Pedestrian Accidents Archives - The Beliz Law Firm

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in California

Jul 8, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 5 minutes

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, they very seldom have the advantage. The car is larger and it’s moving faster. Even a car moving at the relatively slow speed of 10 mph can do serious irreversible damage to a defenseless pedestrian. While the pedestrian has a duty to obey traffic signals and traffic laws, so does the car. Furthermore, the car has a duty to attempt to avoid the pedestrian. That is the case even when the pedestrian is jaywalking or committing some other violation. In that event, the illegal actions of the pedestrian do not negate either the illegal actions of the driver nor their duty to avoid the pedestrian. Even pedestrians who are partially at fault for an accident can collect a major settlement or jury award. The reason for that is due to the fact that pedestrians suffer extensive injuries in collisions with cars. Some of those injuries can change a person’s life forever. Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries Traumatic Brain Injury The term “traumatic brain injury” is generic enough to encompass a wide array of head injuries that vary in severity. But more often than not pedestrians will suffer from concussions at the very least. In very bad scenarios they can suffer permanent brain damage that compromises their ability to do their jobs, maintain employment, or experience a full range of emotions. Damage to certain parts of the brain can be fatal. In addition, the brain can suffer damage from swelling or bleed internally. Spine and Neck Injuries Depending on how a pedestrian is hit, the chances that they suffer serious damage to their spine or neck are not negligible. From these, permanent paralysis can result. This can force major changes to a person’s line of work. If they depended on their ability to stand in order to do their job, then they will need to find a new line of work. Not only would they be entitled to collect on their loss of income, but they could also collect on training necessary to enter a new field of employment. In the most severe cases, the paralysis is lifelong and leaves the injured party without the use of either their arms or legs. These individuals require 24-hour care. They are entitled to collect damages to pay for that care. Bone Fractures in Pedestrian Accidents Bone fractures are among the most common pedestrian accident injuries due to the sheer force of impact when a vehicle strikes the human body. Pedestrians lack the protection that vehicle occupants have, making them highly vulnerable to blunt-force trauma. Fractures can occur in nearly any part of the body, but are especially common in: Types of fractures include: Treatment may involve casting, surgical interventions such as internal fixation, and long-term physical therapy. These injuries can lead to lasting mobility challenges, especially in older adults. Internal and Soft Tissue Injuries In addition to visible trauma, pedestrian accident victims often suffer from internal and soft tissue injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Internal Injuries Soft Tissue Injuries Prompt medical evaluation is critical, as internal injuries can go unnoticed in the chaotic aftermath of an accident, yet can have serious or even fatal consequences if untreated. Risk Factors for Pedestrian Accidents Several factors significantly increase the likelihood and severity of pedestrian accident injuries, many of which are preventable with better planning and behavior. By understanding these factors, communities can better implement targeted prevention measures. Strategies for Preventing Pedestrian Accidents Preventing pedestrian accidents—and minimizing the severity of injuries when they do occur—requires a coordinated public safety effort. Public Health and Urban Planning Policy Measures Education and Driver Awareness Educational Resources for Pedestrian Accident Victims If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, understanding your rights and options is crucial to protecting your health and securing fair compensation. Legal Guides and Support Materials Medical and Psychological Resources Key Questions Covered in Legal Resources: Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today If you’ve suffered injuries in a pedestrian-car accident, you are entitled to collect damages. Call the personal injury attorneys at Beliz Law Firm at (562) 452-3772 or contact us online and we can begin building your case right away.

Pedestrian Accidents

I Was Hit by a Car in the Crosswalk. Now What?

