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If a negligent driver hits you, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation.
Walking through San Bernardino should be a simple, safe experience. Yet for far too many people, a walk turns tragic because of negligent drivers. Pedestrian accidents often happen in a split second but can change a victim’s life forever. Whether it’s crossing the street near the Inland Center Mall, walking through the downtown area, or navigating intersections along Waterman Avenue, pedestrians in San Bernardino face serious risks.
When a person is struck by a vehicle, the injuries are often severe. Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage are just some of the devastating consequences. Victims and families are left reeling, unsure how they’ll pay medical bills, cover lost income, or move forward after such trauma.
California law gives injured pedestrians the right to seek compensation, but the legal system is not easy to navigate alone. Insurance companies often minimize payouts or try to blame the pedestrian. That’s why having strong legal representation can make a critical difference. That's why hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in San Bernardino is crucial.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we understand the challenges pedestrians face in San Bernardino. Our team is here to stand up to insurance companies, protect your rights, and help you pursue full compensation for your injuries. You do not have to go through this process alone.
Pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino are not random. They often happen because of specific patterns and high-risk areas throughout the city. Understanding these causes can help identify who is responsible and how Countrywide Trial Lawyers can build a strong compensation case.
Distracted drivers are one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. In a city like San Bernardino, where traffic is dense near the 215, 10, and 210 Freeways, even a moment of inattention can be deadly. Drivers looking at their phones or GPS often fail to see pedestrians crossing legally at intersections. Areas near busy shopping centers like Inland Center or near high-traffic bus stops along E Street are hazardous for this reason.
Speed limits exist to protect everyone on the road, including those on foot. Yet many drivers exceed safe speeds, especially on major streets like Baseline Street, Highland Avenue, and Waterman Avenue. When drivers speed through crosswalks or residential zones, pedestrians may not have time to react or get out of the way. Speeding also increases the impact force, leading to more severe injuries and a higher likelihood of fatal crashes.
Some parts of San Bernardino, particularly in older neighborhoods and industrial zones, lack clearly marked pedestrian crossings or adequate street lighting. Without visible signals or signs, drivers may not yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Nighttime accidents are prevalent near Cajon Boulevard and along the city's outer areas where streetlights are limited or poorly maintained. These local conditions often contribute to preventable pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
Many pedestrian accidents occur during left-hand turns at unprotected intersections. Drivers focus on oncoming traffic and may miss pedestrians crossing in front of them. Intersections such as Tippecanoe Avenue at Hospitality Lane or Sierra Way at Highland Avenue have high pedestrian traffic and frequent vehicle turns, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Even when pedestrians have the right-of-way, drivers often misjudge timing or simply fail to see them.
Despite ongoing education and enforcement, drunk and drug-impaired driving remains a serious problem in San Bernardino. DUI crashes involving pedestrians often happen at night, particularly on weekends. Streets near nightlife areas or convenience stores, such as 5th Street or Mount Vernon Avenue, are frequent sites of impaired driving incidents. Victims in these cases are often left with catastrophic injuries, and drivers who flee the scene may be subject to both criminal and civil penalties.
San Bernardino is home to multiple schools, including Cal State San Bernardino and various elementary and high schools. These areas should be safe zones for young pedestrians, yet they are often the site of vehicle-pedestrian collisions. Speeding through school zones or ignoring crossing guards can lead to devastating consequences for children and families. Drivers rushing to work or distracted by traffic near campuses are common contributors to these incidents.
In many parts of San Bernardino, especially older residential neighborhoods and industrial zones, sidewalks are missing, narrow, or poorly maintained. This forces pedestrians to walk along road shoulders or directly in traffic lanes, increasing the risk of being struck by a vehicle. In areas like the outskirts of Mount Vernon Avenue or segments of Tippecanoe Avenue, the lack of safe walking space combined with fast-moving vehicles creates dangerous conditions. Cracked sidewalks, debris, and faded crosswalks further complicate safe pedestrian movement. When cities fail to maintain walkable infrastructure, they may share liability in a pedestrian injury case, especially if prior complaints were ignored.
Pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino frequently result in catastrophic injuries. Unlike drivers and passengers in cars, pedestrians have no physical protection during a collision. The force of impact can throw a person onto the pavement or into another vehicle, often leading to life-altering physical and emotional trauma.
Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of pedestrian crashes. Even when a person’s head does not directly hit the vehicle, the impact with the ground can cause a concussion, brain bleeding, or swelling. Victims with TBI may face long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments that affect their ability to work or perform daily activities.
When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the spinal column is especially vulnerable. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices. The emotional toll of losing mobility can be just as devastating as the physical harm.
Fractured arms, legs, ribs, and hips are standard in pedestrian accidents. Depending on the severity, victims may need surgery, physical therapy, and extended time away from work. Some injuries lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, or joint stiffness.
Damage to internal organs is not always immediately visible but can be fatal without emergency treatment. Pedestrian victims may suffer from internal bleeding, punctured lungs, liver or spleen damage, or collapsed lungs. These conditions require immediate medical evaluation and often lead to lengthy hospital stays.
