Understanding Pedestrian Accident Claims
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable individuals on the road. When struck by a vehicle, they can suffer severe or life-threatening injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries. Negligent drivers who fail to yield, speed, or drive distracted put pedestrians at significant risk.
At Highway Law Group, we are dedicated to representing pedestrian accident victims, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Get The Compensation You Deserve
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often occur due to driver negligence or unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving – Drivers texting, using a phone, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems.
- Failure to Yield – Drivers failing to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections.
- Speeding & Reckless Driving – Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases injury severity.
- Driving Under the Influence – Impaired drivers have slower reflexes and poor judgment.
- Poor Visibility – Accidents occurring at night or in poorly lit areas due to lack of street lighting.
- Traffic Violations – Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, or failing to signal turns.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may have the right to pursue legal action against the responsible party.
Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accident victims often require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation. Compensation may cover:
- Medical Expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings – Financial recovery for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for emotional distress, PTSD, and diminished quality of life.
- Permanent Disability – Financial support for long-term care, mobility assistance, and necessary accommodations.
- Property Damage – Reimbursement for personal items damaged in the accident, such as phones or clothing.
Highway Law Group aggressively fights to maximize compensation for pedestrian accident victims to help them rebuild their lives.
Pedestrian Accident FAQ
When should I contact a personal injury attorney after an accident?
If you've suffered an injury due to someone else's negligence, it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you receive legal advice, the greater your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
After an accident, it can be difficult to assess the full impact of your injuries and the associated costs. An experienced attorney will help you gather key evidence, such as medical reports, witness statements, and police records, ensuring your case is well-founded. Additionally, there are legal deadlines for filing a lawsuit in California. Generally, you have two years from the date of injury to file your case, but certain circumstances may reduce this time. Don't wait too long to seek legal help.
How do I know if I have a valid personal injury case?
For a personal injury case to be valid, it is necessary to prove that another party acted negligently and that this negligence directly caused your injury. In legal terms, this involves proving three key elements:
- Duty of care: The responsible party had a duty to act with caution.
- Breach of duty: He failed to fulfill his obligation, whether by action or omission.
- Direct Damage: Negligence caused your injuries and economic losses.
Examples of negligence include distracted drivers, business owners who fail to maintain safe premises, or employers who fail to comply with safety regulations. If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies, an attorney can evaluate your case and provide guidance.
What type of compensation can I receive for my personal injury case?
Compensation in a personal injury case varies depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the accident. Generally, it may include:
- Medical expenses: Hospitalization costs, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost income: Lost wages due to inability to work.
- Emotional damage: Stress, anxiety and psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence, the court may award additional compensation to punish the responsible party.
An attorney will calculate the true value of your case and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
What should I do if the insurer offers me a quick settlement?
It's common for insurance companies to try to settle cases quickly by offering low settlements. While it may seem like a quick fix, accepting without consulting an attorney could result in you receiving less than you deserve.
Before accepting any offer, consider:
- If the amount covers your medical expenses and possible future treatments.
- If you have properly calculated loss of income and other damages.
- If you know the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your quality of life,
a personal injury attorney will review the offer and negotiate a settlement that reflects your true damages.
What if I can't afford a personal injury lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys, including Ashley Aframian, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees and are only paid if your case is won.
Legal costs are deducted from the compensation obtained, ensuring that anyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access legal representation. This model allows you to focus on your recovery without the financial pressure of paying upfront fees.
If you have questions about the costs of your case, schedule a free consultation to learn about your options.