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Pedestrian Accidents

Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian Accidents in Southern California

An innocent pedestrian can pay a terrible price if a driver is not paying attention. Not only the pedestrian, but also the pedestrian’s family can suffer devastating consequences. A pedestrian hit by a car or truck has little chance of escaping serious injury.

Los Angeles continues to report more pedestrian accidents than almost any other city in California. Urban density, heavy traffic, and popular walkable areas such as Hollywood Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard increase risk for everyone on foot. City programs like Vision Zero aim to reduce injuries, but drivers often ignore speed limits and crosswalk rules. These realities make fast, decisive legal action even more important for accident victims and families.

At McGee Lerer Ogrin, we pursue your case and seek maximum compensation for your injuries as a Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney.

Injured in a pedestrian accident? Contact us now at (310) 231-9717 for a free consultation. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve!

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Victims of a pedestrian accident commonly suffer the following catastrophic injuries:

  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Paraplegia
  • Quadriplegia
  • Neck injuries

Accidents in Los Angeles often cause multiple injuries at once—broken bones and concussions frequently occur together, making recovery longer and costlier. Medical care here can involve urgent trauma centers like Cedars-Sinai or LAC+USC, requiring quick access to records and follow-up providers. Many clients also experience emotional trauma after a collision, sometimes requiring help from local therapists or counselors. With so much at stake, acting quickly to document every injury ensures a smoother claim and more complete compensation.

The insurance company will delay payment and try to settle your case for as little as possible. You need an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who knows the value of your case and won’t settle for less than you deserve.

The Process & Timeline for a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Los Angeles

Pedestrian accident cases in Los Angeles follow a structured process that begins with immediate care and documentation, then transitions to detailed claim evaluation and negotiation. After gathering medical records and incident reports, the next step involves identifying all liable parties, which may include drivers, property owners, or city agencies. California's statute of limitations usually sets a two-year window from the date of the accident for filing a personal injury lawsuit, so every phase must stay on track. Most claims resolve through settlement negotiations with insurance companies, but some cases go to court if the parties cannot agree on fair compensation. The timeline for resolution varies: simple cases may settle within months, but complex scenarios, such as disputes over liability or severe injuries, can extend the process further. Staying organized, responding quickly to information requests, and working with a focused legal team can help keep your claim moving.

Types of Compensation & Factors That Impact Claim Value

Victims of pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles may recover a range of damages depending on their circumstances. Compensation can include immediate medical costs, physical therapy, and future treatment for long-term injuries. Many clients also pursue reimbursement for lost wages if their injuries keep them from returning to work. Severe collisions can support claims for pain, suffering, or emotional distress, reflecting the personal impact of the accident beyond direct expenses. Settlement values depend on several factors: how severe the injuries are, the clarity of liability based on the incident details, and the ability to document losses with clear records. Los Angeles's busy streets and high accident rates sometimes mean higher insurance limits or local resources could play a role. Working with a pedestrian accident lawyer ensures each category of compensation receives thorough evaluation, improving your chances of a complete recovery.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, take immediate steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what to do right after the accident:

  • Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, get checked by a medical professional. Injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately.
  • Call the Authorities: Dial 911 to report the accident. The police document the incident and create an official report, which will be important for your case.
  • Gather Evidence:
    • Take photos of the scene, including the location, any vehicle damage, and your injuries.
    • Collect contact information from the driver, witnesses, and anyone else involved.
  • Get Medical Records: Keep a record of all treatments, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
  • Avoid Admitting Fault: Don’t discuss or admit fault except to the police. Stick to the facts when speaking with others.
  • Contact an Attorney: Having a pedestrian accident lawyer on your side helps you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Documenting every detail in Los Angeles is essential because of the city’s crowded intersections, high pedestrian traffic, and surveillance cameras at many traffic lights. Collecting video evidence and noting street names can make proving your claim easier, especially if an accident happens at a well-known high-risk crossing. Always keep a personal log of events and symptoms in the days after the incident to build a complete record for your case.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles

Pedestrian accidents happen often in Southern California. The most common causes include:

  • Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or using technology in the car distracts drivers, making them less likely to notice pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • Speeding: Speeding increases the severity of accidents and leaves less time for drivers to avoid hitting someone.
  • Failure to Yield at Crosswalks: Many drivers don’t stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks, which violates California traffic laws.
  • Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven sidewalks, and missing signage make walking dangerous and contribute to accidents.
  • Running Red Lights: Drivers who run red lights or ignore stop signs cause many pedestrian accidents at intersections.

Areas with high pedestrian and vehicle activity—such as near Metro stations, sports venues, and the downtown core—carry extra risk. Citywide campaigns aim to reduce these risks, but issues like faded crosswalk paint, inadequate street lighting, and heavy weekend traffic still contribute to accidents. If you suffered an injury at a crossing where similar crashes have happened, you may have additional claim options under municipal policies or oversight rules.

Pedestrian Accident Liability

Determining who is responsible for a pedestrian accident can be complex. The following parties may be held liable:

  • Drivers: If a driver was speeding, distracted, or driving recklessly, they may be liable for the accident.
  • Municipalities: If poorly maintained sidewalks or crosswalks contributed to the accident, the local government or municipality could bear responsibility.
  • Property Owners: Property owners may be responsible if inadequate lighting, signage, or other hazards on their property caused or worsened the accident.

Sometimes more than one party shares fault for a pedestrian collision. A driver and a property owner, for example, might both contribute to unsafe conditions, or a city department might fail to maintain safety. Los Angeles courts apply California’s comparative negligence law, so you may receive compensation even if you share responsibility for the incident. A lawyer familiar with local safety standards and liability codes can strengthen your case.

Understanding who is liable can help you seek the full compensation you deserve for your injuries.

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