Pedestrian Accidents in Pennsylvania
A pedestrian struck by a car has no crumple zone — and in Pennsylvania, being on foot changes the insurance math in the victim's favor.
What you should know
Pennsylvania's limited-tort restriction applies to occupants of vehicles, not to pedestrians. If you were walking when hit, you generally retain the right to pursue pain-and-suffering damages even if your household policy is limited tort. Your own auto policy's first-party medical benefits may still apply.
What typically causes them
- Drivers failing to yield in crosswalks
- Distracted driving
- Speeding in residential and downtown areas
- Poor lighting and visibility
- Turning vehicles
- Impaired driving
Injuries we see
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal and pelvic fractures
- Broken legs and arms
- Internal injuries
- Severe lacerations
- Fatal injuries
Steps to take after a pedestrian accidents
- 1
Call 911 for medical help
- 2
Ensure police document the scene
- 3
Photograph the crosswalk, signals, and vehicle
- 4
Get driver and witness information
- 5
Keep all medical records
- 6
Consult an attorney about your first-party benefits and claim
Pedestrians generally keep full tort rights regardless of their policy election. Comparative negligence still applies (42 Pa.C.S. § 7102), so investigators examine crosswalk signals and right-of-way carefully.
You may recover medical expenses, lost income, future care, and pain and suffering. First-party medical benefits from an available auto policy can cover initial treatment.
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Missing this deadline usually bars your claim entirely, so it is critical to act well before it runs.
Keep reading before you talk to an adjuster
Don't let a Pennsylvania pedestrian accidents ruin your future.
The clock is ticking on Pennsylvania's 2-year statute of limitations. Get a free, no-obligation case review now.