Pedestrians and cyclists share the streets with fast-moving vehicles, but when crashes happen, they often suffer the worst. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident or bicycle collision, you may be entitled to significant compensation. However, getting it often requires expert legal help.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to do after a crash, how to choose the right pedestrian accident attorney or bicycle accident lawyer, and what kind of compensation you can expect.
In cities across the U.S., pedestrian and cyclist injuries are rising. Urban sprawl, distracted driving, and poor infrastructure are major factors. As vulnerable road users, pedestrians and cyclists have little protection from impact, making even a low-speed crash dangerous.
The good news? You don’t have to face recovery alone. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer or cycling accident attorney will fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and help you rebuild your life, physically and financially.
Drivers are usually at fault for failing to yield, speeding, or texting behind the wheel. But municipalities may share blame if poor road design or broken crosswalk signals contributed. Cyclists could also be partially liable if they ignored signals or rode against traffic.
Even if you're partially responsible, you may still recover damages. In comparative negligence states, your compensation is reduced based on your percentage of fault. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a pedestrian accident attorney who can defend your role in the crash.
Victims of pedestrian and bicycle accidents often face serious, life-changing injuries, including:
Broken bones (legs, arms, ribs, collarbone)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Lacerations and road rash
Dental and facial trauma
These injuries can lead to months or even years of recovery. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer or pedestrian accident attorney will work with medical experts to determine the full scope of your treatment and future needs.
Crash victims often suffer more than physical wounds. Anxiety, depression, and PTSD can last long after physical healing ends. A compassionate bicycle crash lawyer will include these invisible injuries in your claim and help ensure mental health support is part of your compensation.
A pedestrian accident lawyer will launch an immediate investigation to collect evidence such as:
Traffic camera footage
Witness statements
Driver’s history and phone records
Scene photos and police reports
This information can prove the driver's negligence and prevent insurers from downplaying your injuries or blaming you.
Insurance companies often dispute fault or offer low settlements. An experienced lawyer knows how to present solid evidence, argue for liability, and maximize the value of your pedestrian accident claim.
Bicycle laws vary by state and city. A specialized bicycle accident attorney understands local rules regarding bike lanes, helmet requirements, and right-of-way, making them far more effective than a general injury lawyer.
Whether it’s your policy or the at-fault driver's, insurance companies may try to avoid paying what you're owed. A bicycle injury lawyer negotiates assertively and knows when to escalate your case to legal action.
If negotiations fail, your bike crash attorney should be prepared to take your case to court. Courtroom experience matters, especially when facing corporate legal teams or city attorneys.
Ask for:
Past case results
Years of experience handling bicycle or pedestrian claims
Examples of high-value settlements
Choose a lawyer for bicycle accident cases, not just any personal injury attorney. Specialized lawyers are familiar with cyclist bias, road conditions, and insurance policies specific to non-motorists.
Your health comes first. Even if injuries appear minor, always seek immediate medical attention. Many injuries, including internal bleeding and concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Also, ensure a police report is filed. This documentation:
Helps establish fault
Supports your injury claim
Creates a legal record of the incident
Your pedestrian accident lawyer will rely on this report to initiate the claims process.
If you're physically able, try to:
Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicles, crosswalks, and road signs
Capture images of visible injuries and torn clothing
Collect names and contact info of any witnesses
Note the time, location, and weather conditions
This information is vital for your cycling accident attorney to build a strong case.
Legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) vary by state, but waiting too long can hurt your case. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney or bicycle crash lawyer can guide you through the insurance maze, preserve crucial evidence, and file paperwork on time, giving you the best chance of a successful claim.
Your pedestrian accident claim may include:
Emergency room visits, surgeries, and ongoing medical treatments
Physical and occupational therapy
Medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, braces)
Time missed from work and lost future earnings
Your bike crash attorney ensures these expenses are thoroughly documented and compensated.
If the crash caused permanent disability, loss of mobility, or chronic pain, you're entitled to additional damages. Your bicycle accident lawyer can use expert testimony and medical records to support these claims.
If your loved one was fatally injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, a bicycle accident attorney can help pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This claim may cover:
Funeral costs
Lost income the victim would have provided
Loss of companionship and emotional support
Yes. If the driver was negligent, speeding, distracted, or failed to yield, you can file a claim or lawsuit for damages.
You may still recover compensation. Comparative fault laws allow partial compensation based on your percentage of blame. A pedestrian accident attorney can protect your rights.
Yes, but only in some cases, such as walking outside designated areas or stepping into traffic suddenly. Even then, you may still be partially compensated.
They handle every aspect of your case: investigation, negotiation, litigation (if necessary), and insurance coordination. They fight to ensure you receive the full value of your claim.
Typically 1–3 years, depending on your state. Consult a lawyer quickly to avoid missing deadlines.
You can still file a claim using uninsured motorist coverage or explore crime victim funds. Your lawyer can assist in locating the at-fault party through investigation and law enforcement.
Being hit while walking or biking is traumatic, but you don’t have to face recovery alone. Whether it’s a reckless driver, poor road conditions, or a hit-and-run, you have legal options.
A seasoned pedestrian accident lawyer or bicycle accident attorney will fight for every dollar you deserve, covering your medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Protect your rights. Recover with dignity. And let a trusted legal advocate lead the way.
© 2025 MVAClaim.com. All Rights Reserved.
**Disclaimer:** MVAClaim.com is a legal matching/referral service. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. All legal services are provided by independent, licensed attorneys within our network. Your submission of information to MVAClaim.com does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results may vary depending on the facts and circumstances of each individual case. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes
