Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
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Our Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Will Help You
Get Compensation For Your Injuries
Walking is one of the simplest activities for staying in shape. However, walking on roads or sidewalks can be risky. Pedestrians face significant risks, including drunk drivers, poorly lit streets, and motorists who fail to respect crosswalks. When accidents happen, pedestrians are at a higher risk of sustaining severe injuries. If you’ve been hurt in an accident while crossing the street or walking on a sidewalk, it’s crucial to consult with experienced Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Suffering injuries in a pedestrian accident can be life-altering. Having an attorney by your side can make all the difference. Arash Law has been a dedicated advocate for injured victims, bringing years of experience to support them. With years of experience assisting people injured in pedestrian accidents, we’re here to help you every step of the way with your claim, using our knowledge and resources to guide you through the process.
If you’re injured in a pedestrian accident in Lancaster, let us help you pursue justice and fair compensation. From the beginning of the claim process through the end, our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way.
Why Hire Our Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
We understand the profound impact pedestrian accidents can have on your life. Beyond the physical injuries, the emotional distress and immediate financial strain can ripple through every aspect of your daily life, affecting not just you but your loved ones as well.
We offer the following:
- No Win, No Fee Policy — Our pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about the cost of legal fees on top of everything else. You won’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case. However, clients may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, regardless of the outcome.
- Client-Centered Approach — At our firm, we provide each client with personalized attention, crafting strategies tailored to their unique situation. Our team takes the time to get to know your story, your needs, and the challenges you’re facing. You’re not just a case number to us – we’re committed to providing dedicated representation.
- Comprehensive Support — Our team offers comprehensive legal support to enable you to focus on recovery. We handle all aspects of your case with thorough attention.
If your injuries make it impossible for you to travel, our team can arrange a meeting with you at your home, hospital, or even place of work. You are also welcome to visit any of our offices near you.
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 You Need Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
When you’re injured in a pedestrian accident, working with experienced Lancaster pedestrian accident lawyers can be key to getting the right compensation and justice. Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts, even if they are legally responsible for your injuries. Having an experienced attorney can level the playing field. They’ll handle all negotiations with the insurance company and other liable parties.
From investigating the scene of the accident and collecting evidence to managing medical records and negotiating settlements, they take care of every detail of your case. They aim to lighten the load during your recovery and pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
It might be time to speak with pedestrian accident lawyers in Lancaster about your case if any of the following apply to you:
- You cannot determine who is at fault in the pedestrian accident.
- There are plenty of parties involved.
- You sustained severe injuries.
- The pedestrian accident caused you permanent disability.
- Insurance companies offer you low settlements or refuse to pay you.
California’s Freedom To Walk Act
In the past, jaywalking in California was penalized with fines and citations, discouraging pedestrians from crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks. However, on January 1, 2023, a significant shift occurred with the passing of California’s Freedom to Walk Act, which provides greater flexibility for pedestrians.
Under this new law, pedestrians are no longer penalized for jaywalking, provided they cross the street with extreme caution. This means that as long as it is safe, pedestrians can cross streets outside of crosswalks without the fear of receiving a fine. Citations for jaywalking can only be issued if there is an imminent risk of a collision or if the pedestrian is crossing in a manner that creates a dangerous situation. This law recognizes that in some situations, it is safer and more practical for pedestrians to cross the street outside of a designated crosswalk, especially in areas with low traffic.
Although jaywalking no longer carries immediate penalties, pedestrians still face significant risks when crossing busy streets, especially when drivers fail to yield or drive recklessly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Contact our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys for a free initial consultation, and let us help you pursue the compensation available under the law.
Other Relevant Laws
Under the California Vehicle Code (CVC), pedestrians are subject to specific rules when walking on roadways, particularly outside of business or residential districts.
- CVC 21956 (a) states that “no pedestrian may walk upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district otherwise than close to his or her left-hand edge of the roadway.”
- CVC 21956 (b) mandates that a “pedestrian may walk close to his or her right-hand edge of the roadway if a crosswalk or other means of safely crossing the roadway is not available or if existing traffic or other conditions would compromise the safety of a pedestrian attempting to cross the road.”
Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident?
