Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
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Our Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help You Understand Your Legal Options
In Huntington Beach, negligent drivers who cause pedestrian accidents are typically liable for the damages they cause. If you get hit by a vehicle while walking, our Huntington Beach pedestrian accident lawyers can assess whether you’re eligible to file a personal injury claim.
To prove fault in a pedestrian accident, you need evidence of negligence. It means the at-fault party failed to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm. Examples of negligent conduct include failing to yield the right-of-way when required by law.
In Huntington Beach and across California, drivers must yield to pedestrians. This rule applies in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. However, pedestrians also need to take reasonable care for their own safety.
Pedestrian accident lawyers serving Huntington Beach can analyze evidence to assess liability. This way, victims can learn whether they can pursue compensation for their losses.
What Makes Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accidents Different
Huntington Beach has lovely trails. You can explore the Pier area and the beach path along Pacific Coast Highway. Additionally, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. It’s a perfect place for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. Still, walking near Huntington Beach’s busy streets raises the risk of accidents.
The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that in 2023 alone, the city saw 55 pedestrians killed or injured in road accidents. Recent trends indicate that these incidents persist due to driver and other parties’ negligence.
- In October 2025, a pedestrian crossed the street outside a crosswalk. A motorcyclist hit him. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
- That same month, a helicopter hit a pedestrian bridge between Twin Dolphins Drive and Beach Boulevard. The accident occurred due to a malfunctioning tail rotor. The incident injured three pedestrians, as well as the helicopter’s two occupants.
- In December 2025, a pickup truck fatally struck a 71-year-old man. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.
These crashes may be more prevalent in Huntington Beach due to its reputation as a tourist destination. Many visitors come here to surf or attend popular events. For example, the helicopter mentioned above was part of the annual Cars ‘N Copters on the Coast. The resulting influx of tourists can create roads congested with drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Pedestrian accidents can be reported to the Huntington Beach Police Department. Local insurers frequently reference their official incident reports when evaluating claims. However, if a crash involves a driver from another state or county, that may create disputes.
If a lawsuit is necessary, it may be filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, which has jurisdiction over civil cases arising in the city of Huntington Beach.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Establishing Liability In A Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accident Case
In California, careless drivers are generally liable for the damages they cause. A pedestrian accident case is valid if these four elements of negligence are present:
- Duty of Care — California law requires all drivers to follow traffic rules and drive safely to protect pedestrians and other road users.
- Breach of Duty — The driver breached their duty of care. This violation may include running a red light, using a phone while driving, speeding, or failing to yield at a crosswalk.
- Causation — There is a connection between the driver’s action and the collision that resulted in your injuries.
- Damages — Proof of losses exists. You can use medical records and wage loss documents to demonstrate the impact of your injuries. You can include proof of pain and suffering to show the full extent of your losses.
How Insurance Typically Applies In Pedestrian Injury Claims
Personal injury victims often file claims against insurers rather than the at-fault party. That means that, after a pedestrian accident, you may seek compensation from:
- A negligent driver’s auto insurance policy.
- A government agency’s liability coverage, if your accident involved a public vehicle or unsafe road conditions.
- Your own insurance, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or another applicable policy.
However, the claims process isn’t always straightforward. Insurers may raise disputes regarding who caused the accident, the severity of your injuries, and the necessity of the medical treatments prescribed to you. Further legal action may be necessary if these issues cannot be resolved through negotiations.
Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident?
Potential Damages Awarded To Pedestrian Accident Victims
California law allows injured pedestrians to seek different types of damages. Available compensation depends on several factors. These include your medical treatment, recovery time, and the long-term effects of your injuries.
There are two types of damages you can claim in a personal injury case:
- Economic Damages — These can include costs related to hospital bills, surgery, chiropractic care, and long-term and future medical treatment. You can also seek damages for lost earnings and future loss of income. These losses are easier to measure and often make up most of your case value.
