Getting hit by a car as a pedestrian in California is a serious personal injury case, and California law is generally very protective of pedestrians. If you or someone you know was injured this way, here’s a full breakdown of what to expect and how to build a strong case:
🚶♂️🚗 Pedestrian Accidents in California – Who’s at Fault?
In most cases, the driver is at fault — especially if the pedestrian was in a:
- Crosswalk (marked or unmarked)
- Intersection with a walk signal
- Area with pedestrian right-of-way
California uses pure comparative negligence, so even if the pedestrian is partly at fault, they can still recover damages — reduced by their percentage of fault.
💼 What a Pedestrian Can Sue For
If you were hit, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., transportation, medications)
- Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)
🧾 Key Evidence to Support a Pedestrian Injury Claim
- Police report
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos of the scene and injuries
- Medical records
- Driver’s phone records (to show distracted driving)
- Skid marks or vehicle damage
🚑 Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head trauma / TBI
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Road rash, cuts, and bruises
- Long-term disability or psychological trauma
These injuries often involve long recoveries, so future medical costs and rehab must be factored into any settlement or lawsuit.
👨⚖️ Why You Should Speak to a Lawyer
Pedestrian cases often involve serious injuries and complex liability issues, especially if:
- The driver is blaming the pedestrian
- There’s no insurance or a hit-and-run
- You need help calculating fair compensation
- The insurance company is downplaying your claim
A good California personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident
- Handle the insurance company
- Work with medical experts to calculate long-term costs
- Fight for maximum compensation
Law Offices of James R. Dickinson – 909-848-8448
How To Schedule A Consultation:
Please call us at 909-848-8448 to schedule a free consultation/case evaluation or complete the form immediately below. [Please note certain formalities must be completed to retain the Law Offices of James R. Dickinson, such as the signing of a legal fee agreement [see “Disclaimers”]].