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Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyers · Established 1960
Help after a pedestrian injury.
You deserve time to recover and clear answers about your options. Our team starts by listening to what happened and how it has affected your life.
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Pedestrian Accident Attorney Serving All of Connecticut
The Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyers at McCoy & McCoy understand the devastating impact a serious pedestrian accident can have on victims and their families. When a pedestrian is struck by a car, truck, motorcycle, or other motor vehicle, the injuries are often severe and may result in extensive medical treatment, lost income, physical pain, and long-term emotional trauma. Our attorneys are committed to helping injured pedestrians throughout Connecticut pursue the compensation they deserve while dealing with the insurance company and the legal process.
For over 50 years, McCoy & McCoy has represented injured pedestrians across Connecticut with offices in Hartford, New Haven, and Torrington. We understand the state’s specific right-of-way statutes and “Strict Duty of Care” laws. We help victims navigate the complexities of C.G.S. § 14-300b, which requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Understanding Connecticut Pedestrian Rights & Statutes
Most people think pedestrian accidents are simple, but Connecticut law has several “hidden” rules that can make or break your case. At McCoy & McCoy, we specialize in the technical nuances of the Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) to protect our clients.
- The “Right of Way” in Marked & Unmarked Crosswalks: Under C.G.S. § 14-300b, pedestrians have a clear right of way not just in painted crosswalks, but also at unmarked crosswalks at any intersection.
- The Duty to Yield: Drivers must stop and remain stopped if a pedestrian is within any part of the crosswalk or has signaled an intent to cross.
- The “Invisible” Crosswalk: Many accidents occur because drivers don’t realize that every intersection in Connecticut is technically a crosswalk, even without white paint markings. We hold drivers accountable for this “hidden” duty of care.
- Protections Under the “Vulnerable User Law”: Connecticut’s Vulnerable User Law (C.G.S. § 14-300i) helps protect pedestrians by imposing a higher standard of “reasonable care” on motor vehicle operators when they are near pedestrians. If a driver fails to exercise this care and causes serious injury or death, they face increased penalties, which we use as leverage to prove negligence in your civil claim.
Can I Still Sue If I Was "Jaywalking?"
Yes. Even if you weren’t walking in a crosswalk, you may still recover compensation. Insurance companies often try to deny claims if the pedestrian wasn’t in a crosswalk. However, Connecticut follows a Modified Comparative Negligence system (C.G.S. § 52-572h).
- The 51% Rule: You can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault.
- Proportional Recovery: If you are found 20% at fault for crossing mid-block, you can still recover 80% of your total damages. We aggressively fight to minimize the “fault percentage” that the insurance company tries to pin on you.
The "Intent to Cross" Standard (C.G.S. § 14-300)
Since October 2021, Connecticut pedestrians no longer have to risk their lives by stepping into traffic to claim the right of way. The expertise of McCoy & McCoy lies in holding drivers accountable to this expanded duty of care.
How the New Law Protects You
- A motorist is now legally required to stop or slow down if a pedestrian is simply about to cross. The law recognizes “intent” through three specific actions:
- The Hand Signal: If you are standing at the curb and raise your hand or arm toward oncoming traffic, drivers must stop.
- Body Movement: If any part of your body moves into the crosswalk area, the driver’s duty to stop is triggered instantly.
- The “Extension” Rule: This is a critical nuance. Intent is also signaled if you move an extension into the crosswalk, including a stroller, wheelchair, cane, or leashed animal.
Our Expertise: Our pedestrian accident attorneys use traffic camera footage and witness statements to prove you signaled your intent at the curb, establishing that the driver violated C.G.S. § 14-300 before the impact even occurre
What is the Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents?
If you were hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian in Connecticut, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss it, you may lose your ability to recover compensation for your injuries.
That said, certain situations can change how this deadline applies. In some cases, symptoms or complications don’t appear right away. When that happens, the timeline may begin when the injury is discovered.