- Non-Economic Damages — You may feel physical pain, emotional stress, or loss of enjoyment in life. Some injuries cause lifelong problems. These don’t have a set dollar amount, but the law still allows you to factor them into your claim.
In rare cases, if the driver was grossly negligent or acted intentionally, the court may award punitive damages. They do so to punish the driver and discourage others from taking similar actions.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents And Wrongful Death Claims
In California, eligible family members can file a wrongful death claim after a fatal accident. If you lost a spouse, parent, or child in a pedestrian accident, you could seek damages such as:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Medical costs related to the final treatment.
- Loss of companionship, emotional support, income, and household services.
The Rules For Pedestrian Accidents In Huntington Beach
California law gives pedestrians the right of way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must yield and watch for people crossing, especially at intersections. If a driver fails to yield and injures you, you may have a strong legal claim. Still, pedestrians must follow traffic laws and exercise caution when crossing a street.
Huntington Beach has local laws that citizens must follow to help keep people safe. Pedestrians may legally cross at unmarked crosswalks without facing penalties. However, they should exercise caution and yield to traffic when necessary. Additionally, pedestrians must still use crosswalks in:
- Any business districts.
- Busy downtown areas.
- Intersections where there are signs prohibiting crossing.
If pedestrians fail to act with care, they may share fault in an accident. These state and local rules can affect how your case moves forward. Lawyers for pedestrian accidents in Huntington Beach can help you understand how these laws impact your case.
Injury Severity In Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians account for nearly one in five traffic fatalities nationwide, highlighting how even low-speed collisions can result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. Since they have no protection from vehicles, they may sustain:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — Caused by the head striking a vehicle, the pavement, or other hard surfaces.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Resulting from the force of impact or violent twisting during a collision.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments caused by sudden impact or being thrown to the ground.
- Broken Bones — Often affect the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis due to direct contact with a vehicle or the roadway.
- Dislocated Joints — Caused by blunt force trauma or awkward landings after impact.
- Back and Neck Injuries — These injuries can happen due to sudden jolts, whiplash, or compression forces during a collision.
- Cuts and Lacerations — Caused by broken glass, vehicle components, or contact with the pavement.
- Loss of Limbs — Amputations can happen due to crushing forces or severe impact.
Doctors and specialists examine your current condition and future care needs. Through their medical records, you can support your claim.
What Typically Happens After A Pedestrian Accident Claim Begins
In California, victims of pedestrian accidents can pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. You can do so through a personal injury claim. Here’s what you can expect once it begins:
- You file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurer.
- The insurance company investigates your accident, injuries, and losses to determine fault and calculate a settlement offer.
- You or your lawyer can negotiate with the insurer for a fairer amount.
- If disputes arise and a settlement cannot be reached, you may have the option to file a lawsuit.
This is a general overview of the process. However, details can vary and can have extra complexities based on specific circumstances.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents In Huntington Beach
National data shows pedestrian deaths have risen sharply over the past decade, reflecting increased risks tied to driver speed, visibility, and roadway design. These factors often play a role when determining fault in pedestrian injury claims. Here are some common reasons why these incidents happen:
Driver Negligence
- Distracted Driving — Using phones or checking GPS can distract drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Speeding — Driving too fast makes it harder to slow down or stop for a pedestrian.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — Alcohol, drugs, or medication can affect judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Impaired drivers may thus fail to notice or avoid hitting pedestrians.
- Failing to Yield While Turning — Drivers making left or right turns often focus on vehicle traffic. They may overlook people crossing legally in crosswalks and fail to yield to them.
- Disobeying Traffic Signals — Drivers may hit pedestrians crossing the street when running red lights or ignoring stop signs.
- Backing Up Without Checking — Drivers may reverse their vehicle without looking. That makes them more likely to hit pedestrians in crowded parking lots or on residential streets.
Pedestrian Negligence
- Jaywalking — When pedestrians ignore crosswalks or traffic signals without caution, drivers may not be able to anticipate their movements.
