Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys are skilled, experienced, and passionate advocates for justice. We handle all types of pedestrian accident cases. If you or your loved one was hurt in a pedestrian crash, please do not hesitate to contact us at our Los Angeles law office for a free, fully confidential initial consultation. 

Pedestrian collisions are a Serious Public Safety Hazard in California

While there have been some significant improvements to our region’s pedestrian infrastructure in recent years, there remains a long way to go. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are a serious public health problem. The California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) reports that an average of 1,062 pedestrians are killed in motor vehicle collisions in the state each year. Nearly one-quarter of all pedestrian fatalities reported in California happen in Los Angeles County. Thousands of pedestrians suffer traumatic injuries in our region each year. 

What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Los Angeles

Being struck by a moving vehicle is scary. The aftermath of a crash can be stressful, confusing, and chaotic. Knowing what needs to be done can make a big difference. Here are four steps to take after a serious pedestrian collision in Los Angeles: 

• Ensure the Crash is Reported to the Police: Make sure you notify the police of the collision and that you have information from all parties involved. 

• Get Medical Attention for any Injuries: Keep medical records for your claim and have a doctor evaluate all injuries. 

• Document the Crash (Record What Happened): To bolster your case, take pictures, write down any and all specifics, and get in touch with witnesses after the crash. 
• Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster: For your protection, before speaking with insurance adjusters, consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer. 

Your Guide to Pedestrian Accident Liability in LA

California is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state, including for pedestrian collisions. No driver is automatically at fault for a pedestrian crash. Instead, the specific circumstances of each case—most notably, how and why the pedestrian collision happened—will determine liability.

A negligent party can be held legally responsible for a crash. The Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions explains that negligence is the failure to take the proper care. 

Under California’s comparative negligence rule, if a pedestrian is found partially at fault, he or she can still recover financial compensation through a personal injury claim. However, the settlement or verdict will be reduced proportionally to their degree of fault.

As an example, imagine that you are 25 percent at fault for your pedestrian accident because you crossed against a “no walk” signal. You would bear legal liability for 25 percent of your damages. 

Recovering Full and Fair Compensation as an Injured Pedestrian

In California, injured pedestrians have the right to pursue compensation for both their economic damages and their intangible losses. Following a bad pedestrian crash, you must be able to secure every dollar of financial compensation that is available under the law so that you can support yourself and your family.

Sadly, you cannot trust any insurance company to look out for your best interests. Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys are passionate advocates for injured victims. We help people fight for the absolute maximum financial support, including: 

• Ambulance costs
• Emergency room care
• Hospital bills
• Long-term medical needs
• Loss of income
• Loss of earning power
• Pain and suffering
• Disability
• Disfigurement
• Wrongful death 

Why Hire Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyers After a Bad Crash

Handling the aftermath of a pedestrian wreck is never easy. You are probably feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of what needs to come next. At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we are the law firm you can trust. Our client testimonials and case results demonstrate our success in the field.

We are proactive and ready to go the extra mile to help you maximize your compensation. Along with other things, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers are ready to: 

• Listen to your story and answer your personal injury questions
• Investigate your pedestrian crash—gathering the evidence to prove fault
• Advocate for you in any settlement negotiations with the insurance company
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on securing the best possible results

Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Claims: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian collisions can happen for many different reasons. All pedestrian crashes should be thoroughly investigated to determine exactly what went wrong. Some of the leading reasons why pedestrian wrecks occur in Los Angeles include: 

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is extremely dangerous. Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers are not fully attentive to the road.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions reduces a driver’s ability to stop or maneuver quickly enough to avoid hitting a pedestrian. 
• Failure to Yield Right: Pedestrians are most vulnerable when crossing streets and drivers who fail to observe right-of-way laws at crosswalks and/or intersections. 
• Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in conditions of poor visibility, such as at night, during heavy rain, or in areas inadequately lit. 
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s reaction times, decision-making abilities, and overall driving performance. An intoxicated driver must be held accountable. 

How Do Crosswalk Laws Work in California?

The overwhelming majority of pedestrian collisions in Los Angeles happen in or near crosswalks—either marked or unmarked. Pedestrians must understand the crosswalk laws in our state. Here is an overview: 

• Right of Way at Crosswalks: In California, vehicles must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. However, if there is a “walk/don’t walk” signal, a pedestrian must follow that signal. A pedestrian does not have the right of way when crossing against a signal.  
• Pedestrians Must Exercise Care: While pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, they must also exercise reasonable care for their safety. Among other things, this includes not suddenly leaving a curb or other place of safety and walking or running into the path of a vehicle that is close enough to pose an immediate hazard.

It should be noted that when there are no traffic signals in place, all intersections in California are presumed to be crosswalks. A pedestrian has the right of way to cross at these intersections. Motorists should safely yield to pedestrians. 

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Pedestrian Accident?

Two years. With limited exceptions, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident injury claim in California is two years from the date of the crash. There are only very few exceptions to the rule. Do not fall behind in the claims process: Consult with a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible after a bad collision. 

The Insurance Adjuster Wants a Statement—What Should I Do?

Speak to an attorney first. Insurance companies are not on your side. It is advisable to consult with an experienced Los Angeles pedestrian crash lawyer before consulting with an insurance adjuster. Your lawyer will ensure that your rights and interests are protected. 

Should I Accept a Settlement in My Pedestrian Accident Injury Claim?

It depends. Many pedestrian accident injury claims are settled. With that being said, you should not agree to a settlement until you are confident that you are receiving the maximum available financial compensation. A Los Angeles pedestrian lawyer can help. 

We Represent Pedestrians in Los Angeles On a Contingency Fee Basis

The Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers represent injured victims on a contingency fee basis. We do not charge upfront fees or hourly bills. Instead, our attorneys only get paid when you get paid. There are no upfront costs for our hourly bills. Your initial consultation with our Los Angeles pedestrian collision attorney is always free of charge. 

Hurt in a Pedestrian Crash in Los Angeles? We Can Help 

At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney goes above and beyond to protect the rights and interests of victims. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a pedestrian collision, we are more than ready to help.

Call our firm today at (213) 985-1120 or fill out our free initial consultation form to experience our 50 years of combined expertise, 99% success rate, and unwavering commitment, passion, and justice.”