If you have been hit by a car in Philadelphia, the most important step is to call 911 and get medical attention right away. Do this even if your injuries do not feel serious at first. Many victims are treated at trauma centers like Jefferson Hospital or Penn Presbyterian. You should also report the crash to the Philadelphia Police Department, especially if it happens on high-risk roads such as Roosevelt Boulevard. After that, avoid giving statements to the driver’s insurance company until you have spoken with a lawyer who can guide you.
Quick Overview: Steps After a Pedestrian Accident in Philadelphia
- Call 911 and request both medical help and a police report
- Get checked at the nearest trauma center (Jefferson, Penn, or Temple)
- Collect the driver’s insurance and contact information
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and your injuries
- Identify witnesses and note SEPTA stops or intersections nearby
- Do not talk to insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer
- Reach out to an attorney familiar with Pennsylvania pedestrian cases
Why pedestrian accidents are common in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has one of the highest pedestrian crash rates in Pennsylvania. Many accidents happen along Roosevelt Boulevard, Broad Street, and near SEPTA bus stops where heavy traffic meets frequent crossings.
Causes include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting behind the wheel
- Speeding and aggressive driving on major arteries
- Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks causing more severe injuries
According to PennDOT crash data, Philadelphia consistently accounts for a large share of statewide pedestrian injuries and deaths.
Immediate steps in Philadelphia
- Report the crash. Police reports are required for serious injury cases. In Philadelphia, call 911 and request an officer at the scene.
- Get medical care. Trauma centers at Jefferson or Penn Presbyterian are equipped for serious pedestrian injuries.
- Document everything. Photos of Roosevelt Boulevard crosswalks, SEPTA bus stops, or damaged traffic signals help prove fault.
- Protect your claim. Wait to give formal statements until after speaking with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts.
Insurance and medical bills
Pennsylvania has unusual rules for pedestrian accidents that often surprise people. Even if you were walking and the crash was clearly the driver’s fault, your own auto insurance or a family member’s policy is the first to pay medical bills. This is called Personal Injury Protection, or PIP.
It may not sound fair, but this is how Pennsylvania’s no-fault system works. The law is designed to get bills paid quickly without waiting to prove fault. If you do not own a car or have insurance, other layers of coverage can apply, including the driver’s policy.
Once your medical bills go beyond the PIP limits, you can make a claim against the at-fault driver for the rest. That includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What if I am partially at fault?
Pennsylvania follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you are less than 51 percent responsible. For example, if you were crossing outside a marked crosswalk on Broad Street but the driver was speeding, your compensation might be reduced by your share of fault. You could still recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays my medical bills first?
In Pennsylvania, your own auto insurance or a family member’s policy pays first through Personal Injury Protection. This surprises many people because you were not driving. The law is set up this way to make sure bills are paid quickly without waiting to prove fault. If you do not have coverage, other options apply, including the driver’s insurance.
Can I file a claim if I was jaywalking?
Yes. You can still seek damages if you are less than 51 percent at fault. Your recovery may be reduced.
How long do I have to file a claim in Pennsylvania?
The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. Filing late usually means losing your right to compensation.
What if the driver fled the scene?
You may have uninsured motorist coverage through your own policy that applies. An attorney can help identify options.
Take the first step toward recovery
Pedestrian accidents in Philadelphia can be overwhelming. You do not have to handle everything on your own. Whether your crash happened along Roosevelt Boulevard, near a SEPTA station, or in Center City, you have rights under Pennsylvania law.
Call 1-800-CANT-WORK or visit 1800cantwork.com to talk with The Law Offices of Eric A. Shore. The consultation is free. It can help you understand your options before dealing with insurance companies.
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