Garden Grove Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Garden Grove Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Listen To And Understand Injured Victims
When a pedestrian accident happens, bills, injuries, and legal consequences may follow. Our Garden Grove pedestrian accident lawyers are ready to assist you. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation where you can share your story and learn about your options.
A case review enables our team to examine your accident details and explain your options. From there, we identify who may be responsible and how liability law could apply. Our attorneys assist with communications with insurance companies and present your case in court, if needed. Each step is outlined clearly so you know what to expect.
Attorneys can provide a clear explanation of your rights. They can also answer your questions and guide you throughout the process. This support can provide clarity as you move forward after an injury.
How Garden Grove Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help
If a pedestrian accident leaves you facing injuries and uncertainty, a lawyer can step in to handle the legal side of your case. Their role is to evaluate the situation, outline possible outcomes, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
Here is how a lawyer can assist in your case:
- They explain your rights and legal options in clear, simple terms.
- They identify the strengths and challenges in your case based on its specifics.
- They estimate potential losses or expenses connected to your injuries.
- They use their understanding of local laws to help protect your interests.
Taking the next step may feel overwhelming after an accident. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Garden Grove helps you move forward by preparing you for the steps ahead.
We take cases involving minors very seriously, and they are near and dear to our hearts. As a society we must place the highest value on our children and their safety!– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Hire Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
When an accident occurs, having reliable information and a clear legal path is ideal. Our Garden Grove pedestrian accident lawyers can help your case in these ways:
- Evidence Gathering — Our legal team can gather police reports, photos, witness statements, and videos. They may also consult experts when needed. This evidence helps establish how the accident occurred and identifies the laws that may apply to your claim.
- Dealing With Insurers — Our lawyers will handle communication with insurance companies. They can review your records and build a claim that reflects your losses. They can support it with facts that show how the incident impacts you and your finances.
- Court Preparation — If you and the other party can’t agree on a settlement, our attorneys will prepare your case for court proceedings. They will organize the necessary documents to meet the legal standards.
- Fee Structure — Our lawyers use a contingency fee system. You do not pay attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. However, you may still be responsible for some case-related costs regardless of the result. We explain all fees and expenses at the start so you understand every detail before moving ahead.
- Client Services — You will have access to support throughout your case. Our team is here to address your questions and concerns and keep you informed throughout the progression of your case.
Clear information and steady support matter at every stage. Our injury attorneys can work with you to organize your case and address any concerns.
California Pedestrian Right-of-Way Traffic Laws
In California, the law highlights pedestrian safety. It also outlines when pedestrians have the right of way. Being aware of this rule maintains a safe environment for everyone in a shared space.
Here are the things to keep in mind:
- Use of Crosswalks — Vehicles must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks. This rule applies even if there are no stop signs or traffic lights.
- Intersections Without Crosswalks — Pedestrians maintain the right-of-way at intersections even if there isn’t a marked crosswalk.
- Traffic Lights — Cars may proceed on a green light, but must yield to pedestrians already in the crosswalk.
- Driveways and Alleys — Drivers must yield to pedestrians entering or exiting driveways or alleys that cross sidewalks.
- Special Considerations — Pedestrians using a white cane or accompanied by a guide dog have the right of way. This rule exists to protect individuals who are blind or visually impaired, enabling them to cross streets safely and without unnecessary obstacles.
Pedestrians have rights, but they also have responsibilities to stay safe:
- Awareness — Pedestrians shouldn’t jump off the sidewalk if cars can’t stop quickly.
- Traffic Signals — Follow traffic signals, including “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signs.
- Sidewalks — Use sidewalks when available instead of walking in the street.
- Visibility at Night — To be seen by drivers at night, wear bright or reflective clothing.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Garden Grove use these rules to answer questions and explain your options after an incident. Understanding these guidelines is important because they affect who may be held liable in a personal injury claim.
While pedestrians often have the right of way, they must also stay alert and responsible. Drivers, in turn, are required to watch for those on foot and follow traffic laws to help prevent accidents.
Most Common Questions In Pedestrian Cases
After a pedestrian accident, you may have questions about your rights, the claims, and what steps to take next. We have prepared a list of common questions that address important details about pedestrian accident cases, legal responsibilities, and what to expect during the process. The answers may help you understand your rights and provide clarity as you explore your options.
How Much Does A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me Cost?
