Newport News Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
46 Years of Standing Up for Injured Pedestrians in Newport News
As a resident of Newport News, you have the right to feel safe while walking on the side of the road or crossing the street. Unfortunately, drivers are often careless and don't pay attention to others on the road. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we represent injured pedestrians and their families in Newport News and across Virginia. We've been serving the community for over 46 years and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients.
Were you injured in a pedestrian accident? Call (855) 880-8163 or contact us online today to request a free case evaluation with our Newport News pedestrian accident lawyers.
our recent case results we mean business
Over a billion dollars recovered in settlements & Verdicts
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$10.9 Million Traumatic Brain Injury
Settlement for our 2-year-old client who suffered a skull fracture and traumatic brain injury due to a faulty hotel balcony railing
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$10.5 Million Truck Accident
Settlement for our client who suffered a traumatic brain injury from a truck accident
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$7 Million Auto Accident
Settlement for our client who suffered severe and permanent back & spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
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$5.147 Million Truck Accident
Settlement for our client who suffered a traumatic brain injury due to a tractor trailer accident
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$2.15 Million Premises Liability
Settlement for our client who sustained multiple severe orthopedic injuries due to a ruptured steel tank
What Are the Pedestrian Safety Laws in Newport News?
Pedestrians, like drivers, have rights and responsibilities when they're on or near the roadway. Knowing the rules that apply to you isn't just about safety. In Virginia, it can also affect your ability to recover compensation after a crash.
Some of the most important pedestrian safety laws in Newport News include:
- Use crosswalks whenever possible: If there's a crosswalk available, use it to cross the street. If there isn't a crosswalk, cross at an intersection.
- Obey traffic signals: Only cross the street when you have the right of way. Under VA Code § 46.2-925, you should only enter the roadway on the Walk signal. If the Don't Walk signal appears while you're mid-crossing, proceed to the sidewalk or nearest safety island and remain there while the Don't Walk signal is showing.
- Walk on the sidewalk or the shoulder of the road: If there are sidewalks, use them. If there aren't, walk on the shoulder of the road facing oncoming traffic.
- Don't walk on the freeway: It's illegal to walk on the freeway. If you're walking on the freeway and are hit by a car, you may be found at fault for the accident and unable to recover compensation.
- Don't jaywalk: Jaywalking means crossing the street at a location that isn't an intersection or crosswalk. Crossing outside a crosswalk or intersection can directly affect your ability to recover compensation in a pedestrian accident claim.
Why Virginia's Contributory Negligence Rule Matters
Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which makes it one of only a handful of states where any fault assigned to the injured person can eliminate their right to compensation entirely. If a pedestrian is found even 1% at fault for the accident, they may recover nothing from the at-fault driver. Violations such as crossing against a signal, jaywalking, or texting while in the roadway can give the insurance company an excuse to deny your claim outright.
Insurance adjusters actively search for any evidence of pedestrian fault to invoke contributory negligence and avoid paying claims. Phone records, surveillance footage, and witness statements are all scrutinized for signs that the pedestrian contributed to the collision. One narrow exception, the last clear chance doctrine, may apply if the driver had a reasonable opportunity to avoid the accident and failed to act, but proving that exception requires strong evidence and a careful legal strategy.
Because of this rule, having our Newport News pedestrian accident attorneys identify and address contributory negligence arguments from the start can be critical to your ability to seek compensation.
Our Newport News pedestrian accident attorneys understand how insurers use contributory negligence to fight claims. Call (855) 880-8163 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our team today.
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Patient, understanding, considerate, and loyal. These were the characteristic of Mrs. Carmen Caswell. Job well done!- Leroy M.
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The service was comfortable, friendly, and inviting. Everyone seemed to want me to be successful in my recovery and suit. The receptionist, Ms. Ella, was very friendly and helpful.- Jacqueline
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Ms. Vaughn is simply amazing, very professional, and helpful through my disability case... I highly recommend her to handle your case!- Michael W.
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They did an excellent job with my case and had no issues or problems. Call the hurt line they can help.- Benjamin W.
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When speaking with the attorneys or their personnel, they have always always been polite and answered any questions I had.- Cashel
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Happy with my choice of choosing this law firm to represent me with my case. I highly recommend anyone to use this law firm.- Christina
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Friendly and hard-working people. Always there for the client's needs. Will continue being a client for any other needs I may have.- Tanya N.
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Excellent service, very fast with the lawsuit. I would definitely use Kalfus & Nachman again. Thank you so much for all your help.- Rebecca S.
newport news, va Pedestrian Accident Claim FAQ
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What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Newport News?
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention right away.
- Get the driver's contact and insurance information.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Obtain contact info from witnesses.
- Do not admit fault or give recorded statements to insurers without legal advice.
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Who can be held liable for a pedestrian accident in Virginia?
The driver of a motor vehicle is most commonly held liable if they acted negligently—e.g., speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. However, other parties may share fault, such as:
- Employers (if the driver was working)
- Government entities (for unsafe road conditions)
- The pedestrian, if they were jaywalking or crossing against a signal
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Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Virginia follows pure contributory negligence, meaning you cannot recover any damages if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident. Because of this strict rule, insurance companies may try to shift blame—so it’s crucial to work with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.
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How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Newport News?
The statute of limitations in Virginia for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file within that time, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
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What compensation can I recover in a pedestrian accident case?
Depending on the case, you may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)
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What if the driver who hit me doesn't have insurance?
If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to file a claim under your own auto insurance policy’s Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if you have it—even if you weren’t in a car at the time.
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Should I talk to the insurance company after the accident?
You should be very cautious when speaking with any insurance company. They may try to get you to make statements that hurt your case. It’s wise to consult with a pedestrian accident attorney before giving a recorded statement or signing anything.
A Powerful Team in Your Corner what sets us apart
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Built to Battle
We know how insurance companies try to limit claims — and after 45+ years, we know exactly how to stop them.
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Serving Since 1979
For over four decades, we've guided thousands of Virginia clients through complex legal challenges, earning trust through proven results.
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Complete Legal Coverage
Personal injury, workers' compensation, Social Security Disability — no matter your situation or location across Virginia, our team is here to provide comprehensive legal support.
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Millions Recovered
From a $10.9M TBI settlement to a $7.1M truck accident recovery — we've secured the financial support our clients need, and we're ready to fight for yours.