The Strict 90-Day Notice for Municipal Claims
This is the most critical deadline in Connecticut pedestrian law. If your accident was caused or worsened by a defective sidewalk, broken curb, or city-owned vehicle, the clock is ticking faster.
C.G.S. § 13a-149: Requires that a formal written notice be filed with the town or city within 90 days of the injury. If you miss this window, you may lose your right to sue the government entity entirely. This is why immediate legal consultation is vital. Speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney early can help ensure your case is filed on time and your rights are fully protected.
Why Injured Victims Trust McCoy & McCoy For Their Pedestrian Accident Claims
Over 50 Years Serving Connecticut Injury Victims
At McCoy & McCoy, your case isn’t just another file on a desk- it’s personal.The attorneys at McCoy & McCoy have been representing injured pedestrians across Connecticut for over 50 years. From the moment you contact us, your case is led by an experienced attorney.
Read more about McCoy & McCoy
Recognized and Respected in the Legal Community
Our attorneys have earned recognition from some of the most respected organizations in the legal profession for their dedication to personal injury law and commitment to achieving results for clients.
Our accolades include:
- Recognition in Best Lawyers in America
- Included in Best Law Firms rankings
- Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer (Attorney Frank McCoy)
- Super Lawyers and Super Lawyers Rising Stars selections
- Members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- AVVO Highly Rated Attorney Profiles
- Decades of recognition for excellence in personal injury litigation
The “Insurance Insider” Edge
We know their playbook.
Our lead pedestrian accident lawyer, Brian Parrott, previously worked as an insurance adjuster, so he knows exactly how they evaluate claims and minimize payouts, giving our firm a unique advantage. We don’t just guess what the insurance company is thinking – we’ve been in the room. We use our own strategies to push back and demand the maximum value for your claim.
Trial-Read Advocacy
Elite Board Certification: Attorney Frank McCoy is Board-Certified in Civil Trial Law by the NBTA. This rigorous credential is held by less than 0.5% of all Connecticut lawyers, signaling the highest level of courtroom expertise. Insurance companies know which law firms settle for the first offer and which law firms – like ours – have the credentials to take a case to trial. Our courtroom reputation gives our clients leverage most firms simply cannot provide.
Proven Results
Our pedestrian accident attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients throughout Connecticut. We know how to build strong cases, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and pursue maximum compensation when litigation becomes necessary. Because the insurance companies know our record, they are forced to take your case seriously from day one.
Limited Caseload & Direct Attorney Access
When you hire McCoy & McCoy, you get direct access tot he attorney handling your case. Unlike high-volume firms that handle hundreds of cases at a time, we intentionally limit the number of cases we accept. This allows us to devote more time, attention, and resources to every client we represent.
Free Case Evaluation & No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
After an accident the last thing you should have to worry about is how you are going to afford a lawyer. Focus should be on recovering from your injuries and taking care of yourself and your family – not paying legal fees.
We offer free legal consultations to discuss your potential case and answer your questions. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning if we agree to represent you, you pay nothing unless we win your case. It’s simple: no upfront costs, no hidden fees – just a team fighting for you.
Under Connecticut law, contingency fees in personal injury cases are regulated by statute and are based on a percentage of the recovery obtained. If there is no recovery, you do not owe us an attorney’s fee.
Our firm has recovered millions for injured clients, and we’re ready to put our experience, resources, and reputation to work for you.
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Dealing with the Insurance Company After a Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident, you may quickly find yourself contacted by an insurance company seeking information about the crash and your injuries. While insurance adjusters may appear to be helpful, it is important to remember that their primary goal is often to minimize the amount the company pays on a claim.
Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, it is important to understand your legal rights and the potential value of your claim. An experienced Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyer can help handle communications with the insurance company so you don’t say anything that might be used against you. Having legal representation can allow you to focus on your recovery while your attorney works to pursue the financial recovery you deserve.
