How a Dublin businessman won full compensation after a zebra crossing collision
Brian was crossing at a zebra crossing near his office in Cork on a Tuesday afternoon. He'd used this same crossing hundreds of times before, and he followed the usual routine — he waited for the walk signal, checked both ways, and stepped out onto the crossing with confidence. A car coming around the corner didn't slow down. The driver later said he hadn't seen Brian until the last moment, but by then it was too late. Brian was struck and thrown forward, landing hard on the pavement.
The injury was serious. Brian spent three days in hospital with a fractured leg and multiple bruises. Even after being discharged, the pain and difficulty moving meant he couldn't work for eight weeks. The hospital bills were substantial, and his lost wages added up quickly. He was frustrated and worried — not just about his physical recovery, but about how he'd pay his bills and support his family during the time off work.
Brian decided to pursue a claim for compensation. He gathered all his medical evidence, hospital records, and proof of his lost income. The driver's insurance company initially resisted, claiming that Brian must have stepped out suddenly and that there wasn't enough visibility. But the evidence told a different story. The zebra crossing had clear markings, the weather was dry, and Brian had every right to cross when the signal permitted. The insurance company eventually accepted that their driver was at fault and offered Brian full compensation covering his medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. His case was resolved within four months.
In Ireland, pedestrians have a legal right to expect that drivers will stop for them at a zebra crossing. When a driver fails to do this and causes injury, they are legally liable for the damage caused. The injured person can claim compensation for all reasonable losses flowing from the accident — including medical treatment, lost income while recovering, and compensation for pain and suffering. The driver's insurance company is normally responsible for paying this compensation. To succeed in a claim, you need to show that the driver was negligent (failed in their duty of care) and that this negligence directly caused your injury and loss.
In Ireland, you have two years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury claim for a pedestrian crossing accident. If you don't issue legal proceedings within this time, you will lose your right to claim compensation entirely. This is called the statute of limitations. It's important to act quickly — contact a solicitor as soon as possible after your accident so that you have time to gather evidence and take proper legal steps before the deadline arrives.
Tell Sarah what happened. She will explain your options and match you with the right solicitor in your county — free.