Free Guide
Being hit while walking is one of the most jarring things that can happen, and the injuries are often serious. Here's a calm checklist for what to do. If you're reading this for someone you love who was hurt, the steps are the same, and a real person here can help you both.
Call 911, get an ambulance and a police report.
If you're able, photograph the scene, the vehicle, the crosswalk, and the traffic signals.
Get the driver's name, license, insurance, and plate number.
Get names and numbers of witnesses. Bystanders often saw the light or signal.
Don't downplay your injuries or say you're fine.
Go to the hospital even if you think you can walk it off. Pedestrian injuries can be internal.
Keep all medical records and the police report number.
Don't give a recorded statement to the driver's insurer before talking to a lawyer.
Guides are general. Your case isn't. Ask us, it's free and there's no obligation.
Start a free reviewThe first thing to do if a car hits you while walking is call 911 for medical care and a police report, then gather evidence if you're able: photos of the scene, the vehicle, and the crosswalk, plus witness names. Pedestrian injuries are often more serious than they first feel, so getting examined right away protects both your health and your claim.
If a hit-and-run driver struck you while walking, you may still get paid, often through the uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto policy or that of a household member, even though you weren't in a car. Report it to police immediately and call Peretz Law Firm so we can find the coverage that applies to you.
No, a driver claiming you “stepped out” does not automatically ruin your case. It's the most common defense in pedestrian crashes and it's often wrong. Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey all use comparative negligence, which means sharing some of the blame doesn't automatically end your claim — it reduces it. In New York you can recover even if you were mostly at fault (your award is just reduced by your share). In Pennsylvania and New Jersey you can recover as long as you were not more at fault than the other side. A speeding or distracted driver can still be largely responsible, and Peretz Law Firm investigates what actually happened.
This guide is general information for people in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, it isn't legal advice for your specific situation, and reading it doesn't create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your own case, talk to a lawyer. We're happy to be that first call, free.