Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Long Beach NY — What Are Your Rights After Being Hit?
If you were hit by a car while walking in Long Beach, you need a dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer. Long Beach NY pedestrian accident cases require immediate investigation to preserve evidence and establish driver negligence. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides aggressive representation to secure compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Law in Long Beach, NY
Pedestrian accidents in New York are governed by a combination of state statutes and local traffic ordinances. New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own auto insurance (or the insurance of a household member) typically covers initial medical expenses and lost earnings up to policy limits, regardless of who caused the crash, under New York Insurance Law § 5102. However, for a pedestrian, this coverage would come from the auto insurance of the vehicle that struck you. To seek compensation for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages, you generally must prove you sustained a “serious injury” as defined by law.
Last verified: April 2026 | Nassau County Courts | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s no-fault and serious injury laws, refer to New York Insurance Law § 5102 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures in Nassau County, visit the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York website for federal matters, or the Nassau County Courts for local filings.
Local Legal Process for a Long Beach Pedestrian Accident Case
After a pedestrian accident in Long Beach, the legal process involves specific local steps. Evidence from the scene, including police reports from the Long Beach Police Department and witness statements from the boardwalk or nearby streets, is time-sensitive. Insurance claims must be filed promptly to comply with no-fault deadlines.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. This also creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
- Report the Accident: Ensure the Long Beach Police Department files an official report. Obtain the report number.
- Preserve Evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved. Collect contact information for witnesses.
- Notify Insurers: File a no-fault (PIP) application with the appropriate auto insurance company within 30 days.
- Consult a Pedestrian Accident Attorney: Contact our firm to discuss the viability of a serious injury claim against the at-fault driver.
- Investigation & Demand: We will investigate liability, gather evidence, and prepare a settlement demand to the at-fault party’s insurer.
Potential Compensation in a Long Beach Pedestrian Case
In Long Beach, a pedestrian accident victim may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and permanent disability, provided a “serious injury” threshold is met.
New York law defines “serious injury” to include significant disfigurement, fracture, permanent loss of a body organ/function, or a non-permanent injury that prevents normal activities for 90 of the 180 days following the accident. Recoverable damages can include:
- Past and future medical bills (surgery, rehabilitation, therapy)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Pedestrian Accident Case
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to personal injury litigation. Our firm-wide experience handling complex injury cases across multiple states informs our strategy for each client. We understand the severe impact a pedestrian accident can have on your life and work to build a strong case for maximum recovery.
Our Approach to Pedestrian Accident Claims
We handle each case with a detailed, client-focused strategy. This involves a prompt investigation to secure traffic camera footage (if available near the Long Beach boardwalk or Ocean Boulevard), accident reconstruction analysis, and consultation with medical experts to document the extent and long-term implications of your injuries. Our goal is to establish clear liability and the full value of your claim.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Long Beach Resources and Our Availability
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 250-2000
By appointment only.
Our New York location supports clients across the state. If you are seeking a pedestrian accident attorney in Long Beach NY, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. We serve pedestrians injured in areas like the Long Beach boardwalk, Park Avenue, and surrounding Nassau County communities. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pedestrian Accidents in Long Beach, NY
What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Long Beach?
Yes. First, call 911 for medical help and police. Then, if you are able, get the driver’s information, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and collect witness contacts. Seek medical attention even if you feel okay, as some injuries appear later.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in New York?
It depends. The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in New York is three years from the date of the accident. However, if the claim is against a municipality (like the City of Long Beach), you may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim. Consulting a pedestrian accident law firm in Long Beach NY immediately is critical to protect your rights.
What if I was jaywalking when I was hit? Can I still recover damages?
It depends. New York follows a comparative negligence rule. If you were partially at fault (e.g., jaywalking), your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. You cannot recover if you are found more than 50% at fault. An attorney can investigate to argue against excessive fault assigned to you.
Who pays my medical bills after a pedestrian accident in NY?
Initially, your medical bills are covered by the No-Fault (PIP) insurance of the vehicle that struck you. This covers reasonable and necessary medical expenses and lost wages up to $50,000, regardless of who was at fault. For expenses beyond this or for pain and suffering, you must pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
What is considered a “serious injury” under New York law?
A “serious injury” includes death, dismemberment, significant disfigurement, a fracture, loss of a fetus, permanent loss of use of a body organ or function, or a non-permanent injury that prevents you from performing substantially all of your usual daily activities for 90 out of the 180 days following the accident.