Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Pedestrian Accidents in California

When a person on foot is struck by a large, heavy, fast-moving motor vehicle, the consequences are catastrophic. Pedestrians often sustain severe, life-altering injuries when they are hit by cars, motorcycles, and trucks. All too often, these accidents are ultimately fatal, with pedestrian victims succumbing to their injuries.

If you were injured or if your loved one was killed after being hit by a motorist, turn to the team at Bral & Associates. Since 1997, our firm has been representing clients throughout Los Angeles County and all of Southern California. We have successfully handled more than 5,000 cases and recovered more than $10 million for our clients—we have what it takes to effectively and aggressively advocate for you.

You deserve justice; we can help. Contact Bral & Associates online or call our office at (855) 951-2215 24/7 to set up a free initial consultation.

Pedestrian-Related Deaths in California on the Rise

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, pedestrian accidents in the state are reaching near-crisis proportions. In 2018 (the latest year for which data is available), nearly 900 pedestrians were killed in pedestrian-vehicle accidents in California, marking a 26% increase in pedestrian traffic fatalities from 2014. The California OTS also notes that almost 7,500 pedestrians in the state of California died in traffic-related accidents between 2009 and 2018. California consistently ranks as one of—if not the most—dangerous states for pedestrians in the nation.

How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?

What causes this alarmingly high rate of pedestrian accidents in California? Generally speaking, most of these accidents can be attributed to negligence. While some accidents happen because a pedestrian was not paying proper attention, a large percentage of these incidents are the result of a motorist’s negligence.

A motorist may have been negligent and, therefore, could be held liable for a victim’s damages when a pedestrian accident is caused by:

• Distracted driving
• Texting or using a cell phone while driving
• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Fatigued driving
• Traffic law violations
• Failure to follow traffic control devices (red lights, stop signs, etc.)
• Failure to check for pedestrians in crosswalks when turning

Cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles are massive vehicles and can cause serious harm to individuals on foot. As such, motorists should always keep a lookout for pedestrians and should always do everything possible (within reason) to avoid striking a person who is crossing the street, walking along the roadway, or standing near traffic. Additionally, pedestrians should exhibit caution and always pay attention to their surroundings when crossing at intersections, in crosswalks, or walking in or near roadways. Pedestrians should avoid being in or near roads where they are not permitted and should wear bright, reflective clothing at night in order to remain visible to motorists.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you were hit by a motor vehicle, chances are you sustained fairly serious injuries. If you have not done so already, it is incredibly important that you seek proper medical attention. If you are at the scene of an accident where a pedestrian has been severely injured, call 911.

In addition to getting proper medical care, there are several important steps to take (if possible) after a pedestrian accident in order to protect your right to seek a fair recovery:

• Get the driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information
• Write down the make, model, and year of the car, as well as the license plate number
• Talk to witnesses at the scene and get their contact information
• Document your injuries and the accident by taking pictures at the scene
• Ask your medical provider for documentation/medical reports
• Follow all of your doctor’s instructions and attend any follow-up appointments
• Refrain from speaking to anyone from the driver’s insurance company
• Do not sign anything or give any written/recorded statements
• Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles for a free consultation

Damages in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accidents tend to result in catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, severe broken bones, and spinal cord injuries, among others. Such injuries require extensive immediate and ongoing medical treatment and can end up costing you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. On top of this, you could be out of work while your injuries heal, making it difficult to stay on top of day-to-day expenses and provide for yourself and your family.

Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers can help you seek compensation for the following damages:

• All medical expenses related to treatment for your injuries
• Costs associated with future medical care and rehabilitation therapy
• Prescription medication costs, as well as costs associated with medical equipment and devices
• Lost income/wages, including future lost earnings as a result of your injuries/disability
• Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and trauma
• Treatment, such as counseling services, for mental health issues stemming from the accident
• Compensation for disfigurement, inconvenience, and reduced quality of life

An attorney at our firm can help you take legal action against the negligent person or party and seek the maximum compensation you are entitled to receive. We understand the many complexities involved in these types of cases—such as establishing liability, reconstructing the accident, and proving the extent of your injuries/damages—and can help you navigate the process from start to finish.

Request Your Free Case Evaluation Today

The first step in your recovery is speaking to an attorney who can help you learn more about your options and begin building your case. At Bral & Associates, we offer free initial consultations with absolutely no pressure or obligation. We can even travel to meet you in the hospital or at your home if your injuries prevent you from coming into our office. We provide our personal injury services on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you. Our attorneys only get paid if and when they win your case.

Contact us at (855) 951-2215 24/7 for a free consultation.