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Have you or a loved one suffered injuries in a Los Angeles pedestrian accident caused by someone else’s negligence? Reach out to Countrywide Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Walking in Los Angeles shouldn’t be a dangerous activity, but with crowded streets, distracted drivers, and busy intersections, pedestrians often find themselves at risk. A moment’s negligence by a driver can lead to life-changing injuries or, tragically, the loss of a loved one. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel overwhelming, leaving victims unsure of where to turn.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we understand how devastating pedestrian accidents can be—not just for the person injured but for their entire family. We’ve seen the frustration that comes with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies refusing to play fair. When you’re already facing so much, the last thing you need is to fight this battle alone.

That’s where we come in. With years of experience and a track record of winning significant settlements and verdicts, our team is here to take the weight off your shoulders. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we have won over 5,000 cases and recovered more than $100 million for clients.

We’ll handle the legal complexities, investigate every detail of your case, and fight relentlessly to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your life. Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’re ready to listen, support, and fight for you every step of the way. Call us now or fill out our online form to take control of your future.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating types of traffic accidents, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. In places like Los Angeles, where pedestrian activity is high, these incidents are alarmingly common.

Pedestrian accident victims frequently face significant challenges, including medical expenses, lost income, and the need for long-term care. Here are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. Motor vehicle drivers who text, eat, adjust their GPS, or engage in other distractions are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the road.

When drivers fail to focus on their surroundings, it increases the likelihood of a pedestrian collision, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Speeding in High-Traffic Zones

Speeding is another significant factor in pedestrian accidents. Drivers traveling at high speeds have less time to react to a pedestrian crossing the road, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. In urban areas like Los Angeles County, where pedestrian activity is prevalent, speeding in high-traffic zones can turn a minor oversight into a catastrophic event.

Pedestrian accident statistics show that the severity of injuries sustained in a pedestrian crash increases dramatically with vehicle speed. Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones are common pedestrian accident injuries resulting from speeding incidents.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalks

Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way at marked or unmarked crosswalks. California pedestrian laws mandate that drivers must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, but not all motor vehicle drivers adhere to these rules. Pedestrians, especially in busy areas of Southern California, rely on drivers to respect traffic signals and yield appropriately.

Failure to yield can result in a pedestrian collision, leaving victims with serious injuries, including internal injuries, physical pain, and emotional trauma.

 

 

Drunk or Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major cause of pedestrian accidents. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased awareness, making it more likely for them to strike pedestrians. Many pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers result in fatal injuries or lifelong disabilities for the injured pedestrian.

Poorly Designed Intersections and Infrastructure

Poorly designed intersections, lack of proper pedestrian crossing signals, and inadequate lighting are significant contributors to pedestrian accidents. In many areas of Los Angeles, unsafe infrastructure creates a hazardous environment for pedestrians.

For example, intersections without clearly marked crosswalks or adequate lighting can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially at night.

City planners and property owners may also be held liable in pedestrian accident cases if their negligence in maintaining safe infrastructure contributed to the accident.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

The injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents are often severe due to the vulnerability of pedestrians compared to motor vehicles. Common pedestrian injuries include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Often caused by head impacts during a pedestrian collision.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Resulting in paralysis or chronic pain.
  • Broken Bones: Including fractures to arms, legs, or hips.
  • Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs caused by the force of the crash.
  • Emotional Trauma: Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder and emotional distress following a pedestrian accident.

Overview of Pedestrian Rights Under California Law

California law provides strong protections for pedestrians. Pedestrians generally have the right of way in specific situations, particularly at crosswalks. However, pedestrians also have a duty of care to ensure their own safety by obeying traffic signals and avoiding dangerous behavior.

The California Vehicle Code (CVC) serves as the foundation for pedestrian rights and responsibilities. Key provisions include:

  • Right-of-Way Protections: Pedestrians are entitled to the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
  • Traffic Signal Compliance: Pedestrians must adhere to traffic control signals, such as "walk" and "don’t walk" signs.
  • Prohibition of Sudden Road Entry: Pedestrians are prohibited from stepping into the path of oncoming vehicles if the driver does not have sufficient time to stop.

Key Laws Affecting Pedestrian Accidents

1. Right-of-Way at Crosswalks

Under California law, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. An unmarked crosswalk is the continuation of a sidewalk across an intersection, even if no lines are painted on the road. Motor vehicle drivers are required to stop for pedestrians within these areas, allowing them to cross safely.

