Steady Guidance After a Serious Pedestrian Injury

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Without any physical protection, even a low-speed collision can result in devastating injuries. Many pedestrian accident victims suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or permanent mobility limitations that affect their ability to work, care for family, or live independently.

In the aftermath, insurance companies often move quickly to control the narrative. Drivers may claim they never saw you, that you stepped into traffic, or that the collision was unavoidable. These early assumptions can shape the entire claim if they go unchallenged. Working with a pedestrian injury attorney in Cleveland, OH helps protect you from unfair blame, preserve critical evidence, and pursue a claim that reflects what truly happened.

The Stuckey Firm works with you, not just for you. We take time to understand how the accident has affected your life and build a strategy focused on your recovery, stability, and long-term needs. When someone is injured, families often feel overwhelmed by everything happening at once. Legal representation can remove the burden of dealing with insurers, paperwork, and legal deadlines. 

What Is a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

A pedestrian accident claim is a personal injury claim brought when a person on foot is injured because a driver failed to operate their vehicle safely. These cases often involve distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, impaired driving, unsafe turns, or ignoring crosswalks and pedestrian signals. Some claims also involve dangerous road conditions, inadequate lighting, or missing signage.

Compensation in a pedestrian accident claim may include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and future care needs. In the most severe cases, claims may involve catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. Ohio negligence laws govern how fault is evaluated and how compensation is determined. The Ohio Revised Code outlines many of the duties drivers owe to pedestrians and how civil liability applies in these cases.

Cases Won Real Outcomes for Real People

$3.6 Million

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports...

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports that characterized their elderly father as a reckless motorcyclist. After a complex accident reconstruction identified the negligence of multiple parties, the case was settled during a second private mediation.

Motorcycle Accident | Marysville, Ohio

$1.6 Million

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as...

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as a result of the injury. Unfortunately, Ohio has a cap of $250,000 for non-economic damages, with no exceptions, for cases against political subdivisions. Through a comprehensive case work up and well versed arguments presenting a real threat to challenging the constitutionality of caps on damages, we were able to negotiate a higher settlement than what was provided under the law.

Pedestrian Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$1.3 Million

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with three young adult siblings.  TSF was engaged to serve as local counsel to assist with the litigation, mediation, and resolution of the case.

Truck Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$600,000

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left and turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing serious injury. An accident reconstructionist was retained to disprove inflammatory witness accounts of speed, as motorcyclists are commonly accused of speeding due to the sound of their bike. 

Motorcycle Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$500,000

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic...

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with an oncoming motorist. Client sustained serious injuries requring extensive hospitalization and rehab.  He and his wife heavily relied upon counsel to guide them through the maze of medical bills and insurance claims so they could focus on healing and recovery.  Settlement was further maximized through negotiations with multiple lienholders.

Car Accident | Galion, Ohio

$135,000

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert...

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert to demonstrate permanency of scarring to enhance case value

Dog Bite | Marysville, Ohio

$100,000

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash...

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash and injury to college aged passenger. Policy limits settlement offer obtained despite minimal medical treatment options and $5,000 in medical bills. Client was unsure how to protect her concern for permanent injury and retained counsel to help her obtain expert testimony to document permanent injury to justify the policy limits settlement.

Car Accident | Mentor, Ohio
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How a Personal Injury Attorney Helps in Pedestrian Accident Cases

  • Establishing Clear Liability: Pedestrian accidents often lead to disputes over fault. A pedestrian accident lawyer gathers crash reports, witness statements, video footage, scene photographs, and roadway evidence to show how and why the driver’s conduct caused harm.
  • Documenting Serious Injuries: Pedestrian injuries are frequently severe, yet insurers may still try to downplay them. Legal representation helps fully document medical treatment, future care needs, wage loss, and the impact on daily life.
  • Defending Against Blame-Shifting: Insurers often argue that pedestrians were distracted or crossing improperly. A thorough legal approach challenges these claims and focuses on driver behavior, visibility, speed, and roadway conditions.
  • Trial-Ready Leverage: When insurers refuse fair value, litigation may be necessary. Preparing every case with trial readiness strengthens negotiation power and protects your right to pursue full compensation.

We prepare every case as if it could go to court, because strong preparation leads to stronger results. Still, filing a lawsuit does not always mean trial; it often leads to settlement negotiations on fairer terms.

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Do I Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

Legal guidance is especially important if you were hit by a vehicle and required medical treatment, missed work, or continue to experience pain or limitations. You may also need help if the driver denied fault, fled the scene, or if insurers are pressuring you to settle quickly. Pedestrian accident cases can change rapidly. Evidence such as surveillance footage or witness accounts may disappear within days. Serious injuries like traumatic brain injury, spinal damage, or fractures often take time to fully understand. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help protect your rights and prevent decisions that undervalue your claim before the full impact is known.

