Binghamton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Being struck by a vehicle while walking can change everything in an instant. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next you’re facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. At Munley Law, we understand that a pedestrian accident disrupts your entire life. It affects your health, work, and daily activities.

Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. According to NHTSA, in 2023, 7,314 pedestrians were killed and more than 68,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide.

Our experienced Binghamton pedestrian accident attorneys have spent years helping families recover from these life-altering events. We handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing. With a deep knowledge of personal injury law and a long track record of successful outcomes, our attorneys are prepared to help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

Call (855) 866-5529 for a free consultation with an experienced Binghamton personal injury lawyer today.

Why Choose Munley Law as Your Binghamton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Choosing the right attorney after a pedestrian accident is one of the most important decisions. At Munley Law, our team includes board-certified trial lawyers—an achievement that signifies the highest level of legal expertise. Board certification requires rigorous testing, peer review, and proven courtroom success. This distinction demonstrates our commitment to excellence in personal injury law.

We have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for pedestrian accident victims across New York. Our attorneys don’t apply a one-size-fits-all approach—we craft tailored legal strategies based on the unique facts of each case. From evaluating medical evidence to collaborating with experts, we ensure your case is supported by the strongest possible foundation.

Unlike firms that push clients toward quick settlements, we are always prepared to take your case to trial. Insurance companies know our reputation. When they see we’re involved, they take claims seriously and often make better offers to avoid facing us in court. This willingness to litigate can lead to faster and more favorable results for you.

How Our Law Firm Supports You After a Pedestrian Accident

From the moment you contact us, our legal team goes to work on your behalf. We start by thoroughly assessing your damages, ensuring you understand the full scope of your claim. Many victims accept early offers without realizing the long-term costs of their injuries. We fight to prevent that from happening.

Our attorneys collect critical evidence: police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction reports. This helps prove the driver’s fault and supports your right to fair compensation.

We manage all interactions with insurance companies, shielding you from adjusters trained to devalue your claim. And if negotiations fail, we are ready to bring your case to court and argue for the justice you deserve.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Binghamton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

At Munley Law, we know that many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay us anything up front, and you won’t owe us any fees unless we win money for you. If we do get you a settlement or a court award, our fee comes out of that amount, never out of your pocket.

This kind of arrangement helps injured people get the legal help they need, no matter their financial situation. You can focus on getting better while we handle the legal work. It also means we’re motivated to work hard for you, because we only get paid when you do.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Binghamton

After a pedestrian accident, your actions can significantly impact your recovery and your legal case. First, seek medical attention—even if you feel okay. Injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can become serious without prompt treatment.

If possible, gather information at the scene:

• Exchange details with the driver
• Take photos of the accident site
• Talk to any witnesses

These details may prove vital in your case later. Call the police and ensure an official report is filed. This creates a documented account of the incident and who may be at fault.

Be cautious when speaking with insurance companies. They may seem helpful, but their goal is to minimize payouts. Before giving a statement or signing anything, consult with an experienced Binghamton pedestrian accident attorney.

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Understanding Time Limits for Filing a Claim

Under New York law, you typically have three years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions. If the vehicle involved belongs to a public agency, such as a BC (Broome County) Transit bus, you must:

• File a Notice of Claim within 90 days
• Bring your lawsuit within one year and 90 days

For minors under age 18, the three-year period usually begins on their 18th birthday. In cases involving delayed-onset injuries, the timeline may also vary. Wrongful death claims must generally be filed within two years of the date of death. That’s why it’s essential to consult a lawyer early to preserve your rights and evidence.

Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Binghamton

Pedestrian accidents in Binghamton often stem from preventable driver behaviors:

• Distracted driving (e.g., texting or using GPS)
• Speeding
• Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
• Failure to yield at crosswalks
• Poor visibility due to weather or lighting
• Unsafe turns or failure to check for pedestrians

In areas with frequent bus traffic, like Binghamton, large public transportation vehicles can pose particular risks, especially for elderly or disabled pedestrians.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

The injuries pedestrians suffer in accidents are often severe:

• Traumatic brain injuries, which may cause cognitive issues or disability
• Spinal cord injuries, including partial or full paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures, particularly in legs, arms, or ribs
• Internal organ damage and facial trauma
• Amputations
• Soft tissue injuries like lacerations and bruises

Some of these injuries may require surgery, long hospital stays, and extended rehabilitation. In fatal cases, families may file a wrongful death claim to pursue justice on behalf of their loved one. A wrongful death claim is not only a way to seek compensation for funeral and related costs—it is also treated as a personal injury action for the purposes of New York’s statute of limitations.

