When a Green Light Turns Deadly: Understanding Pedestrian Right of Way in NYC
A heartbreaking accident in Crown Heights has raised questions that many New Yorkers rarely think about until it is too late.
Eight-year-old Mordechai Keller was walking home with his 17-year-old sister on Saturday afternoon after visiting their grandmother. As they crossed Eastern Parkway at Albany Street, a black Honda Pilot struck Mordechai at around 5:33 p.m. According to the Police, the SUV had a green light, but the boy never made it home.
This tragedy is more than a headline. It highlights a dangerous misunderstanding. Having the light does not mean having the right to ignore pedestrians.
As the best car accident attorneys in NYC and Brooklyn, Braude Injury Lawyers have seen this confusion lead to serious injury and wrongful death far too often. Here is what “right of way” actually means in New York and why both drivers and pedestrians should understand it clearly.
Myth #1: A Green Light Means Drivers Can Proceed Without Stopping
In New York and Brooklyn, even with a green light, drivers must yield to pedestrians who are already in the crosswalk.
If a pedestrian steps off the curb when the “Walk” signal is on and the light changes before they finish crossing, drivers are still legally required to wait until that person is safely across.
Failing to do so is not just dangerous. It is negligence.
Myth #2: Pedestrians Only Have the Right of Way When the Walk Signal Is On
Pedestrians have the right of way in several situations, even without an active walk signal.
For example:
- Crossing at an intersection without a traffic light
- Crossing with the light in their direction, but before turning traffic
- Crossing during the “walk” phase, even if the light changes mid-crossing
Drivers must approach intersections prepared to stop if a person is in the roadway.
Myth #3: If the Driver Was Not Speeding, They Are Not at Fault
Speed is only one factor in determining liability. A driver can still be responsible for a pedestrian accident if they:
- Failed to keep a proper lookout
- Were distracted by a phone, GPS, or other device
- Did not slow down when approaching a crosswalk with people nearby
In Mordechai Keller’s case, these are the very questions investigators must examine.
What Families Can Do After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident
When a tragedy like this occurs, the family is left with grief and uncertainty about what happened. That is where an experienced car accident attorney in NYC can make a difference.
Our team at Braude Injury Lawyers works to:
- Gather traffic camera and dashcam footage
- Interview witnesses and first responders
- Reconstruct the accident using expert analysis
- Identify negligence and build a strong wrongful death case
We have helped clients across Brooklyn and New York who are searching for the best car accident attorney to get the justice they deserve.
Why Having the Right Brooklyn Car Accident Attorney Matters
Right-of-way cases often come down to the smallest details, such as a driver’s blind spot, the timing of a light change, or the pedestrian’s position in the crosswalk.
At Braude Injury Lawyers, our Brooklyn car accident attorneys combine a deep understanding of the traffic laws with relentless investigation to protect the clients’ rights. If you are looking for the best car accident lawyer near me or car accident attorneys near me, our track record speaks for itself.
Safety Takeaways for Everyone
While the law is there to protect pedestrians, here is how you can reduce your risk:
- Always cross at marked crosswalks and obey signals
- Avoid distractions when walking near busy streets
- Make eye contact with turning drivers before stepping into the road
- Teach children to pause at the curb and look both ways, even if they have the light
Wrapping Up
The tragic loss of young Mordechai Keller is a stark reminder that right of way is not just a technical rule. It is a safeguard for human life. Drivers may have a green light, but they never have the right to endanger a pedestrian already in their path.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Braude Injury Lawyers, the best car accident attorneys in Brooklyn. We will fight to uncover the truth and pursue the compensation your family deserves.
Call today for a free consultation because when lives are at stake, only the best car accident attorney near you will do.
Car Accident Lawsuits in Brooklyn: Here’s What the Process Looks Like
Have you or someone close to you recently been in a car accident in Brooklyn?
Are you wondering if pursuing legal action is the appropriate move?
And most importantly, do you feel overwhelmed by what suing actually entails?
Following a serious car accident, it's normal to be shaken, both physically and emotionally.
You may be hurting. You may be concerned about how you're going to pay for care or return to work. The idea of pursuing a lawsuit can seem daunting, particularly if you've never navigated the legal system.
But the thing is, with the right guidance, the process can be a lot easier. Once you get a sense of how it typically works, you'll be more comfortable with what to expect and whether or not it's the right choice for you.
Every case is different, and every outcome depends on unique facts. This guide will be the typical step-by-step journey to make you feel more prepared and a little less stressed.
