in Pennsylvania, resulting in devastating injuries and overwhelming challenges for victims and their families. Hiring an attorney who understands Pennsylvania pedestrian and traffic accident laws and regulations is essential for victims seeking compensation.

    Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

    Traffic laws almost uniformly give pedestrians the right of way, but many pedestrian accidents still occur due to various factors. If an accident occurs and a pedestrian isn’t engaged in reckless or negligent behavior, the driver is most often at fault.

    According to a Governors Highway Safety Administration study, the prevalence of SUVs and other large vehicles is a top cause of pedestrian accidents, along with distracted driving caused by smartphones.

    Other common causes include:

    • Exiting a parallel or highway shoulder parked car
    • Drivers making hasty turns
    • Speeding
    • Drunk driving
    • Walking at night in dark clothing
    • Being under the influence
    • Poor sidewalk, parking lot, or road conditions

    Key Pedestrian Laws in Pennsylvania

    In Pennsylvania, pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and intersections. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in these areas and exercise reasonable care to avoid accidents. On the other hand, pedestrians are expected to follow traffic signals and signs and exercise reasonable caution when crossing streets.

    Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule applies in cases where both parties share some responsibility, allowing injured parties to recover compensation if they are less than 51% at fault.

    The Risks of Distracted Walking

    Distracted walking is a growing concern in Pennsylvania, with many pedestrians using phones or other devices while crossing streets. This behavior can lead to devastating consequences, including serious injuries and fatalities. 

    According to Science Daily, around 10% of pedestrians who seek treatment in emergency rooms after an accident were texting when their injuries occurred. Pedestrians must be aware of the risks of distracted walking and take steps to stay safe.

    Impact of a Pedestrian Accident

    If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian accident, you know how extensive pedestrian accident injuries can be and how significant the medical treatment required can become. Care can involve:

    • Emergency treatment and care
    • Surgery or other invasive medical procedures
    • Assistance of life support systems
    • Occupational and physical therapy
    • Assistive support, which can range from crutches to in-home medical care

    Even after recovery, which itself can be long, painful, and expensive, accident victims can suffer. Emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, lost wages and employment, and lingering physical injuries or disability can haunt victims.

    As an injured party, you may be able to collect damages for a range of expenses as a result of the accident: medical bills, both current and future, lost wages and reduced capacity to work, and pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also factor in, depending on your case.

    Common Injuries Suffered by Pedestrians in Car Accidents

    Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, including head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. 

    These injuries can have long-term consequences for victims and their families, including medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. 

    Experienced pedestrian accident lawyers can help victims navigate the complex process of seeking compensation for their injuries.

    What to Do After Being Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian

    Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

    The steps taken immediately after a pedestrian accident can influence recovery and the ability to seek compensation. A consultation with car accident lawyers can help you understand your options. If you or a loved one has been injured, follow these guidelines to protect your health and legal rights:

    • Call the police immediately. Reporting the accident ensures an official record is created, which can be crucial for a legal claim.
    • Do not leave the scene. Stay until paramedics and law enforcement arrive to assess the situation and gather information.
    • Seek medical attention. Even if injuries do not seem severe initially, a medical evaluation is important for identifying hidden conditions and documenting injuries.
    • Gather evidence. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any injuries, property damage, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signals.
    • Obtain witness information. Collect the names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident occur. Their statements may help establish liability.
    • Avoid making statements about the accident. Do not discuss fault or provide recorded statements to insurance representatives or other parties without legal guidance.
    • Consult a pedestrian accident attorney. A lawyer can explain legal options, handle communications with insurance companies, and help build a strong case.
    • Work closely with your attorney. Provide any evidence you have, follow legal advice, and participate in the case as needed to strengthen your claim.

    These steps can help protect your rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.

    Time Limits for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Pennsylvania

    Pennsylvania law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits, including those involving pedestrian accidents. 

    In most cases, injured pedestrians must file a claim two years from the accident date. This deadline applies to lawsuits seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

    Failing to file within this period can result in losing the ability to pursue legal action. Courts rarely grant extensions, except in specific circumstances, such as when the injured party is a minor. In those cases, the statute of limitations may be delayed until the individual reaches legal adulthood.

    If a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. The filing deadline for these cases is two years, starting from the date of the victim’s passing rather than the accident itself. For legal guidance, it’s essential to consult with a Pennsylvania wrongful death attorney.

    Legal claims against government entities follow different rules. If the at-fault party is a city or state agency, injured pedestrians must provide written notice within six months of the accident. Failure to meet this requirement can prevent a lawsuit from moving forward.

    Since time restrictions vary based on the circumstances, accident victims should seek legal guidance as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.

    How A Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help

    You deserve to receive the full compensation you’re entitled to to recover fully. Our pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to advocating for your rights so you can be made whole again.

    We help clients get the financial support they need to cover medical bills, expenses due to lost wages, and pain and suffering.

    If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, time is valuable. Don’t wait to take action. Contact the experienced attorneys at Stark and Stark to learn more about your legal options and file a pedestrian accident lawsuit if necessary.

    Contact Stark & Stark for a Free Consultation 

    Speak with a Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

    Taking legal action after a pedestrian accident is time-sensitive. If you or a loved one has been injured, the law firm of Stark & Stark is prepared to assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.