- Darting Into Traffic — Jumping into the street, especially between parked cars, makes it hard for drivers to see and avoid hitting you.
Environmental And External Factors
- Low Visibility — Dark conditions, poor street lighting, or obstacles can make it hard for drivers to see pedestrians.
- Bad Weather — Rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Poor Road or Intersection Design — Faded crosswalks, confusing signals, or missing signage can cause driver or pedestrian errors.
- Vehicle Malfunctions — Brake failures, steering issues, or other mechanical defects can cause drivers to lose control and strike pedestrians.
Many crashes share common causes. As such, while every case is unique, it can generally help to gather evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos
- Traffic or security camera footage
- Exact crash location data, including crosswalk markings and signage.
- Cell phone records to prove distracted driving
- Skid marks and vehicle damage
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accident Claims
Below are some common questions about injury claims related to pedestrian accidents.
How Long Do You Have To File For A Pedestrian Accident Claim?
California law gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. This deadline is called the statute of limitations. Missing it typically means losing your right to seek compensation.
The statute of limitations may change if:
- A government-owned vehicle caused your injury. In this case, you have to file an administrative claim within six months.
- You are a minor. The deadline only starts when you turn eighteen.
Do Lawyers Only Get Paid If They Win? How Much Does A Pedestrian Accident Attorney Cost?
Yes. Huntington Beach pedestrian accident lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis typically only get paid if they win. They don’t charge legal fees up front. If there is a successful recovery, you pay them a percentage of your settlement or court award. This arrangement allows you to access legal help regardless of your financial situation.
That said, there is no set cost for hiring a pedestrian accident attorney. Legal fees typically vary depending on the complexity of a case. For example, a lawyer may charge more if your case needs more preparation, involves shared fault, or goes to court.
Do I Still Have A Case If I Was Hit Outside Of A Marked Crosswalk?
Yes. State law no longer penalizes jaywalking in limited situations. Under the Freedom to Walk Act, pedestrians can legally cross streets outside of marked crosswalks or against traffic signals in Huntington Beach and throughout California. They can only do this as long as it’s safe and doesn’t put other road users in immediate danger.
As a result, you could still pursue compensation if you were hit outside of a marked crosswalk. However, shared liability may apply to your case if you did not take reasonable care when doing so.
Like the rest of California, Huntington Beach operates under a pure comparative negligence system. This rule establishes that multiple parties can share fault for an accident. That means an injured pedestrian can still seek compensation, even if they’re partially to blame. However, the court may reduce their compensation by the percentage of fault assigned to them.
What Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Do
Pedestrian accidents can be sudden and severe. Our Huntington Beach personal injury attorneys aim to support injured clients by offering the following services:
- Free Initial Consultations — Our attorneys review your accident details and explain your legal options.
- Evidence Gathering — We collect police reports, witness statements, photographs, and other crucial documentation to build your case.
- Damages Calculation — Our attorneys assess medical expenses, lost income, and emotional stress to help you pursue fair compensation. If necessary, we collaborate with outside experts to support our findings.
- Claims Process Support — Our team tracks legal deadlines and handles filings to avoid compromising the validity of your claim.
- Insurance Negotiation — Our lawyers negotiate with insurers on your behalf when seeking a fair settlement.
- Trial Representation — If settlement negotiations fail, our trial attorneys can take your case to court.
Call Our Huntington Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
Pedestrians have the same legal right to use California roads as any other road user. However, they’re often the most vulnerable. If a vehicle hits you and you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” Arash Law is ready to assist you. Whether a car, truck, Uber, or Lyft was involved in your accident, our attorneys can review your case.
Our Huntington Beach pedestrian accident lawyers know how a collision can cause both physical injuries and emotional trauma. We’ll listen to your concerns, guide you through each step, and support you. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free case review.
We also provide legal support to injured victims in other areas, including Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Westminster, Seal Beach, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Stanton, Rossmoor, Irvine, Los Alamitos, Cypress, Tustin, and Hawaiian Gardens.