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
Several factors contribute to the increase in pedestrian accidents and fatalities. Apart from drivers’ attention, external factors such as weather may also cause these accidents. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys are fully aware of these common causes and can help you address them as you go through the process of filing a personal injury claim.
Negligence
Negligent or reckless behavior by both drivers and pedestrians can lead to serious accidents. Depending on the situation, one or both parties may be liable for the resulting injuries.
- Driving While Distracted — Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other activities that take their attention away from the road put pedestrians at risk. These distractions can prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the sidewalk, increasing the likelihood of a dangerous accident.
- Failure to Yield at Crosswalk — Even in marked crosswalks, some drivers may not always yield to pedestrians.
- Disregarding Traffic Lights and Signals — Running red lights or failing to stop at stop signs is not only illegal but incredibly dangerous. These traffic signals are in place to protect both drivers and pedestrians. When drivers ignore them, they create significant risks for pedestrians who may be crossing the street or waiting at the curb.
- Driving While Intoxicated or Under the Influence — Although alternative transportation options like rideshare services are available, drunk driving and driving under the influence remain one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents.
- Pulling Out of Driveways Without Looking — Drivers who fail to check outside when pulling out of driveways or parking lots can inadvertently strike pedestrians walking by.
- Jaywalking — As much as drivers are responsible for the safety of other road users, pedestrians should still practice caution on their part. Irresponsible behavior from pedestrians can also cause accidents.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Bad weather conditions can cause crashes as they affect the state of roads and visibility. These conditions may include winter storms, heavy rains, and fog. It can be difficult to see when driving in these adverse conditions. Slippery roads may also affect drivers’ control over their vehicles, which may lead to collisions.
Other Factors
Other variables may also cause accidents even though drivers and pedestrians practice extreme caution.
- Poor Visibility — Unlike motorcycles and cars, pedestrians are far less noticeable on the road. This means that pedestrians are more likely to be hit. A lot of pedestrian accidents occur at night and/or in low-light conditions.
- Large Blind Spots — Blind spots are a common factor in many accidents that injure pedestrians. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that vehicles with hood heights greater than 40 inches kill about 45 percent more pedestrians than cars. These include SUVs, pickups, and vans.
A car accident can be devastating on its own. When a pedestrian is involved, it becomes more tragic. Our car accident lawyers are aware of how an accident can impact someone’s life. Our team is here to support you through this tough time.
Common Injuries Sustained In Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are significantly more vulnerable in a collision than vehicle occupants due to the lack of physical protection. Unlike drivers and passengers, who are shielded by seatbelts, airbags, and the car’s frame, pedestrians have no such safeguards. This makes them highly susceptible to serious injuries, including the following:
- Fractures
- Amputations
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Pelvic injuries
- Neck injuries
- Concussions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Road rash
Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys can collaborate closely with experienced medical professionals to help you get the quality medical care you need. From initial treatment to long-term rehabilitation, our team can help you coordinate your care, paying close attention to the details that matter.
We are committed to helping you access the resources you need to cover your medical expenses and other related losses. Our personal injury lawyers will stand by you every step of the way to support you in moving forward with your recovery. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get a free initial consultation.
Damages You Can Recover After A Pedestrian Accident
You may be able to seek damages if you can prove that another party’s negligence resulted in your injury. Here are some damages you can pursue in a pedestrian accident claim:
- Medical Bills — The medical bills may include emergency treatment, hospitalizations, surgeries, rehabilitation treatments, and medications for your injuries. You may also seek coverage for future medical expenses.
- Lost Income and Loss of Future Earning Capacity — If you can’t work because of your injuries, you might be eligible for compensation for lost wages. You can also get compensation for future loss of earning capacity if your injuries result in long-term or permanent incapacity.
- Pain and Suffering — Compensation can also cover mental distress and physical pain. The extent of your injuries, the healing process, and the impact on your quality of life are taken into consideration when assessing pain and suffering compensation.
- Permanent Disabilities or Disfigurement — Victims who suffer permanent disability or disfigurement caused by the accident may also be eligible for compensation.
Other damages that can be part of the settlement or award:
- Wrongful Death Damages — If an accident caused wrongful death, the family members of the victim may also seek damages, such as:
- Loss of consortium.
- Funeral, burial, and medical expenses.
- Value of the victim’s contribution to the household.