However, this right is not absolute. Pedestrians are expected to use reasonable care, such as waiting for a safe gap in traffic before entering a crosswalk. Failure to yield by drivers is a leading cause of pedestrian collisions, often resulting in serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones. In such cases, the at-fault party may be held liable through a pedestrian accident claim.

2. Jaywalking Laws in California

Jaywalking, or crossing a street outside of designated crosswalks, is prohibited under California law. Pedestrians must use crosswalks when they are available and follow traffic control devices. In 2023, California introduced new legislation reducing penalties for jaywalking in situations where it is safe to cross, recognizing the need for flexibility in urban environments.

While jaywalking does not absolve drivers of their duty to avoid collisions, it can complicate liability claims. California’s comparative negligence rule allows injured pedestrians to seek compensation even if they share partial fault, but their damages may be reduced proportionally.

 

 

3. Duty of Care for Both Drivers and Pedestrians

Both drivers and pedestrians are required to exercise a reasonable duty of care to prevent accidents:

  • Drivers: Must remain vigilant, follow speed limits, yield the right of way, and avoid distractions such as texting or eating. Drivers are also expected to exercise heightened caution in areas with heavy pedestrian activity, such as school zones and residential neighborhoods.
  • Pedestrians: Must obey traffic signals, avoid jaywalking, and refrain from entering the roadway abruptly. Pedestrians have a responsibility to ensure their actions do not create unnecessary risks.

Violations of these duties often lead to legal claims, as injured pedestrians or their families seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.

4. Hit-and-Run Penalties for Drivers

California law imposes severe penalties for drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents. Drivers are legally required to stop and provide assistance if they are involved in a collision with a pedestrian, regardless of fault. Failure to do so is a criminal offense, with penalties including:

  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Imprisonment of up to four years for accidents resulting in injury or death
  • Revocation of the driver’s license

Hit-and-run accidents frequently lead to pedestrian accident injury lawsuits. Victims or their families may also be able to pursue criminal restitution alongside civil claims for damages.

Liability in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries, significant financial burdens, and complex legal disputes over liability. Determining who is at fault in a pedestrian accident case is critical to securing compensation for the injured party.

Liability often depends on whether the driver, pedestrian, or a third party acted negligently, and California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows multiple parties to share fault.

Establishing Fault

Liability in pedestrian accident cases often hinges on proving negligence. Both drivers and pedestrians have a duty of care to act responsibly and avoid causing harm to others. When either party breaches this duty, they may be held liable for resulting damages.

Driver Negligence

Drivers are often at fault in pedestrian accidents when they violate traffic laws or fail to exercise reasonable care. Common examples of driver negligence include:

  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian, especially in high-traffic areas or school zones.
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction times and impairs judgment, increasing the likelihood of a pedestrian collision.
  • Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using in-car technology while driving can cause drivers to miss pedestrians crossing the road or walking alongside it.
  • Failure to Yield: Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks (both marked and unmarked). Ignoring this responsibility often leads to accidents.

Pedestrian Negligence

While drivers are frequently at fault, pedestrians can also contribute to accidents through their own negligence. Examples of pedestrian negligence include:

  • Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks or against traffic signals is a common cause of pedestrian accidents.
  • Ignoring Traffic Signals: Walking against a “don’t walk” signal puts pedestrians at risk, especially in busy intersections.
  • Sudden Road Entry: Pedestrians who step into the roadway unexpectedly or without looking may not give drivers enough time to react.

Shared Fault and California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule

California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows injured parties to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

For example, if a pedestrian is awarded $100,000 in damages but is found to be 30% at fault for jaywalking, they would receive $70,000. This rule ensures that liability is fairly distributed based on each party’s actions.

Third-Party Liability

In some cases, third parties may share liability for a pedestrian accident. Identifying all potentially liable parties is essential to maximizing compensation.

Employer Responsibility

If the at-fault driver was performing job duties at the time of the accident, their employer might be held liable under the legal principle of vicarious liability. For instance, if a delivery driver hits a pedestrian while making deliveries, the employer could be responsible for damages.

Government Liability

Government entities may be liable for pedestrian accidents caused by unsafe road conditions or faulty traffic signals. Examples include:

  • Poorly designed intersections that lack adequate crosswalks.
  • Broken or malfunctioning traffic lights.
  • Uneven sidewalks or potholes that contribute to pedestrian falls.

Filing a claim against a government agency involves specific procedures and shorter deadlines, making it critical to consult an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.