Step 1: Take Care of Yourself First
Your health comes first before anything else. Seek medical care even for minor injuries. Pain or symptoms may not develop until hours or even days post-crash. A doctor's examination will aid in your recovery and provide an official record that can aid your case in the future.
Step 2: Ask Yourself, "Do I Need a Car Crash Lawyer Near Me?"
The second question you must ask is: do I need legal assistance?
Looking for a car crash lawyer near me is the right thing to do if you have any doubts about your rights or what you're entitled to. A lawyer will make it clear, consider every side of your case, and save you from making mistakes, particularly when insurance firms become involved.
Step 3: Your Lawyer Investigates the Crash
After you hire a lawyer, they will begin to collect all the key facts. That means things such as:
Police reports
Witness statements
Photos or videos
Medical records
Vehicle damage reports
This stage is all about figuring out what actually happened and who was responsible. The stronger your evidence, the stronger your case.
Step 4: Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Here's the frustrating part most victims experience: negotiating with insurance companies. They'll attempt to downplay your injuries, stall your claim, or give you a settlement that's much too low.
This is where you will need the best guidance from your nearby best car crash lawyers. They will do the back-and-forth negotiation for you, guard your best interests, and battle for you to receive a reasonable settlement.
Step 5: Filing the Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If the insurer refuses to make a reasonable offer or rejects your claim, your attorney might suggest filing a lawsuit. Don't panic! This does not mean you will be going to court immediately. Filing a lawsuit is actually a formal procedure that notifies the other party that you are serious about being treated fairly.
Most cases still resolve before ever going to trial. But if not, your attorney will guide you step-by-step.
Step 6: Negotiations and Possible Settlement
Even when a lawsuit is actually filed, the objective is still to settle out of court. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf and fight for the reward you deserve—whether that means medical expenses, lost wages, or suffering and pain.
If you settle, wonderful. Otherwise, the case may end up in court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
Bottom Line
We at Braude Injury Lawyers know that the effects of a car accident extend far beyond cracked bones and medical expenses.
We'll connect you with the best car accident lawyers in Brooklyn who really understand what it takes to succeed at difficult auto accident cases. They won't settle for obvious injuries. They'll sit down with medical experts to reveal the unseen cost—stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, emotional depletion, and other consequences that often accompany a traumatic collision.
We will ensure your legal team is focused on securing the highest possible reward you deserve.
Visit our website to find the most qualified car accident lawyer in your area who prioritizes your recovery.
The Truth About Car Accident Claims Most Brooklyn Drivers Learn Too Late
Have you been in a car accident? What did you do next? Did you collect the evidence or call the police?
The problem is, most people aren’t sure what to do after a car accident, which leads to big mistakes.
Car accidents happen in a flash. Many drivers in Brooklyn, NYC think they’ll just call their insurance company and everything will be fine. Well, that’s not the case. There are other things to do.
The truth is, there are a lot of drivers who don’t know about car accident claims. And unfortunately when they come to know about the necessary information, they only find out when it’s too late to fix it.
That is why hiring a car accident injury lawyer becomes so essential, especially if you live in Brooklyn or anywhere in New York City, where traffic is intense and the legal system can be too complex to understand. It’s better to leave it to experts who can help you claim maximum compensation.
Let’s break it down so you know what really matters.
Not All Injuries Show Up Right Away
After a crash, you may feel okay, “ I’m fine, nothing serious happened”.
But do you know that some injuries take hours or even days to show? Neck pain, back issues, or even head trauma can occur later.
If you don’t get medical help immediately, your insurance company may say you weren’t really “that hurt”.
A car accident lawyer in Brooklyn can guide you through the process of documenting everything, even if the symptoms come later.
Insurance Companies Will Not Be On Your Side
Okay, you need to understand that insurance companies are businesses. So, they would want to pay as little as possible.
After an accident, they may ask you to make a recorded statement or even offer money quickly. But often, that offer may be less than what you actually deserve.
That’s why it’s essential to talk to an experienced car accident lawyer in NYC before signing anything or giving any statements.
The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance May Not Be Enough
Even if the other driver is at fault, their insurance coverage may be limited. If your injuries are serious, their policy may not cover all your costs, like medical bills, therapy, lost income, etc.
A Brooklyn car accident lawyer can explore all your options. That may include your own insurance policy or even third-party claims.
