Pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles can result in life-altering injuries. When a driver’s negligence causes harm to a pedestrian, the injured party may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. As experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers, we at Venerable Injury Law are committed to helping victims navigate the recovery process.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Los Angeles
Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern in Los Angeles, where busy streets and high traffic volumes create dangerous conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- A pedestrian is injured every two hours in the United States.
- Pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely to be killed in a traffic collision than drivers or passengers.
- Older adults (65 and older) account for 19% of fatal pedestrian accidents.
- One in five children under 14 killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians.
- Alcohol or drug impairment contributes to 49% of all auto and pedestrian collisions leading to injury or death.
California Vehicle Code Section 21950(a) mandates that drivers exercise all due care to pedestrians walking in designated crosswalks or unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Despite these laws, Los Angeles has consistently ranked as the state with the highest number of pedestrian fatalities.
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Pedestrian Accident Causes in Los Angeles
Traffic congestion and driver distractions contribute to the high frequency of pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles. Commuters, pedestrians, and drivers must coexist in a busy urban environment. Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles include:
- Driver Distractions: Texting, using GPS, and making phone calls can all divert attention from the road.
- Road Rage and Fatigue: Stressful traffic conditions, particularly during rush hours on streets like Ventura Blvd., increase the risk of accidents.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol, medical marijuana, and recreational drugs (legalized in 2016) contribute to impaired driving accidents.
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The Severity of Pedestrian Injuries
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to serious injury when struck by a vehicle. Even low-speed impacts can cause devastating injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): The impact can cause head trauma, leading to cognitive issues, loss of consciousness, or even permanent disability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or loss of motor function.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, hips, and spine are common in pedestrian accidents.
- Internal Injuries: Collisions can rupture internal organs, leading to bleeding and life-threatening conditions.
- Crush Injuries: Pedestrians may suffer severe bruising, swelling, or even amputation.
In serious cases, pedestrians may suffer catastrophic injuries that lead to permanent disabilities. Seeking immediate medical treatment is crucial to reducing the risk of complications.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Ensure Your Safety: Move to a safe location away from traffic if possible.
- Call the Police: An official report is vital for your claim.
- Seek Medical Care: Call emergency services for immediate medical evaluation and treatment.
- Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from the at-fault driver. If they refuse, take note of any identifying information.
- Gather Evidence: Photograph the accident scene and any visible injuries, and gather witness contact information.
- Consult a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: A pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles will provide you with the expertise to navigate your case effectively.
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Recovering Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Injuries
In California, injured pedestrians may be entitled to compensation for damages caused by a negligent driver. This can include:
- Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, prescriptions, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time away from work due to your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injury affects relationships with loved ones, you may be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship.
California’s comparative fault laws (California Civil Code Section 1714) may also impact your case. If the pedestrian shares some blame for the accident, the compensation amount will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Law Firm
At Venerable Injury Law, we bring years of experience handling pedestrian accident cases in Los Angeles. Our pedestrian accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases present, from complex insurance claims to navigating California’s personal injury laws.
- Prompt Action: We take immediate steps to investigate the accident and begin building your case.
- Handling All Aspects: From collecting evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle everything.
- Experienced Negotiators: Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers know how to maximize your case’s value.
- Winning Track Record: Our successful settlements and verdicts demonstrate our ability to fight for your rights. In one recent case, we secured a seven-figure settlement for a pedestrian, despite the victim crossing the street at a red light.
Contact Venerable Injury Law Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, don’t wait to get legal help. Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us guide you through the legal process with the care and dedication you deserve.
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