Cuts, bruises, and skin abrasions might seem minor compared to other injuries, but they can be painful and disfiguring. Victims may require stitches, skin grafts, or treatment for infections. Soft tissue damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons can also restrict movement and limit future mobility.
The emotional impact of being hit by a vehicle can last long after the physical injuries have healed. Pedestrian accident victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These mental health challenges can interfere with relationships, employment, and overall well-being.
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages under California law. These may include:
Securing these damages requires strong documentation and legal advocacy. That’s where Countrywide Trial Lawyers steps in.
After a serious pedestrian accident, victims often feel overwhelmed by medical appointments, insurance adjusters, and legal confusion. During this difficult time, you need a legal team that not only understands the law but also understands what you are going through. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we make it our mission to stand beside injured pedestrians in San Bernardino and help them fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.
When you work with Countrywide Trial Lawyers, your case is not passed off to assistants or junior staff. Founding attorney Shawn Rokni leads a team that is deeply committed to personal attention, frequent communication, and responsive service. We take the time to learn your story, investigate the circumstances of your accident, and guide you through every stage of the legal process.
Many of our clients come to us feeling ignored or blamed by insurance companies. We know the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. Our team will step in to handle all communication and negotiation, giving you the space to focus on recovery while we protect your interests.
Shawn Rokni and his team bring years of personal injury experience to every case. We have recovered over $100 million for clients injured by careless drivers, including many in pedestrian collisions. Whether a distracted driver hit you near the 210 Freeway or a speeding motorist struck you downtown, we know how to build strong claims that hold negligent parties accountable.
Our legal team includes litigators with a reputation for being prepared to take cases to trial. Insurance companies recognize when a law firm is serious, and that recognition often leads to better settlement offers. If your case requires going to court, we will be ready and aggressive in pursuing the maximum compensation available.
While many personal injury claims settle out of court, our firm prepares each case as if it will go to trial. This approach not only strengthens your position during settlement talks but also ensures that we are ready to present a robust case in front of a judge or jury if needed.
We work with accident reconstruction professionals, medical experts, and financial analysts to calculate your full range of damages. This comprehensive approach allows us to advocate for more than just medical bills; it includes future treatment needs, lost earning potential, and the actual emotional cost of your trauma.
Pedestrian accident victims often worry about affording legal help. That’s why Countrywide Trial Lawyers operates on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we win your case. This means our team is fully invested in your outcome, and we will fight relentlessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
To understand how Countrywide Trial Lawyers approaches pedestrian accident claims in San Bernardino, consider the following example based on common accident scenarios and results we've achieved for past clients.
A 42-year-old San Bernardino resident was crossing the street at a marked crosswalk on Highland Avenue near Waterman Avenue at around 7:45 p.m. Despite having the pedestrian signal in her favor, she was struck by a sedan turning left. The impact threw her nearly 15 feet, causing multiple injuries, including a fractured pelvis, a traumatic brain injury, and internal bleeding.
The driver initially claimed the pedestrian had “come out of nowhere” and blamed poor visibility. The insurance company used this to argue comparative fault and offered a low settlement of just $35,000, far below the victim’s medical bills and expected recovery costs.
After being contacted by the victim’s family, our team launched an immediate investigation. We obtained local surveillance footage from a nearby gas station, interviewed witnesses who had seen the crash, and secured the police report from the San Bernardino Police Department. The evidence clearly showed the pedestrian had the right of way and was entirely within the crosswalk when she was hit.
We also worked with medical experts to document the long-term effects of her injuries, including the likelihood of permanent mobility issues and cognitive challenges caused by the brain trauma. Our financial experts projected future treatment costs and the impact on her ability to work.
When the insurance company refused to negotiate fairly, we filed a lawsuit and prepared the case for trial. Faced with the strength of our evidence and the credibility of our experts, the defense ultimately agreed to a $975,000 settlement just weeks before the trial date.
The settlement allowed our client to access in-home care, advanced rehabilitation services, and long-term financial stability. It also sent a message to the insurance company that pedestrian safety cannot be brushed aside. The family expressed gratitude not just for the result, but for the personal support and transparency we maintained throughout the process.
This case illustrates a typical challenge for pedestrian accident victims in San Bernardino: insurance companies often look for reasons to deny fair compensation. Without strong legal advocacy, the injured person could have been left with overwhelming bills and no financial recourse.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we believe every injured pedestrian deserves to be heard, considered, and fully compensated. Whether your accident happened in a residential area, near a school, or at a busy commercial intersection, our team is ready to take your case seriously and fight for the desired outcome.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino, understanding the legal process can help ease some of the uncertainty. California law gives injured pedestrians the right to seek compensation from at-fault drivers, but success depends on following strict procedures, meeting deadlines, and building a strong case. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we walk you through every step and protect your rights from day one.
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. If you miss this window, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you could lose your right to recover compensation altogether.
There are exceptions. For example, if the claim is against a public entity, such as if you were hit by a city vehicle or injured due to a poorly maintained crosswalk, you must file a government claim within six months of the incident. That claim must then be rejected before you can move forward with a lawsuit.
