Pedestrian Accident Claims
Advice on when St Helens pedestrian accident claims are possible and how solicitors can help secure the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian Accident Claims
Advice on when St Helens pedestrian accident claims are possible and how solicitors can help secure the compensation you deserve.
In the most recent edition of the Highway Code, pedestrian safety has received a higher priority. However, accidents between pedestrians and other road user still occur with alarming regularity. Importantly, you could be entitled to make a pedestrian accident claim in certain circumstances. Therefore, it’s essential that you know your rights whether the accident happened on Market Street, the A570, or on a quiet cul-de-sac.
If you wish to claim, we’re here to help. We offer a free initial consultation and could connect you with a specialist solicitor who works on St Helens claims. They can assist you by offering guidance on eligibility, gathering evidence, and managing the claims process if you decide to take action.
To find out how and when you can claim, please read on. If you prefer, you can also call 01744 385105, or use our Contact Us to a specialist advisor from our team.
What Is A Pedestrian Accident Claim?
A pedestrian accident claim allows you to seek compensation if you were injured as a result of someone else’s actions on the road. In short, it involves claiming against a driver, cyclist, or other road user who caused you harm or failed to protect your safety.
Such claims usually arise after incidents on public roads, pavements, crossings, or even car parks. If a vehicle failed to stop in time, mounted the pavement, or ignored a zebra crossing, and you were hurt, you could have grounds for a claim. The claim process ensures you’re compensated for injuries and any impact on your finances or well-being.
Typical injuries you could claim for include:
Head and Brain Injuries: concussion, traumatic brain injury, skull fractures, scalp lacerations
Spinal Injuries: whiplash, spinal fractures, slipped discs, spinal cord damage
Upper Body Injuries: broken arms, fractured wrists, shoulder injuries, dislocated elbows, hand injuries
Lower Body Injuries: broken legs, fractured ankles, knee injuries, foot injuries, pelvic fractures
Internal Injuries: internal bleeding, organ damage, punctured lungs
Soft Tissue Injuries: sprains, strains, torn ligaments, bruising, contusions
Cuts and Lacerations: deep cuts, scrapes, abrasions, road rash
Psychological Injuries: post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, shock
If you or your child has suffered as result of a pedestrian accident in St Helens, why not call today for a free review of your options?
If you've suffered an injury through no fault of your own, you don't need to suffer in silence.
What Eligibility Criteria Are Relevant For Pedestrian Accident Claims?
To make a pedestrian accident claim, you’ll need to prove that:
The defendant owed you a duty of care (which is almost always the case)/
A breach of that duty led to your accident.
You sustained injuries that can be linked to that accident.
We’ll look at some common examples of scenarios that could lead to a pedestrian accident claim later on. One example, for now, could be where you were hit by a car that mounted a kerb because the driver was distracted by their phone.
If you’re unsure whether you meet these criteria, our team is happy to assess your specific case for free.
How Long Do I Have To Begin A Claim?
You usually have three years from the date of the accident to start your pedestrian accident claim. This rule comes from the Limitation Act 1980.
There are some exceptions:
Children: If the injured person was under 18, the three-year limit starts when they turn 18 (so up to age 21). However, before their 18th birthday, an adult can claim on their behalf at any time.
Mental capacity: If someone lacks mental capacity, the time limit is paused unless their capacity is regained. Effectively, this means there isn’t a time limit for claiming.
Starting your claim as soon as possible helps preserve evidence and can make the process smoother. Therefore, why not get in touch with our specialists today?
Common Examples Of Incidents Leading To Pedestrian Accident Claims
Some common examples of scenarios that could allow you to start a pedestrian accident claim include:
Being hit on a pedestrian or zebra crossing.
Vehicles failing to stop at red lights or stop signs.
Cars, lorries, or buses mounting the kerb.
Accidents caused by speeding or reckless driving on busy junctions.
Collisions with cyclists or e-scooter users on pavements.
Being struck during reversing or parking manoeuvres.
Hit and run incidents.
Even if the incident happened late at night or in poor weather, you might still be eligible to compensation. If the other party breached the rules, such as not giving way at a marked crossing, you may be able to start a road traffic accident claim.
Even if your accident isn’t listed here, please feel free to get in touch for free advice about how to proceed.
