Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating types of traffic collisions. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are far more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries when struck by a car, truck, or motorcycle. If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, a Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer at KaplunMarx can help you pursue justice and the financial compensation you deserve.
Our firm represents injured pedestrians throughout Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take, and we are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable while helping our clients move forward.
The Impact of Pedestrian Accidents
Even low-speed pedestrian accidents can cause life-altering injuries. Many victims face traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal organ injuries, severe lacerations, and permanent disability. Recovery often involves emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and extended time away from work.
Beyond the physical pain, injured pedestrians frequently experience emotional trauma, anxiety, and a loss of independence. A Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer evaluates not only your immediate injuries but also the long-term consequences the accident may have on your health, career, and quality of life.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Philadelphia
If you are struck by a vehicle, your health and your legal rights should be protected immediately. You should seek medical care as soon as possible, call 911 so a police report is created, and document the scene if you are able. Witness information and photographs can be critical evidence later. It is also important to avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.
Insurance adjusters often move quickly after pedestrian accidents to reduce their financial exposure. Speaking with a Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer early can prevent costly mistakes and strengthen your claim from the start.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Most pedestrian accidents occur because a driver fails to exercise reasonable care. These crashes often happen when motorists fail to yield at crosswalks, speed through intersections, drive while distracted, run red lights, or operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pedestrian accidents are also common in parking lots, school zones, residential neighborhoods, and areas with poor lighting or unclear traffic control devices.
In some cases, unsafe roadway design or malfunctioning traffic signals contribute to the accident. KaplunMarx investigates every pedestrian accident thoroughly to identify all responsible parties, including drivers, employers, or government entities when applicable.
Liability and Comparative Negligence in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means an injured pedestrian can recover compensation as long as they are found to be 50 percent or less at fault for the accident. However, the total compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the pedestrian. If a pedestrian is found to be more than 50 percent responsible, recovery may be barred entirely.
Insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto pedestrians to minimize payouts. A skilled Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer works to counter these arguments and protect your right to full compensation.
Compensation Available to Injured Pedestrians
A successful pedestrian accident claim may allow you to recover compensation for the full scope of your losses, including medical expenses, future medical care, lost income, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving extreme recklessness, such as drunk or distracted driving, additional damages may also be available.
If a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue wrongful death and survival claims under Pennsylvania law.
Accidents Involving Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers
When a pedestrian is hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, compensation may still be available through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, household auto insurance policies, or claims against other liable parties. These cases are often complex and aggressively defended by insurance companies, making experienced legal representation especially important.
A Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer at KaplunMarx can identify all available sources of compensation and pursue every avenue of recovery.
How KaplunMarx Helps Injured Pedestrians
At KaplunMarx, we take a hands-on approach to pedestrian accident cases. We conduct a comprehensive investigation, preserve evidence, work with medical providers, calculate damages accurately, and handle all insurance communications. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.
We represent pedestrian accident victims on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Time Limits for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim
Under Pennsylvania law, most pedestrian accident claims must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. Claims involving government entities may require additional notice and shorter deadlines. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your claim, so it is critical to act quickly.
Speak With a Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured while walking in Philadelphia, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. A trusted Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer at KaplunMarx can explain your rights, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact KaplunMarx today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
