California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents often leave victims facing serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and major life changes. If you were hit by a car, truck, rideshare vehicle, or any negligent driver in California, you deserve justice and full compensation for your injuries. At Saeedian Law Group, our pedestrian accident attorneys are always willing and ready to help victims recover medical expenses, lost wages, long-term care costs, and damages for pain and suffering, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal battle.
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Pedestrian Accidents Trends in California
Pedestrian safety remains a major concern in California, with 1,106 pedestrian deaths reported in 2023, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety. Most of these accidents happen on busy city streets, and many occur at night when visibility is low. Large metro areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco continue to see the highest number of pedestrian accident injuries and fatalities because of heavy traffic and crowded intersections.
With risks increasing and accidents often causing severe or fatal injuries, it can be challenging for pedestrian accident victims and families to understand what to do next. California’s laws, car insurance rules, and liability questions can also be confusing if you’re trying to recover compensation. That’s why Saeedian Law Group is here to help. Our California pedestrian accident lawyers guide you through every step, protect your rights, and work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve after a serious pedestrian accident.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in California
Pedestrian accidents in California often happen because of driver negligence or unsafe road conditions. Many of these crashes are preventable and occur in busy cities, near intersections, or in areas with heavy foot traffic. Some of the most common causes include:
Distracted Driving
Drivers who text, eat, or look at GPS devices while driving often fail to see pedestrians crossing the road. This split-second distraction can lead to severe or fatal injuries in vehicle versus pedestrian accidents. Our pedestrian accident lawyers help gather phone records, surveillance footage, and witness statements to prove distraction.
Speeding
When drivers go above the speed limit, they have less time to react to pedestrians. High-speed motor vehicle crashes also cause more serious injuries. If you’re injured by a speeding driver, our California car accident attorneys can help prove the driver’s speed using accident reports and expert analysis.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers don’t stop for pedestrians who have the right-of-way. This often occurs at busy intersections or marked crosswalks, and these cases usually rely on witness statements and traffic camera footage.
Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Alcohol or drug use affects judgment and slows reaction time, increasing the risk of hitting pedestrians. Whether it’s a car crash or motorcycle accident, our pedestrian accident lawyers can help secure DUI test results and police reports to strengthen your pedestrian accident claim.
Poor Visibility or Low-Light Conditions
Low lighting makes it harder for drivers to see people walking near the road or crossing the street. Even so, drivers must adjust their speed and stay alert. Our California pedestrian accident attorneys help show that the driver failed to use proper caution.
Backing-Up Accidents in Parking Lots
Drivers reversing without checking their surroundings can hit pedestrians walking behind their vehicles. These accidents often involve children or older adults. Our experienced lawyers help gather store surveillance videos and eyewitness accounts.
Unsafe Road or Sidewalk Conditions
Broken signals, missing signs, and poorly designed crosswalks can put pedestrians in danger. In these cases, the city or property owner may share responsibility. Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys investigate whether a government entity or business failed to maintain safe conditions, and can help file a claim under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA).
Common Injuries in California Pedestrian Accidents
As noted in the California Driver’s Handbook, pedestrians are considered vulnerable road users because they have little to no protection against moving vehicles. That’s why most pedestrian accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries or even pedestrian deaths. The most common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A strong impact to the head can cause concussions, memory issues, or long-term brain damage. These injuries often require long medical care and ongoing monitoring, which can also affect how long it takes to settle the pedestrian accident claim.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: In traffic accidents, pedestrians often suffer fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis. These severe injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery. Our personal injury attorneys can help collect medical records and expert reports to show the seriousness of the fracture.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Pedestrian injuries from car accidents can damage the spine, leading to chronic pain, nerve problems, or even paralysis. These injuries often change a person’s daily life.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage may not show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening. In such situations, injured pedestrians need immediate medical attention. Our personal injury lawyers can help prove how the accident caused these hidden but serious injuries.
- Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations: Even minor injuries like deep cuts can lead to infection or scarring. They may require stitches or cosmetic treatment. Our California pedestrian accident attorneys make sure these damages are fully included in your claim.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries, such as sprains and strains, can limit mobility for weeks or months. They may also affect your ability to work or perform daily tasks. These injuries are often underestimated, so we help document them carefully.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Many pedestrian injury victims experience anxiety, PTSD, or fear of crossing the street after the accident. These emotional injuries are just as real as physical ones.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in California
Taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to pursue compensation. Here are the most important actions to take:
- Get Medical Care Immediately: Your health comes first, even if you seem to feel fine after the accident. Remember that some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, don’t show symptoms right away. Moreover, medical records also become key evidence for your pedestrian injury claim.
- Call the Police and Make a Report: A police report creates an official record of what happened. This helps establish fault and protects you if the negligent motorist later tries to change their story. Always request a copy of the police report.
- Collect Evidence at the Scene: If you can, take photos of the vehicle, the point of impact, traffic signals, and your injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses. These details make your case much stronger.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone: Insurance adjusters may try to reduce your claim or shift blame onto you. Avoid giving recorded statements without legal help. A lawyer can handle communication to protect your rights and negotiate for fair settlement amount.
- Contact a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: At Saeedian Law Group, our experienced pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the pedestrian, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. We also make sure you pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Early legal help often leads to stronger results
Why You Need a Skilled Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
A pedestrian accident can leave you overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of what to do next. But having an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer by your side makes the process easier and significantly improves your chances of recovering compensation.
Protect Your Rights:
Our attorneys make sure you don’t say or sign anything that could hurt your case. They guide you through every step so your legal rights stay fully protected.
Maximize Compensation:
We know how to calculate the full value of your damages, including future medical costs and lost income. That way, you can pursue the highest compensation possible.
Expert Legal Guidance:
Pedestrian accident laws in California can be complicated, especially when liability is disputed or in wrongful death cases. Our expert accident lawyers explain your options clearly and helps you make the best decisions.
Gather and Preserve Evidence:
An attorney investigates the crash, obtains video footage, contacts witnesses, and secures important records. Strong evidence increases the power of your claim.
Negotiate With Insurance Companies:
Our experienced personal injury lawyers understand how insurers operate and push back against low settlement offers. Their negotiation skills help you avoid being underpaid.
Litigation Support:
If your case needs to go to court, our attorney prepares everything and represents you aggressively.
Peace of Mind:
With a lawyer handling deadlines, paperwork, and communication, you can focus on healing. You also gain reassurance knowing a professional is fighting on your behalf.
Why Choose Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at Saeedian Law Group?
Choosing the right legal team can determine whether or not you win your pedestrian accident case. At Saeedian Law Group, you work with attorneys who understand California pedestrian laws, insurance tactics, and the challenges injured victims face after a serious accident. Our team combines 16+ years of experience in handling pedestrian accident cases with a compassionate, client-focused approach, ensuring you always feel guided, informed, and supported from start to finish.
We have a strong track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for injured pedestrians across California, including complex cases involving severe injuries, disputed liability, or uninsured drivers. Best of it all, you don’t have to worry about upfront legal fees because we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we win your case. With our experience, proven results, and commitment to your recovery, we fight to help you get the compensation you deserve and the peace of mind you need during a difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
With 16+ years of experience, our California pedestrian accident lawyers have provided answers to some of the most common questions people ask about pedestrian accident claims in California.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Pedestrian Hit by a Car in California?
There is no fixed average because every case depends on injuries, medical costs, lost income, and liability. Settlements can range from tens of thousands to several million dollars in severe cases.
Can I Sue Someone for Hitting Me With Their Car as a Pedestrian?
Yes. you can sue a driver if hit by a car if the driver was negligent. But you must prove that the driver’s negligence caused the accident, and you need an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in California to prove liability.
How Much Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost in California?
Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. They only get paid if they win your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Pedestrian Accident?
In California, the statute of limitations for car accidents is two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Wrongful death statute of limitations is also two years from the date of the death. However, claims involving government entities or public employees have much shorter deadlines.
What if the Driver Was Uninsured?
You can still pursue compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if it applies. A lawyer can also help you explore other possible liable parties, such as employers or vehicle owners.
Can I Still Get Compensation if I Partially Caused the Accident?
Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Pedestrian Accident Case?
Most cases settle within a few months to a year, depending on the severity of injuries and how quickly evidence is gathered. Cases with serious injuries or disputed liability may take longer.