- Mental and emotional anguish caused by losing a loved one.
- Punitive Damages — In rare cases, victims may also be awarded punitive damages if the party at fault intended to cause harm or was grossly negligent.
Our Lancaster pedestrian accident lawyers carefully analyze each case to work diligently and help our clients build a compelling claim. We’ll take a close look at every aspect of your situation.
Determining Fault And Liability
The negligent party (whether it’s a driver, property owner, or another party) should be held liable for the damages caused by their actions. To prove negligence, the injured party must establish the following four elements:
- Duty of Care — The responsible party owed a duty to act reasonably and avoid causing harm.
- Breach of Duty — The responsible party failed to uphold this duty by acting recklessly, carelessly, or by omission.
- Causation — The breach directly led to the injury or damage.
- Damages — The injured party suffered actual harm (physical injury, financial loss, emotional distress, etc.) as a result of the breach.
Our experienced Lancaster pedestrian accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of proving negligence and holding the responsible party accountable. Contact us to learn how we can help.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident
Knowing the right steps to take immediately after the incident can help protect your health and legal rights. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys recommend doing the following:
- Ensure Safety — If it does not worsen your injuries, move to a safe area to prevent further accidents. Call 911 for immediate medical attention.
- Report the Accident to the Authorities — It is important to notify the authorities if you are involved in a pedestrian accident. The police can create a detailed report of the incident.
- Obtain the Information of the Other Parties Involved — Get the information of all parties involved, such as their names, insurance company, and contact details. You may also obtain the information of witnesses.
- Document the Accident Scene — Take photos or videos of the accident scene, the damage, and your injuries. While the incident is still fresh in your memory, you can also write an account of what took place in the accident.
- Get Immediate Medical Treatment — If you sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, you should immediately seek medical help. It’s possible for injuries to go undetected. Medical documentation is also necessary to connect your injuries to the accident.
- Get in Touch With Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Attorneys — The process of filing a claim is not simple. Insurance companies may also try to reach you after your accident. Seeking legal representation is advisable.
Safety Tips For Pedestrians
Pedestrians should observe precautions when walking on the street to avoid accidents. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys recommend the following safety tips for pedestrians:
- Avoid Risky Behaviors — Cross streets with caution and avoid reckless actions. Keep your distance from vehicles, avoid drinking alcohol, and stay on the authorized sidewalks. Looking through your phone is also a risky behavior when you’re walking on busy streets. Put your phone down and just check it once you get to your destination or when you’re at a stop.
- Keep Yourself Visible — Pedestrians wearing dark clothes are more difficult to see at night or during bad weather conditions. Consider wearing bright-colored clothes to ensure visibility when walking at night.
- Avoid Jaywalking and Follow Pedestrian Signals — Even though unmarked crosswalks give pedestrians the right of way, it is still best to use designated crosswalks. Even if the Freedom To Walk Act is already in place, this statute does not excuse pedestrians from irresponsible behavior.
- Check Both Sides of the Street Before Crossing — Make sure you are aware of approaching traffic before you get on the road. It is a simple yet essential practice.
Settlement in a motor vehicle versus pedestrian accident; client, suffered facial and spinal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to a report analyzing the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California is the third-deadliest state for pedestrians. In the last decade, pedestrian fatalities have increased from 653 in 2012 to 1,108 in 2021.
The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) also reported the pattern of pedestrian fatalities across the country from 2019 to early 2023. The association projected 3,373 pedestrian deaths in the U.S. in the first half of 2023. They observed that there was about a 4% decrease from the same period compared to the previous year.
Although it is gratifying to see this decrease between the two consecutive years, the association pointed out the spike in pedestrian fatalities since 2019. There were 2,951 pedestrian deaths reported in 2019. The decrease in pedestrian fatalities the following year could be an impact of the travel patterns caused by the pandemic.
According to a report from UC Berkeley based on 2022 data, most fatal crashes involving pedestrians occur:
- Between 6 p.m. and midnight.
- On Fridays and Saturdays.
- In urban areas.
- On major arterials (these are major highways/roads with high volumes of traffic and have at least two vehicle lanes in each direction).
If you’re injured in a pedestrian accident, our team is here to help. Our team is here to support you every step of the way with your case, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court. Speak with our pedestrian accident lawyers in Lancaster for legal assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Pays The Medical Bills After A Pedestrian Accident?
