Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer serious injuries even at low speeds, including broken bones, head injuries, and internal injuries. Salem’s busy downtown, narrow streets, and heavy seasonal tourist traffic make pedestrian crashes a particular concern. Muggeo & Associates represents pedestrians injured in Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Beverly, and throughout Massachusetts.
Where Pedestrian Crashes Happen
- Crosswalks where drivers fail to yield
- Parking lots and garages, especially when vehicles are backing up
- Downtown Salem during the October tourist season
- Bus stops and commuter rail stations
- Intersections with turning vehicles
- Neighborhood streets without sidewalks
Pedestrian Right of Way in Massachusetts
Massachusetts law generally requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in a marked crosswalk on their half of the road, or when the pedestrian is approaching from the other side and is close enough to be in danger. Drivers must also use reasonable care to avoid pedestrians everywhere, including outside crosswalks.
Who Pays After a Pedestrian Is Hit?
Pedestrians injured by a vehicle are generally entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits for medical bills and lost wages. If you own a car, your own policy usually pays; if you do not, the PIP coverage on the vehicle that struck you generally applies. If your injuries meet the Massachusetts threshold, you can also bring a claim against the driver for pain and suffering and other losses. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help when the driver had little or no insurance, or left the scene.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If the driver fled, report the crash to police immediately and look for nearby security or doorbell cameras, which are often overwritten within days. Uninsured motorist coverage may still provide compensation even if the driver is never found.
What to Do After Being Hit
- Call 911 and get medical care.
- Get the driver’s information and the vehicle plate number.
- Photograph the scene, crosswalk markings, signals, and your injuries.
- Get names of witnesses and note any businesses with cameras.
- Keep your clothing and shoes.
- Do not give recorded statements to the driver’s insurer before getting advice.
Learn more about our personal injury practice.
Talk to a Lawyer Today
Call Muggeo & Associates at (978) 741-1177, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or send us a message. Our office is at 133 Washington Street in downtown Salem.
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Laws and deadlines change and depend on the facts of each case. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.