Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and when accidents occur, the injuries can be severe or even fatal. In California, pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common, often caused by negligent drivers who fail to yield or obey traffic laws. If you or a loved one have been injured while walking due to a reckless or distracted driver, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to fight for justice and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

 

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are frequently caused by driver negligence, hazardous road conditions, or other factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or using a GPS while behind the wheel

• Failure to yield, especially at crosswalks and intersections

• Speeding and reckless driving, making it difficult to stop in time to avoid pedestrians

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, impairing reaction time and judgment

• Poor visibility, due to inadequate street lighting, bad weather, or obstructed views

• Unsafe road designs, including lack of crosswalks, malfunctioning traffic signals, or missing sidewalks

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Common Pedestrian Injuries

Pedestrian accidents often result in serious or life-threatening injuries due to the direct impact of a vehicle. Victims commonly suffer from:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can lead to permanent cognitive impairment and emotional difficulties

• Spinal cord injuries, potentially causing paralysis or long-term mobility issues

• Broken bones and fractures, often requiring surgeries and extensive rehabilitation

• Internal organ damage, which may require emergency surgery and long-term medical care

• Severe lacerations and road rash, leading to infections, scarring, and disfigurement

• Wrongful death, if a loved one tragically lost their life due to a negligent driver

 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?

Liability in a pedestrian accident can extend beyond just the driver. Responsible parties may include:

• Negligent drivers, who fail to obey traffic laws and yield to pedestrians

• Government entities, if poor road design, broken traffic signals, or lack of proper signage contributed to the accident

• Commercial vehicle operators, including rideshare, delivery, or trucking companies, if their drivers were responsible

• Property owners, if unsafe conditions on private property contributed to the accident

 

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you have been injured as a pedestrian, you may be eligible for compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical needs

• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity, if your injuries prevent you from working

• Pain and suffering, covering both physical pain and emotional distress

• Long-term disability and home modifications, such as wheelchairs, the installation of ramps, or in-home care

• Punitive damages, in cases of extreme negligence, such as hit-and-run accidents or DUI-related crashes

 

At our personal injury law firm, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured pedestrians and their families. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but we won’t let them undervalue your claim. Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation, collect critical evidence, consult experts, and aggressively negotiate on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve. You don’t have to face this fight alone. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue justice and financial recovery after a pedestrian accident.