Author: John Mattiacci | Owner Mattiacci Law
Published September 17, 2025
If you’re the victim in a pedestrian crosswalk accident injury, you may be wondering: Who is at fault when a car hits a pedestrian in a crosswalk?
Fault often rests with the driver because Pennsylvania law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks when signals are not operating.
Having recovered tens of millions for clients over decades of advocacy across PA and NJ, I’ve seen firsthand how every case is unique. For a complimentary, no-obligation review of your specific situation, contact an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney at 215-914-6919. In this article, I’ll cover your rights, deadlines, and the evidence that moves claims forward.
What Crosswalk Laws in Pennsylvania Cover and Key Terms
A crosswalk is the portion of road reserved for people on foot. Pennsylvania recognizes painted crosswalks and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. When signals are absent or not operating, drivers must yield to people crossing within the crosswalk. Pedestrians must use care and avoid stepping into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
Why Crosswalk Rules Matter for Claims in Pennsylvania
Right‑of‑way rules drive liability decisions. If a driver fails to yield and causes injury, their insurer usually pays medical bills, wage loss, and other damages. Clear proof of the crosswalk, signals, sight lines, and driver behavior speeds resolution.
Step by Step to Protect a Crosswalk Claim
1. Get medical care now Same‑day evaluation links symptoms to the crash and avoids gaps.
2. Call police and request the report number The AA‑600 report captures scene facts and witnesses.
3. Photograph lines, ramps, and signals Include timing, signage, and any flashing beacons.
4. Save footwear and clothing Impact marks and debris patterns help show where you were hit.
5. Identify public and private cameras Ask nearby businesses and the city about footage within days.
6. Track medical records and bills monthly Request itemized statements and therapy notes.
7. Document wages and duties Have HR confirm missed time and restrictions.
8. Open the claim and calendar deadlines Send notice now and keep the two‑year civil limit in view.
9. Counter pushbacks with evidence Use photos and witness statements to show you were within the crosswalk.
10. Choose the next step Negotiate, use appraisal for value disputes, or file suit if fault is contested.
Options to Resolve a Crosswalk Injury Claim in Pennsylvania
- Negotiate settlement Present organized proof and a clear valuation of bills, wages, and pain.
- Policy appraisal Use when liability is accepted but valuation is too low.
- Litigation path Use discovery to compel video, EDR data, and sworn testimony.
Pennsylvania Specifics That Shape Fault and Recovery
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks when signals are not in place or not operating. PA Vehicle Code § 3542 pedestrians in crosswalks Pedestrians must yield when crossing mid‑block outside a crosswalk. PA Vehicle Code § 3543 crossing at other than crosswalks
State guidance also stresses that pedestrians shouldn’t step into a vehicle’s path and should make eye contact before crossing. PennDOT pedestrian safety overview
Pennsylvania follows modified comparative negligence. If your share of fault is less than the defendant’s, you can still recover, and any award is reduced by your percentage. 42 Pa.C.S. § 7102 comparative negligence
How I Secure and Use Scene Evidence
I send preservation letters for municipal and private cameras, request signal timing, and map sight lines. When needed, I work with human‑factors experts to explain visibility, perception‑reaction time, and stopping distance under the lighting and weather at the time of impact.
Medical and Wage Proof That Persuades Adjusters
I audit records for clear diagnoses, mechanism of injury, and functional limits. For wages, I get HR letters, pay stubs, and duty charts that tie restrictions to job tasks, not just titles. This level of detail shortens back‑and‑forth and raises offers.
Comparison of Driver and Pedestrian Duties at Crosswalks
Use this quick reference to compare your options at a glance.
| Role | Duty | Claim impact |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | Yield at marked and unmarked crosswalks when signals aren’t operating | Failure supports liability |
| Pedestrian | Use care and avoid darting into traffic | Sudden entry can reduce recovery |
| Both | Obey signals and signs | Signal timing and signage become key evidence |
How I Develop Valuation and Address Liens
I cross‑check medical charges against explanation of benefits to remove unrelated items, verify liens for accuracy, and ask providers for impairment and work‑impact opinions. Then I present a clean valuation with bills, wages, and future care ranges so adjusters have fewer excuses to stall.
Decision Framework for Next Steps
If liability is accepted but the number is low, I escalate with better medical support and comparable verdict data. If liability is disputed, I secure affidavits and move into suit before deadlines so subpoenas compel video and phone records.
Get Answers and Momentum on Your Claim
If you’re hurt, you should not be managing phone calls, forms, or video requests. I step in fast, send preservation letters, coordinate records, and keep you updated in plain English. You will always know the next step, the target date, and what I’m doing to push the carrier.
Let’s talk about your goals and the best path there. I’ll review your facts, outline options, and give you a clear plan today—no pressure. If we work together, I handle the paperwork and negotiations while you focus on care.
Start now and speak with a Pennsylvania pedestrian accident attorney by calling 215-914-6919
Resources
- PA Vehicle Code § 3542 pedestrians in crosswalks
- PA Vehicle Code § 3543 crossing at other than crosswalks
- PennDOT pedestrian safety overview
- 42 Pa.C.S. § 7102 comparative negligence
Further Reading
- Pennsylvania car accident laws e‑guide
- What to do after a Pennsylvania crash
- Comparative negligence in Pennsylvania
- How to obtain Pennsylvania accident reports