You Could Lose Evidence If You Wait
The longer you wait, the difficult it gets to collect the proof you need. There’s no surprise that accident scenes change fast. Witnesses forget details, and surveillance footage can be erased.
When you look on the internet for a trusted “car crash lawyer near me”, they can move quickly. They’ll preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and protect your rights from the start.
Getting Legal Help is the Key
This is a big one. Many drivers simply don’t consult a lawyer because they’re afraid of high fees. But many reliable Brooklyn car accident lawyers work on competitive fees.
Final Words
After a crash, time matters. So does the right advice. You don’t need to handle the legal mess on your own. Whether you're dealing with pain, car repairs, or missed work, consult the best car accident lawyers at Braude Injury Lawyers.
Our team connects you with experienced car accident lawyers in Brooklyn, NYC, who know exactly how to handle your case. Let us deal with the legal side while you focus on healing.
Visit our website today for more details! Or, call us now!
Brooklyn Hit-and-Run Accidents: Immediate Steps to Follow to Protect Your Rights
Were you involved in a hit-and-run accident in Brooklyn? Did the other driver flee the scene, leaving you confused and hurt? Now you wonder how to recover the compensation you deserve!! Okay, calm down! You are not alone.
Hit-and-run accidents are traumatic and leave victims feeling helpless. However, there is something you can do to protect your rights and seek compensation.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Brooklyn
A hit-and-run happens when a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene. They don’t stop to help. They don’t give their contact or insurance information. It’s illegal. And it’s terrifying—especially if you’re hurt.
However, New York law provides avenues for victims to claim compensation, even when the responsible driver is unidentified.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run
Report the Incident: Immediately call the police. A police report is essential for any legal or insurance claim.
Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos or videos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Also, look for surveillance cameras or witnesses who might have seen the incident.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, consult a doctor. Some injuries manifest later, and medical records will support your claim.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer: Hire the best car accident lawyer who will walk you through the case process.
Legal Routes for Recovery
Under New York law, the victims of a hit-and-run accident have many possibilities to get compensations:
When the Driver Is Identified: If police locate the driver, your car accident attorney in NYC can bring a personal injury action. You can receive money for pain, suffering, and other losses. If the driver was drunk or negligent, you can also receive punitive damages.
When the Driver Cannot Be Found: In New York, you can make a claim under your own policy. Because of No-Fault Insurance, your medical expenses and lost wages could still be paid.
If the driver is never apprehended, you can also make a claim under uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This is included in most auto insurance policies.
Time is of the Essence
New York law has strict time limits. Police report and a personal injury lawsuit must be submitted within a strict deadline.
Missing these time limits can forfeit your claim to compensation.
Why You Need a Specialist Car Accident Attorney
Handling the consequences of a hit-and-run takes expertise. A seasoned car accident lawyer in NYC can:
Investigate the accident in depth.
Manage communications with insurance companies.
Make sure all relevant legal papers are submitted properly and within the deadline.
Represent you in court if needed.
Looking for the "best car accident lawyer near me" or "car accident attorneys near me" may give you many options, but it is important to find one who has a successful history with hit-and-run cases.
Act Now
Hit-and-run accidents do more than shatter bones—they shatter peace of mind. The aftermath is not about physical healing. It's about lost wages, emotional trauma, worry, and the silent trauma that can last long after the wreck.
At Braude Injury Lawyers, we see the entire extent of what you're facing. That's why we don't just stop at medical expenses. Our team sits down with qualified professionals to analyze how the accident has affected your life overall—mentally, emotionally, and financially.
We will connect you with trusted Brooklyn-based legal professionals who are well-equipped to handle hit-and-run cases from all angles.
Your case is more than a file. It's your life, and it deserves a full, fair settlement.
You don't need to battle this by yourself.
Let one of our car accident lawyers drive you toward the compensation you deserve.
Visit our website today. We will get you the justice that you deserve.
Debunking 6 Common Myths About Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
After a car accident, dealing with insurance claims, medical bills, and legal complications can be overwhelming. Yet, many people hesitate to hire a car accident attorney due to widespread myths and misconceptions. Hiring a knowledgeable lawyer can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Here, we debunk common myths about hiring a car accident attorney to help you make an informed decision.
Myth 1: Hiring a Professional Car Accident Attorney is Too Expensive
Many people assume that hiring a car accident attorney is a costly affair. However, most car accident attorneys in Brooklyn work on a contingency fee basis. This means you only pay if your case is successful, and their fee is typically a percentage of your settlement. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of financial standing.