Supporting Evidence In Pedestrian Accident Claims
In most cases, the strength of your claim relies on the evidence you can provide. Here are some examples of evidence that can strengthen a pedestrian accident claim:
CCTV, dashcam or mobile footage from nearby properties or other vehicles.
Medical records or reports that document your injuries and treatment.
Witness details and statements from people who saw the incident.
Photographs or video footage of the accident scene and your injuries.
Police reports if officers attended the scene.
Accident diary, noting your symptoms, pain, and how the accident affects daily life.
Receipts for expenses related to travel, medication, or support.
Securing this evidence as soon as possible will help to prove who was at fault and the impact of your injuries. If you’re unable to gather everything, don’t worry. If your case proceeds, your solicitor can help by investigating further or requesting additional evidence on your behalf.
Can I Claim For A Pedestrian Accident On A No Win No Fee Basis?
Many worry about the cost of claiming compensation after a pedestrian accident. The good news is, you can make most claims on a No Win No Fee basis.
Solicitors from our panel offer Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs), more commonly called No Win No Fee agreements. This means:
You don’t pay any upfront legal fees.
If your claim isn’t successful, you don’t pay for your solicitor’s work.
If you’re awarded compensation, a small, capped success fee is deducted from your payout (never more than 25% by law).
No Win No Fee arrangements take away much of the financial risk, so you can claim with confidence. To check if you can make a St Helens pedestrian accident claim on a No Win No Fee basis, please call today.
What Does Compensation Cover?
Compensation for pedestrian accident claims can cover general damage and special damages. This means that if your claim is successful, it could include compenstion to cover:
General Damages:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of amenity (loss of enjoyment of life)
Loss of consortium (impact on relationships with family/spouse)
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Special Damages:
Medical expenses (past and future)
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Lost earnings (income lost during recovery)
Loss of future earning capacity
Transportation costs (to and from medical appointments)
Cost of mobility aids or home modifications
Property damage (e.g., to personal belongings)
Each claim is unique, so compensation reflects your circumstances. If your case is taken on, your solicitor will value your claim after assessing the amount of suffering you’ve had to deal with.
Fatal Pedestrian Accident Claims
Unfortunately, accidents involving pedestrians can lead to fatalities. If you’ve lost a loved one in such an accident, we know that securing compensation won’t be your first thought. However, it can cover:
Compensation Claimable in a Fatal Pedestrian Accident Claim
On behalf of the deceased’s estate:
Funeral expenses.
Medical costs incurred before death.
Loss of earnings between injury and death.
Pain and suffering of the deceased (general damages).
Loss of property or personal belongings at the time of the accident.
On behalf of dependents:
Loss of financial dependency (loss of future earnings or support).
Loss of services (e.g., childcare, household tasks provided by the deceased).
Loss of consortium/companionship.
Bereavement payments.
Loss of parental guidance (for children).
If you’d like us to help determine if you’re entitled to make a claim, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Call Today To Start A Pedestrian Accident Compensation Claim
If you’ve been hurt as a pedestrian, please don’t wait, ask us for a free review today. Our specialist advisors can explain if you can make a pedestrian accident claim. If you are, they can connect you with a solicitor from our panel who covers St Helens and the surrounding area.
You’re welcome to call us on 01744 385105 or use our Contact Us form to get in touch.
Not sure if your accident qualifies? Don’t worry, contact our friendly team for advice or to get started. You’re under no obligation, and there are no upfront costs to check if you can claim. Your recovery matters, and expert help is just a call or click away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below, you can find answers to some frequently asked questions about St Helens pedestrian accident claims.
Can I make a claim if I was injured by an uninsured or untraced driver?
Yes, if you were injured by a driver who was uninsured or who left the scene without stopping (hit-and-run), you can usually still claim compensation. The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) operates a scheme to help victims in these situations. A specialist solicitor can assist you through this process.
Is there a difference between a claim for an adult and a child pedestrian accident victim?
Yes, while the process is similar, a child cannot bring their own claim. An adult (usually a parent or guardian) can act as their ‘litigation friend’ to start the claim on their behalf. The time limit to claim is also extended until the child turns 21.
Can I claim for psychological injuries after a pedestrian accident, even if my physical injuries are minor?
es, psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression are recognised and can be included in your claim, even if your physical injuries are not severe. Medical evidence may be needed to support this part of your claim.