Types of Compensation in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Victims of pedestrian accidents can seek compensation for a wide range of economic and non-economic damages. In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are quantifiable losses that directly result from the accident. These include:

  • Medical Expenses: Covers past, ongoing, and future medical treatment related to injuries sustained in the accident. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and prescription medications.
  • Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: If the victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they may recover compensation for lost income. In cases of permanent disability, damages may also include future lost earnings or reduced earning potential.
  • Property Damage: While less common in pedestrian accidents, victims may seek compensation for damaged personal property, such as phones, glasses, or other items carried at the time of the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the emotional and psychological impact of the accident. These damages are more subjective and include:

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain endured as a result of injuries.
  • Emotional Distress: Covers the psychological toll of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Victims may be compensated for the inability to participate in hobbies, activities, or relationships they previously enjoyed.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are rare and reserved for cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, such as a driver operating under the influence or engaging in reckless behavior. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future.

 

 

Proving Liability and Pursuing Compensation

Proving liability in pedestrian accident cases requires substantial evidence and legal expertise. Key steps in building a strong case include:

  1. Collecting Evidence: This includes police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and photographs of the accident scene.
  2. Medical Records: Documenting the extent of injuries and the cost of medical treatment.
  3. Establishing Negligence: Demonstrating how the at-fault party’s actions directly caused the accident.
  4. Calculating Damages: Assessing the full scope of economic and non-economic losses.

Victims should work with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who can navigate California’s legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent their interests in court.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, where pedestrian accidents are common due to high traffic and foot traffic, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in your recovery and ability to seek compensation.

1. Seek Medical Attention

The first priority after a pedestrian accident is your health. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, such as internal injuries or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away but can worsen if left untreated. Prompt medical care ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated and provides medical records that will serve as key evidence in your claim.

2. Call the Police and File an Accident Report

Report the accident to law enforcement, regardless of its severity. The police will create an official accident report, which documents details of the incident, statements from parties involved, and any citations issued. This report can play a crucial role in proving fault in your pedestrian accident case. Be sure to request a copy of the report for your records.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able to safely, collect as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Key evidence includes:

  • Photos and Videos: Take pictures of the accident site, your injuries, the vehicle involved, and any visible damage or road conditions that may have contributed to the collision.
  • Witness Contacts: Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident. Their testimony can provide valuable support for your claim.
  • Driver Information: Exchange information with the driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information.

Documenting these details helps establish what happened and strengthens your pedestrian accident claim.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault or Making Recorded Statements

Do not admit fault or apologize for the accident, even if you feel partially responsible. Avoid making any recorded statements to the driver’s insurance company without first consulting a personal injury lawyer. Insurance adjusters may use your words against you to minimize or deny your claim.

5. Contact a Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyer

After seeking medical care and gathering evidence, consult an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer will help:

  • Evaluate your claim and determine who is at fault.
  • Handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
  • Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.

Many pedestrian accident lawyers offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they recover compensation for you.

 

 

Why Time is of the Essence in Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Acting quickly after a pedestrian accident is critical for both legal and practical reasons. California imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations in California sets the timeframe for filing a claim:

  • Personal Injury Claims: Victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim against the at-fault party.
  • Claims Involving Government Entities: If the accident involved a government vehicle or occurred on government property, you must file a claim within six months under the California Government Claims Act.

Failing to file within these timeframes typically results in the loss of your legal right to pursue compensation, regardless of the strength of your case.

Consequences of Missing Deadlines

Missing the statute of limitations means:

  • You lose the right to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
  • The at-fault party and their insurer are no longer legally obligated to compensate you.
  • Witnesses’ memories may fade, and evidence may become unavailable, weakening any future attempts to pursue your claim.

Preserving Evidence and Witness Testimonies

Timely action allows your legal team to gather and preserve critical evidence, such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reports. Evidence and testimonies become less reliable over time due to factors like fading memories or lost documentation.

An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer will act quickly to:

  • Investigate the accident and secure any available video footage or maintenance records.
  • Interview witnesses while their recollections are fresh.
  • Coordinate with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries.

How a Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

Pedestrian accidents can result in life-altering injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and complex legal battles. Hiring a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer ensures that victims have an advocate to guide them through the legal process, protect their rights, and secure fair compensation. Here’s how an experienced attorney can assist in a pedestrian accident case.

Case Evaluation

A Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer begins by assessing the specifics of your case to determine its strength and the potential compensation you may recover. During this evaluation, they will:

  • Review the circumstances of the accident, including how and where it occurred.
  • Analyze the at-fault party’s actions, such as distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield.
  • Discuss the injuries sustained and their impact on your daily life, work, and future well-being.
  • Explain how California pedestrian laws and the state’s pure comparative negligence rule apply to your situation.

