Pedestrian Accidents

What Is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident happens when a person on foot is struck and injured by a vehicle, such as a car, truck, bus, motorcycle, or even a bicycle. These accidents often occur at crosswalks, intersections, sidewalks, or parking lots. In California, drivers are required to watch for pedestrians and yield the right of way in many situations. If a driver is careless, distracted, or breaks traffic laws and a pedestrian is hurt as a result, it is considered a pedestrian accident.

Types of Pedestrian Accidents

1. Marked Crosswalk Accidents:

These happen when a pedestrian is hit while crossing the street in a designated crosswalk, often at intersections. California law gives pedestrians strong protections in marked crosswalks, requiring drivers to yield the right of way. Accidents here often involve drivers failing to stop, turning without looking, or speeding through intersections.

2. Unmarked Crosswalk Accidents:

Not all crosswalks are painted or signed. In California, many intersections have “unmarked” crosswalks, legal crossing areas that aren’t visually marked. Pedestrians struck in these areas still have rights, but proving fault may require more evidence about visibility, driver awareness, and traffic flow.

3. Mid-Block or Jaywalking Accidents:

Sometimes, pedestrians cross outside of intersections or crosswalks. While drivers must still exercise caution, pedestrians may share more responsibility if they cross unexpectedly or against traffic signals. These cases often hinge on details like lighting, signage, and whether the driver could reasonably see and avoid the pedestrian.

4. Parking Lot and Sidewalk Accidents:

Pedestrian injuries can also occur in parking lots, driveways, or on sidewalks, often due to vehicles backing up, turning, or failing to notice people walking nearby. These cases may involve complex questions about property owner responsibility and vehicle movement.

5. Bicycle-Related Pedestrian Accidents:

Pedestrians can be injured by cyclists, especially in shared spaces like parks, trails, or busy sidewalks. California law treats bicycles as vehicles in many contexts, so cyclists must yield to pedestrians and follow traffic rules. If a cyclist hits a pedestrian, liability may depend on speed, attentiveness, and local ordinances.

How Our Office Assists After a Pedestrian Accident

When someone is injured as a pedestrian, the aftermath can be overwhelming, physically, emotionally, and logistically. Our office is committed to guiding you through every step, with a focus on your recovery and your rights.

Personalized Case Review:

We start by listening to your account of the accident, recognizing that every situation is unique. Whether you were injured in a crosswalk, on a sidewalk, or in a parking lot, we take the time to understand the details and the impact on your life.

Evidence Gathering and Analysis:

Our team collects and reviews all available evidence, photos, witness statements, police reports, and medical records. We look beyond the basics, considering factors like visibility, traffic patterns, and the actions of all parties involved. This thorough approach helps us build a strong foundation for your claim.

Clear Communication With Insurers:

Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. We handle all correspondence and negotiations, ensuring your claim is taken seriously and that you’re not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.

Determining Responsibility:

Pedestrian accidents often involve complex questions of fault, especially in cases where friends, family, or cyclists are involved. We carefully assess the circumstances to identify who is legally responsible, always with sensitivity to personal relationships and the nuances of each case.

Pursuing Full Compensation:

Our goal is to help you recover for all losses—medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any ongoing care you may need. We advocate for a resolution that reflects the true impact of the accident on your life.

Support Throughout the Process:

From your first consultation to the final resolution, we keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide honest guidance. If your case requires litigation, we stand by you in court, prepared to present your story with clarity and conviction.

No Fees Unless You Win:

You pay nothing upfront. Our fees are contingent on successfully securing compensation for you.

Simple Summary

A pedestrian accident is any situation where someone on foot is hit and injured by a vehicle. If you’re hurt, our office can help by investigating your case, handling insurance, proving responsibility, and fighting for fair compensation, so you can focus on healing.