Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in the U.S. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,516 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2020. Additionally, 55,000 pedestrians suffered injuries. These statistics show that many pedestrians are at risk of being injured or killed while out walking, jogging, or running.
If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering what to do next. You may be facing mountain medical bills and lost income from work. You may also be unsure if you have a valid personal injury claim against the driver who hit you or their insurance company. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you recover compensation and get your life back on track.
What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
California is a particularly dangerous place for pedestrians. In 2018, there were 893 pedestrian fatalities, a 26% increase from 2014. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable in cities like Los Angeles, San Jose, San Diego, and San Francisco, where cyclists, and pedestrians are in constant danger of suffering serious injuries. Below are some of the most common causes of California pedestrian accidents:
- Driver’s failure to yield to the right of way
- Lack of attention to traffic and road signs
- Inexperienced drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Speeding
- Drunk drivers
- Hit-and-run accidents
While most pedestrian accidents occur due to driver negligence, a pedestrian crossing outside of a crosswalk may be held partially liable. Pedestrians must respect the rules of the road and not engage in any activities that put them at risk, like jaywalking. While California officially decriminalized jaywalking in 2023, the new law stipulates that pedestrians can still be ticketed for jaywalking if there is “immediate danger of a collision.” If a pedestrian was jaywalking before an accident, he or she may be found at fault. Our California pedestrian accident attorneys can help you determine liability in a pedestrian accident case.
Compensation in Pedestrian Accident Claims
Compensation in a personal injury claim can be complicated. There is no average settlement for an injured pedestrian hit by a car in California, as every case is unique and depends on various factors, such as the severity of the accident and injuries. Below are some of the types of compensation you may be able to recover in a pedestrian accident claim:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
What Is California’s Statute of Limitations?
California gives pedestrian accident victims two years from the date of their accident to file a claim. This means that you have to file your lawsuit within two years or you will lose your right to sue.
However, there are some exceptions and variations to this rule, depending on the type and cause of your injury. For example, if you are suing a government agency, you have to file a claim within six months of the injury. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you stay on top of deadlines so you do not lose out on compensation.
Why You Need a California Pedestrian Accident Attorney
You may think that you can handle your pedestrian accident case on your own or that you don’t need an attorney because the driver’s insurance company has offered you a settlement. However, these are common mistakes that can cost you dearly.
Handling your claim on your own can be overwhelming and stressful. You may not know how to gather evidence, calculate your damages, negotiate with the insurance company, or file a lawsuit. You may also make errors or miss deadlines that can jeopardize your claim.
Accepting a settlement offer from the insurance company without consulting an attorney can be risky and unwise. The insurance company is not on your side and will try to pay you as little as possible. They may also use tactics such as denying liability, blaming you for the accident, minimizing your injuries, or pressuring you to sign a release. A California pedestrian accident attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls and maximize your recovery.
What To Look For in Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
When considering what personal injury attorney to hire, there are several key factors to consider.
Experience
You want an attorney who has handled many pedestrian accident cases similar to yours and knows how to deal with the challenges and complexities involved.
Reputation
Your attorney should have a good reputation in the legal community and among their past clients. You can check their reputation by looking at their online reviews, ratings, testimonials, case results, awards, and law organization memberships.
Communication
As with any profession, communication is key. Your attorney should communicate clearly and regularly with you and keep you informed of the progress of your case. You also want an attorney who listens to your needs and concerns and answers your questions promptly and honestly.
Fees
Most California pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they only get paid if they win your case. In your consultation, make sure your lawyer explains their fee structure upfront.
Rapport
You should feel comfortable and confident in your attorney’s abilities. You also want an attorney who treats you with respect and compassion and understands your situation.
Contact Katella Injury Attorneys in Anaheim, CA
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, our experienced California pedestrian accident lawyers can help. We have helped many clients obtain fair compensation for their injuries. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not pay us anything unless we win your case. Call us today at (714) 395-5514 or fill out our online form to get started.