Dec 16, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

I Was Hit by a Car in the Crosswalk in California – What Are My Legal Options? Being hit by a car while legally crossing the street in a crosswalk is a traumatic experience that can lead to serious injuries and significant financial burdens. California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, yet accidents still occur when drivers are distracted, reckless, or fail to obey traffic laws. If you’ve been hit by a car in a crosswalk, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect your claim. The experienced pedestrian accident lawyers at The Beliz Law Firm are here to help you seek compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. What Should You Do Following a Pedestrian-Car Accident Immediately following an accident, the steps you take are essential and can impact your injury claim for compensation. Try to remain calm, so you remember everything you need to do. Contact the Police Start by contacting the police if no one else already has. It’s important to let the 911 dispatcher know a driver struck you as a pedestrian in the crosswalk. You want medical personnel to respond and assess your injuries. Be very cautious about what you say at the scene of the accident. The driver might take something you say out of context, and the insurance adjuster might use these statements against you in a liability investigation. Exchange Contact Information Hopefully, the driver of the vehicle did not flee the scene. You will need to exchange contact information and get their insurance information. Did anyone else witness the accident? If so, you will need to obtain contact information for each witness. Don’t assume that the witnesses will still be there when the police arrive. Someone may not be able to wait, so get their information before they have a chance to drive away. Take Photos If you are physically able, you can also try to take photos of the accident scene. Include pictures of the driver’s vehicle and any debris on the ground. Are there skid marks before the crosswalk? Is it raining? Be sure to capture this information as well. If you can get photos of your injuries, that’s also helpful evidence. Seek Medical Treatment If you do not require transport to the emergency room following the accident, be sure to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Insurance adjusters will use any delay in treatment to their advantage. They could allege you were not seriously injured or that another event after the accident caused your pain. Contact an Attorney Pursuing a pedestrian accident claim is complicated, and you will need an advocate on your side who can help you navigate the legal challenges. Anything you say to the insurance company can be used against you, so it’s best to get an attorney right away. Let them talk to the insurance adjuster for you so you don’t accidentally say something you regret later. If the Driver Did Not Stop, Try to Remember All the Details you Can About It When a car keeps driving after hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle, the victim may be able to file a hit and run claim. If you can locate the driver, you can file a claim with his or her insurance provider. In your police report, note the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. The more details you can provide, the easier it will be for the officer handling the report to help you locate the driver. Due to the quickness of the collision and your injuries, you may not be able to make out the vehicle’s details. You may still seek compensation for your damages through a hit and run claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage. Determining Liability in a Pedestrian Accident The driver’s insurance company will be looking for any option possible to place some liability onto you—thereby lessening their exposure. California follows the legal theory of negligence known as pure comparative negligence. With pure comparative negligence, you could be partially responsible for the accident and still collect compensation for your injuries. However, your percentage of liability would reduce your overall award or settlement. For instance, if a court found you to be 20% at fault and your total damages were $100,000, you would likely end up getting $80,000 in compensation. Who Pays for Your Injuries? Determining who pays for your injuries and damages depends on who is legally responsible. Potentially liable defendants include: The driver might allege a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, such as brake failure. If there is a verifiable defect, an additional defendant could be an auto manufacturer or mechanic. Hire Our Lawyer Working with an attorney after a pedestrian accident is crucial. It is best to have a legal advocate on your side who will protect your rights after being hit by a car in the crosswalk. Your lawyer will help you determine all liable parties and handle communication and settlement negotiations with the defendants and their legal representatives. Getting the maximum compensation for your injuries requires strong evidence and an understanding of insurance company tactics aimed at lowering your recovery. At the Beliz Law Firm, we know every trick the insurance companies will try to use to avoid paying you the money you deserve—and we know how to hold their feet to the fire until they make a reasonable offer. Don’t risk getting less money than you should receive. Contact the Beliz Law Firm today to schedule an initial consultation. Let us help you hold the liable parties responsible for the harm they caused you.