Because these deadlines are critical, we urge accident victims to contact our firm as soon as possible after the incident.
Here’s how the pedestrian accident claim process typically works in California:
You meet with our team for a free consultation. We review the facts, determine liability, and explain your legal options. If we take your case, we will begin our investigation immediately.
We gather key evidence, such as:
As you undergo treatment, we track all costs and work with your healthcare providers to document the full extent of your injuries. This includes projected future care needs and the impact on your ability to work.
Once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement or we have sufficient documentation, we send a demand letter to the insurance company. This starts the negotiation process. Most cases settle during this phase, especially when liability is clear and your damages are well-supported.
If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit in the appropriate court, such as the San Bernardino Superior Court. We then begin the discovery phase, exchanging evidence with the defense and preparing for trial.
Some cases go to trial, especially when liability is disputed or the damages are significant. However, many cases settle before trial, and once the defense sees it, we are fully prepared to litigate.
In pedestrian accident cases, we often coordinate with:
Our knowledge of San Bernardino's streets, agencies, and court procedures gives us an edge in navigating your claim efficiently.
Pedestrian safety is a growing concern in San Bernardino, where busy intersections, high-speed corridors, and limited infrastructure often put foot traffic at risk. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we know the city and its roads well. This local knowledge allows us to investigate your accident thoroughly and build cases that reflect the real conditions you face in your community.
Several parts of San Bernardino have become hot spots for pedestrian crashes due to traffic volume, poor lighting, and inadequate crosswalks. Some of the most frequently cited problem areas include:
Understanding where and how your accident occurred helps us pinpoint potential violations of traffic law, faulty road design, or city negligence.
Our legal team regularly works with local entities that may play a role in your claim:
Countrywide Trial Lawyers proudly represents injured pedestrians across San Bernardino and the Inland Empire. Whether your accident occurred near the Carousel Mall, San Manuel Stadium, or along Kendall Drive, we are ready to investigate and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We also serve surrounding communities, including:
As a pedestrian accident lawyer in San Bernardino, we focus on building personalized, high-impact claims for those injured due to driver negligence. By combining our knowledge of California personal injury law with a deep understanding of San Bernardino’s roads, courts, and public safety issues, we provide the local edge your case needs.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident anywhere in San Bernardino County, you don’t have to navigate the system alone. Countrywide Trial Lawyers is ready to help you hold the responsible parties accountable.
What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino?
Call 911 if you're injured and seek medical attention right away. Ask someone to document the scene with photos and gather witness contact information if possible. Request a police report from the San Bernardino Police Department, and avoid making statements to the driver’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
Who can be held responsible for a pedestrian accident?
Drivers are most often at fault, especially when they are speeding, distracted, or fail to yield. However, liability can also extend to commercial vehicle owners, government entities responsible for road design or maintenance, or even rideshare companies if a working driver caused the crash.
How much is my pedestrian injury case worth?
Every case is unique, but compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and pain and suffering. Severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage tend to result in higher settlements. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in San Bernardino can evaluate your case value more accurately after a full review.
What if I were partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20 percent responsible, your total recovery would be reduced by 20 percent.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government entity is involved, you must file a claim within six months. Failing to meet these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation, so it's essential to act quickly.
What if the driver fled the scene or had no insurance?
If you were hurt in a hit-and-run or by an uninsured driver, you may still have options. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage through your auto policy (or a household member’s policy) can provide compensation. Our firm can help identify all possible sources of recovery.
How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you. This ensures that anyone injured in a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino can afford high-quality legal representation.
What types of injuries qualify for a pedestrian accident claim?
You can file a claim for any injury caused by someone else’s negligence. Common pedestrian injuries include broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, internal injuries, and soft tissue damage. Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Will my case go to court?
Many pedestrian accident claims settle outside of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our reputation as trial-ready attorneys often motivates insurers to settle rather than face us in court.
Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?
Yes. While using a crosswalk helps strengthen your case, California law does not automatically deny your rights if you were crossing mid-block. The circumstances of the crash will determine liability. Even if you were not in a crosswalk, drivers still have a duty to avoid hitting pedestrians whenever possible.
Being hit by a car while walking is one of the most traumatic and disorienting events a person can experience. One moment, you’re crossing a street in your neighborhood or heading to a local store, and the next, you’re in pain, confused, and unsure of what comes next. Hospital bills pile up. You may be unable to work. And the insurance company may already be pressuring you to accept a low settlement.
You didn’t ask for this. You followed the rules. A careless driver made a decision that turned your world upside down. You deserve better than silence or resistance from the party responsible. You deserve a legal team that listens, acts, and fights to win.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we serve injured pedestrians across San Bernardino and throughout the Inland Empire. From Highland to downtown, from university districts to busy intersections like Baseline Street and Waterman Avenue, we know how and where these accidents happen, and we know how to hold the right people accountable.
Let our team investigate your claim, handle the paperwork, and negotiate with insurance companies while you focus on healing. Our consultations are always free, and you pay nothing unless we win for you.
Call Countrywide Trial Lawyers at 844-844-9119 today. Let us help you take back control and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
