Pedestrian Accidents in Pennsylvania: Your Rights After Being Hit by a Car

Pedestrians struck by vehicles face severe injuries and complex insurance questions. Knowing your rights is the first step to recovery.

Right-of-Way and Fault

Pennsylvania law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but pedestrians also have responsibilities. Fault often turns on crosswalk markings, signal timing, speed, and distraction. Even a pedestrian who was partly at fault can recover under Pennsylvania's modified comparative negligence rule if not mostly to blame.

Insurance That May Apply

An injured pedestrian who owns a vehicle can usually access their own PIP medical benefits, even though they were on foot. When no such policy exists, the driver's coverage or other policies may respond. Identifying the right source of payment is an immediate priority.

The Severity of Pedestrian Injuries

With no protection from the impact, pedestrians commonly suffer brain injuries, fractures, internal injuries, and spinal damage. These injuries require extensive treatment and long recoveries, and their full cost must be documented for a fair claim.

Protecting Yourself After Being Hit

Get medical care, ensure police are called, and gather the driver's and witnesses' information. Photograph the scene and signals if you can. Avoid recorded statements to the driver's insurer until you have advice, and remember Pennsylvania's two-year filing deadline.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.