Craig D. Rosenbaum | November 21, 2025 | Pedestrian Accidents
The New York City Marathon is one of the world’s largest running events, attracting thousands of participants. While organizers take numerous safety precautions, accidents involving pedestrians, runners, and vehicles can still occur. If you were hit by a car during the NYC Marathon, it is important to act quickly, protect your health, and understand your legal options. Keep reading to learn more.
Essential Steps Following an Accident
Your first priority is safety. Move out of traffic if possible, and call 911 immediately. Emergency responders will send medical help and law enforcement to the scene. Even if you feel okay, it is essential to be checked by professionals because some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, may not be immediately apparent.
Get Medical Attention
Medical attention is critical after any accident. Visit a hospital and keep detailed records of all treatments. These medical records are crucial evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Preserve Evidence
If you are able, try to preserve details of the accident. Take photos of your injuries, the scene, and the vehicle involved. Collect witness contact information if anyone saw what happened. All of this can help support your case later.
Reporting the Accident and Gathering Evidence
After a crash, reporting the incident is essential. Contacting the police ensures that an official accident report is filed, which may be necessary for insurance or legal purposes. Collect the driver’s information, including name, license number, and insurance details. Avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as this could affect your claim.
Understanding Insurance Coverage in New York
New York has a no-fault insurance system, which means that your medical bills and some lost wages may be covered regardless of who caused the accident. However, this coverage has limits, and if your injuries meet New York’s serious injury threshold, you may be able to pursue additional compensation from the driver.
If the driver leaves the scene or does not have insurance, you may be able to make a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage. In some cases, the state’s Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation provides benefits for hit-and-run accidents.
Determining Liability
Liability in a pedestrian accident depends on who is at fault. Drivers are generally expected to follow traffic laws, yield to pedestrians, and operate vehicles safely. In New York, pedestrians also have a responsibility to follow traffic signals and use crosswalks.
Even if you were partially at fault, under New York’s pure comparative negligence rule, you may still recover compensation—as long as your claim meets the other legal requirements—but your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. In certain situations, the city or government may also be partially responsible if road conditions contributed to the accident.
Taking Steps Toward Recovery
After the immediate aftermath of the accident, focus on recovery and healing. Keep thorough records of your medical treatments, document your injuries, and maintain communication with your lawyer. With proper legal guidance, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve while focusing on your health.
Contact Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a New York City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you were hit by a car during the NYC Marathon, you may be entitled to compensation. Our New York City pedestrian accident lawyers can explain your legal options and help you pursue the financial recovery you deserve. Call Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule your free consultation.
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About The Author
Craig D. Rosenbaum is licensed to practice in New York. He is part of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association and the American Association of Justice. Click here to view some of the amazing case results that Craig has successfully handled.
