Cleveland Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Legal Help after a Pedestrian Accident in Cleveland

When you walk around Cleveland, you expect to get where you are going without much trouble.

Unfortunately, as a pedestrian, you are at risk of being struck by a car, motorcycle, commercial truck, bicycle, or some other vehicle. According to the National Safety Council, in 2018, there were 7,450 fatal pedestrian traffic accidents. 79% of these pedestrian accidents happened in urban settings, like Cleveland. In addition, 25% occurred at intersections, and 76% were at night.

Types of Cleveland Pedestrian Accidents

The attorneys at Kisling, Nestico & Redick have extensive experience helping injured pedestrians and their families in Cleveland, Ohio, recover after serious collisions. Whether the crash occurred downtown, in Tremont, on St. Clair Avenue, or near Cleveland State University, pedestrian accidents can happen in countless ways—often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Below are the most common types of pedestrian accidents in Cleveland our firm handles:

• Intersection Accidents: Pedestrians are frequently struck by vehicles at busy Cleveland intersections like East 9th & Carnegie, especially when drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or make illegal turns.
• Left and Right Turn Accidents: These crashes often happen when drivers turning from Euclid Avenue or Superior Avenue don’t check crosswalks or blind spots.
• Crosswalk Accidents: Even marked pedestrian crossings, such as those near Public Square or Edgewater Park, can be dangerous when drivers are distracted or inattentive.
• Back-Over Accidents: Common in parking lots of Cleveland grocery stores, apartment complexes, or hospitals like MetroHealth, these accidents involve drivers reversing into unseen pedestrians.
• Side of the Road Accidents: Pedestrians walking on road shoulders in areas like Clark-Fulton or Kinsman are vulnerable to inattentive or impaired drivers.
• Work Accidents: Cleveland-area utility workers, road crews, and delivery personnel working near traffic are at increased risk of being hit by vehicles failing to slow down or move over.
• Children Play Accidents: Kids playing outside near school zones in neighborhoods like Old Brooklyn or Glenville may be struck by speeding vehicles or inattentive drivers.
• School Zone Accidents: Collisions near Cleveland public and charter schools often involve drivers ignoring posted signs or school crossing guards.
• School Bus Crossing Accidents: Drivers illegally passing stopped school buses in Cleveland Heights or Parma may hit children crossing the road.
• Off-Road Accidents: Pedestrians walking in parks, trails, or driveways—such as at the Cleveland Metroparks—may be struck by off-road vehicles or unauthorized traffic.
• Distracted Driving Accidents: Texting, using GPS, or multitasking while driving are leading causes of pedestrian collisions in Cleveland.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers leaving downtown bars or events at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse may cause devastating pedestrian injuries.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Unfortunately common in urban neighborhoods like Hough or Detroit-Shoreway, these incidents leave injured pedestrians with uncertainty and medical bills.
• Walking at Night Accidents: Poor lighting in areas like Buckeye-Woodhill or industrial zones along East 79th increases the risk of not being seen by oncoming vehicles.
• Car vs. Pedestrian Accidents: These include collisions on major Cleveland roads like I-90 or Clifton Boulevard, often leading to life-altering injuries.
• Crossing Between Vehicles: Pedestrians navigating between parked cars—especially during rush hour in downtown Cleveland—are often not seen until it’s too late.
• High-Speed Collisions: Pedestrians hit by speeding vehicles on urban corridors or state routes suffer the most catastrophic injuries, including brain trauma and permanent disability.

Every pedestrian accident in Cleveland involves unique circumstances, but nearly all have a common root cause: negligence. At KNR, we leverage our local experience, expert witnesses, and legal resources to fully investigate the facts, determine liability under Ohio pedestrian laws, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Right-of-Way Laws in Cleveland, Ohio

One of the most important legal issues in any pedestrian accident case is determining who had the legal right of way. In Cleveland, Ohio, pedestrian right-of-way laws are governed by the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) § 4511.46, which outlines the responsibilities of both drivers and pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, and roadways.

Here’s what you need to know about pedestrian right-of-way laws in Cleveland:

• Marked Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within any marked crosswalk, whether at a signalized intersection like East 105th & Euclid or a non-signalized one in a residential area like West Park.
• Unmarked Crosswalks at Intersections: Even if no crosswalk is painted, intersections throughout Cleveland—including those near Cleveland State University or downtown—require drivers to yield when pedestrians are crossing from corner to corner.
• Pedestrian Signals: When pedestrian crossing signals are present, walkers must obey them. However, drivers must still exercise caution and yield when pedestrians are lawfully within a crosswalk during a “Walk” signal.
• Midblock Crossings: Pedestrians crossing the road outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk must yield to oncoming traffic. However, Cleveland drivers still have a duty to use reasonable care and avoid collisions.
• School Zones & Safety Corridors: In designated school zones or near institutions like John Hay High School or Lincoln-West High, right-of-way laws are strictly enforced. Failing to yield to children in these areas can result in increased penalties and civil liability.

Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers either ignore or misunderstand their obligations under Ohio’s right-of-way laws. At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our Cleveland pedestrian accident lawyers understand how to interpret these laws and use them to strengthen your claim.

If you were hit while crossing the street and believe you had the right of way—especially in areas like Shaker Square, West 117th Street, or near the Cleveland Clinic—contact KNR immediately. We’ll investigate the crash, obtain police reports, consult traffic law experts, and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to under Ohio law.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Cleveland

If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle while walking in Cleveland—whether near Playhouse Square, in West Park, or crossing Superior Avenue—what you do next can significantly affect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation. Our experienced Cleveland pedestrian accident lawyers recommend taking the following steps:

Call 911 Immediately

Your safety and medical well-being are the top priority. Always call 911, even if your injuries seem minor or you’re unsure about the severity. Request emergency responders and ensure the Cleveland Division of Police files an official crash report. This report is crucial evidence in pedestrian injury claims and often includes witness statements, driver information, and a diagram of the scene.

Gather Driver & Witness Information

If you’re able, collect the name, phone number, license plate, and insurance details of the driver involved. Speak to anyone who saw the accident—bystanders, business employees, or nearby residents—and get their contact info. If you’re unable to do this due to injury, KNR can step in and retrieve this information on your behalf.

Document the Scene with Photos & Video

Use your phone to take photos and videos of the crash location, crosswalks, traffic signs or signals, vehicle damage, and your visible injuries. For Cleveland crashes, footage showing road conditions (like snow or potholes) or poor lighting can be critical. This visual evidence can support liability under Ohio law and demonstrate negligence.

Write Down What You Remember

Details fade quickly. Within hours of the accident—ideally the same day—write down everything you recall. Include the date, time, weather, traffic conditions, street names (e.g., Carnegie Avenue, Chester Avenue), and a step-by-step account of what happened before, during, and after the collision. This personal record may become key testimony if your case proceeds to litigation.

Speak to a Local Cleveland Injury Lawyer

Before speaking to any insurance adjuster, contact a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney who understands both Cleveland traffic patterns and Ohio personal injury law. At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our team will immediately begin investigating the scene, securing camera footage (e.g., from RTA buses, businesses, or city traffic cams), and preserving evidence before it’s lost. We’ll handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.

Ohio generally imposes a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims, so acting fast is critical. Let KNR help you take the right steps from the start—and maximize your chances of full financial recovery.

Your Rights as an Injured Pedestrian in Cleveland

If you were struck by a vehicle while walking in Cleveland—whether crossing West 25th Street, navigating East 93rd near a school zone, or stepping off a curb near Lakewood Park—you have legal rights that deserve protection. Ohio law supports injured pedestrians by giving them the right to seek justice and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable road users in our city. When drivers fail to yield, speed through intersections, or drive distracted in high-foot-traffic areas like Downtown Cleveland or University Circle, they put lives at risk. If a driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the legal right to pursue a claim and be made whole under Ohio’s personal injury laws.

“Being made whole” means restoring what was lost—physically, emotionally, and financially. It’s about giving you the opportunity to heal without being burdened by medical bills, lost income, or long-term setbacks caused by someone else’s careless actions. Whether your injuries occurred near a bus stop on Superior Avenue or during an early morning walk in Glenville, the law allows you to seek meaningful legal and financial recovery.

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our Cleveland pedestrian accident attorneys are here to protect your rights and demand accountability from reckless drivers, insurance companies, and any parties who may have contributed to the harm you suffered.

Who’s at Fault in a Cleveland Pedestrian Accident?

Determining fault after a pedestrian accident in Cleveland is often more complicated than it seems. While drivers are typically expected to yield to pedestrians, liability depends on the specific circumstances of the crash—including the location, traffic conditions, driver behavior, and whether the pedestrian was following the law.

In Ohio, fault is based on negligence—the failure to use reasonable care. If a driver’s careless or reckless actions caused the accident, they can be held legally responsible for your injuries. Our Cleveland pedestrian accident lawyers thoroughly investigate each case to identify all liable parties and ensure they are held accountable.

