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California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian Accident happen without warning. Whether you were walking in a crosswalk, near a parking lot, or just along a quiet sidewalk, a vehicle can strike in seconds. The injuries can be serious or even life-changing. These crashes often cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other painful, costly problems.

Nazaryan Law knows how difficult recovery can be. You may be out of work, facing high medical bills, and unsure how to deal with insurance companies. You do not have to handle this alone. Our experienced California pedestrian accident lawyers help people across the state file strong personal injury claims.

We fight for fair compensation and protect your rights every step of the way. If you were hurt in a vehicle vs. pedestrian accident, we are ready to help you now.

Why You Need a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents are not like other traffic accidents. The injuries are often more severe, and the legal issues can be more complex. Insurance representatives may try to shift blame or offer less than what you deserve. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can step in and protect your rights from day one.

Nazaryan Law understands California pedestrian laws. We help you gather medical records, preserve traffic camera footage, and prove who was truly at fault. With the right legal strategy, you can recover money for medical expenses, missed work, and more. We deal with insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Recent Pedestrian Accident Statistics in California

Recent Pedestrian Accident Statistics in California

California sees some of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country. Here are recent numbers from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

  • 893 pedestrian fatalities occurred in 2018, a 26 % rise from 2014, and over 14,000 pedestrians were injured that year
  • Between 2009 and 2018, nearly 7,500 pedestrians died on California roadways; the highest number of any U.S. state.
  • California’s pedestrian fatality rate is 25 % above the national average, and more pedestrian deaths occur here than in any other state.
  • Nearly 1 in 4 pedestrian fatalities (23 %) were hit-and-run incidents.
  • 25–26 % of pedestrian fatalities occurred during evening peak hours (6 – 11:59 p.m.).
  • 84 % of pedestrian deaths happened in urban areas; 77 % occurred in low-light conditions (darkness).
  • In 2021, the U.S. saw 7,342 pedestrian fatalities, a 13 % increase from 2020, with many tragedies also reflected in California’s rising death toll.
  • The OTS awarded over 30 grants in 2020 dedicated to pedestrian and bicycle safety programs, as part of its $95 million in traffic safety funding.
  • As of 2022, 378 OTS grants were designated statewide for programs including pedestrian and bicycle safety, impaired driving, distracted driving, and more.

What to Do After Being Hit by a Car in California

If you have been struck by a vehicle while walking, what you do in the minutes and hours afterward can affect your safety, your health, and your legal rights. Taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident can make a major difference in your recovery and your ability to file a personal injury claim later on.

1. Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Care

Your health comes first. Even if you do not feel hurt right away, you should still request an ambulance or go to the nearest hospital. Some head injuries, internal injuries, or spinal cord injuries may not show symptoms until later. Getting fast medical treatment creates a record that helps your recovery and supports your insurance claim.

2. Report the Accident to the Police

Make sure the police are called to the scene. They will create an official report, which can help document what happened and who was at fault. This police report often becomes a key piece of evidence in a personal injury lawsuit or insurance negotiation. Be honest and calm when giving your side of the story.

3. Gather Witness Info and Take Photos if You Can

If you are physically able, try to collect names and contact information from any witnesses who saw the crash. Use your phone to take pictures of the scene, including vehicle damage, your injuries, traffic signs, and road conditions. These details can help your pedestrian accident lawyer investigate what happened.

4. Avoid Giving Recorded Statements to Insurance Companies

After an accident, insurance companies may call you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. You should never agree to this without first speaking to a lawyer. These recordings can be used to twist your words and reduce or deny your claim. Politely decline and let them know your lawyer will respond on your behalf.

5. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney

The earlier you speak to a skilled pedestrian accident attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case. A lawyer can help gather medical records, protect your rights, deal with the insurance company, and work to get you the compensation you deserve. At Nazaryan Law, we are ready to help you right away.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

What Compensation Can You Recover?
  • Medical Expenses: Costs for ambulance rides, hospital stays, medical care, physical therapy, and future treatments.
  • Lost Wages: If you missed work due to the crash or cannot return, you may recover lost income or earning ability.
  • Pain and Suffering: This covers physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact on your daily life.
  • Property Damage: If your phone, clothing, or other items were damaged, you may be paid to replace them.
  • Wrongful Death (if a loved one passed away): Surviving family members can seek damages through a wrongful death claim.

California Pedestrian Laws That May Affect Your Case

California has specific laws that protect pedestrians and hold drivers accountable when collisions occur. Under the California Vehicle Code Section 21950(a) (CVC § 21950(a)‑(d)), commonly referred to as the "Failure to Yield to Pedestrians" rule, drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians crossing the street in marked crosswalks and at intersections.

Pedestrians also have responsibilities, such as obeying traffic signals and not stepping into the roadway suddenly or outside a crosswalk where it may be unsafe. Violating these rules can impact your case, especially if the insurance company tries to argue that you were partly at fault.

