Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable road users in Stockport. With busy town centre roads, fast-moving traffic on the A6, and crowded junctions near the bus and train stations, accidents involving pedestrians are a serious risk. Being struck by a car can cause devastating injuries, leaving victims facing a long recovery, loss of income, and ongoing medical needs.
If you have been hit by a car in Stockport, you may be entitled to make a pedestrian accident claim. Understanding your rights and the steps you should take after an accident is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Stockport
Pedestrian accidents can happen in a variety of situations. The most common causes include:
- Drivers failing to stop at crossings or traffic lights
- Vehicles speeding through busy areas
- Motorists not checking blind spots before turning
- Poor visibility due to weather or inadequate lighting
- Drivers distracted by mobile phones or sat-navs
- Lack of safe crossing points in high-traffic areas
In Stockport, accident hotspots often include main roads like the A6, the Pyramid roundabout, and junctions around the town centre where pedestrian and vehicle traffic mix.
Typical injuries suffered by pedestrians
Because pedestrians have little protection, injuries from being struck by a car can be severe. Common injuries include:
- Fractures to arms, legs, and hips
- Head injuries ranging from concussion to traumatic brain damage
- Spinal injuries affecting mobility
- Cuts, bruises, and scarring
- Psychological trauma such as anxiety about walking near traffic
These injuries often require significant medical treatment and rehabilitation and, in serious cases, can have life-changing consequences.
Steps to take immediately after a pedestrian accident
If you are injured in Stockport after being hit by a car, taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights. Key actions include:
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel able to walk away, hidden injuries such as concussion or internal bleeding may not be immediately obvious.
- Report the accident – Contact the police to ensure an official report is made.
- Gather evidence – If possible, take photos of the scene, the vehicle, and any visible injuries.
- Get witness details – Collect names and contact information from people who saw the accident.
- Keep records – Save receipts, medical reports, and correspondence relating to your injuries and expenses.
These steps help create a clear record of events, which can strengthen your pedestrian accident claim.
Who can be held responsible?
Liability for a pedestrian accident usually rests with the driver of the vehicle, but there are cases where responsibility may be shared. For example:
- A local council may be liable if poor road design or faulty traffic signals contributed to the accident
- Employers could be responsible if the driver was working at the time, such as delivering goods
- Multiple parties may share liability if several factors combined to cause the accident
Your solicitor will investigate the circumstances and determine who should be held accountable.
Proving a pedestrian accident claim
To succeed with a claim, it is necessary to show that the driver or another party was negligent and that this negligence caused your injuries. Evidence that supports your case can include:
- CCTV or dashcam footage of the accident
- Photographs of the scene, damage, and road layout
- Medical reports documenting your injuries
- Police accident reports
- Witness statements confirming what happened
The stronger the evidence, the higher the likelihood of a successful claim.
How much compensation could you receive?
The amount of compensation in a pedestrian accident claim depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries and their impact on daily life
- Pain and suffering experienced during recovery
- Loss of income if you cannot work
- The cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
- Additional expenses, such as transport to hospital appointments or specialist equipment
Every case is unique, and compensation is assessed individually based on the circumstances.
Time limits for making a claim
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a pedestrian accident claim in Stockport. For children, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday. If the injured person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply until capacity is regained.
It is always best to seek advice as soon as possible, as evidence is easier to collect when the events are still recent.
Rehabilitation and recovery support
Compensation is not only about covering financial loss. It can also fund vital rehabilitation services to aid recovery. This may include:
- Physiotherapy to restore strength and mobility
- Psychological support to deal with trauma and anxiety
- Specialist equipment to assist with independence
- Long-term care if serious injuries affect everyday living
Securing the right level of compensation helps ensure you receive the support needed to rebuild your life after a pedestrian accident.
Why work with a Stockport solicitor?
Having a solicitor who understands the local area can be an advantage. A Stockport-based legal team is familiar with common accident locations, road layouts, and the pressures pedestrians face in the town. They can provide tailored advice, gather evidence efficiently, and guide you through every stage of the claims process.
With expert legal support, you can focus on recovery while your solicitor works to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
FAQs
What if the driver left the scene of the accident?
If the driver was uninsured or failed to stop, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, which handles cases involving untraced drivers.
Can I claim if I was partly at fault?
Yes, you may still be able to claim even if you were partly responsible, for example, if you crossed outside a designated crossing. Compensation may be reduced to reflect shared responsibility, but you can still receive damages.
Speak to Marley Solicitors about pedestrian accident claims in Stockport
If you have been hit by a car in Stockport, you do not have to deal with the aftermath on your own. Marley Solicitors can help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.
We have experience supporting clients across Stockport and Greater Manchester who have suffered pedestrian accidents. Our team is committed to securing the best possible outcome for you, so you can focus on recovery and moving forward with confidence.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to discuss your pedestrian accident claim in Stockport and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.