Common Examples of Driver Negligence in Cleveland

• Failing to yield at marked or unmarked crosswalks (e.g., near Public Square or on Lorain Avenue)
• Running red lights or stop signs at busy intersections like East 55th and Woodland Avenue
• Distracted driving—texting, using GPS, or adjusting music
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Speeding in residential zones, school areas, or near parks like Rockefeller Park
• Turning without checking for pedestrians in the crosswalk

What If the Pedestrian Shares Some Fault?

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule (Ohio Revised Code § 2315.33), which means an injured pedestrian can still recover damages—even if they were partially at fault—as long as they are found to be less than 51% responsible. However, the compensation will be reduced by the pedestrian’s percentage of fault.

For example, if a pedestrian crossed against a signal but the driver was speeding or distracted, both parties might share fault. If the pedestrian is found 30% responsible, they can still recover 70% of the damages awarded.

Why Determining Fault Matters

Fault directly impacts your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the pedestrian to reduce payouts. That’s why having an experienced legal team is crucial.

Factors That Influence Pedestrian Injury Claims

The outcome of your pedestrian accident claim will depend on several key factors, including:

• Severity of Injuries: Serious injuries often require ongoing care and result in greater legal exposure for the at-fault party.
• Impact on Your Life and Work: If your ability to work or care for yourself has been disrupted, that impact must be accounted for legally.
• Recovery Timeline: Longer recoveries tend to reflect greater damages and broader consequences.
• Fault and Negligence: Ohio’s comparative fault laws allow recovery even if you are partially at fault—so long as you are less than 51% responsible.
• Insurance & Legal Resources: The strength of your claim may be affected by the coverage available and the thoroughness of your legal team’s investigation.

Every case is unique, but your right to demand accountability is absolute. The law is on your side—but to enforce it, you need a team that knows how to build strong, fact-based cases and present them effectively in negotiations or court.

If you’ve been injured while walking in Cleveland, don’t settle for excuses or lowball offers. Contact KNR to assert your rights and begin your path to recovery.

What Damages Are Injured Pedestrians Entitled To?

When you’re hit by a car in Cleveland, the consequences go far beyond physical pain. You may be facing hospital bills from Cleveland Clinic or MetroHealth, missing weeks or months of work, and dealing with the emotional aftermath of a traumatic event. Under Ohio personal injury law, you have the legal right to be compensated for the full scope of your losses—economic, physical, and emotional.

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our mission is to make sure you’re not left carrying the burden of someone else’s negligence. We fight to recover the maximum compensation available so that you can move forward with confidence and security. Depending on your specific injuries and the facts of your case, you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up visits, physical therapy, prescription medications, and future medical needs related to your injury.
• Loss of Income: Compensation for time missed at work due to your injuries, as well as lost earning capacity if your ability to return to your job or career is affected long term.
• Pain and Suffering: Financial recovery for the physical discomfort and chronic pain caused by your injuries, including reduced quality of life.
• Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress resulting from the accident and recovery process.
• Disfigurement: Compensation for visible scarring, loss of limbs, or other permanent injuries that alter your appearance or bodily function.
• Physical Limitations: Damages related to a loss of mobility, strength, or other physical abilities that impact your daily life and independence.

Our Cleveland pedestrian accident attorneys work closely with medical experts, financial professionals, and life care planners to ensure no aspect of your damages is overlooked. We don’t just calculate what you’ve lost—we fight for what you’ll need to recover and rebuild your future.

Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Cleveland

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, we understand that no amount of compensation can bring back your loved one. But Ohio law does give surviving family members the right to pursue a wrongful death claim when a driver’s negligence results in fatal injuries. Holding the responsible party accountable after a fatal pedestrian accident is not only about justice—it’s about protecting your future.

In a Cleveland wrongful death pedestrian case, your family may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Loss of companionship and emotional support for spouses, children, and other close family members
• Loss of future income and benefits the victim would have provided over their lifetime
• Funeral and burial expenses incurred due to the unexpected loss
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering experienced by surviving loved ones

Insurance Adjusters Often Downplay Pedestrian Injuries & Make Lowball Offers

Insurance companies often try to limit their financial exposure by offering quick, inadequate settlements, especially after pedestrian involved crashes in high-traffic Cleveland areas like Carnegie Avenue, St. Clair Avenue, or Lorain Road. They may even attempt to blame the pedestrian or downplay the impact of your injury.

At KNR, we conduct thorough investigations using police reports, traffic camera footage, and expert witnesses in accident reconstruction and medical analysis. Our Cleveland-based team knows how to present your case in a way that resonates—with both insurance companies and juries in Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.

Let KNR help you hold the responsible party accountable and pursue your full financial recovery.

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