Being struck by a vehicle while walking is an overwhelming experience. Whether you're crossing Main Street near Bushnell Park or heading home through Asylum Hill, a sudden impact can leave you hurt, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Knowing your rights and taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident in Hartford can protect your health and your chance at financial recovery. If you’ve been injured, it's smart to find a pedestrian accident lawyer in Hartford who can explain your legal options and help you get the compensation you need.
Common Situations That Lead to Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often happen because of driver carelessness or inattention. In a busy city like Hartford, vehicles and foot traffic constantly cross paths. Accidents with pedestrians can occur in many different places and circumstances, including:
- A driver doesn't yield at a crosswalk near Trinity College
- Someone speeds through a yellow light by the XL Center
- A distracted driver doesn’t notice a pedestrian crossing near Park Street shops
- A turning vehicle hits someone legally walking across Capitol Avenue
Drivers have a duty to look out for pedestrians, especially in marked crosswalks or areas with heavy foot traffic. When they don’t, they may be held responsible for any injuries that result.
Connecticut’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
Connecticut follows a rule called modified comparative negligence when it comes to personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents. This means that you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault—as long as you were not more than 50% responsible.
Let’s say you were looking at your phone and didn’t see the “Don’t Walk” signal at a crosswalk, but the driver was speeding and ran a red light. In this case, a court could decide you were 20% responsible and the driver was 80% at fault. If your total damages were $100,000, you could still receive $80,000. However, if you were found to be more than 50% responsible, you would not be eligible for compensation at all.
That’s why it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer who understands how to present the full picture and minimize any fault assigned to you.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been hit by a car, what you do in the moments and days that follow can make a big difference in your claim. These steps can help protect your rights:
- Call 911: Make sure emergency responders and police come to the scene. Ask for a copy of the police report later.
- Get Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel hurt, see a doctor right away. Injuries like internal damage or concussions can show up later.
- Collect Information: Get the driver’s name, insurance, and license plate number. If anyone witnessed the accident, get their contact info too.
- Take Photos: If you’re able, take pictures of the scene, crosswalk, traffic signs, and your injuries.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Don’t speak to the driver’s insurance company or post about the accident on social media before talking to a lawyer.
These actions create a stronger foundation for any claim you decide to file later.
How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Hartford Can Help You
Filing a claim after a pedestrian injury can feel like a lot to handle, especially if you're recovering physically and emotionally. An experienced attorney does more than just paperwork—they step in as your advocate and help build the strongest case possible.
A pedestrian accident lawyer in Hartford will gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and speak with witnesses to support your claim. They’ll also handle all communication with the insurance companies, which often try to offer low settlements or deny responsibility. A skilled attorney will push back against unfair offers and fight to make sure you’re compensated fairly for your injuries, medical bills, lost income, and pain.
If needed, your lawyer can take the case to court and argue for your best interests in front of a judge or jury. Whether your accident happened near Hartford Hospital or while walking downtown to work, your lawyer’s goal is to get you the best possible outcome so you can focus on healing.
Talk to a Hartford Lawyer About Your Pedestrian Accident Today
If you were hurt while walking in Hartford, don’t wait to get help. Connecticut law limits how long you have to file a personal injury claim, so time matters. A lawyer can answer your questions, explain what to expect, and take the legal stress off your shoulders. Talk to a pedestrian accident lawyer in Hartford today to protect your rights and pursue the best possible compensation.
This post is provided by a third party who may receive compensation from the products or services they mention.
