California Pedestrian Risks

Pedestrian accidents change lives in an instant. If you have been hit by a vehicle in California, you likely feel overwhelmed by pain, confusion, and the challenge of navigating insurance claims. You are not alone. Every year, thousands of Californians are hurt while walking—many in crosswalks or at intersections they thought were safe. At Attain Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll of these incidents and are committed to helping you find answers and a path forward.

Walking is a part of daily life in California cities. Unfortunately, drivers do not always yield the right of way or pay attention to those crossing the street. Even a low-speed collision can leave lasting injuries. If you are facing mounting medical bills or time away from work after a pedestrian accident, it’s important to know your legal options. You may also want to explore how car accidents and bicycle accidents are handled, as these incident types can sometimes overlap.

What Counts as a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident happens when someone on foot is struck by a motor vehicle, bicycle, or even a scooter. In California, these incidents most often involve cars at intersections, but can also take place in parking lots, driveways, or anywhere vehicles and people share space. You are considered a pedestrian if you are walking, running, using a wheelchair, or moving in any way outside of a vehicle.

Common causes include:

• Drivers failing to yield at a crosswalk
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, eating, etc.)
• Speeding in residential areas
• Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
• Rolling stops or ignoring traffic signals

To better understand the complex factors involved, you may find it helpful to review the common causes of pedestrian accidents.

Key California Laws

California protects pedestrians through several key laws. The state’s Vehicle Code Section 21950 requires drivers to yield the right of way to people crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks. However, pedestrians also have a duty to use reasonable care for their own safety.

If a driver violates the law and causes injury, they may be held responsible. In some cases, cities and property owners can also be liable if dangerous road conditions or poor signage contribute to the accident. Learn more about premises liability if a hazardous sidewalk or parking lot was involved.

Local governments in Los Angeles and throughout California often enact additional ordinances to improve pedestrian safety, such as “Vision Zero” policies.

What Are Drivers Required to Do?

California drivers must:

• Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections
• Avoid passing vehicles stopped at crosswalks
• Remain alert for children and seniors who may walk more slowly
• Reduce speed in school zones and residential neighborhoods
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol

If you were hit by someone breaking these rules, you can seek compensation for your injuries. If your accident involved a rideshare vehicle, unique insurance rules may apply.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

The hours and days after an accident are critical for protecting your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:

• Call 911 if you are seriously hurt
• Move to safety, if you can, to avoid further injury
• Get the driver’s name, contact, and insurance information
• Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle involved
• Collect contact information for any witnesses
• Seek medical attention, even if you feel okay—some injuries appear later
• Request a copy of the police report
• Do not discuss fault with the driver or their insurance company before speaking with a lawyer

You may also want to read about steps to take after a car accident or steps to take after a bicycle accident for more tips.

Know Your Damages

If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage (such as broken devices or clothing)

California follows a rule called “comparative fault”—meaning your compensation can be reduced if you were partially responsible (for example, jaywalking). However, you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. Find more about compensation in pedestrian cases.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pedestrian Accident Claims

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California? You have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim for a pedestrian accident in California. If a government agency is involved, you may have only six months.

Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault as a pedestrian? Yes. California’s comparative fault rule allows pedestrians to recover damages even if they share some responsibility for the accident, though compensation may be reduced.

Who pays for my medical bills after a pedestrian accident? The at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers medical expenses. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own health insurance or uninsured motorist coverage may help.

What if the driver leaves the scene after hitting a pedestrian? Hit-and-run cases are common. You should report the incident to police immediately. Uninsured motorist coverage may still apply if the driver cannot be found.

Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident claim? While not required, having an attorney can help you navigate insurance issues, avoid mistakes, and seek maximum compensation under California law.

Take Action Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. The legal team at Attain Law is here to explain your rights and options under California law. Call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you.

Disclaimer: This is an advertisement. The information provided is for general purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific case. Attain Law cannot guarantee outcomes, as results vary by situation.

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