Pedestrians have little protection in a collision, so being hit by a car, van, motorcycle, bus, bicycle or other vehicle can cause devastating injuries. These may include a brain injury, spinal injury, amputation, multiple fractures or psychological trauma, with consequences for work, family life, independence and future care. Our serious injury team has extensive experience of complex personal injury claims.
The Highway Code recognises pedestrians as among the road users most at risk. Under its hierarchy of road users, those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they pose. Drivers and riders should give way to pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross at junctions, and must give way to pedestrians on zebra crossings. Every case depends on its facts, and you should not assume that you cannot claim because of where or how the collision happened.
If you are able to do so, details of the vehicle, driver, witnesses, police reference and any photographs can be useful. However, your health comes first. Do not worry if you could not collect evidence at the scene: we can investigate the circumstances, obtain relevant records and advise you on the next steps.
You may still be able to bring a pedestrian accident claim if there were no independent witnesses, if the driver did not stop, if the vehicle was uninsured, or if responsibility is disputed.
From your first conversation with us, we will listen to what has happened and explain your options clearly. In serious injury claims, we can seek early rehabilitation and interim payments where possible, while building a claim that reflects your immediate needs and the support you may require for the rest of your life.
What causes pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrian collisions often happen suddenly, but they usually require careful investigation. We look at the actions of everyone involved, the road layout, visibility, vehicle speed, CCTV, witness evidence and the relevant Highway Code rules.
Common causes of pedestrian accident claims include:
- speeding or driving too fast for the conditions
- distraction, including mobile phone use
- failing to give way at a crossing or junction
- turning or reversing without checking for pedestrians
- drink or drug driving, fatigue or careless driving
- a vehicle mounting the pavement
- poorly designed or maintained roads and pedestrian routes
Can I make a pedestrian accident claim?
You may be able to claim if you were injured as a pedestrian because another road user, organisation or public authority was wholly or partly at fault. A parent or litigation friend can bring a claim on behalf of a child, and a suitable representative may act for someone who lacks capacity.
Do not be put off if an insurer alleges that you were partly responsible for the accident. You may still be able to claim, although the amount of compensation could be reduced if responsibility is shared. We will look carefully at what happened and explain your options in clear, straightforward terms.
How can compensation and rehabilitation help?
Compensation cannot undo what happened. It can, however, provide financial security and help you access treatment, rehabilitation and practical support at the earliest appropriate stage.
Compensation can reflect both your injuries and the financial impact they have had on you and your family. Depending on your needs, it may help pay for specialist treatment, therapy, care, support from family members, mobility equipment, changes to your home, transport, help with returning to education or work, and any income or pension you have lost.
If the other side accepts responsibility, we may be able to ask for part of your compensation to be paid before the claim ends. This can help meet urgent costs. We also work with medical professionals, therapists and care experts to understand how the injury has affected you and what support you may need in the future.
How does a pedestrian accident claim work?
We will explain each stage and handle the legal work so that you and your family can focus on recovery:
- We listen to what happened, check any deadlines and explain whether we may be able to help.
- If you decide to work with us, we will explain how the claim can be funded. This may be through a no win, no fee agreement.
- We gather evidence, which may include police records, CCTV, photographs and witness statements, to establish what happened.
- We arrange medical assessments, look at the care and rehabilitation you need, and try to secure early financial support where possible.
- We work to agree compensation that reflects your injuries and future needs. If your claim needs to go to court, we will guide and support you throughout.
Why choose Bolt Burdon Kemp’s pedestrian accident solicitors?
Serious pedestrian injury claims require experience, careful investigation and a clear understanding of long-term needs. Our team combines specialist legal expertise with practical, personal support.
- Proven experience: We have more than 40 years’ experience and handle complex, high-value pedestrian accident claims.
- No win, no fee options: Many claims can be funded under an agreement that means there is normally nothing to pay if the claim is unsuccessful. We will explain the terms clearly before you decide.
- Serious injury expertise: We understand the rehabilitation, care, accommodation and financial planning that may be needed after a life-changing injury.
- Personal support: We explain the law in plain English, can visit you at home or in hospital where appropriate, and remain accessible throughout your claim.
- Recognised standards: We are members of the Law Society’s Personal Injury Accreditation Scheme and are assessed against Lexcel practice management standards.
- Independently ranked: The firm is recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners, and you can read reviews from our clients.