Pedestrian Accidents

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in California

Jul 27, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a frightening and disorienting experience. Whether walking home from work or crossing the street to your favorite cafe, the sudden shock of an accident can leave you unsure of what to do after a pedestrian accident. Read on to learn more about the steps to take after a pedestrian accident in California, which will help you navigate the aftermath with confidence and clarity. Remember, the decisions you make in these moments are pivotal in ensuring your well-being and securing the legal support you need. Step 1: Ensure Your Safety The immediate aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be chaotic, but your first priority should always be your safety. If you are able, move to a safe area away from traffic to prevent further harm. Even if you feel fine, underlying injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Be careful and don’t risk further injuring yourself. Step 2: Call the Police Once you are safe, you must report the accident to the police. Having law enforcement on the scene to file an official report is invaluable. This report will serve as a crucial piece of evidence in documenting the circumstances and can be pivotal when dealing with insurance claims or legal actions. Don’t assume that a minor incident doesn’t need to be reported; sometimes, symptoms of serious injuries take time to manifest. It’s vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. By calling the police, you can request emergency medical response as well. Step 3: Gather Information While waiting for the police to arrive, use the time to collect as much information as possible. Exchange contact and insurance details with the driver involved in the accident. If there are witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact information as well. This step is crucial, as witness accounts can provide additional perspectives that support your version of events. Step 4: Document the Scene Documenting the accident scene is essential to build a strong case or claim. Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the area where the accident occurred. Focus on capturing different angles that show road conditions, traffic signals, and any obstructions that might have contributed to the accident. Photographs of your injuries and any damage to the vehicle involved are also important. Additionally, jot down notes about the incident while your memory is fresh, including the time of day, weather conditions, and any immediate reactions you had. These details can be beneficial during legal proceedings or insurance negotiations. Step 5: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney After dealing with the immediate aftermath of a pedestrian accident, consulting with a personal injury attorney is a crucial next step. An experienced personal injury attorney can offer invaluable guidance on what to do next. At The Beliz Law Firm, we can answer all your questions, including what your legal options are after a pedestrian accident. We will help you understand your rights and the potential for compensation for your injuries and losses. Our team can also navigate the complexities of pursuing compensation and ensure you are not taken advantage of during this vulnerable time. Step 6: Follow Up on Medical Care Continuous medical care is vital for your health and as part of your legal claim. Follow all medical advice given by your doctor and attend all follow-up appointments. It’s also helpful to keep detailed records of all visits, treatments, medications, and any other expenses related to your injuries. These documents are crucial evidence to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Moreover, consistent medical records can significantly strengthen your case by showing a clear link between the accident and your medical issues. Step 7: Avoid Discussing Fault It’s essential to be cautious when discussing the accident, especially when speaking with the driver’s insurance company. Avoid making statements to the driver, witnesses, or insurance adjusters that could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Do not assume that the driver is automatically at fault because it’s a driver versus pedestrian accident. The insurance company will do a thorough investigation to try and shift the fault away from their insured driver. Similarly, refrain from posting details or opinions about the accident on social media platforms, as these comments can be used against you in the claims process. It’s best to let your attorney handle all communications regarding the accident. We are equipped to manage these discussions strategically, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process. Need Help After a Pedestrian Accident? Contact The Belize Law Firm If you have questions about the steps to take after a pedestrian accident in California, don’t hesitate to contact The Beliz Law Firm. Attorney Michael Beliz has nearly two decades of legal experience. He’s committed to guiding you through every step of your case, fighting for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation of your situation.

Pedestrian Accidents

What Happens If You Were a Pedestrian Jaywalking and Hit by a Vehicle in California?