Insurance companies mostly cover medical bills from accidents. Ideally, the insurance company of the at-fault party should cover the medical bills of the pedestrian accident victim. However, settlements usually take time, while medical care requires immediate attention. In this case, the victim’s insurance provider (or any other available insurance) may have to pay initially. These medical expenses are usually reimbursed later on by the at-fault party’s insurer in a settlement.
In some cases, it may take a considerable amount of time to obtain a settlement or verdict. It could leave pedestrian accident victims worried about piling up medical bills. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys can assist you in obtaining medical liens for your treatment.
Can I Recover Money For My Injuries From The Car Driver’s Insurance Company?
Yes, it is possible. There is a common misconception that auto insurance doesn’t cover pedestrian accidents. However, drivers can be liable for injuring other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Auto insurance typically covers pedestrian injuries as well. Talk to our Lancaster pedestrian accident lawyers to learn more.
I Was Hit By A Car While I Was Walking Outside Of The Designated Crosswalk. Do I Have The Right To Recover Damages?
In California, drivers have a responsibility to be aware of pedestrians, whether or not they are at a crosswalk. In the event the car driver was negligent, he will be responsible for your injuries and damages. Unfortunately, compensation may be more difficult to obtain in these types of pedestrian accidents, given the circumstances. If you find yourself in this situation, you may benefit from having legal representation from our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys.
What Are Some California Crosswalk Laws I Should Be Aware Of?
The California Vehicle Code 21950 stipulates the following:
- Drivers must give way to a pedestrian crossing the road in a marked or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
- Drivers must use all reasonable caution, slow down, or take any other action necessary to ensure the pedestrian’s safety when approaching pedestrians in crosswalks, whether or not they are marked.
California crosswalk laws are in place to protect pedestrians, but both drivers and pedestrians must adhere to the rules to ensure safety on the roads. If you’re injured in a pedestrian accident in Lancaster, it’s crucial to understand how these laws apply to your case. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys are acquainted with these laws; we can explain them in simple, easy-to-understand terms. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to learn more about your rights and options.
What If I Was Hurt In A Hit-And-Run Pedestrian Accident?
If the driver is not found, your UM/UIM coverage may provide compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, you may also have access to other forms of compensation through your personal or homeowner’s insurance policies. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, you may have the option to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against them to recover damages.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to handle my case after a hit-and-run? Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Lancaster are here to help guide you through the legal process and work to pursue the support and resources you need during this challenging time. Whether the driver is found or not, we’ll work hard to safeguard your rights throughout the process.
What Factors Affect Pedestrian Injury Settlements?
Someone who was injured in a pedestrian accident may be eligible for compensation. But the settlement value may vary depending on the following factors:
- Level of Fault by Parties Involved — The extent of fault is an element that influences the settlement amount in personal injury cases. California’s comparative negligence system may lower the settlement amount if the pedestrian is partially to blame for the accident. For instance, when a pedestrian crosses the street against traffic signals or jaywalks, their settlement might be lower.
- The Severity of the Injuries — More severe injuries, such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord injuries, tend to result in larger settlements. The settlement amount also depends on a number of factors, such as the victim’s quality of life post-accident, rehabilitation costs, and medical expenses.
- Limitations on Insurance Policies — The insurance policy limits of the at-fault party may also affect the compensation amount. If the driver’s insurance policy limit is low, the pedestrian’s compensation options may be limited.
Each case is unique. Our Lancaster pedestrian accident attorneys can help you understand the particular elements relevant to your case.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys In Lancaster
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, having a team of dedicated professionals by your side to help you through this difficult time may be beneficial. With our experienced Lancaster pedestrian accident lawyers, you can focus on your recovery while we take steps to seek compensation that could help you move forward.
Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. We’re here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Furthermore, we won’t charge attorney fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. However, case costs may apply regardless of the outcome.
We also handle other personal injury claims, such as truck accidents and Lyft accidents. Apart from Lancaster, we also provide legal services in other locations, including Quartz Hill, Palmdale, Santa Clarita, San Fernando, La Cañada Flintridge, Altadena, Tehachapi, Burbank, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, and Duarte.
