Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles: What Every Injured Walker Should Know
Los Angeles is one of the busiest cities in the country, and while it’s known for cars, pedestrians make up a large share of its daily commuters and residents. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are on the rise, leaving victims with serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and complicated legal challenges.
At Forward Law Group, our attorneys have helped countless pedestrians pursue justice after being struck by negligent drivers. If you’ve been injured, understanding your rights and options is the first step in protecting your future.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Are Rising in California
California consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of pedestrian fatalities. In Los Angeles, the situation is especially alarming due to:
- High traffic congestion
- Distracted driving from phones and devices
- Limited pedestrian infrastructure in some neighborhoods
- High-speed driving on urban streets
The city has launched initiatives like Vision Zero to reduce traffic deaths, but accidents continue to occur at dangerous rates. For injured pedestrians, this makes knowing your rights — and acting quickly — even more important.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen in many ways, but some patterns stand out:
- Distracted driving: Drivers texting or using apps while behind the wheel.
- Failure to yield: Ignoring crosswalks or pedestrian right-of-way.
- Speeding: Higher speeds increase both the likelihood of an accident and the severity of injuries.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug use slows reaction times.
- Parking lot collisions: Cars pulling out without checking for people walking behind them.
Some of these cases overlap with our work in Vehicle Accident Claims, since many pedestrian injuries are directly tied to reckless drivers.
Injuries Pedestrians Commonly Suffer
Unlike drivers who have the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians have no barrier against impact. As a result, injuries are often severe, including:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal bleeding
- Long-term mobility issues
In the most tragic situations, pedestrian accidents lead to fatalities. Families facing this devastating loss can turn to our Wrongful Death Lawyers for compassionate support and aggressive legal representation.
The Role of Comparative Negligence in Pedestrian Cases
California follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if a pedestrian is found partially at fault — for example, crossing outside a crosswalk — they may still recover damages. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.
Insurance companies often use this law against victims, claiming they were distracted or jaywalking. Having legal representation from a team experienced in Premises Liability and Injury Claims helps ensure your side of the story is presented clearly and fairly.
Why Hiring a Lawyer Immediately Matters
Time is critical after a pedestrian accident. Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness testimony, and accident scene details can disappear quickly. An attorney will:
- Investigate the scene to preserve critical evidence.
- Coordinate medical care to ensure injuries are properly documented.
- Handle communication with insurers, who may try to pressure you into low settlements.
- Calculate full damages — not just current medical bills, but also lost income and future care needs.
At Forward Law Group, our attorneys have handled a wide range of cases — from Truck Accident Claims that involve commercial vehicles to more straightforward crosswalk collisions. Regardless of the circumstances, we fight to make sure pedestrian victims are not overlooked or undervalued.
Conclusion
Walking through Los Angeles shouldn’t come with the fear of being struck by a negligent driver. Yet with pedestrian accidents on the rise, it’s more important than ever for victims to understand their rights.
If you’ve been injured while walking in Los Angeles, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Forward Law Group today for a free consultation. Whether your case involves a Vehicle Accident, Wrongful Death, or another type of Personal Injury Claim, our team will fight to protect your health, finances, and future.
FAQ: Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles
Q1: What should I do immediately after being hit as a pedestrian?
Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor. Call the police to file an official report, gather witness information, and document the scene if possible.
Q2: Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?
Yes. California’s comparative negligence law allows recovery even if you were partially at fault. Your damages may be reduced, but you can still pursue a claim.
Q3: How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?
The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances may shorten or extend this period, so consulting an attorney quickly is important.
Q4: What damages can I recover after a pedestrian accident?
You may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care costs, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of support.
Q5: Why do I need a lawyer if the driver was clearly at fault?
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by shifting blame or undervaluing damages. An experienced attorney ensures your rights are protected and your compensation reflects the true impact of the accident.