What To Expect During a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit
- Investigation: The process often begins with an investigation into the accident. Your pedestrian accident attorney will gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, photos, and other evidence to help establish liabiltiy.
- Negotiations: Your lawyer will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, both sides may exchange evidence and information through a process known as discovery.
- Trial: Most pedestrian accident lawsuits resolve through settlement negotiations or mediation before reaching trial. However, if the parties cannot agree on compensation, the case may proceed to trial where a judge or jury will determine liability and damages.
Common Pedestrian Accident Case Scenarios
- Crosswalk Collisions: Even in marked crosswalks, drivers often fail to yield. Whether due to distraction, speeding, or negligence, pedestrians hit in a crosswalk often suffer severe injuries — and drivers must be held accountable.
- Distracted Driving Incidents: Texting, GPS use, or even eating behind the wheel can lead to devastating consequences. When a distracted driver hits a pedestrian, the results can be life-changing — and entirely preventable.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents:When a driver flees the scene, victims are left injured and without answers. We help identify negligent parties, pursue uninsured motorist claims, and fight to get you justice — even when the driver disappears.
- Parking Lot Accidents: Parking lots may seem low-speed, but they’re high-risk for pedestrians. Limited visibility, rushing drivers, and lack of marked paths often lead to serious injuries — especially to children and elderly pedestrians.
Throughout the process, a pedestrian accident attorney can help guide you through each stage of the case, communicate with insurance companies and defense attorneys, and work to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Pedestrian Fatality
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a devastating experience. In Connecticut, these cases are governed by C.G.S. § 52-555, and the process for seeking justice is unique.
Who Can File the Claim?
Unlike other states, where any family member can sue, Connecticut law requires that a Wrongful Death claim be brought by the Executor or Administrator of the deceased person’s estate. If there is a will, the named Executor takes the lead.
If there is no will, the Probate Court must appoint an Administrator (usually a spouse or close relative) before the lawsuit can proceed.
Recoverable Damages: Focus on the Decedent’s Loss
Connecticut is unique because the law focuses primarily on the loss suffered by the person who passed away, rather than just the grief of the survivors. We fight to recover:
- Medical & Funeral Expenses: Coverage for end-of-life care and burial costs.
- Loss of Capacity to Enjoy Life’s Activities: Compensation for the years of life and experiences your loved one was deprived of.
- Pre-Death Pain and Suffering: If your loved one did not pass away instantly, the estate can recover for the suffering they endured.
- Loss of Spousal/Parental Consortium: Separate claims for the loss of companionship, love, and protection provided to a spouse or minor children.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious and life-changing injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have against motor vehicles. Even low-speed collisions can cause significant physical trauma and long-term medical complications. Some of the most common injuries associated with pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
- Internal Injuries and Organ Damages
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Road Rash and Lacerations
- Neck and Shoulder Injuries
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma
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What happens next
A clear next step. At every step.
Our first job is to make a difficult situation easier to understand.
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We listen.
Tell us what happened and what you need. Your first conversation is free and confidential.
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We explain.
We review the situation, answer your questions, and talk through your options.
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We prepare.
If we take your case, we investigate the details and keep you informed as it moves forward.
A few questions you may have.
Is the first conversation free?
Yes. Your initial consultation is free. We can discuss what happened and whether we can help.
What should I bring?
Bring the information you already have, such as photographs, an incident report, and insurance correspondence. You can still call if you do not have everything.
Can we meet outside an office?
Tell us what works for you. Our firm serves clients across Connecticut and can discuss a convenient way to meet.
What is an "unmarked crosswalk? under Connecticut law?
Many drivers—and even some lawyers—don’t realize that under C.G.S. § 14-300b, every intersection is a crosswalk, even if there are no painted lines. Pedestrians have the right of way at these “unmarked” locations. At McCoy & McCoy, we often win cases by proving the accident occurred at one of these legal intersections that the driver ignored.
