How to Handle a Pedestrian Hit by a Car in Brooklyn
Brooklyn is one of the most walkable boroughs in New York City, with residents relying heavily on foot traffic for commuting, errands, and daily life. While walkability is a major benefit, it also puts pedestrians at risk when drivers are distracted, speeding, or fail to follow traffic laws. A pedestrian hit by a car in Brooklyn often suffers serious injuries that can change their life in an instant.
Understanding what to do after a pedestrian car accident and knowing when to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in NYC can make a critical difference in protecting your health and legal rights. Many injured pedestrians benefit from speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney who understands how New York traffic laws apply to pedestrian injury claims.
Pedestrian Car Accident Trends in NYC and Brooklyn
New York City has made measurable progress in reducing traffic deaths under its Vision Zero initiative. According to the NYC Department of Transportation, NYC recorded 205 total traffic deaths in 2025, the fewest ever recorded, and a 31 percent decline since Vision Zero launched in 2014. Pedestrian fatalities citywide declined 9 percent, from 122 deaths in 2024 to 111 in 2025.
While this progress is encouraging, Brooklyn continues to experience a significant share of serious pedestrian collisions. In 2025, Brooklyn recorded 63 traffic fatalities, reflecting a more modest decline compared to other boroughs. Even as fatalities decrease, pedestrian injuries remain common across the city.
What to Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Car
Being hit by a car is a frightening experience, and many pedestrians feel shocked or disoriented afterward. Your first priority should always be your health. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Pedestrian accidents often cause head injuries, spinal trauma, and broken bones, and symptoms may not appear immediately.
Prompt medical care is important because injuries like concussions or internal damage can worsen over time. If you are diagnosed with a head injury, working with a traumatic brain injury lawyer can help ensure the long-term impact is properly addressed. Serious fractures to the arms, legs, hips, or ribs are also common, and guidance from a bone fracture lawyer may be necessary when recovery is extensive.
Once you are safe, call the police and make sure an accident report is filed. Avoid discussing fault with the driver or any insurance company at the scene. If you are able, take photos of the accident scene and gather witness information.
As soon as possible, consider speaking with a pedestrian accident lawyer who understands how pedestrian cases are handled in Brooklyn and throughout New York City and can help protect your rights.
Making a Claim After a Pedestrian Accident
In many pedestrian accident cases, the driver is legally responsible for the injuries they cause. Drivers are often found at fault when a pedestrian is struck in a crosswalk or while crossing with the right of way. However, liability can become more complex if the pedestrian was jaywalking or if unsafe road conditions played a role.
In addition to claims against the driver, injured pedestrians may be able to pursue compensation against the City of New York if defective traffic signals, missing signage, or unsafe street design contributed to the crash. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can evaluate all potential sources of liability.
Who Pays Medical Bills After a Pedestrian Is Hit by a Car?
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means a pedestrian injured by a motor vehicle may be entitled to no-fault benefits through the driver’s insurance policy. These benefits can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
Because these claims often involve complex insurance issues, working with a Brooklyn auto accident lawyer can help ensure that all available coverage is identified and properly pursued.
Brooklyn Legal Help for Pedestrian Car Accidents
If you or someone you love was involved in a pedestrian car accident in Brooklyn, the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can help. Our firm has extensive experience representing injured pedestrians and understands how NYC traffic laws, insurance rules, and liability issues affect these cases.
Call 718-237-5586 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation. Being hit by a car is a traumatic experience. Let us fight for your rights and help make Brooklyn a safer place to walk.
