California Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Pedestrians Face Rising Injury and Fatality Risks in Crashes

Across the country, pedestrian accident injuries and fatalities have been steadily increasing since 2009, rising by 35.4% by 2017 – and here in California, pedestrians face higher risks than almost anywhere else in the U.S. In 2015, the Golden State led the nation in pedestrian deaths for a second consecutive year, and in 2019, California was one of only six states to report double-digit increases in pedestrian fatalities.

These numbers clearly show that pedestrians in Los Angeles and throughout California face exceptional risks to their safety and wellbeing, and at Wisner Baum, we’re dedicated to holding the right parties accountable when those risks become realities. By representing pedestrians in civil lawsuits, our litigators can seek compensation for victims of negligence and advocate for improved traffic safety standards.

With recognition from international and domestic news sources and a long track record of successful outcomes in truck accident, commercial motor vehicle, motorcycle, and car accident cases, our award-winning attorneys have won over $4 billion in recovery for injury victims. It is our goal to ensure that you and your family have enough resources to account for personal injuries and wrongful death, and with compassion and skill, we can help you navigate the legal process.

Give our team a call at (855) 948-5098 if you’ve been injured or lost a loved one to a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles. We also take cases throughout California and nationwide.

Your Rights as a California Pedestrian

Whether you’re walking down Hollywood Boulevard or enjoying California’s scenic beaches, you have certain fundamental rights as a pedestrian. This is because California law recognizes that pedestrians tend to be more vulnerable than drivers and need protections. While pedestrians do have a duty to obey the law and avoid disrupting traffic, drivers also have a “duty of care” to drive in a reasonably safe manner.

Key pedestrian rights you should keep in mind:

• You have the right of way when using a marked or unmarked crosswalk (provided that you are using reasonable care when doing so)
• You have the right to not be struck by a dangerous, impaired, or distracted driver who is breaking traffic safety laws.
• You always have the right to use a sidewalk unimpeded, and vehicles who cross your path must cede you the right of way without exception.
• You have the right to file a lawsuit if a vehicle driver, bicyclist, motorcyclist, or another pedestrian causes you to become injured because of their negligence or traffic violations.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Your Injuries

It goes without saying that pedestrians involved in motor vehicle crashes are often the ones left with the most debilitating and life-altering injuries. From amputations to broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, you could be facing a lifetime of expenses and pain after your accident. Of course, it isn’t always easy to tell when a driver has been negligent – and when you are entitled to bring a lawsuit against them.

In general, there are four areas where liability may fall in pedestrian accidents:

1. The pedestrian. If you are acting in an unsafe manner – for example, by walking while intoxicated or jaywalking – then you may also be considered negligent. However, under the rule of comparative negligence, pedestrians may still have the right to bring a lawsuit even if they were partially responsible for the crash.
2. Another party (such as a driver, motorcyclist, or biker). Any other motorist or pedestrian who acts without regard for your safety can be held accountable when you become injured. Some common reasons to file a lawsuit against a driver include reckless driving, drunk driving, hit-and-run, and disobeying traffic safety rules.
3. A property owner. Under premises liability laws, property owners have the responsibility to maintain their property for invited guests, and that includes the walkways and areas leading up to a building. If you trip and fall because of a hazardous condition on someone else’s properties, you could have a premises liability claim.
4. Local or city government. Finally, the government has a responsibility to maintain public areas that are available to pedestrians and make them reasonably safe. Poorly-advertised curbs, missing safety signs, and other lapses can make them accountable for injuries.

Do you have questions about your rights as an injured pedestrian? Contact Wisner Baum, online or at (855) 948-5098 to schedule a free consultation in Los Angeles or beyond.