Pedestrians come off worst in a collision with any vehicle. So if you've been struck by a vehicle on a pavement or pedestrian crossing, you could be entitled to compensation. Our industry-leading pedestrian accident lawyers are here to help you get the support you deserve.
We are proud to have partnerships with national charities and be recognised in the latest legal directories, such as the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users and almost always come off worst if they're caught in a collision or accident with other road users. According to government statistics, an average of seven pedestrians died and 104 were seriously injured in road accidents each week between 2020 and 2024. These figures highlight the importance of ensuring that we're all using our roads responsibly and safely.
Injuries caused by road accidents can be devastating for pedestrians. If the worst happens, it is critical that you can access the help and support you need to recover as quickly as possible. And while compensation might not be the first thing on your mind, a pedestrian accident claim can help you to start putting your life back together.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users because there are many ways in which they can be injured on the road. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
A driver or motorcyclist failed to slow down or stop at a crossing or red light
A driver or motorcyclist was driving too fast or not paying attention to other road users
A driver or motorcyclist was driving recklessly, was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or was distracted by or using a mobile phone illegally
What type of injuries can occur in pedestrian accidents?
When a pedestrian is unfortunately injured on the road, the consequences can vary from mild injuries such as bruising or sprains to more severe damage, such as head trauma, spinal injuries or even fatalities.
Some of the most common injuries we see in pedestrian personal injury claims include:
Head or brain injuries
Spinal cord or neck injuries
Broken bones
Loss of limb (amputation)
Fatal injuries
No matter how you were injured as a pedestrian on the road, if you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligent or dangerous actions, you could be entitled to compensation. Speak to our leading pedestrian accident lawyers today to start your claim on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online.
Surviving a traumatic car accident as a pedestrian: Aine's story
Aine was hit by a car that had mounted the pavement at 40 mph. She suffered severe and traumatic brain and spinal injuries, which caused serious ongoing issues that affect her day-to-day life. Here, she tells her story and how Slater and Gordon's pedestrian accident solicitors supported her with her recovery and her legal case.
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What does a pedestrian accident compensation claim include?
A pedestrian injury claim seeks to compensate you for injuries caused by an accident and the subsequent impact these injuries have on your quality of life. These are known as general and special damages:
General damages refer to any physical or mental injuries caused by the accident. The amount of pedestrian accident compensation that you'll receive will be determined by the extent of the injury caused, and by how quickly you're likely to recover, according to a medical expert.
Special damages refer to expenses or losses that you may incur because of your injuries. For example, it can include the loss of any wages if you've been unable to work, any physiotherapy or other treatments you may need to pay for, any adaptations to your home that may be required, or any travel costs (if, for instance, you’ve been unable to drive).
How is liability established in pedestrian accident claims?
Liability (fault) in a pedestrian accident claim is established by proving that the other party or parties involved in the accident owed you a duty of care, which was breached when they acted negligently and caused the accident that injured you.
Establishing who's liable in a pedestrian accident claim isn’t always straightforward, though it's rare for a driver or motorcyclist to be found not at fault. In 2022, the government introduced new rules in the Highway Code, implementing a hierarchy of road users. This puts more responsibility on road users with the capacity to cause greater harm. For instance, a driver in a car will have a higher degree of responsibility than a pedestrian.
There are circumstances where a driver or motorcyclist may not be found liable for an accident, or it may be determined that both parties share liability. It's therefore strongly recommended that you speak to a specialist pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as you're able so we can help you determine whether you have a claim.
Can I make a pedestrian injury claim if I’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run is an accident in which one or more involved parties leave the scene without stopping. Fleeing the scene of an accident in this way is against the law. Unfortunately, it does happen, and it can make it difficult to track down the responsible party.
If you’ve been injured as a result of a hit-and-run accident, you may be wondering how claiming compensation works. In the UK, the Motor Insurers' Bureau was established to provide compensation for those who've been injured or caught in an accident due to the negligence of an untraceable or uninsured driver.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers have years of experience dealing with such cases and are here to support you through every step of the claims process.
I cannot say enough about my interaction with Slater and Gordon, in particular Tracey Benson. She has truly achieved a life-changing settlement for me enabling me to move on with my life. If you were thinking of choosing a solicitor on the no win no fee basis that I had, you will find a very helpful professional approach with realistic expectations being set out from the start.
5* Trustpilot Review (for Tracey Benson)
Nothing was too much trouble for Matt. He always explained things and made sure I understood everything. I was delighted with the settlement he secured on what I know was a very challenging case.
Client testimonial (for Matthew Tomlinson)
I felt that I was extremely well advised and represented throughout the process. Richard was a charming, knowledgeable and calming influence, and I always knew that I was in a very safe pair of hands. I would highly recommend his services without any hesitation.
