Pedestrian Accidents Near the University of Scranton

Every day, University of Scranton students walk across busy intersections on Mulberry Street, Jefferson Avenue, and Linden Street – streets shared with drivers who may not be paying attention. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian near campus, the consequences can be life-changing.

Pedestrian accidents on and around college campuses happen more often than most people realize. These types of accidents can result in serious, life-long injuries. When you were injured in a pedestrian accident near the University of Scranton, get in touch with the pedestrian accident lawyers in Scranton at Munley Law for a free consultation.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Are Common Near the University of Scranton

The University of Scranton sits in the center of the Electric City, sandwiched between some of Scranton’s busiest intersections. Students often have to rush across the street as soon as the light changes to make it to class on time. All it takes is one inattentive driver to create a catastrophic accident.

Other reasons why pedestrian accidents are common near the U are:

Student Behavior Patterns

College students are statistically higher-risk pedestrians. They’re often distracted by phones, walking in groups that spill into the street, crossing mid-block rather than at crosswalks, or moving around at night after socializing. Familiarity with routes can breed complacency about traffic.

Infrastructure Challenges

The streets that surround the University of Scranton weren’t designed for heavy pedestrian traffic. Crosswalks can be poorly lit or marked, sidewalks are narrow or uneven, and signal timing may not give pedestrians adequate crossing time, especially at busier intersections near Mulberry Street, Jefferson Avenue, and Linden Street.

Driver Behavior

Drivers in the area include commuters cutting through the city, delivery vehicles, rideshare drivers, and others unfamiliar with the heavy pedestrian environment. Speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield at crosswalks are common contributing factors in these types of pedestrian accidents.

Nighttime and Weather Conditions

Evening hours — when students are heading to and from social activities — reduce visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Scranton winters add ice and snow to the equation, making stops harder and footing less predictable.

Alcohol Involvement

The proximity of bars and restaurants to the campus increases the likelihood that both pedestrians and drivers may be impaired, especially on weekends. Impaired pedestrians are less likely to use crosswalks properly or judge traffic speeds accurately.

Campus Expansion Creating Mid-Block Activity

As the university has grown, students increasingly cross streets mid-block between buildings that weren’t originally part of a contiguous campus. This creates unpredictable pedestrian patterns that drivers aren’t anticipating.

What Should You Do After a Pedestrian Accident Near the University of Scranton?

If you are struck by a vehicle near the University of Scranton, take these steps immediately:

• Call 911 immediately. A police report creates the official record that your claim depends on
• Get medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, some do not appear for hours or days
• Document everything. Photograph crosswalk markings, traffic signals, vehicle damage, and visible injuries
• Collect contact information. Students, passersby, and staff nearby may have seen what happened
• Don’t talk about the accident. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance adjuster before consulting a lawyer

University of Scranton Police operate 24/7 and can be reached at 570-941-7777. Contact them in addition to calling 911 if the accident occurs on or immediately adjacent to campus.

Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Laws That Could Affect Your Case

Pennsylvania law governs how fault is assigned and how long you have to act. Two rules are especially important for injured pedestrians in Scranton:

 Comparative Negligence (42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 7102)

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Under 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 7102, an injured pedestrian can recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50% at fault. However, any compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. Insurance companies will try to shift blame onto you and that is why having a lawyer matters.

Two-Year Statute of Limitations (42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524)

Under 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524, injured pedestrians in Pennsylvania have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline means losing your right to compensation. Do not wait.

Contact Our Scranton Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Munley Law for a Free Consultation

Being struck by a vehicle near the University of Scranton can turn a student’s life upside down in an instant. Medical bills, missed classes, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies should not fall on your shoulders alone. Munley Law has fought for injured pedestrians in Scranton and throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania for decades — and we are ready to fight for you.

For more information, contact Munley Law to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients throughout Scranton, Lackawanna County, and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania. We’re here to fight for your rights with trusted, experienced legal support. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Munley Law
227 Penn Ave.
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 865-4699