Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Author: Josh Kohanim
Founding Attorney
Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
Published date: June 3, 2025
Home / Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer at Wise Law Firm advocates for pedestrian accident victims across Southern California. Our skilled pedestrian accident attorneys handle a wide range of pedestrian collisions, from minor to catastrophic injuries. These traffic accidents often lead to overwhelming medical bills and financial stress for those involved. We fight for fair compensation if a negligent driver caused you harm and disrupted your daily life.

Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Represents Injured Pedestrians

Pedestrian accidents occur daily in bustling areas and often leave injured pedestrians with life-changing conditions. Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer thoroughly investigates the scene, reviews official documents, and ensures you receive proper medical attention. We gather details like witness contact info and cell phone records to explore all possibilities. Our team consults medical professionals to prove the severity of your injuries and demonstrate the need for compensation.

Insurance companies often try to limit payouts, but our personal injury lawyer is prepared to counter low offers. Whether you suffered serious fractures, a brain injury, or chronic back problems, we aim to secure the medical treatment you need. We can file a personal injury claim or pursue a full personal injury lawsuit if negotiations fail. Our firm seeks monetary damages that cover medical care, lost wages, and the emotional aftermath of your ordeal.

Common Scenarios Leading to Pedestrian Injuries

Common Scenarios Leading to Pedestrian Injuries

Pedestrians face many types of accidents when vehicles fail to follow traffic laws or pay attention. Some common scenarios that contribute to pedestrian accidents include:

Crosswalk Accidents

Crosswalk accidents often happen in both marked crosswalks and Unmarked crosswalks, especially in high-traffic zones. Many drivers fail to yield even when pedestrians have the right of way, leading to serious collisions. Such crashes can result in brain injury or other common injuries that disrupt everyday life. Our firm holds the at-fault party accountable by demonstrating how the driver ignored pedestrian safety rules.

Distracted Drivers

Distracted drivers often rely on cell phones or other gadgets, which takes their eyes off the road. This kind of behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents involving people on foot. When a driver fails to spot a person in time, the results can be devastating. Pedestrian accident lawyers investigate phone records, surveillance footage, and other evidence to prove the driver’s negligence. If the responsible party is guilty of distracted driving, we can pursue compensation on your behalf.

Drunk Drivers

Drunk driving remains a major cause of fatal accident data across the country. Drivers under the influence have poor judgment, slower reactions, and limited awareness. They may swerve into crosswalks or fail to see pedestrians at all. In these cases, we often seek punitive damages if the driver’s behavior was especially reckless.

Lack of Visibility

Poor weather, darkness, and obstructed roadways can all reduce a driver’s ability to spot people on foot. Pedestrian deaths often occur at night when drivers do not slow down or use extra caution. Aggressive drivers who speed through unlit areas create additional dangers and could trigger wrongful death claims. Our personal injury attorney evaluates these factors to show how lighting and driver conduct contributed to the crash.

Parking Lot and Intersection Collisions

Parking lot and intersection crashes happen when drivers fail to watch for pedestrians crossing or walking behind vehicles. These collisions can cause severe harm, including injuries in pedestrian accidents that require extensive medical care. Drivers might roll through stop signs or ignore traffic signals, striking people as they lawfully cross. A single oversight can lead to permanent disability and steep hospital bills for victims.

Injuries Pedestrians Commonly Suffer in Collisions

  • Broken Bones. Fractures in arms, legs, or ribs often require weeks in a cast. They can limit mobility for an extended period.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries. A sudden impact to the head can cause brain damage that disrupts memory or motor skills. Early intervention may prevent further complications.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries. These can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may need lifelong therapy and assisted devices.
  • Soft Tissue Damage. Torn ligaments or muscle strains can cause significant pain. Recovery may require physical therapy and rest.
  • Internal Bleeding. Hidden injuries can worsen if not identified quickly. Prompt medical care can save your life.
  • Severe Lacerations. Deep cuts risk infection and permanent scarring. They often need stitches or surgical intervention.
  • Emotional Distress. Ongoing anxiety or depression can develop after a terrifying collision. Mental health counseling can be a vital part of recovery.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in LA

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in LA
  1. Check for Injuries. Make sure you and anyone else involved are safe. If necessary, call an ambulance for urgent medical care.
  2. Contact Authorities. Dial 911 so police officers can file official accident reports. These documents help establish facts later.
  3. Gather Information. Collect the driver’s details, witness contact info, and license plate numbers. This data supports your pedestrian accident claim.
  4. Document the Scene. Snap photos of skid marks, damage to surrounding objects, and your injuries. These images can confirm how events unfolded.
  5. Seek Medical Treatment. Prompt exams catch hidden problems, like internal bleeding or mild concussions. Keep all records to track your recovery costs.
  6. Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone. They may pressure you into settling quickly for less than you deserve. Wait until you have proper legal representation.
  7. Consult a Lawyer. A pedestrian accident attorney can guide you through the legal process. This step ensures you protect your rights from the start.

Liability in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents involves proving which party broke traffic rules or drove carelessly. Fault can shift depending on a pedestrian’s actions or a driver’s breach of duty.

Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault?

Yes, a pedestrian may share blame if they suddenly dart into the street or disregard traffic signals. Under comparative negligence rules in California, multiple parties can share fault for an accident. The pedestrian’s own actions might reduce the amount of compensation for damages they can recover. However, a negligent driver still bears responsibility if they contributed significantly to the crash.