Client testimonial (for Richard Gaffney)
Why choose Slater and Gordon's pedestrian accident lawyers
We understand how traumatising it can be to be a pedestrian caught in an accident. As some of the most vulnerable people on the road, an accident can cause severe damage, and the impact this can then have on you and your family is often devastating.
That’s why we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to support our clients. Our pedestrian road accident lawyers take a sympathetic, professional and honest approach to those who need our help with pedestrian accident injuries.
Our lawyers are among the best and most experienced personal injury lawyers in the country, consistently receiving high rankings from reputable independent legal directories, such as Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500
We pride ourselves on taking a holistic, collaborative approach to your road traffic accident claim, working closely with medical experts who can assess your injuries and determine the future care and rehabilitation you may require.
We work tirelessly to get the compensation our clients deserve. Just a few of the pedestrian accident claims we've pursued include:
Sophie was catastrophically injured when she became crushed between two cars, resulting in multiple complex orthopaedic, internal and psychological injuries. Senior Associate Solicitor, Crystal Eaton, pursued substantial interim payments as the case progressed, which secured Sophie's access to critical rehabilitation services.
An elderly couple were struck by a vehicle while on a pedestrian crossing, leaving the man with severe injuries including a fractured spine and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Serious injury specialist, Gulderen Salih, worked with the couple to secure access to bespoke rehabilitation and support, pursuing the maximum possible pedestrian accident compensation.
A woman was thrown into the air when struck by a car travelling over the speed limit. She spent five weeks in hospital and had to undergo surgery, resulting in her left leg being shortened. The ordeal has left her with chronic pain and significant psychological effects. Slater and Gordon worked tirelessly to secure a six-figure settlement to assist her with her care and future needs.
We're an award-winning law firm with a dedicated team of pedestrian accident solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We offer affordable expert legal advice and can guide you on all aspects of pedestrian accident claims. Our initial consultation offers tailored legal guidance, giving you clear advice and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We know that every claim is different – so we provide tailored advice to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We're a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our pedestrian accident lawyers today
Frequently asked questions about pedestrian accident claims
What should I do if I’m a pedestrian hit by a car, or if I witness another pedestrian hit by a car?
Being involved in, or witnessing, an accident can be harrowing. Many people experience shock in the aftermath. However you must seek immediate medical attention for anyone who has been injured and report the accident to the police.
If possible, make a note of any injuries and get the details of the driver or drivers involved in the accident, including insurance information, name, phone number and registration plate. Try to get photographic evidence of the scene if you can and details of any witnesses willing to share their information.
The information you gather can help build a case for pedestrian accident compensation if you decide to reach out to a solicitor. It can help police enquiries if you already have details of any witnesses with whom they may wish.
Will I need to attend a medical examination as part of my pedestrian accident claim?
For most pedestrian injury claims, you’ll be required to undergo a routine medical examination by an experienced medical expert. They'll discuss your injuries and their impact on your life in detail. They will then produce a medico-legal report, which is used as evidence by the courts and solicitors to determine the extent of your injuries and how quickly you might be expected to recover.
Can I make a No Win No Fee pedestrian accident claim?
Many of the cases we pursue on behalf of our clients are pursued by way of a conditional fee arrangement, more commonly known as No Win No Fee. There are no upfront costs, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you won't have to pay a fee to your solicitor.
However, No Win No Fee arrangements are not the only way to fund your case. To learn more about available funding options and which might suit you, speak to a member of our team.
Can I make a pedestrian accident claim on behalf of someone else?
If a loved one has been injured in an accident and is unable to claim pedestrian accident compensation themselves, it may be possible for you to do so on their behalf. Cases where this may be possible include:
Claiming on behalf of a child (under 18 years old)
Claiming on behalf of someone with diminished mental capacity
Claiming after a fatal accident
If you wish to talk about claiming on behalf of someone else, our expert pedestrian solicitors will be happy to discuss this with you in more detail.
How long will a pedestrian accident claim take?
As with many other personal injury claims, it can be difficult to judge how long a pedestrian accident claim will take to process. Various factors that can contribute to the length of the process. Naturally, the severity of your injuries will be a factor and whether the insurer of the party at fault is prepared to accept liability.
It’s always best to contact an expert pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible, so we can help you get the ball rolling promptly.
What are the time limits for making a pedestrian accident compensation claim?
Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to submit a pedestrian accident claim.
However, there are circumstances in which this time limit may be changed. For example, if you’re claiming on behalf of a child or someone who lacks mental capacity, or if you've been injured as a child and wish to make a claim (in which case, you have three years from the date of your 18th birthday). The time limits for making a claim may differ if your accident happened abroad, as every country has different rules.
It is therefore strongly advised that you contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case in more detail. They'll provide advice specific to your case, including any deadlines that must be met.
Can a pedestrian be at fault for an accident?