Every case we handle is unique, and therefore, it is not possible to provide an exact amount, as the cost of an attorney depends on factors specific to each case. Many pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you do not pay attorney’s fees unless your case results in compensation, though clients may still be responsible for certain related costs. The final amount you pay may vary depending on:
- The Complexity of the Case — Simple cases with clear liability may resolve faster than cases involving multiple parties or disputed facts, which often require more time and resources. These added demands may affect the overall costs associated with your claim.
- The Extent of Damages — Cases with severe injuries or long-term care needs often require more resources and input from experts.
- Whether the Case Settles or Goes to Trial — Taking a case to court often requires more time and higher costs than reaching a settlement.
- Case-Related Expenses — Filing fees, expert testimony, and record retrieval costs can vary.
We will explain these details before you agree to representation, so you understand the arrangement prior to moving forward.
What Should I Do After Receiving A Settlement Offer?
When an insurance company contacts you with a settlement offer after a pedestrian accident, the first step is not to accept it right away.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Settlement Policy — Once you accept and sign the agreement, your claim ends. You might not be able to add future costs even if new medical issues appear.
- Early Offers — Insurance companies may try to make a deal before you know the full extent of your claim. Review the offer once you know the full extent of your treatment and expenses. This way, your medical expenses related to the accident can be part of your claim.
- Legal Assistance — You might think, “I need a personal injury lawyer.” A pedestrian accident attorney in Garden Grove can help you evaluate whether the offer reflects your actual losses.
Before accepting any settlement, take the time to carefully evaluate the terms and consider how they align with your needs and expectations. See to it that you understand the implications of the offer before making a decision.
Can You Seek Damages If The Court Finds There Was Shared Negligence?
Yes, you may still be able to seek compensation even if the court finds you share some blame for a pedestrian accident. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which allows injured individuals to seek damages proportional to the other party’s fault.
Here’s what you need to know about this rule:
- Partial Recovery — You may recover your damages proportionate to the other party. If the court finds you 80% responsible for the accident, you may still pursue 20% of your total damages.
- Fault Evaluation — Investigators review each party’s behavior. They check if the other person violated the traffic rules, such as jaywalking or speeding. The law assigns a percentage of fault to each person involved, depending on the extent to which their actions contributed to the incident.
Our personal injury lawyers can explain your rights so that you will know your options. They may also review the facts of your case and guide you in communicating with insurers.
Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident?
Deadline For Filing A Claim After A Pedestrian Accident In Garden Grove
Consider filing your claim once your health gets better. However, every claim is subject to the statute of limitations, the legal deadline for filing a claim. Once you miss your filing window, you may not be able to pursue damages related to that case.
Here are the different deadlines based on the type of claim:
- Injury Claim — You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim.
- Government Claim — If your claim involves a government entity. You may only have six months to file a notice of claim before filing a lawsuit.
- Property Claim — You have three years to file a claim for damages to your personal property.
There are some special cases where tolling applies, such as:
- If the defendant cannot be found or leaves the state, the clock may pause. The time will only resume once they return or receive a legal notice.
- If you’re a minor when the accident happens, the time will start on your 18th birthday.
- If your injury isn’t clear right away, the time limit starts when you first notice the injury. This legal principle is known as the discovery rule. It only applies in rare cases, like head injuries and internal bleeding with late symptoms.
Starting your claim soon after your accident gives you a better chance to maintain the validity of your case. Our Garden Grove pedestrian accident lawyer can help you stay on top of deadlines and guide you through the filing process. Taking that first step early can help you protect your interests and keep your recovery moving forward.
How To Establish Liability For Pedestrian Accidents
To seek compensation after a pedestrian accident, you must first show that another party was legally responsible for your injuries. Establishing liability involves proving several key elements:
- Duty of Care — The responsible party must have a responsibility to keep you safe. For example, a driver must watch for people crossing, follow the traffic signals, and drive at a safe speed.
- Breach of Duty — You have to show proof of how the other party ignored their responsibility with their careless actions.
- Causation — You must connect their careless actions directly to your injury. Show evidence that because of what they did, you got hurt.
- Damages — You must demonstrate the losses you incurred as a result of the incident. These may include medical bills, missed work, or physical pain.
Our pedestrian accident attorneys in Garden Grove can help you gather evidence. These may include police reports, photos, and witness statements. These facts can show how the at-fault party’s carelessness caused your injuries and losses.
Compensatory Damages Pedestrians May Pursue
If you get hit by a vehicle while walking, you may be able to pursue compensation for the financial and personal losses caused by the accident. Here are examples of what you may claim:
- Medical expenses for treatment and recovery from injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord damage, or back injuries. More serious injuries typically result in higher medical costs and longer recovery times.