Pedestrian Accident Case What to Expect

Step One: Initial Review and Early Protection

We begin by listening to your account of the accident and reviewing your injuries and medical care. We provide early guidance on documentation and insurance communication to protect your claim from the start.

Step Two: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

We collect police reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, and proof of lost income. When available, we pursue video footage and evaluate roadway factors such as crosswalk placement, lighting, and traffic control.

Step Three: Building the Claim

Once your injuries and long-term needs are clearer, we prepare a demand that reflects the full scope of harm. The claim is supported by evidence and shaped around your goals, not insurer pressure.

Step Four: Resolution or Litigation

Some pedestrian accident claims resolve through negotiation. Others require litigation when fault or value is disputed. We prepare each case with the expectation that it may need to go to trial so your options remain protected.

Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Proven Leaders in Ohio Personal Injury Law

Our team of local attorneys were hand-selected for their experience and leadership in client service, top legal organizations, and our communities.

Founder

Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
  • The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
  • Ohio Super Lawyers
Read Nathan's Bio

Partner

Sydney S. McLafferty

  • Past President, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Active Member, American Association of Justice
  • National Women’s Trial Lawyers, Top 25
Read Sydney's Bio

Partner

J. Michael Vervoort

  • Board Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
  • Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
Read Michael's Bio

Attorney

Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

  • Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
Read Paul's Bio

Attorney

Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, Clark County Bar Association
  • Founding Board Member, Recon & Sniper Foundation
Read Christian's Bio

Attorney

James E. Heath

  • Past President, Clark County Bar Association
  • Board Member, Clark County Sportsman’s Club
  • Former Captian, U.S. Army JAG Corps
Read James's Bio

Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
Read Christian's Bio

Get a Free Case Review

Available 24/7 (216) 425-0336

Why Pedestrian Accident Claims Are Often Disputed

Even when injuries are severe, insurers frequently attempt to reduce responsibility by arguing that the pedestrian was careless, distracted, or crossing improperly. These arguments are common in cases with limited video evidence or conflicting witness accounts, which is why early investigation is critical.

Pedestrian safety is a nationwide concern. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides data on pedestrian crash risks, highlighting factors such as speeding, poor visibility, and driver distraction. This context underscores why pedestrian injuries should never be minimized and why careful documentation matters.

Some pedestrian claims also involve uninsured or underinsured drivers. In those situations, your own insurance coverage may become part of the recovery strategy, adding complexity that benefits from experienced legal guidance.

“We had Michael as our attorney, and he was wonderful. He kept in touch often and showed compassion and concern. We received a life-changing settlement, and we highly recommend The Stuckey Firm. They show genuine care and concern.”

—J.M.

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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Collaborative, Client-First Model

The Stuckey Firm is a client-focused personal injury practice built on trust and attorney-driven representation. We work with you so you understand the process, stay informed, and have a voice in important decisions.

Thorough, Trial-Ready Preparation

Pedestrian injury cases require strong evidence and strategic preparation to counter blame-shifting. We document injuries carefully and prepare cases with trial readiness when that is the best path forward.

Credibility That Makes a Difference

Our attorneys are respected statewide for bringing well-prepared and principled claims. That credibility matters when insurers attempt to dispute fault or undervalue serious injuries. We pursue outcomes that support real recovery and long-term stability. You deserve a legal team that treats your injuries seriously and advocates with care and resolve.

Pedestrian Accident Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?

Seek medical care right away and report the crash to law enforcement. If possible, document the scene, gather witness information, and avoid giving recorded statements to insurers before getting legal advice.

What if the driver left the scene?

You may still have options. These cases often involve uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer can help investigate and identify available sources of recovery.

How long does a pedestrian accident case take?

The timeline depends on injury severity and whether fault is disputed. Some cases resolve in months, while serious injury claims may take longer to document fully and pursue fair value.

Can I recover compensation if the driver says I was not in a crosswalk?

Possibly. Liability depends on the full circumstances, including driver speed, attention, visibility, and whether the collision could have been avoided.

How are pedestrian injuries valued?

Claims are evaluated based on medical costs, lost income, future care needs, and how the injury affects daily life. Because pedestrian injuries are often severe, long-term impact matters.

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Get Guidance After a Pedestrian Accident

If you were injured while walking and are unsure what to do next, help is available. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation and speak with a pedestrian injury attorney in Cleveland who will provide clear answers and steady guidance.

Talk With a Local Attorney Get a Free Case Review

If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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