This initial assessment helps the lawyer provide a realistic estimate of the compensation you may be entitled to, including economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering).

Gathering Evidence

Strong evidence is essential for building a successful pedestrian accident case. Your lawyer will gather and preserve the necessary documentation to prove negligence and establish the extent of your damages. This process often includes:

1. Accident Scene Investigation

An attorney will revisit the scene of the accident, taking photographs and measurements to recreate what happened. They may also:

  • Identify dangerous road conditions, poor signage, or faulty traffic signals.
  • Interview witnesses to obtain statements about the driver’s behavior or other contributing factors.

2. Subpoenaing Surveillance Footage

Many pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles occur in areas with surveillance cameras. Your lawyer can subpoena video footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or private residences to provide visual evidence of the collision.

3. Medical Records and Expert Testimony

Medical records are critical in documenting the severity of your injuries and the associated costs. A lawyer may also work with:

  • Medical Experts: To provide testimony about the long-term implications of your injuries, such as the need for ongoing care or diminished earning capacity.
  • Accident Reconstruction Specialists: To analyze how the collision occurred and demonstrate the driver’s negligence.

By gathering and presenting this evidence, your lawyer ensures that your claim is well-supported and ready to withstand scrutiny.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by offering lowball settlements or disputing the extent of your injuries. A pedestrian accident lawyer protects you from these tactics and ensures you receive fair compensation by:

  • Communicating with Adjusters: Handling all interactions with the insurance company so you don’t inadvertently say something that could harm your claim.
  • Countering Lowball Offers: Evaluating settlement offers and negotiating for amounts that account for current and future damages, including long-term medical expenses and lost earning capacity.
  • Ensuring Full Compensation: Advocating for damages that reflect the full impact of the accident, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Representation in Court

If negotiations with the insurance company fail to result in a fair settlement, a pedestrian accident lawyer is prepared to take your case to court. This involves:

1. Preparing for Trial

Your attorney will build a compelling case by organizing evidence, identifying key witnesses, and preparing legal arguments that demonstrate the at-fault party’s negligence. They’ll also file all necessary court documents and handle pretrial motions.

2. Advocating for Maximum Compensation

In court, your lawyer will present your case to a judge or jury, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for the highest possible compensation. Their experience with trial proceedings and familiarity with local Los Angeles courts give you a significant advantage.

 

 

Choosing the Right Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Selecting the right attorney is a crucial step in ensuring your case is handled effectively. Here are the key qualities to look for and questions to ask during a consultation.

Qualities to Look For

  1. Experience with Pedestrian Accident Cases
    Pedestrian accidents differ from other personal injury cases. A lawyer with extensive experience in this area will understand the unique challenges, such as proving driver negligence or addressing shared fault under California law.
  2. Knowledge of Local Laws and Court Systems
    Familiarity with California pedestrian laws and Los Angeles-specific court procedures is essential. A local lawyer will also know how to navigate the city’s traffic accident patterns and use this knowledge to strengthen your case.
  3. Track Record of Successful Verdicts and Settlements
    Look for an attorney with a proven history of securing fair compensation for pedestrian accident victims. Ask for examples of past cases similar to yours and their outcomes.
  4. Transparent Communication and Client-Focused Approach
    A good lawyer keeps clients informed, explains complex legal concepts clearly, and prioritizes their needs. Choose someone who is approachable, responsive, and willing to answer your questions.

Questions to Ask During a Consultation

Before hiring a lawyer, schedule a consultation to discuss your case. Key questions include:

  • How many pedestrian accident cases have you handled?
    Understanding their experience level helps gauge their expertise in similar cases.
  • What are your fees and payment structure?
    Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. Confirm the percentage they’ll take from your settlement or verdict.
  • What is the expected timeline for my case?
    While no lawyer can guarantee a specific timeline, they should provide a general estimate based on the complexity of your case.

By asking these questions and assessing their responses, you can ensure the lawyer is a good fit for your needs.

 

 

Contact a Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and uncooperative insurance companies. During this challenging time, having an experienced legal team by your side can make all the difference.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we specialize in helping pedestrian accident victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our compassionate and skilled attorneys are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and fight relentlessly to protect your rights. From negotiating with insurance companies to building a strong case for court, we handle every detail so you can focus on healing.

Time is critical in these cases, so don’t wait to seek help. Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers by calling 844-844-9119 today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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