An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can explain how California pedestrian laws apply to your case and help protect your rights under personal injury law.

Wrongful Death Claims for Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

Wrongful Death Claims for Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

When a pedestrian is killed by a negligent driver, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim in California. These claims allow loved ones to seek justice and compensation for their tragic loss, including damages for funeral costs, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and the loss of financial and emotional support.

California law permits certain family members, such as a spouse, child, or dependent, to file the claim. In fatal pedestrian accident cases, having a knowledgeable injury attorney can make a meaningful difference in the outcome. Nazaryan Law understands the emotional weight of these cases and fight to hold careless drivers accountable.

Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents in California

Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in many California cities, including Los Angeles and San Francisco. These cases are especially difficult because the driver who caused the crash may not be identified right away, or at all.

If this happens, your lawyer may help you pursue compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage, if available. California law requires drivers to stop, render aid, and report the incident. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges under state law.

If you were injured in a hit-and-run, you should still call the police, get medical help, and speak with a pedestrian accident attorney who can explore every possible option to recover damages.

Can I File a Pedestrian Injury Claim If I Was Jaywalking?

Can I File a Pedestrian Injury Claim If I Was Jaywalking?

Even if you were jaywalking at the time of your pedestrian accident, you may still have the right to file a personal injury claim in California. The state follows a comparative fault system, which means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident.

However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility. For example, if a court finds that you were 30% at fault for crossing outside a designated crosswalk, and the driver was 70% at fault for speeding or distracted driving, you may still recover 70% of your total damages.

Insurance companies may try to deny your claim or shift more blame onto you, but working with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help protect your rights and build a strong case under California pedestrian laws.

How Long Do Pedestrian Accident Cases Take to Settle?

The time it takes to settle a pedestrian accident case in California can vary depending on several key factors. If your injuries are minor and the insurance company accepts fault quickly, a settlement may be reached in a few months. However, in more serious cases involving traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or disputed liability, the case may take a year or longer.

The process often includes gathering medical records, calculating medical expenses, negotiating with insurers, and sometimes preparing for trial. Delays can also happen if you're still receiving medical treatment and your long-term needs are unclear.

A skilled personal injury attorney will work efficiently to pursue fair compensation while keeping you informed at every stage of the legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if the driver says I stepped into traffic without warning?

Even if the driver blames you, we can investigate using video, witness statements, and the accident report to challenge their version of events.

What injuries are common in pedestrian accidents?

Victims often suffer from skull fractures, head injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, or spinal cord injuries. Some may also face long-term effects like traumatic brain injuries.

Do I need a lawyer if the driver’s insurance company offers a settlement?

Yes. These early offers are often low. A pedestrian accident lawyer can review the offer and fight for the full value of your claim.

Can I file a claim even if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?

Yes. While not being in a crosswalk may affect your case, it does not prevent you from filing a personal injury claim.

How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident attorney?

At Nazaryan Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact Our California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Contact Our California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Nazaryan Law stands with injured pedestrians across California. Whether you were hit in a marked crosswalk or near a busy Los Angeles intersection, we know how to build strong claims. Our team will gather medical evidence, work with accident experts, and handle all insurance claims on your behalf.

We understand the impact of pedestrian accidents, and we are committed to helping you recover. We take the pressure off you by guiding you through the legal process from start to finish. You do not have to pay anything unless we win your case.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a pedestrian accident, call us today for a free case review. Let our skilled pedestrian accident attorneys help you get justice and the compensation you deserve.

Published by
artin nazaryan
About The Author
Attorney Artin Nazaryan, Esq. is the founder and the principal attorney at Nazaryan Law Car Accident & Injury Lawyers. With extensive experience in personal injury and property damage law, he is dedicated to providing personalized representation and fighting for justice on behalf of individuals facing life-altering challenges. Under his leadership, the firm has earned a BBB Accredited A+ rating, reflecting its commitment to integrity, professionalism, and client satisfaction. At our boutique firm, we combine legal expertise with genuine compassion, ensuring every client feels supported from the initial consultation through the successful resolution of their case.

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This page was written and reviewed in accordance with Nazaryan Law’s Editorial Guidelines, which ensure accuracy, clarity, and trustworthiness in all legal content. The article was authored, edited, and approved by Attorney Artin Nazaryan, Esq., founder and principal attorney at Nazaryan Law Car Accident & Injury Lawyers.

Mr. Nazaryan brings extensive experience in personal injury and property damage law and is committed to delivering personalized representation for clients facing life-altering challenges. Under his leadership, the firm maintains a BBB Accredited A+ rating, reflecting its dedication to integrity, professionalism, and client satisfaction.

At our boutique firm, every article combines legal expertise with compassion, ensuring clients receive reliable information supported by our proven commitment to justice.

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