What Compensation Can You Receive?

Compensation in a pedestrian accident case can cover both economic and non-economic losses:

Economic damages may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Costs for therapy, rehabilitation, or home modifications
• Transportation expenses for treatment

Non-economic damages may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Damage to personal relationships, also known as loss of consortium

If a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident, we pursue wrongful death damages, such as funeral expenses and loss of financial support.

Our firm works on a contingency basis. You won’t pay anything unless we win your case.

There is a difference in pedestrian accident attorneys. Choose Carefully.

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Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Injury

In New York, no-fault insurance provides some basic coverage after a pedestrian accident, including:

• Up to $50,000 for medical expenses
• Partial wage loss compensation

Every vehicle owner in New York is required by law to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This ensures pedestrians can access benefits regardless of who caused the accident.

How PIP Coverage Works in New York: Usually, the striking vehicle’s insurer pays PIP benefits. If that vehicle is uninsured or the driver flees, you may access PIP through your own auto policy or a household member’s policy. If no coverage exists, the New York Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) may provide benefits.

The Challenge: Accessing these benefits can be difficult. Insurers often question treatment validity or minimize injury severity.

When No-Fault Isn’t Enough: If your injuries exceed no-fault limits, you may need to pursue a liability claim against the driver’s insurance. This gets complicated when the driver has limited or no coverage. You might then use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or a household member’s policy.

Don’t let insurers pressure you into accepting less than you deserve. Our attorneys understand these systems and will protect your rights.

What If You Were Partly at Fault?

Insurance companies often try to shift the blame to pedestrians to reduce payouts. They might claim you were:

• Jaywalking or not using a crosswalk
• Wearing dark clothing at night
• Distracted by your phone
• Not following traffic signals

We push back against unfair blame and highlight the driver’s responsibility. Even if you made a mistake, you might still be entitled to compensation. New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident.  For example, if you’re 20% at fault with $100,000 in damages, you could still recover $80,000.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Binghamton

What if the driver who hit me left the scene?

If the driver fled, you may still have options. You can file a claim through the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) or possibly through your own uninsured motorist coverage.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?

Yes. You may still be eligible for compensation even if you weren’t in a crosswalk. New York’s comparative negligence rules allow partial recovery even if you share some fault.

How long does a pedestrian accident claim take?

Each case is different. Some settle in months. Others take a year or more, especially if they go to trial. Our team works to resolve your case as efficiently as possible without sacrificing results.

What is a contingency fee?

A contingency fee means you don’t pay us anything up front. We only get paid if we win money for you. Our fee comes from your settlement, never your pocket.

Do I need a lawyer even if my injuries are minor?

It’s still a good idea to speak with a lawyer. Injuries can worsen over time, and insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than you deserve.

What should I do if the driver’s insurance company contacts me?

Be polite but cautious. Don’t give a recorded statement or sign any documents without speaking to a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can hurt your case later. Tell them you’ll have your attorney contact them. Even seemingly innocent questions about how you’re feeling can be used against you if your injuries worsen over time.

How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?

Every case is different, and the value depends on several factors: the severity of your injuries, your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term effects on your life. Minor injuries might settle for thousands of dollars, while severe injuries like brain trauma or paralysis can result in settlements or verdicts worth hundreds of thousands or even millions. We evaluate all these factors during your free consultation to give you a realistic picture of your case’s potential value.

What if I don’t have health insurance to cover my medical bills?

You still have options. New York’s no-fault insurance provides up to $50,000 in medical coverage regardless of who caused the accident. This comes from the driver’s insurance (or MVAIC if they’re uninsured). Many doctors also work with accident victims on payment plans or will wait for settlement proceeds. We can help connect you with medical providers who understand personal injury cases and will treat you even without upfront payment.

Can I handle my pedestrian accident case without a lawyer?

While it’s legally possible, it’s rarely wise. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to minimize what they pay you. Pedestrian cases involve complex laws, medical evidence, and negotiations that most people aren’t familiar with. Studies show that accident victims who hire lawyers typically recover much more money than those who don’t—even after paying attorney fees. Since we work on contingency, you have nothing to lose by at least consulting with us.

Can I file a wrongful death claim if I lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident?

Yes. If a family member was killed, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. This can help cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. It must be filed within two years in New York.

Speak with a Top Binghamton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

You don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. At Munley Law, we’re ready to help you rebuild and recover. Our attorneys will listen to your story, answer your questions, and create a legal strategy designed to get you the compensation you deserve.

Call (855) 866-5529 today for a free consultation. Whether you’re searching for a “pedestrian accident lawyer near me” or just need trusted advice, we’re here for you.