Pedestrian accident compensation claims

Accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and the fault may lie with either the driver or the pedestrian, or even both. Common causes include:

• Excessive speed
  Distracted driving
  Driving under the influence
  Failing to give way at crossings or junctions
  Failing to stop in time

Pedestrians can be partially at fault or contribute to accidents by:

Failing to look properly when crossing the road
Crossing recklessly, such as running across roads without designated crossing
Wearing dark clothing at night, which makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians

Accidents involving pedestrians can suffer a range of injuries and the severity of them will depend on the speed and impact of the vehicle. Common pedestrian accident injuries include: 

• Back or spinal cord injuries
• Head or brain injuries
• Fractured bones
• Leg injuries
• Neck injuries
• Cuts, bruises or lacerations
• Psychological trauma

The shock and trauma of being hit by a car or another vehicle can make it difficult to think clearly, but following certain steps can protect your safety and improve your chances of making a successful pedestrian car accident compensation claim:

• Move to safety: Get out of the road to avoid further danger.
• Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, you should get a professional evaluation, as some injuries (such as concussions) might not present symptoms immediately.
• Call the police: A police report will be a vital piece of evidence for any claim but is essential in cases where a driver failed to stop.
• Exchange information: Collect the driver's details, including name, contact information, vehicle registration, and insurance details.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles involved, road conditions and any visible injuries.
• Get guidance on making a claim: Speak to our Helpline Advisors on , who can help you take the first steps toward making a pedestrian accident claim.

The financial impact of an accident can be significant, and pedestrian injury compensation can provide the vital support needed during your recovery. It may help cover:

• Medical expenses: Including hospital treatment, surgery, prescriptions and medication.
• Rehabilitation and therapy: Such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy or psychological counselling.
• Lost earnings: If you're unable to work, compensation can cover future loss of income if your ability to work is reduced or you're forced to change role.
• Travel costs: Including to and from medical appointments, including taxis, public transport or fuel costs.
• Home adaptations: If your mobility has been affected ramps, widened doorways or a downstairs bathroom can be covered by compensation to support independent living.
• Additional care: Whether from professional carers or help provided by family members.
• Specialist equipment: Wheelchairs, crutches or other mobility aids needed for day-to-day independence.

Yes, in some cases you can make a pedestrian injury claim on behalf of a loved one if they are unable to do so themselves. This includes situations where the victim is a child under 18, lacks mental capacity, or has sadly passed away because of the accident. If you're not sure whether you can claim on someone else's behalf, our Helpline Advisors can guide you through your options on .

You can still make a pedestrian accident claim even if the driver can't be identified. In these cases, compensation is paid by the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), which supports victims of uninsured or untraced drivers. For this reason, it is important to report the hit and run to the police as soon as possible, since their report will be a key piece of evidence for your claim.

Yes, you'll typically have three years from the date of the accident to make a pedestrian compensation claim. There are exceptions to this timeframe, including:

• If you were under 18 at the time of the accident:  If no claim was made for you before your 18th birthday, you can make a claim up to your 21st birthday.
• If a loved one died in a pedestrian accident: You'll usually have three years from the date of death to start a claim, reach a settlement or begin court proceedings.
• If the injured person lacks mental capacity: Typically, there is no time limit while a person lacks capacity. If they regain capacity, the three-year limit starts from that point, even if capacity is later lost again.

If you think you have grounds to make a claim, we'd recommend starting the process as soon as possible. If you're unsure where to start, contact us for a free, no-obligation chat on to see if you could make a no win, no fee pedestrian accident claim.

The timeframe for pedestrian accident claims to settle will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, whether liability is disputed or if the case goes to court. For minor injuries where liability is not disputed, claims can take as little as 12 months to settle. For more complex, life-changing injuries, the claims process can take several years.