Feb 3, 2023 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

If you were hit as a pedestrian that’s jaywalking, is it your fault? Unfortunately, California leads the nation in pedestrian accident deaths. If you hit a pedestrian jaywalking or you are a pedestrian who was hit while jaywalking, read on to learn more about how personal injury compensation is calculated in California and what to do immediately following an accident. What Is Jaywalking? Jaywalking occurs when a pedestrian crosses the street outside a designated crosswalk where a traffic signal device or police officers control an adjacent intersection. When a crosswalk is controlled, that means there are signals in operation, and those signals indicate to pedestrians when they may cross the street. What Happens If You Hit a Jaywalker in California? If a pedestrian is hit while jaywalking, who is at fault? Not all pedestrian accidents are entirely the driver’s fault. Before January 1, 2023, jaywalking used to carry a fine of up to $196. Although jaywalking safely usually did not result in a ticket, Vehicle Code 21955 still applied to pedestrians in both residential and non-residential areas. It may have been clearer at that time whether a jaywalker could be deemed at fault for a pedestrian accident, even if they were injured in the accident. A new law in California provides that jaywalking is only illegal if there is an immediate chance of a motor vehicle or bicycle collision. If a pedestrian is hit by a car, they likely can file a lawsuit against the driver for their injuries. However, even if the pedestrian was legally jaywalking, they might still be partially at fault for the accident. In California, a person whose own negligence contributed to an accident can still recover some damages from the other at-fault parties. This is called pure comparative negligence. But, their percentage of fault will proportionally reduce their compensatory award. For example, if an injured jaywalker has $10,000 in damages and is found to be 30% at fault for the accident, they can recover $7,000. What Can An Injured Jaywalker Recover? California law permits an injured pedestrian to recover compensatory damages in the form of economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages represent direct financial losses related to a pedestrian’s injuries. Common examples include the following: Receipts, invoices, pay stubs, and other documentation can provide proof of your economic damages. Keep a record of all the expenses and losses related to your injury to provide to your attorney. Noneconomic damages represent subjective losses, usually stemming from the psychological and emotional consequences of an injury. Examples include: Due to their subjective nature, noneconomic damages are challenging to quantify and prove without the assistance of a qualified personal injury attorney. What Should I Do If I Were a Pedestrian Jaywalking and Hit by a Vehicle? If you were a pedestrian hit by a vehicle driver, you can take several steps to protect your rights until you’ve had an opportunity to speak to a qualified personal injury attorney. Don’t Say Anything Don’t claim you’re okay or state that the accident was your fault. Anything you say to the driver, witnesses, the police, or the insurance companies can potentially be used against you. State only facts related to the accident, such as your name and contact information. Call 911 Call 911 and request emergency medical assistance immediately. Even if all involved parties appear fine, certain injuries may not be detectable to anyone but a medical professional. Due to the size and speed of a vehicle, pedestrians may incur serious injuries so seek immediate medical attention. Gather Information Be sure to exchange information with all involved parties at the accident scene. Get the names, contact information, and insurance information for all parties involved in the accident to provide to your attorney. Also, be sure to ask the witnesses for their contact information. While a police officer should collect this information if one reports to the scene, getting it for your own records is always worthwhile. Document the Scene Document the scene as thoroughly as you can. Documentation includes photographing or taking video of all vehicles, the surrounding areas, your injuries, damage to the vehicle, and any other relevant evidence. Speak to an Attorney Contact an attorney as soon as possible, even before you speak to your insurance company. Insurance companies are not always on your side, and your attorney works to ensure they don’t take advantage of you. Contact Us If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, you might feel overwhelmed and anxious about your next steps. The Beliz Law Firm is here to guide you through the process and provide you with the understanding and support you need. At the Beliz Law Firm, each case is important to us, and we promise to treat you with respect. We aren’t afraid to handle challenging negotiations or take your case to trial. Contact our office today for a free case review.

Car Accidents

Can a Pedestrian Ever Be at Fault for a Car Accident in California?

Feb 28, 2022 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Many people think that accidents involving pedestrians mean that the driver is always at fault. However, that is not always the case. Understandably, prospective clients want to know, Can a pedestrian be at fault? Liability differs in every case, and yes, a pedestrian can be at fault in a car accident. You often hear the saying that “pedestrians have the right of way,” but that isn’t necessarily always the case. Drivers and pedestrians have a duty to act as a prudent person with reasonable care. Failure to do so could result in potential negligence against a pedestrian in an accident claim. If you sustained injuries in an accident caused by a negligent party, speak with an experienced California pedestrian injury lawyer at the Beliz Law Firm. Pedestrian Accidents in California Pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked and unmarked crosswalks in California. When a pedestrian fails to comply with the crosswalk or pedestrian laws, the driver may have the right-of-way. The law doesn’t protect pedestrians when they violate the law, such as jaywalking between vehicles. That means pedestrians can be legally at fault for causing a crash. An example would be a pedestrian who darts out between two parked cars in front of a vehicle, causing the driver to crash into the parked cars. In this case, the pedestrian might be liable for the damage to those parked vehicles. Other examples of situations where pedestrians might be liable in an accident include: Crossing at a crosswalk, but violating a traffic law such as crossing on a red light when it says don’t walk; Walking on a bridge or highway where pedestrian traffic is prohibited; or Acting recklessly, negligently, or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While pedestrian traffic is prohibited in places such as a highway or freeway, it doesn’t mean a driver can hit someone and have no fault. A motorist may break down and walk to a call box or get off the highway to get assistance. Drivers still have a duty to be cautious and avoid striking them. Shared Fault for Pedestrian Accidents Pedestrian accident liability is sometimes split between the driver and pedestrian, where both parties are deemed to be partially responsible for the accident. California is a pure comparative negligence state. That means you can collect a portion of your damages in an accident, even if you are primarily at fault for the collision. Even in cases where it might appear a pedestrian is clearly at fault, it’s possible the driver will still have some liability. For example, maybe a pedestrian jaywalked, but the driver was distracted and speeding or under the influence of alcohol. The defendant’s insurance company will do their best to put some if not all the liability on you, whether you’re the driver or pedestrian. Even if they can prove only 10% or 20% liability, it means they can reduce their exposure and potential payout. For example, if a jury finds you 15% at fault, you would collect 85% of your damages. It also means the other party would be able to pursue 15% of their damages from your insurance. How a California Pedestrian Injury Attorney Can Assist You If you sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, retaining a skilled California pedestrian injury lawyer is essential. You need a legal advocate on your side who can protect your rights and help you fight for the maximum compensation in your case. When you retain the Beliz Law Firm to represent you, we will immediately open an independent investigation. Our team will order your medical records and police report, speak with witnesses, and do a scene investigation. In some cases, we may need to hire an expert, such as an accident reconstructionist. This expert will review the facts of the accident. They will prepare a report deciding whom they believe to be at fault for the collision. They can also testify on your behalf should your case eventually go to trial. An accident reconstructionist’s report can be a crucial part of your case. We will also handle all communication and settlement talks with the other party’s insurance or legal practitioners. Insurance companies rely on the fact that you don’t do this for a living. Adjusters will rarely ever offer you the total value of your claim. Instead, they will do their best to minimize your payout and put the majority of the blame on you when investigating pedestrian accident liability. Should the other party’s insurance fail to negotiate or refuse to accept any liability, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf. Contact a California Pedestrian Attorney Today If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a California auto accident with a pedestrian, contact The Beliz Law Firm. We have nearly two decades of experience assisting injured victims just like you. We understand the applicable laws and tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying damages. Our firm has the skills and resources available should you choose to proceed with preparing a case for trial. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We will review your case, help you identify the liable party, and assess what your case is worth. Let us determine the best course of legal action and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Car Accidents

