Pedestrian Accident Attorney in California

What Is a Pedestrian Accident Case?

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on California’s roads. With no protection from impact, a person struck by a vehicle in a crosswalk in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or any California city can suffer severe, life-altering injuries. California law gives pedestrians important rights — and places clear duties on drivers.

California crosswalk and right-of-way law

California Vehicle Code section 21950 requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Drivers must also exercise due care for the safety of pedestrians at all times. While pedestrians, too, must use reasonable care, a driver’s failure to yield is a frequent cause of these collisions.

Comparative fault and deadlines

Even if a pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk, California’s pure comparative negligence rule may still allow a recovery, reduced by the pedestrian’s share of fault. The two-year statute of limitations under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1 generally applies, with a shorter six-month deadline possible when a government vehicle or dangerous public roadway is involved.

Building a strong claim

Pedestrian cases often rely on evidence such as traffic-signal timing, surveillance and doorbell-camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction. Injuries frequently include fractures, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, so recoverable damages may include extensive medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Compensation varies based on the facts of each case.

Golden State Injury Lawyers represents injured pedestrians throughout California, including San Diego, Oakland, Sacramento, and Fresno. Consultations are free, with no fee unless we recover for you. This page is general information and not legal advice.