A pedestrian can sometimes be partly responsible for a road accident, but this does not prevent them from making a pedestrian injury claim. Under the Law Reform (Contributory Negligence) Act 1945, compensation may be reduced if a pedestrian’s actions contributed to the accident, but they can still recover damages if another party was also at fault.
Situations involving shared responsibility can be complex, which is why speaking to specialist pedestrian accident lawyers early on is important. Our leading pedestrian road accident lawyers can help you understand where responsibility lies and ensure that you are not unfairly blamed for what happened. Even if you stepped into the road unexpectedly, misjudged traffic or were distracted, you may still be entitled to pedestrian accident compensation if a driver failed to take reasonable care.
What can compensation from a pedestrian accident cover?
Pedestrian accident compensation is designed to help you recover physically, emotionally and financially. It can cover the pain and suffering caused by your injuries, as well as the impact the accident has had on your daily life. It may also include the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation and any long-term care you require.
If you have been unable to work, compensation can cover lost earnings and future loss of income. It can also support the cost of mobility aids, home adaptations or help around the house while you recover. Pedestrian accident compensation claims look at the full consequences of the accident to ensure you receive support that reflects your needs now and in the future.
Will I need to go to court?
Most pedestrian claims are settled without the need to go to court. Insurers usually accept responsibility once the evidence is clear, allowing your pedestrian accident lawyers to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. However, in a small number of cases, the courts may become involved if liability is disputed or if the insurer refuses to offer appropriate compensation.
If your case does go to court, your specialist pedestrian road accident solicitor will guide you through every step. They will handle the legal work, represent you during the process and make sure your voice is heard. Our role is to minimise any stress and ensure you feel supported and informed at all times.
What evidence do I need to provide to support my pedestrian accident claim?
Evidence helps build a clear picture of what happened and supports your pedestrian accident compensation claim. Useful evidence can include:
medical records confirming your injuries
photographs of the scene
witness contact details
any CCTV or dashcam footage
a police report, if they attended the scene
Your pedestrian accident lawyers will work with you to gather and review every relevant detail, so you do not need to worry if you do not have everything immediately. The aim is to build a strong case that demonstrates how the accident occurred, who was at fault and how your injuries have affected your life.
What if the driver was uninsured?
If the driver who caused the accident was uninsured, you can still make a pedestrian injury claim. These cases are usually handled through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which compensates people injured by uninsured or untraced drivers. Our specialist pedestrian accident lawyers regularly work with the MIB and understand how to navigate the process on your behalf.
What if the liable party for a pedestrian accident is not caught?
If the driver leaves the scene or cannot be identified, you may still be able to receive pedestrian accident compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau’s untraced driver scheme. This route is designed to support people injured in hit‑and‑run incidents.
To make a claim, you need to report the accident to the police as soon as possible and within 14 days. You should also seek medical attention for your injuries. Your pedestrian accident lawyers will help you submit the evidence required by the MIB and guide you through what can sometimes feel like a complicated process. You are not alone, and support is still available even when the responsible driver cannot be found.
How do I make a pedestrian injury claim?
The first step in making a pedestrian injury claim is to speak with one of our specialist pedestrian road accident lawyers. They will listen to what happened, review the available evidence and help you understand whether you have a strong claim. You will also have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you need, so you feel confident about what happens next.
Once your claim begins, your lawyer will contact the driver’s insurer, gather medical evidence and negotiate on your behalf. Throughout the process, your pedestrian accident lawyers will ensure that your recovery is supported, including access to rehabilitation where appropriate. We’ll take care of the legal work while you focus on getting better.
How is compensation calculated in a pedestrian injury claim?
Compensation in pedestrian accident compensation claims is based on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your day-to-day life and any financial losses you have experienced. Medical evidence is used to understand your recovery time, whether you will need ongoing care and how the accident has affected your independence and wellbeing.
Your pedestrian accident lawyers will calculate the full value of your claim, including lost income, treatment costs and the long-term consequences of your injuries. The aim is to ensure that your pedestrian accident compensation reflects not just the immediate impact, but also the support you may need in the future to move forward with confidence.
I cannot say enough about my interaction with Slater and Gordon, in particular Tracey Benson. She has truly achieved a life-changing settlement for me enabling me to move on with my life. If you were thinking of choosing a solicitor on the no win no fee basis that I had, you will find a very helpful professional approach with realistic expectations being set out from the start. 5* Trustpilot Review (for Tracey Benson)
Nothing was too much trouble for Matt. He always explained things and made sure I understood everything. I was delighted with the settlement he secured on what I know was a very challenging case. Client testimonial (for Matthew Tomlinson)
I felt that I was extremely well advised and represented throughout the process. Richard was a charming, knowledgeable and calming influence, and I always knew that I was in a very safe pair of hands. I would highly recommend his services without any hesitation. Client testimonial (for Richard Gaffney)