Newburgh Pedestrian Accident Injury Lawyers

As a pedestrian in Newburgh or Orange County, whether you’re on a crosswalk or sidewalk, you’re relying on drivers to operate their vehicles safely and attentively. The responsibility is theirs, especially considering their vehicles are over 2,000 pounds heavier than you. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are common and often lead to serious injuries like broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and more.

Pedestrian accidents are a tragically common occurrence in Orange County. According to the Institute for Traffic Safety Management & Research, there were 112 pedestrian crashes in Orange County in 2023, including:

1. City of Newburgh – 30 Pedestrian Accidents
2. Town of Wallkill – 13 Pedestrian Accidents
3. City of Middletown – 12 Pedestrian Accidents
4. Port Jervis – 10 Pedestrian Accidents
5. New Windsor – 9 Pedestrian Accidents
6. Town of Newburgh – 8 Pedestrian Accidents
7. Kiryas Joel – 5 Pedestrian Accidents
8. Chester – 5 Pedestrian Accidents
9. Monroe – 4 Pedestrian Accidents

How to Seek Compensation for Losses After a Pedestrian Accident in Orange County

Although there isn’t a specific insurance policy for pedestrians, several avenues of compensation may be available if you’ve been hit by a motorist or another vehicle:

• No-Fault Insurance (Personal Injury Protection): This coverage, provided by the driver’s insurer, covers medical expenses and lost wages up to $50,000, regardless of fault.
• Additional Personal Injury Protection: If you have this optional coverage, it provides an extra $50,000 on top of the standard no-fault benefits.
• Bodily Injury (Liability) Insurance: The at-fault driver’s insurance may cover additional costs like pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages beyond the no-fault limits. New York’s minimum coverage is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
• Uninsured Motorist Insurance: If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient and your policy has higher limits, your insurance can cover the difference. For instance, if the driver’s coverage is $25,000 and your policy is $100,000, you may claim an additional $75,000.
• Underinsured Motorist Insurance: In the case of a hit-and-run or uninsured driver, your own insurance can cover bodily injury based on the limits you’ve selected.
• MVAIC (Motor Vehicle Accident Insurance Corporation): If neither you nor any family members in your household own a vehicle, you may be eligible for no-fault benefits ($50,000) and bodily injury compensation ($25,000) through MVAIC in cases involving hit-and-runs or uninsured drivers.

Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Vehicle in Orange County

• Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare professional immediately, even if your injuries seem minor, as some conditions, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
• Stay Calm and Call for Help: Move to a safe area and call emergency services. Stay at the scene to provide details to the authorities.
• Collect Information: Get the driver’s contact, vehicle registration, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, gather their contact details as well.
• Document the Incident: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Note key details such as the date, time, and location.
• Contact an Attorney: Speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to navigate the legal process and help you pursue proper compensation.
• Follow Medical Advice: Stick to your doctor’s recommendations, whether it’s rest, medication, or therapy, to ensure your recovery.
• Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of medical bills and any other expenses related to your injuries. This documentation will be crucial for your compensation claim.

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Orange County

• Don’t Assume Drivers See You: Drivers can be distracted or impaired, so always stay alert and cautious.
• Use Crosswalks: Crossing at designated areas improves visibility and ensures drivers are obligated to stop.
• Look Both Ways: Even if you have the right of way, always check for oncoming traffic before crossing.
• Walk on the Sidewalk or Face Traffic: If there is no sidewalk, walking against traffic allows you to see approaching vehicles.