Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Northern California

Fighting for Pedestrian Accident Victims in California

The Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley represents victims of pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident and are struggling to pay your medical bills, get in touch with a pedestrian accident attorney in Northern California to schedule a free evaluation of your case. Our team is prepared to investigate the cause of your accident in order to determine liability.

Drivers have a duty of care that they must observe at all times. This includes driving in a safe and conscientious manner that doesn’t endanger other people or their property. Unfortunately, many drivers choose to ignore this duty and end up driving in a careless and dangerous way that ends up hurting someone.

Schedule a consultation by submitting your information, or call (530) 413-0245 to speak with our pedestrian accident attorney in Northern California today!

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Northern California

A pedestrian accident occurs when a pedestrian, someone traveling on foot, is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle. These accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma or even fatalities.

Common causes of pedestrian accidents involving motor vehicles include:

Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones, navigation systems, passengers, or other factors may not notice pedestrians crossing the road.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the time a driver has to react to pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents and the severity of injuries.
Failure to Yield: Drivers may fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, or when making turns.
Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications can impair a driver's ability to react in time to avoid a pedestrian or to drive safely in general.
Poor Visibility: Low light conditions, bad weather, or obstructed views due to objects like parked cars or vegetation can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
Disregarding Traffic Signals: Pedestrian accidents can occur when drivers run red lights or stop signs, endangering pedestrians who have the right-of-way.
Backing Up: Drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces may not see pedestrians walking behind their vehicle.
Reckless Driving: Aggressive or reckless driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic or ignoring traffic laws, increase the risk of accidents involving pedestrians.

Typical Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents & Legal Support

These injuries may include:

Spina cord injury
Brain injury
Fractured legs & arms
Scalp lacerations, contusions and abrasions
Torn and sprained ligaments
Contusions, abrasions and lacerations of face and hands

Who is Liable?

The most common scenario is when a motor vehicle driver is at fault for the accident. This could be due to speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield to pedestrians, driving under the influence, or other negligent behaviors.

In some cases, however, pedestrians may also share liability for an accident if their actions contributed to the collision. For example, if a pedestrian jaywalks or crosses against a traffic signal and gets hit by a vehicle, they may be found partially at fault.

California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that liability can be apportioned between the parties involved based on their degree of fault. This means that even if a pedestrian shares some responsibility for the accident, they may still be able to recover damages, although the amount they receive may be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents can be complex and often requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Individuals involved in such accidents should seek legal guidance from an experienced personal injury attorney to understand their rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Legal Recourse for Families After Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians who are injured due to a driver's negligence have a legal right to pursue compensation for costs related to their accident. However, if the victim dies from their injuries, their family may have a right to seek compensation by filing a wrongful death lawsuit.

Compensation Types in Wrongful Death Cases:

Loss of companionship and support
Loss of consortium, loss of financial support
Loss of household services, medical bills
Pain and suffering prior to death
Funeral and burial expenses

While no amount of money can ever undo the damage that has been done to your family, it can ease some of your financial burdens and make it easier to move forward from this traumatic experience.

Proven Success in Pedestrian Accident Claims

The Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley is focused on providing clients with exceptional customer service. We have handled nearly every type of personal injury case, including countless pedestrian accident cases, and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation.

Because we understand that accidents can happen at any time, day or night, we are available 24/7 to answer your call and offer you immediate help. Wondering if you can afford a pedestrian accident lawyer in Northern California? At our firm, you will never be charged an attorney fee unless a recovery is obtained on your behalf. There is absolutely no risk to you in calling our firm to see how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take After a Pedestrian Accident?

Your health and safety are the top priorities in the immediate aftermath of a pedestrian accident. First, seek immediate medical attention for any injuries. Delaying treatment could worsen your condition and impact your ability to claim compensation later. Next, the accident must be reported to law enforcement to ensure a formal report is filed. This official documentation will be crucial for any legal or insurance claims. If possible, gather contact information from witnesses and take photos of the scene. Finally, contact Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley without delay. We can help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure you receive the support you're entitled to.

How Can I Prove Fault in a Pedestrian Accident Case?

Proving fault in a pedestrian accident case involves presenting comprehensive evidence. This includes witness statements, traffic camera footage, and the police report. Our team will meticulously analyze these elements to establish liability. Additionally, we will seek expert testimonies if necessary to reinforce the case. Engaging a skilled attorney is crucial, as they can identify the most effective strategies to build your claim. At Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we focus on gathering robust evidence and maintaining open communication with law enforcement and witnesses to bolster your case.

Are There Time Limits for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in California?

Yes, in California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. However, certain factors can alter this timeline. For instance, if the accident involves a government entity, the deadline might be significantly shorter, sometimes as little as six months. Missing these crucial deadlines can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. Therefore, it's vital to consult with a qualified attorney promptly. At Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we ensure all procedural requirements and deadlines are met, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal details.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Northern California Today

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Northern California, it’s critical to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Pedestrian accidents could result in devastating injuries and long-term consequences, leaving victims facing mounting medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma. At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we understand the challenges that follow a serious accident, and we are dedicated to standing by your side every step of the way.

We will listen to your story, illustrate your legal options, and help you make informed decisions about your next steps. Let us manage the legal complexities while you focus on healing and moving forward with your life.