Types of Pedestrian Accidents We Handle in Buffalo
Approximately 300 pedestrians die, and 15,000 are injured in pedestrian accidents every year in New York State. At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, we are dedicated to providing each of our clients with the personalized attention they need to get the best possible outcome in their case.
We bring decades of experience in handling complex pedestrian accident cases, including:
- Crosswalk accidents
- Parking lot collisions
- Sidewalk accidents caused by vehicles
- Hit-and-run incidents
- Bicycle or scooter collisions with pedestrians
- Bus, truck, or taxi accidents
- Fatal pedestrian accidents (wrongful death claims)
No accident is too complex. Whether the driver fled the scene, was distracted, or violated traffic laws, our personal injury attorneys in Buffalo know how to build a strong case and fight for every dollar you are entitled to.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Fighting for Maximum Compensation
Most law firms just shuffle forms and hope for the best. We do the opposite. Our Buffalo pedestrian accident attorneys strike first, anticipate every trick, dig out hidden damages, and press aggressively so you are not left settling for less than you deserve. We turn the system against those who try to shortchange you and make sure your full recovery is the priority.
Trial-Ready Representation from Day One
We prepare every case as if it will go to court. This approach ensures insurers take your claim seriously, preserves evidence like surveillance footage or accident reports, and maximizes your chance of full compensation.
A Lawyer Dedicated to Your Case
You will work with one attorney from start to finish. That lawyer will answer your questions, explain the process, and guide you through each decision. You never get passed around or left in the dark.
Full-Service Legal Support
Pedestrian accidents can impact all areas of life. Beyond personal injury claims, we also assist with SSD benefits, workers’ compensation, and other related claims. We make sure every aspect of your recovery and financial security is addressed.
We Have a No-Fee Guarantee
You never pay us upfront. We only get paid if we win for you, so our success is directly tied to yours.
Free Case Evaluation
Speak with a lawyer at no cost. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and help you understand the best path forward.
You’re More than a Case
We treat every client like family, taking the time to understand your story and guide you through every step with care and compassion.
What Compensation is Available in a Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries with long-term financial and personal consequences. In New York, the compensation available depends on the severity of your injuries and how your claim is pursued.
Economic Damages Through No-Fault Insurance
New York’s No-Fault system allows injured pedestrians to recover economic losses, regardless of who caused the accident. These damages are intended to cover direct financial harm, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage includes emergency treatment, hospital care, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and necessary future medical care related to the accident.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income. If the accident affects your ability to earn in the future, reduced earning capacity may also be included.
- Property Damage: You may recover compensation for personal property damaged in the accident, such as clothing, electronics, or assistive devices.
If your injuries meet New York’s serious injury threshold, you may also pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for non-economic damages, including pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. Serious injuries can include fractures, significant disfigurement, permanent limitations, or injuries that substantially disrupt daily activities.
If a pedestrian accident results in death, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Available damages can include funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and the loss of care, guidance, and services the deceased would have provided.
Your pedestrian accident attorney in Buffalo evaluates all available damages under New York law and builds a well-supported claim to prevent insurance companies from minimizing the impact of your injuries.
Why Work With a Buffalo Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
Many pedestrians make costly mistakes after an accident, such as missing deadlines, failing to document injuries properly, giving recorded statements that weaken their claim, or overlooking liable parties. Insurance companies use these errors to deny or undervalue claims.
Here’s how a pedestrian accident attorney in Buffalo can overcome these challenges:
- Maximizing coverage and benefits: We make sure you receive all benefits available under New York’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) system while pursuing claims against negligent parties for damages beyond those limits.
- Thorough investigation and evidence gathering: We analyze the accident scene, gather police reports, obtain surveillance footage, and interview witnesses to build a strong foundation for your case.
- Identifying all responsible parties: Pedestrian accidents may involve multiple liable parties, such as drivers, property owners, commercial vehicle employers, or even government agencies responsible for unsafe roads or crosswalks.