Myth 2: I Can Handle the Insurance Company Myself
Insurance companies often appear helpful, but their goal is to minimize payouts. Without legal representation, you may accept a low settlement or inadvertently waive your rights. Top-rated injury lawyers in Brooklyn are skilled at negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Myth 3: My Case is Too Small for an Attorney
Even seemingly minor accidents can result in hidden injuries or significant future expenses. A professional lawyer expert in dealing with a truck accident can evaluate your case, calculate all potential damages, and prevent you from settling for less than you deserve.
Myth 4: Hiring an Attorney Will Drag Out the Process
Some people believe that hiring a lawyer will prolong their case. On the contrary, experienced attorneys streamline the legal process by managing paperwork, negotiating on your behalf, and ensuring timely communication with all parties involved. Dealing with such cases earlier helps them mitigate future cases quicker.
Myth 5: All Attorneys Are the Same
Not all attorneys specialize in car accident cases. Hiring an experienced car accident attorney who understands personal injury law is critical for achieving the best outcome. These specialists, including lawyers specialized in wrongful death cases, are well-versed in handling the complexities of accident claims and navigating local laws.
Myth 6: I Can’t Afford a Lawyer After Paying Medical Bills
Many victims believe that the cost of medical bills leaves no room for legal expenses. However, as mentioned earlier, contingency fee arrangements eliminate upfront costs. Additionally, attorneys often help clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Why Hiring a Car Accident Attorney is Essential?
A car accident attorney protects your legal rights, maximizes your compensation, and reduces your stress by handling legal complexities on your behalf. From negotiating with insurance companies to building a strong case, their expertise is invaluable.
In Conclusion:
When it comes to car accidents, hiring the right attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Braude Injury Lawyers specialize in car accident cases and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. With extensive experience and a client-focused approach, we ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Don’t let myths hold you back. Take a step ahead and consult our experienced car accident attorney today to get the support and justice you deserve. For more information, Dial Us now!
Navigating the Difficult Scenario: The Right Action to Take as a Pedestrian after a Car Hit
Hey, have you been hit by a car while walking in the street? Oh, that's quite frightening and painful. Wake up, mate! You are no longer in a dream. It’s a reality that calls for immediate action. This life-altering incident can have a serious impact on your life, and the emotional and physical trauma can also be overwhelming, leaving you confused about the next steps that you need to take.
If you have been in a similar incident, here’s a comprehensive that will help you understand the necessary steps that you must take and how the professional car accident lawyers in Brooklyn can help you.
Here Are the Essential Steps That You Need to Take As Soon As You Are Hit by a Car As a Pedestrian:
Ensure your safety and call for help:
Have you just regained your senses? Are you feeling better and reading this blog now? In that case, before you call a car accident attorney, kindly make yourself safe aside and look for others if they have been injured along with you. If you feel yourself to be seriously injured, dial 911 immediately. It would be great if you can move away from the traffic in order to prevent further danger.
Collect the necessary information about the accident:
It is quite natural to be not in the senses and get distracted after an unprecedented car accident. But as soon as you regain your senses, make sure to take note of the driver details. If the driver is present at the spot, communicate with them and exchange the contact information, including name, contact number and insurance details. Seek testimonials from the witnesses around as their information would add value to the seriousness of your case. Next, report the police to document the incident officially, along with written statements.
Look for medical assistance:
Are the injuries too painful? Are you bleeding till now? Do not neglect these as your minor injuries. Initially, just after the accident, your adrenaline may subjugate the pain, but it is always advisable to get in touch with medical experts as soon as possible. This establishes a medical record of the accident and your injuries.
Consider professional consultation from top legal representatives:
Pedestrian accident cases caused by rushing cars can be complex. Especially when you are in Brooklyn, experiencing such incidents is growing common due to immense traffic. However, to deal with this tragic event, an experienced car accident attorney in Brooklyn can advise you of your legal rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A Point to Remember:
The days and weeks following a pedestrian accident are crucial. By following these steps and seeking legal representation, you can focus on healing while protecting your right to fair compensation.
How Braude Injury Lawyers Can Help in Dealing with Sudden Car Accident Cases
Braude Injury Lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships pedestrian accident victims face. Our Brooklyn-based car accident personal attorneys have a successful track record of securing maximum compensation for our clients. We offer a professional consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. Contact our team today for expert assistance and confidential consultation. Dial 888-888-6470 or contact us online to get started now!