Can I still recover money if I was hit while "jaywalking"?
Yes. Connecticut is a Modified Comparative Negligence state (C.G.S. § 52-572h). Even if you were crossing outside of a crosswalk, you can recover compensation as long as your fault is not greater than the driver’s (50% or less). If you are found 20% at fault, your settlement is simply reduced by 20%—you are not barred from recovery.
I was hit by a hit-and-run driver
You may still be covered. Even though you were a pedestrian, you can often file a claim under your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) car insurance policy. If you don’t own a car, you may even be covered under a family member’s policy. We identify every possible “pocket” of insurance to maximize your recovery.
Can we get triple damages for a fatal pedestrian accident?
Yes. Under C.G.S. § 14-295, a judge has the power to award double or triple damages if we can prove the driver was acting with “reckless disregard” for safety. This includes behaviors like extreme speeding or driving under the influence. At McCoy & McCoy, we specifically plead for these damages to ensure the at-fault party is held fully accountable.
How do i know if i need a pedestrian accident attorney?
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident because of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation. When you work with a Connecticut pedestrian injury attorney at McCoy & McCoy, you get reliable legal representation to help you resolve your case successfully. Working with a trusted, qualified attorney can also give you peace of mind. Our attorneys will help you work with the driver’s insurance company to secure fair and just compensation.
Where can I find a pedestrian injury attorney near me?
The pedestrian injury attorneys at McCoy & McCoy are located in Hartford, Torrington, and New Haven, CT. We represent injured victims all throughout Connecticut. We are happy to come out to your location to meet with you if distance is an issue.
How much is a pedestrian accident case worth?
Every pedestrian accident case is unique, therefore, it is impossible to accurately determine exactly how much a case is worth. However, by speaking to a CT pedestrian accident attorney, you can work to determine a fair estimate by evaluating injuries and the time it takes you to recover.
What you DO NOT want to do is accept less money than your claim is worth by working with an insurance company. This could make you financially responsible for medical expenses and lost income. With the help of a Connecticut pedestrian accident attorney, you can receive the maximum amount of compensation for non-economic and economic damages.
Who is at fault if a car hits a pedestrian?
Fault depends on the circumstances of the accident. Often times, the driver may be at fault if they were speeding, distracted, failed to yield, or violated traffic laws. Connecticut uses a comparative negligence system, which means fault can be shared. Even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still recover compensation — it just may be reduced based on their percentage of responsibility. At McCoy & McCoy, our attorneys investigate the facts, determine liability, and build a strong case for you.
I got hit while walking but I wasn't in a crosswalk, now what?
You may still have a valid claim. While crosswalks offer legal protections, Connecticut law does not automatically place fault on the pedestrian if they weren’t in one. Drivers still have a duty to watch for pedestrians and avoid collisions whenever possible. Liability depends on the full context of the accident. At McCoy & McCoy, we’ll investigate every little detail, gather evidence, and fight to prove negligence, even if you weren’t in a designated crosswalk.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Tell us what happened. We will listen, explain where you stand, and help you decide what to do next — at no cost and with no obligation.
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What happens next
Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Serving All of Connecticut
With offices in Hartford, Torrington, and New Haven, the Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyers are never far away. We know that after a pedestrian accident, you may not be able to travel. Our attorneys are happy to meet you virtually or in person at your convenience. We believe that distance or mobility should never be a barrier to securing high-quality legal protection.
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Our Hartford pedestrian injury accident lawyers are located near the XL Center and the Old State House, making them easily accessible to those coming from Hartford Hospital or St. Francis. 20 Church St, Suite 1720, Hartford, CT, 06103
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Conveniently located downtown, serving riders on Route 8 and the local trail crossings. 100 East Main Street, Torrington, CT, 06790
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Our New Haven personal injury attorneys specialize in pedestrian accidents at 233 Orange St, New Haven, CT, 06515.