How Right-of-Way Laws Impact Your Claim

California Vehicle Code Section 21950 states drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Violating this rule can make the driver the primary fault driver if a collision occurs. Unmarked crosswalks also grant pedestrians certain rights, though disputes can arise about who had priority. Your legal counsel will show how these regulations place a duty of care on drivers to protect people crossing.

Proving Negligence in a Pedestrian Injury Lawsuit

Proving Negligence in a Pedestrian Injury Lawsuit

Proving negligence requires showing the driver owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries. In a pedestrian accident lawsuit, you also must link your harm directly to the driver’s actions or lack thereof. We hold parties accountable by gathering solid evidence, like official documents and eyewitness statements, to demonstrate fault.

If the incident led to a fatal accident, the victim’s family might pursue wrongful death damages. Injured pedestrians may also recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Our approach involves establishing a clear breach of duty to give you the best chance at a fair outcome.

Damages Available in a Pedestrian Injury Claim

  • Medical Expenses. These cover hospital bills, surgeries, and ongoing treatments you need to recover. Insurers may debate the total cost, but detailed records help bolster your case.
  • Lost Wages. If your injuries force you to miss work, you can claim the income you would have earned. This category also includes future earning potential if you can’t return to the same job.
  • Pain and Suffering. Emotional distress or lasting psychological harm fall under this area. The law recognizes that intangible harm deserves compensation, too.
  • Loss of Consortium. This refers to the impact on your relationship with a spouse or partner. Courts may award damages if the accident harmed your marriage or family bond.
  • Property Damage. Personal belongings like cell phones or other valuables may be broken during the accident. You can request reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.

How Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorney Maximizes the Value of Your Claim

How Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorney Maximizes the Value of Your Claim
  • Strategic Investigation. We collect official documents, video footage, and witness statements. This thorough approach often reveals overlooked details that boost your claim.
  • Negotiation With Insurers. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation before a lawsuit becomes necessary. We stand firm against attempts to minimize your losses.
  • Expert Resources. We work with medical experts, reconstruction specialists, and financial analysts. Their insights help calculate the full scope of your medical care and other losses.
  • Trial-Ready Tactics. If a fair settlement proves impossible, we are prepared to argue your case in court. This readiness often encourages a better offer.
  • Compassionate Support. We understand the aftermath of these collisions and keep you updated each step of the way. Our firm fights for the financial compensation you need to move forward.

FAQs

What should I do if I was hit while crossing the street?

Focus on your safety first by moving to a secure area if possible. Then, call emergency services and gather evidence, such as photos and witness names.

Can I file a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?

Yes, you can still file a claim under California law, though your actions may affect the case outcome. Our team will determine if the driver breached their duty of care.

What if the driver fled the scene?

You can still pursue a case if you identify the at-fault driver later. Uninsured motorist coverage might also provide relief.

How do I prove fault in a pedestrian accident?

Evidence like photos, accident reports, and witness statements can show who caused the crash. A legal advocate will piece these together to demonstrate negligence.

How long do I have to take legal action?

California’s statute of limitations usually gives you two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Missing the deadline often means losing your right to compensation.

Speak to Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Speak to Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Wise Law Firm strives to help pedestrian accident victims rebuild their lives after devastating collisions. Our experienced pedestrian accident lawyer offers dedicated guidance from start to finish. We aim to simplify the legal process so you can focus on healing and regaining control. Call today for a free consultation, and let us help you seek the outcome you deserve.

Published by
josh kohanim
About The Author
Josh Kohanim, Esq., is the founder and managing attorney of Wise Law. He has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals who have suffered catastrophic personal injuries. With over a decade of extensive experience in personal injury law, including six years at a prestigious California injury law firm, Josh was mentored by some of the state’s leading trial lawyers. He has successfully represented clients in a wide array of cases, ranging from catastrophic motor vehicle accidents to intricate injuries resulting from toxic chemical exposure.

Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers. (2025, May 15). What to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles: A Quick Legal Guide. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.wiseinjuryfirm.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-los-angeles.

This guide provides essential steps for car accident victims in Los Angeles, including immediate actions to take, how to document the scene, and when to seek legal help.Los Angeles Police Department. (2024, December 10). LAPD Traffic Collision Reports and Safety Statistics. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.lapdonline.org/traffic/accident-statistics.

This official LAPD resource offers detailed statistics on traffic collisions in Los Angeles and outlines citywide safety initiatives and reporting procedures.California Office of Traffic Safety. (2024, October 18). City of Los Angeles Traffic Safety Rankings and Reports. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.ots.ca.gov/rankings/los-angeles-2024
This page outlines how Los Angeles ranks among other California cities in terms of crashes, injuries, DUI incidents, and pedestrian safety.
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This DMV resource explains when and how to report a car accident in California, including legal requirements for filing SR-1 forms and working with insurance providers.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2023, July 20). Driving Safely in Urban Areas: Los Angeles Focus. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.nhtsa.gov/los-angeles-driving-safety
The NHTSA offers urban driving safety tips and accident prevention strategies tailored to high-traffic cities like Los Angeles.

This page was written, edited, and reviewed & approved by Josh Kohanim. Josh has secured some of the largest verdicts in Los Angeles, including $6.3 million, $1.25 million, and $1 million. His approach is client-centered, focusing on providing personalized legal strategies that meet the unique needs of each client. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.
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