What are the Laws in California Regarding a Pedestrian Hit by a Car?

Oct 23, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

You’re walking along a quiet street in Southern California, enjoying the sunshine and breeze, when an SUV suddenly comes around the corner and strikes you. The accident’s aftermath is a blur with flashing lights, paramedics, and questions you’re unsure how to answer. Fear, confusion, and pain set in. What happens now? What are your rights? If this has happened to you or someone you love, The Beliz Law Firm team can explain what you need to know about California pedestrian accident laws and what steps to take on your journey toward recovery and justice. California’s Protections for Pedestrians As pedestrian fatalities have continued to rise since 2021, prioritizing pedestrian safety is a top goal in California. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, so the state has set clear rules for drivers and pedestrians to ensure their safety. Driver’s Duty of Care California drivers approaching a pedestrian in any marked or unmarked crosswalk must exercise due care, including: Failing to adhere to these rules constitutes negligence, making the driver legally responsible for any harm caused. Pedestrian’s Responsibilities California pedestrian accident laws prioritize pedestrian safety. However, pedestrians must also exercise a reasonable degree of caution. They may not: Both parties share a duty of care, and California law emphasizes mutual respect on the roads to prevent accidents. Pedestrian Rights: What Happens If a Pedestrian Gets Hit by a Car When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the law allows them to hold the negligent driver accountable. The consequences of being hit by a vehicle can be devastating. Medical bills and lost wages can quickly add up while you are recovering, leading to overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial stress. However, understanding your rights can help level the playing field. Proving Negligence To win a personal injury lawsuit, the injured pedestrian must establish negligence on the driver’s part. This typically involves showing that the driver: Negligent actions can include: An attorney can gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness testimony, and expert evaluations to support your claim. What Type of Compensation Is Available for Injured Pedestrians? Under California law, you may recover damages for: Act quickly. California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the accident date. Delaying too long may put your chances of receiving compensation at risk. What to Do After a California Pedestrian Accident Taking the following steps can help protect your rights in a pedestrian accident: Taking these steps safeguards your rights and helps ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Find Your Footing Again with The Beliz Law Firm The path forward can feel uncertain when you’ve suffered an injury as a pedestrian. You may wonder how you’ll pay your medical bills, when you’ll recover, or whether the driver will face consequences. At The Beliz Law Firm, we stand ready to help you regain control. Our team brings years of experience handling pedestrian accident cases across Southern California. We understand the laws, the tactics insurance companies use to minimize claims, and the profound impact these accidents have on victims and their loved ones. Contact us online or call us today for a free consultation and take your first step toward justice. Resources:

Pedestrian Accidents

Common Reasons Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen in California