    Call (800) 535-3425 or complete the online contact form to schedule a free consultation. An attorney will review your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the next steps toward financial recovery.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Pennsylvania

    What happens if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?

    If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still have options for covering your medical expenses and other losses. Many pedestrians can file a claim under their own auto insurance policy if they have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This coverage type is designed to compensate when an at-fault driver lacks insurance.

    Do I need to hire a pedestrian accident attorney?

    While the decision is ultimately personal, hiring an attorney after a pedestrian accident is a wise legal choice. An attorney can assist you in building a strong case against the parties involved in your accident, particularly since the opposing side often tries to prove comparative fault. 

    Furthermore, attorneys can help you secure witnesses, negotiate with insurance companies, and establish the most effective legal strategy to resolve your case, as they have experience representing pedestrian accident victims.

    Who pays for my medical bills after a pedestrian accident?

    The short answer is insurance. The longer answer is that it’s complicated. After a pedestrian accident, the driver’s personal injury protection insurance should cover your medical bills. If they don’t have that insurance, their auto or health insurance might cover your expenses. 

    If they don’t have any insurance, you could consider taking them to court, but whether this will provide meaningful assistance is uncertain. The complexities of insurance payouts mean working with an attorney experienced in pedestrian accident law is crucial for filing a personal injury claim.

    What is the value of my pedestrian injury case?  

    There is no one-size-fits-all settlement for pedestrian accident cases. The ultimate worth of your case relies on factors such as the severity of your injuries, whether you missed work, any disability claims, and the assignment of fault.

    Generally, you can seek compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. You may also be able to seek compensation damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any disability you may have suffered.

    Will my pedestrian injury case go to trial? 

    Most personal injury claims can be resolved through settlement, mediation, or arbitration before a trial. At Stark and Stark, we build strong cases for our clients, motivating insurance companies and other parties to settle rather than incur the time and expense of a trial. Every case is unique, so it’s best to work closely with your attorney to determine the best approach for your case.

    It’s generally not advisable to accept an initial settlement without legal guidance. Insurance companies often offer lower amounts early to resolve claims quickly. Once a settlement is accepted, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation, even if your expenses exceed the amount received. Consulting an attorney before agreeing to any settlement can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

    SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

    Speak with an Experienced Attorney Today

    "*" indicates required fields

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Firm Highlights

    Stark & Stark Joins Growing Coalition of Law Firms in Defense of Constitutional Principles and the Independence of the Legal Profession

    Stark & Stark has joined hundreds of fellow law firms across the country in filing an amicus brief supporting Perkins Coie, WilmerHale, Jenner...

    Stark & Stark Attorneys Recognized as New Jersey “Super Lawyers” and “Rising Stars” in 2026

    Stark & Stark is pleased to announce that 15 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the list of 2026 New Jersey Super Lawyers,...

    Bruce Stern, Esq. Secures $1,000,000 Settlement in Motor Vehicle Collision Case

    Bruce Stern, Esq. recently secured a $1,000,000 settlement in a motor vehicle collision case.* “This case highlights how quickly things can go...

    Deborah Dunn, Esq. Elected to Board of Directors for Angel Flight East

    Stark & Stark is pleased to announce that Deborah Dunn, Esq., Shareholder and Civil Trial Attorney, has been elected to the Board of Directors...

    Michael Jordan, Esq. Joins the Board of the Lawrence Township Community Foundation

    It is our pleasure to announce that Michael Jordan, Esq. has joined the board of the Lawrence Township Community Foundation, an organization...

    Stark & Stark Opens Newtown, Pennsylvania Location

    Stark & Stark announced the relocation of its Yardley, Pennsylvania office to a new location in Newtown, PA. The new office is now open and...

    Joseph Lemkin, Esq. Named to ROI-NJ Influencers: Power List 2026 – Law

    Stark & Stark is proud to share that Joseph Lemkin, Esq., Shareholder, has been named to the 2026 Influencers: Power List in the Law category...

    Jeffrey A. Krawitz, Esq. and Michael C. Ksiazek, Esq. Secure $1,000,000 Settlement in Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Case

    Jeffrey A. Krawitz, Esq. and Michael C. Ksiazek, Esq. recently secured a $1,000,000 settlement in a medical malpractice wrongful death...

    Joseph Cullen, Esq. and Nicole Durso, Esq. Secure $2,000,000 Settlement in Personal Injury Matter

    Joseph Cullen, Esq. and Nicole Durso, Esq. recently secured a $2,000,000 settlement in a personal injury matter involving a pedestrian who was struck...

    Stark & Stark Welcomes Susan L. Swatski, Esq. to the Firm

    Continuing in its mission to provide its clients innovative legal solutions to meet their needs, Stark & Stark PC, announced today that Susan L....

    Tim Duggan Wins Eminent Domain Challenge – Case Dismissed

    We are pleased to share that Tim Duggan of our Condemnation, Redevelopment, and Eminent Domain Group was successful in protecting the owner of a...

    James Creegan, Esq. Appointed to Board of The 200 Club of Mercer County

    It is our pleasure to announce that James Creegan, Esq. has been appointed to the Board of Directors of The 200 Club of Mercer County, an...