- Lost wages and reduced future earning ability, which result from conditions like paralysis, internal organ damage, or severe fractures. Permanent or long-term conditions often increase the value of claims for lost income.
- Costs to repair or replace damaged personal property. These losses are typically smaller than medical or wage claims, but they are still part of the overall compensation.
- The effects of scarring, disfigurement, or road rash on daily life or appearance. Visible injuries may increase non-economic damages for pain, suffering, or loss of enjoyment of life.
- Compensation for physical limitations that make routine activities difficult. Long-term disabilities can significantly affect the overall value of a claim.
- Out-of-pocket expenses for services or support needed during recovery, including help with daily tasks or transportation.
Our Garden Grove pedestrian accident lawyer can review the circumstances of your case and explain how your specific injuries and losses may affect the compensation you pursue. Contact Arash Law to schedule a case evaluation and learn about your options.
Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
When you walk near traffic, it’s helpful to know the factors that may lead to pedestrian accidents. Understanding these causes is also important in the context of an injury claim because they help establish who may be responsible and what evidence can support your case.
As you cross streets or walk along sidewalks, you may encounter:
- Distracted Driving or Walking — If a driver is on their phone or wearing headphones, they might not notice pedestrians. Similarly, pedestrians who are texting, listening to music with headphones, or otherwise distracted may not see vehicles or hazards, increasing the risk of a collision.
- Impaired Judgment — A driver who has been drinking alcohol or using drugs reacts more slowly and makes poorer decisions. This can cause them to misjudge when to stop or how to avoid a pedestrian, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving — A speeding driver requires more distance to stop, and driving too fast reduces reaction time, which can make collisions more severe. Reckless actions, such as running red lights, aggressive lane changes, or ignoring crosswalks, also put pedestrians at greater risk of injury.
- Failure to Follow Signals — Drivers who ignore red lights or stop signs can put pedestrians in danger. If a car runs a light while you are crossing, it can directly strike you, causing serious injury. Drivers who fail to yield at crosswalks also break the law and increase the risk of hitting someone on foot.
- Poor Visibility — At night or in adverse weather conditions, it can be more challenging for drivers to see the road clearly. Darkness, inadequate street lighting, rain, or fog reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. Drivers are expected to slow down and stay alert in these conditions to help prevent accidents.
By recognizing these factors, you can make safer choices and understand how liability may be determined. Our car accident lawyers can explain your options and see which laws may apply.
A government employee struck our client while walking across the street. The driver was going too fast despite the road conditions and failed to see our client in time. We’re happy to see our client get the closure and the results they deserved after three years of intense litigation.– BRIAN BEECHER
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident
After an accident, it is common to feel uncertain about what your next steps should be. The following suggestions are general information only. Every situation is different, and you should use your own judgment and seek professional advice when needed.
- Take Scene Photos — Pictures of the scene, your injuries, and vehicles involved may help document what happened.
- Organize Your Files — Store bills, diagnoses, and treatment notes in one place so you can access them easily when needed.
- Document the Accident — Record details about the time, place, and details of the accident to help you accurately recall key facts.
- Collect Contact Information — If possible, get the names and phone numbers of other people involved or witnesses.
- Consult a Lawyer — Speak with a lawyer who handles pedestrian accident claims. Legal support helps you take the right steps and deal with insurance companies.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics In Garden Grove And Nationwide Data
Garden Grove continues to report a steady number of pedestrian-related crashes. In 2022, the California Office of Traffic Safety recorded 47 people injured or killed while walking in the city. Of those, 4 were children under 15, and 8 were seniors over 65.
Across the country, pedestrian incidents are still a big safety issue. In 2022, more than 8,000 pedestrians died in traffic crashes. Emergency rooms also treated about 140,000 others for non-fatal injuries. Pedestrians accounted for 20% of all traffic deaths that year. These numbers indicate that pedestrian accidents remain a serious concern both locally and nationwide.
Get In Touch With Our Garden Grove Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, our Garden Grove pedestrian accident lawyers can review your situation and explain your options. You may be searching for free accident lawyer advice. Our team offers free initial consultations, which you can schedule by calling (888) 488-1391 or through our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
In addition to handling pedestrian accidents, our attorneys also handle a wide range of injury-related cases. We also assist victims of Lyft accidents and those involved in hit-and-run collisions. Our legal team can review your case and provide legal advice on your next steps.
Our team serves clients across the entire state of California, including cities such as Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Glendale, San Diego, and Chula Vista.