May 30, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Walking might be a healthy alternative to driving, but walking is also risky. Pedestrians, unlike motorists, are completely unprotected in a collision, which dramatically increases their chances of death or serious bodily injury. Furthermore, many hazards exist for the unwary pedestrian, who can slip or trip and injure themselves on public or private property. If you have suffered an injury, you should contact a Long Beach pedestrian accident lawyer to begin building your case for compensation. Car Accidents By far, the biggest danger to pedestrians is a motor vehicle. Drivers strike pedestrians all the time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,735 pedestrians were killed in 2013 and another 66,000 were injured in traffic crashes. According to the Los Angeles Times, California is a leader in pedestrian deaths, with about 700 in 2014. Although the number of deaths has not increased with population growth, it also has not fallen, either. Drivers do not intend to collide with pedestrians. Nevertheless, they tend to collide for the following reasons: Driving under the influence. Drugs and alcohol suppress reflexes and make it difficult for drivers to process information. Unfortunately, driving while impaired continues to be a serious problem in California. Statistics show that alcohol or drugs play a role in about 1 out of 7 pedestrian accidents. Poor visibility. Rain, fog, and smoke can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Also, pedestrians are less visible in the dark than during the day. Unfortunately, many pedestrians do not wear reflective clothing, so drivers never see them. Distracted driving. There are endless distractions nowadays. Drivers can easily get distracted by reading or sending a text message or talking on the phone. Other distractions include conversations with people in the car, adjusting controls, and eating or drinking. All it takes is a split second for a driver to take their eyes off the road and they can quickly come upon a pedestrian. Driving too fast. The faster a vehicle travels, the less time it has to stop. Indeed, even hitting the brakes will not stop a vehicle in time to avoid a collision if it is traveling too fast. For this reason, driving too fast is a leading cause of crashes. Small children. Young children crossing a road might be invisible to drivers because of their size. Unfortunately, young children are also the most vulnerable to devastating injuries when struck by a moving vehicle. We also cannot avoid mentioning that pedestrian carelessness can contribute to accidents as well. Pedestrians are expected to follow traffic safety rules and cross at the crosswalk. Unfortunately, too many pedestrians make errors that end up putting them in harm’s way, such as jaywalking or trying to run in front of vehicles. Furthermore, distracted walking is a disturbing emerging trend. Just as drivers become distracted by phones and other electronic equipment, pedestrians with their nose pressed against their smartphone do not hear cars or see them approaching. Distracted walkers can, unfortunately, contribute to their own deaths or bodily injuries. Trips and Falls Pedestrians can also suffer serious injuries by tripping and falling. Few people watch carefully where they are stepping, instead of assuming that the parking lot or sidewalk will be level and free of holes or other hazards. However, as pedestrians soon find out, they can easily slip or trip and suffer a head or other injury after falling. In California, pedestrians can trip or slip over the following: Uneven steps in a staircase; Uneven and cracked sidewalks; Liquid gathered on a walking surface; Gathered rainwater in the parking lot or outside the entrance to a store The key to receiving compensation will be to show that the premises owner did not manage their property with reasonable care by fixing hazards or warning people about them. If you tripped on a public space, such as a road or sidewalk, you can sue the state or one of its municipalities, but you will need a Long Beach pedestrian accident lawyer help you meet the strict requirements. Apportioning Fault California law recognizes that both pedestrians and drivers can be responsible for a collision. In some states, any negligence on the part of the pedestrian will keep him or her from bringing a lawsuit for financial compensation. Fortunately, California has changed its approach to the law and does not bar an injured victim from receiving damages. Instead, California has adopted a pure comparative negligence scheme which allows an injured victim to receive compensation so long as someone else is at least 1% responsible for the crash. Therefore a party is responsible for compensation up to the level of his or her negligence. Comparative negligence applies in all cases, including trip and falls. If a person had tripped over a hole in a parking lot because she was reading a text message, then a jury might believe she is partly responsible for the accident because she was distracted. Speak with a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Long Beach Injured pedestrians face a future of mounting medical bills and potential lost wages, in addition to pain and suffering. At the Beliz Law Firm, we have met with many injured pedestrians looking for hope that they can begin to repair their lives. Fortunately, we have obtained favorable settlements or verdicts for many of our clients, and we are offering our services to help you. To schedule your free consultation, please reach out today. Do not delay.

Pedestrian Accidents

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