Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Pacific Coast Injury Law Center | 853 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 201, Long Beach, CA 90813 | Call 833-30-LA-LAW

Being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian is a traumatic event that can turn your life upside down—physically, emotionally, and financially. If you’ve been hit while walking the streets of Los Angeles, you may be dealing with overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about what comes next.

That’s where a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer comes in. At Pacific Coast Injury Law Center, our experienced legal team is here to help you regain control, protect your rights, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Your recovery starts with a free consultation—no cost, no pressure.

Navigating the Complexities of Pedestrian Injury Claims

Unlike standard vehicle collisions, pedestrian accidents often involve more severe injuries and more complicated legal issues. Insurance disputes, shared liability, and high-cost medical treatments can make the process difficult to manage on your own.

Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers specialize in cases like yours. We know how to investigate thoroughly, build a compelling case, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies trying to downplay your claim.

We help answer key questions like:

• Do I have a valid claim?

• What is my case worth?

• What steps should I take next?

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in LA

Taking the right actions immediately after your accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case:

1. Seek medical attention – Get evaluated, even if you feel fine. Some injuries take time to show.

2. Call the police and file a report – Official documentation supports your claim.

3. Gather evidence – Take photos, collect witness details, and save your medical and insurance paperwork.

4. Avoid speaking to the driver’s insurance company – They may try to twist your words against you.

5. Contact an attorney – Early legal support can preserve evidence and boost your claim’s value.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles

In a fast-paced city like LA, pedestrian risks are everywhere. Some of the most common accident causes include:

• Distracted driving – Texting, eating, or using GPS behind the wheel.

• Speeding – Less time to brake for crossing pedestrians.

• Poor lighting – Dimly lit crosswalks reduce visibility.

• Failure to yield – Ignoring right-of-way at intersections.

• Left-turn crashes – Drivers turning without checking for pedestrians.

Serious Injuries We Often See in LA Pedestrian Accidents

The human body is no match for a moving vehicle. Victims often suffer:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Memory loss, cognitive issues, and lasting impairment.

• Spinal cord injuries – Possible paralysis and life-altering effects.

• Broken bones and fractures – Often requiring surgery and extended rehab.

• Internal injuries – Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately obvious but can be fatal if untreated.

These injuries come with steep costs—physically, emotionally, and financially. That’s why pursuing fair compensation is so critical.

When a Pedestrian Accident Leads to a Wrongful Death

If your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. These lawsuits can help surviving family members recover:

• Funeral and burial costs

• Medical bills incurred before death

• Lost income and financial support

• Emotional suffering and loss of companionship

Wrongful death claims also hold negligent parties—whether a reckless driver, a rideshare company, or even a municipality—legally accountable.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

In pedestrian accidents, responsibility isn’t always cut and dry. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Drivers – Most commonly at fault due to speeding or distracted driving.

• Rideshare companies – If the driver was working for Uber or Lyft at the time.

• Municipalities – Poor road maintenance or malfunctioning signals.

• Vehicle owners – If they lent the car to someone unqualified or irresponsible.

Our legal team investigates every angle, ensuring no liable party is overlooked.

How We Prove Fault in Your Case

We build strong cases with solid evidence, including:

• Traffic and surveillance footage

• Police reports and citations

• Expert accident reconstruction

• Medical records and expert opinions

• Witness statements

Our goal is to tell a complete, compelling story that proves liability and secures maximum compensation.

How Insurance Affects Your Claim

Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, not your well-being. Here’s how policies typically play out:

• Driver’s liability insurance – Primary source of compensation.

• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage – May apply if the driver is uninsured or flees the scene.

• Health insurance – Can cover initial treatment but may seek reimbursement later.

Our team knows how to negotiate with insurers and maximize your recovery.

What Damages Can You Recover?

Under California law, pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to:

• Economic damages – Medical expenses, lost wages, and future care.

• Non-economic damages – Pain, suffering, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life.

• Punitive damages – In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm.

We’ll calculate both current and future losses to ensure you get the compensation you truly deserve.

Timeline for Claims and Compensation

Most claims are resolved within 3 to 12 months, depending on:

• Injury severity and medical treatment timeline

• Willingness of insurers to negotiate

• Quality of available evidence

Filing a lawsuit can sometimes speed things up—or it may take longer if trial is necessary. Either way, we’re prepared to fight for your best outcome.

Know Your Rights Under California Law

California gives pedestrians strong legal protections. Under Vehicle Code § 21950, drivers must yield at marked and unmarked crosswalks. As of 2023, the Freedom to Walk Act (AB 2147) also decriminalizes safe jaywalking—but comparative fault laws still apply if the pedestrian acted recklessly.

Statute of Limitations: Don’t Miss Your Window

You typically have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Exceptions include:

• Minors – Time doesn’t start until they turn 18.

• Government liability – Claims must be filed within 6 months.

Acting early protects your rights and preserves critical evidence.

Why Choose Pacific Coast Injury Law Center?

Our Long Beach-based legal team offers:

✅ Personalized service from real attorneys
✅ Free consultations with no obligation
✅ No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win
✅ Deep knowledge of LA’s roads, courts, and insurance tactics

With decades of combined experience, our pedestrian accident attorneys fight tirelessly for injury victims across Southern California.

Start Your Recovery Today

Don’t let insurance companies dictate your future. If you’ve been injured walking in Los Angeles, contact Pacific Coast Injury Law Center today. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you take the first step toward justice.

📍 Visit us: 853 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 201, Long Beach, CA 90813
📞 Call now: 833-30-LA-LAW
📩 Schedule a free case review today!