Pedestrian Accidents
When a vehicle strikes a person on foot, the injuries are often catastrophic. We represent pedestrians and their families against drivers, insurers, and public agencies.
What to do after
- Get medical care right away.
- Report the collision to police and ask for the report number.
- Photograph the crosswalk, signals, lighting, and the vehicle.
- Note any nearby businesses or homes that may have security cameras.
- Call us before speaking with any insurance company.
We help you get the care you need
Many of our clients do not know where to turn after an injury, or how they will pay for treatment. Our team helps connect you with experienced doctors, specialists, and physical therapists, and works with your providers so you can focus on your recovery. Clients can be seen with no upfront costs.
How California law applies
Drivers must yield in crosswalks
California requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
Unsafe road design may matter
Poor lighting, missing signals, or dangerous intersections can make a city or county responsible too. Those claims usually have a six-month deadline.
Comparative fault
Even if you were outside a crosswalk, you may still recover, reduced by any share of fault assigned to you.
Your own insurance can help
If the driver fled or had no insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply even though you were walking.
What you may be able to recover
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Property damage and out-of-pocket costs
Common questions
The driver fled the scene. What can I do?
Report it to police right away. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may cover your injuries, and we can pursue that claim.
I was not in a crosswalk. Do I have a case?
Possibly. Drivers still must use reasonable care. Your recovery may be reduced, but it is not automatically barred.
My loved one was killed while walking. Can our family bring a claim?
Yes. Certain family members can bring a wrongful death claim. Please see our Wrongful Death page or call us.
This page provides general information about California law, not legal advice. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.