- Initial Offer: $50,000
- Final Settlement: $1,500,000
- Increase Secured: 30x
What happened
Our client, a woman crossing the street at a corner intersection, was first struck by the side mirror of a passing vehicle and then run over by a second vehicle. The collision caused catastrophic injuries that permanently changed her life. Insurance defense attorneys moved quickly to minimize the claim.
The legal issue others missed
Many attorneys — and even some insurers — incorrectly assume that a pedestrian must be in a painted crosswalk to have legal protection. New Jersey law does not require a painted crosswalk. When a pedestrian crosses at a corner or intersection, the law legally defines that area as a crosswalk — whether it is marked or not. Drivers are required to stop and yield. This is a critical protection that is routinely overlooked, causing legitimate cases to be abandoned or rejected before they even begin.
How Sadaka Law built the case
We assembled a full team of independent experts to reconstruct every detail of what happened and why. This included a traffic engineering expert to analyze the intersection design and sight lines, a safety expert to evaluate driver duty of care, an accident reconstruction expert to establish the precise sequence of events, and an investigative expert to document and preserve critical evidence. We treat every pedestrian case as if it will be decided by a jury — because preparation at that level is what compels insurance companies to settle for what a case is truly worth.
“The insurance company’s first offer was $50,000. We knew the case was worth far more — and we proved it. If you or someone you love was struck crossing the street, do not assume you have no case simply because there was no painted crosswalk. Call us first.”
— Mark Sadaka, Founder, Sadaka Law
Results may vary. Prior case outcomes do not guarantee similar results in future matters. This case summary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.