Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Lawyer 2025 | By James L. Finegan

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunate in many cities, including Lakewood, New Jersey. These accidents often result in severe injuries, primarily because pedestrians have minimal protection compared to vehicles. When such incidents occur, understanding your legal rights and securing the assistance of an experienced attorney is crucial to receiving proper compensation and justice. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of pedestrian accidents in Lakewood, the steps you should take following an accident, and the legal representation you need to navigate the complex legal landscape

Overview of Pedestrian Accidents in Lakewood

Lakewood, a bustling city in New Jersey, has witnessed increased pedestrian accidents over recent years due to rising traffic congestion and increased urban development. Whether it’s at busy intersections or in residential neighborhoods, pedestrians face numerous risks when sharing the road with vehicles. Pedestrian accidents occur when a vehicle strikes a person walking, running, or standing on the road or sidewalk. These incidents can involve cars, trucks, motorcycles, or even bicycles. The severity of the injury typically depends on the speed of the vehicle, the nature of the impact, and the physical condition of the pedestrian at the time of the accident.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents in Lakewood can result from a variety of factors, including:

Distracted Driving: Motorists texting, using GPS, or engaging in other distractions often fail to notice pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.
Speeding: Vehicles moving at high speeds have less time to react to pedestrians crossing the street.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks: Many drivers disregard traffic laws at pedestrian crosswalks, leading to accidents.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol or drug-impaired driving remains a leading cause of pedestrian accidents.
Poor Visibility: Weather conditions, poorly lit streets, or obstructions can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.

Statistics on Pedestrian Injuries and Fatalities

Pedestrian accidents are among the most deadly types of motor vehicle crashes. In Lakewood and across New Jersey, hundreds of pedestrians suffer injuries or fatalities every year. According to state statistics:

Pedestrian fatalities make up a significant portion of traffic-related deaths.
Pedestrians aged 65 and older are especially vulnerable.
Due to the dense concentration of traffic, urban areas, including Lakewood, tend to have higher rates of pedestrian accidents.

Legal Rights of Pedestrians

Overview of Pedestrian Rights

Pedestrians in New Jersey are afforded specific protections under the law. For instance, motorists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Pedestrians also have the right to expect drivers to exercise reasonable care when driving through areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.

Relevant New Jersey Laws Protecting Pedestrians

New Jersey laws provide robust protection for pedestrians. Some of the key laws include:

N.J.S.A. 39:4-36: This law mandates that drivers must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians at crosswalks.
Right-of-Way Laws: Pedestrians have the right-of-way in designated crosswalks, and drivers failing to stop can be ticketed and fined.

If a pedestrian accident occurs, violating these laws can make the driver liable for the victim’s injuries.

Steps to Take After an Accident

Immediate Actions Following a Pedestrian Accident

The moments following a pedestrian accident are critical. Here are the steps you should take:

Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of how minor your injuries may seem, seek immediate medical attention.
Call the Police: File a police report to document the incident and gather essential details.
Gather Evidence: Collect information from the driver involved, such as name, contact details, and insurance information. Take photographs of the accident scene if possible.
Speak to Witnesses: Get the contact details of any bystanders who witnessed the accident.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

Importance of Seeking Legal Representation

Pedestrian accidents can lead to long-term physical and emotional trauma. Seeking legal representation early on ensures that your rights are protected, and the attorney can help you file a compensation claim. An attorney will handle the complexities of legal proceedings while you focus on your recovery.

Establishing Liability in Pedestrian Accidents

Who is Responsible?

In pedestrian accidents, liability usually falls on the motorist, but that isn’t always the case. Pedestrians may share some responsibility if they are jaywalking or crossing illegally.

Factors That Determine Liability

Determining liability involves analyzing several factors, such as:

Driver’s Behavior: Was the driver speeding or distracted?
Pedestrian’s Actions: Did the pedestrian obey traffic signals and crosswalk rules?
Road Conditions: Were there any hazards, like poor visibility or road construction, that contributed to the accident?

Types of Compensation Available

Economic and Non-Economic Damages

After a pedestrian accident, victims can seek compensation for:

Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and future medical treatments.
Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income during recovery.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
Loss of Enjoyment: Damages for being unable to enjoy everyday activities.