- Medical documentation with precision: We work closely with healthcare providers to ensure your medical records clearly link injuries to the accident, outline severity, and support claims for future treatment or rehabilitation.
- Detailed financial recovery planning: Beyond medical bills and lost wages, we evaluate ongoing expenses, rehabilitation costs, and long-term impacts on your earning capacity and daily life.
- Negotiation with strategic leverage: Insurance companies respond when they see a case fully developed with evidence, expert analysis, and legal strategy. We use this preparation to achieve higher settlements without needing to go to court, while remaining ready for trial if necessary.
By hiring a Buffalo pedestrian accident lawyer, you gain more than representation. You gain a safeguard against insurance tactics, a strategist for every potential liability, and an advocate committed to recovering compensation that truly reflects the full scope of your losses and future needs.
Watch this video by dedicated Buffalo injury attorney Timothy Hiller, Esq., as he explains what to do if you are a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle in New York.
What Injuries Qualify for Compensation?
Approximately 300 pedestrians die, and 15,000 are injured in pedestrian accidents every year in New York State. These accidents often result in serious injuries because pedestrians have no protection from the impact of a vehicle. Even injuries that appear minor at first can lead to chronic pain, repeated medical treatment, or permanent limitations that disrupt work and daily life.
Common injuries that may qualify for compensation include:
- Broken bones and fractures such as legs, arms, or ribs
- Head injuries including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries and paralysis that affect mobility or independence
- Internal injuries to organs that require surgery or long-term treatment
- Lacerations, burns, and severe bruising that require medical care
- Long-term disability or permanent impairment impacting your ability to work or perform daily activities
In many cases, pedestrian injuries can lead to permanent disabilities that affect your ability to work and manage daily life. A Social Security disability lawyer can handle your claim seamlessly, saving you the time and effort of juggling multiple attorneys.
Don’t Miss the Chance to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit
Time is critical after a pedestrian accident. In New York, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident. Claims involving government entities, such as city agencies responsible for unsafe roads or crosswalks, may have a 90-day deadline.
Acting quickly ensures evidence is preserved, witnesses are located, and your case is properly documented. Your Buffalo pedestrian accident attorney will handle all filing deadlines and procedural requirements, protecting your right to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, our Buffalo pedestrian accident attorneys answer the questions we hear most often, giving you additional guidance on what to expect. If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, contact our law firm today to get personalized legal assistance.
Can I recover compensation if a commercial vehicle was involved?
Yes. If a truck, delivery van, or other commercial vehicle caused your accident, you may be able to pursue compensation from both the driver and the employer. Employers can be held liable if the driver was acting within the scope of employment, failed to follow safety protocols, or was inadequately trained.
What if a sidewalk, crosswalk, or traffic signal contributed to my accident?
In New York, municipalities can sometimes be held responsible for unsafe conditions that cause pedestrian accidents. Examples include broken sidewalks, poorly maintained crosswalks, or malfunctioning traffic lights. These claims have strict deadlines and require precise documentation, which is why legal guidance is essential.
Can I recover for long-term rehabilitation or assistive devices?
Yes. Compensation can include future medical care, physical therapy, assistive devices like wheelchairs or braces, and modifications needed for your home or vehicle due to accident-related injuries.
What happens if multiple drivers share fault in my accident?
New York follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that if more than one party is partially responsible, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are deemed 20% at fault, your compensation is reduced by 20%.
Do I need to speak with witnesses or get statements after the accident?
Witness statements can be crucial for proving liability, especially in accidents where fault is disputed. Your pedestrian accident attorney can help identify witnesses and ensure their accounts are documented properly to support your claim.
How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident attorney in Buffalo?
At our firm, you never pay anything upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our payment comes only if we recover compensation for you. You can pursue your claim without worrying about legal bills while your case is pending. During your first consultation, we will review your situation, explain all costs and fees in detail, and answer any questions so you know exactly what to expect before deciding to move forward.