Pasadena Pedestrian Accidents Attorney
Pedestrians are at a distinct disadvantage on our city streets and face increased safety hazards every year. Cars get faster. Traffic gets heavier. Drivers wear distracting headphones and use cellphones. Pedestrians, on the other hand, continue to cross intersections and walk on sidewalks the same way they did 100 years ago. Recently, based on collision reports, the Pasadena Police Department has identified three intersections that have the most accidents. These dangerous intersections include Orange Grove Blvd. and El Molino Avenue, Lake Avenue and Orange Grove Boulevard, and Pasadena Avenue and State Street.
If you have been injured by a car or any other type of vehicle while walking, the McNally Law Office is ready to help you fight for full and fair compensation. With over 30 years of experience, our team has recovered millions for our clients in personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits in southern California.
Let Us Help You Pursue Justice
Pedestrian accidents require a thorough investigation because they often come down to the driver’s word against that of the injury victim. Witnesses must be interviewed thoroughly and quickly. We will devote substantial resources to conducting a detailed investigation into the cause of the catastrophic or fatal accident.
We have extensive experience representing pedestrians in all types of pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles, Glendale and throughout Southern California, involving:
- Crosswalk and intersection accidents
- Sidewalk accidents
- Parking lot injury accidents
- Bus stop and public transportation accidents
- Bicycle accidents
We will pursue maximum compensation to cover your medical bills and lost wages. Your job is to provide us with the information we need and then focus on getting better while we handle the legal aspects of your case. Our experienced and dedicated lawyers are ready to defend you and hold those negligent accountable.
We look everywhere for the money you need. Many pedestrians and kids are injured by hit-and-run drivers or uninsured motorists and must seek monetary damages from their own UIM policy or homeowners insurance. We seek every possible insurance avenue for financial compensation. We will consult your medical doctor to determine the extent of your injuries, including paralysis, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, lacerations and spinal cord injuries.
Understanding Pedestrian Right-Of-Way Laws In California
Under the California Vehicle Code, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks. This means that vehicles must stop when a pedestrian steps into a crosswalk to allow them to cross safely.
Additionally, pedestrians have the right to use sidewalks and are protected from being blocked or endangered by vehicles. However, pedestrians also bear responsibilities, such as avoiding jaywalking, which occurs when crossing streets outside designated crosswalks or against traffic signals.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can be traced to specific, preventable causes. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers using mobile phones, eating or engaging in other distracting activities can fail to notice pedestrians in time to stop. This split-second inattention can lead to devastating outcomes.
- Failure to yield: Drivers who do not yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or intersections create dangerous situations. Many accidents occur when drivers rush through turns or ignore traffic signals.
- Poor visibility: Low-light conditions, bad weather or obstructed views can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially at night or during heavy rain. Pedestrians wearing dark clothing are more vulnerable.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction times and increases the severity of injuries in collisions with pedestrians.
Taking precautions, such as wearing reflective clothing, staying alert and driving attentively, can help reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents and save lives.
Steps To Take After A Pedestrian Accident
Following a clear series of steps can help you handle the situation effectively.
- Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, seek immediate medical care to address any hidden or delayed symptoms.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident location, your injuries and the vehicle involved. If possible, note details of anything that may have contributed to the accident.
- Gather information: Collect contact information from the driver, witnesses and anyone else at the scene.
- File a police report: Contact law enforcement to help ensure the accident is documented in an official report. This can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Consult an attorney: Reach out to a pedestrian accident lawyer. They can guide you on filing claims, handling insurance adjusters and pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
Taking these steps can make a difference in your recovery and ability to seek justice.
Our Legal Team Includes You
We cannot provide effective legal representation without you on the team. You will never have to worry about how your case is progressing. We provide regular communications and make sure you fully understand your options. You will always be in charge of the final decisions about your settlement or whether you want to take your case to trial.
If you are the victim of a pedestrian knockdown accident, contact us today to schedule a free consultation by calling 626-389-8590 or by filling out our online contact form. We also offer services in Spanish to best help you. There is never a charge for your initial consultation. We handle all pedestrian accident cases on contingency. You pay attorney fees only if we help you recover money damages.