As a pedestrian, there is always a risk of being hit by a vehicle if the driver isn’t paying attention. If this happens, you may want to file a pedestrian accident claim to receive compensation for damages and bodily injury.
Whether you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you need to consider hiring a Downey pedestrian accident lawyer to represent you. At The JLF Firm, we have attorneys who can help you gather evidence and create a strong pedestrian accident lawsuit.
Injuries Pedestrians Can Suffer in an Accident
Pedestrian accidents can be quite dangerous depending on the vehicle’s speed and type of vehicle. If you have been in a pedestrian accident, you will likely have sustained some form of bodily injury. In this case, you may qualify for compensation if the driver who hit you is liable. Certain injuries are very common in pedestrian accidents and you can use these injuries to back up your claim.
Back and neck injuries
Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries include various back and neck injuries. This could be anything from whiplash to a herniated disc to a damaged vertebra. These kinds of accidents can also result in more severe injuries like partial or complete paralysis.
Bone injuries
When you are hit by a vehicle, it is very likely that you will sustain bone injuries such as broken bones or fractures. In more severe accidents, you may even have crushed bones that can result in limb loss. These injuries can also lead to more severe injuries like internal bleeding or damage to your vital organs.
Head injuries
If you hit your head when you were struck by a vehicle, you may have sustained a concussion. There is also the risk of skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries, which can come with serious health implications.
Soft tissue injuries
Some of the more minor pedestrian accident injuries include soft tissue injuries such as road rash and burns. You may have also sustained cuts and lacerations, which can lead to infection or damaged muscles and tendons.
Soft tissue injuries can be very minor but some can also result in significant blood loss, which can be life-threatening.
What Are the Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Downey?
A large percentage of the responsibility for pedestrian accidents falls on the motorist. An example of this is if the driver was driving distractedly by using their cell phone or taking their eyes off the road. They may have also been driving under the influence, which can hinder their ability to watch for pedestrians.
Pedestrian accidents can also occur if the driver fails to yield or drives aggressively or recklessly. This includes running red lights, ignoring stop signs, and not paying attention to designated pedestrian areas. Speeding is also something that can result in a vehicle hitting a pedestrian.
No matter what caused your pedestrian accident, hiring a Downey pedestrian accident attorney to represent you and help you get the compensation you deserve is vital.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws in Downey, California
As a pedestrian, it is very important to understand the pedestrian laws in Downey, California. You need to understand that you, as a pedestrian, have the right of way in specific areas., which includes crosswalks that are marked or unmarked.
Right-of-way laws only apply at intersections and crosswalks where pedestrians are meant to cross. If you are struck in one of these areas, the law is usually going to be on your side.
Areas of Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident Claim
At The JLF Firm, we understand that being hit by a vehicle can be a very traumatic experience. That is why it is so important to file a claim so that you can receive compensation if you are not liable for this accident.
One area where you could get compensation is for pain and suffering as a result of the accident. You can also receive compensation for medical bills and mental anguish. Another important area of compensation is whether or not you lost wages or were unable to continue at your average earning capacity.
If the pedestrian accident involved a loved one and resulted in fatal bodily injuries, you may also be entitled to certain damages from a wrongful death claim.
Pedestrian Accident FAQs
Where do pedestrians get hit the most?
Some high-risk areas for pedestrian accidents include parking lots, urban areas, and open roads. This often happens when the area is not designated for pedestrians and drivers are not paying attention.
What responsibilities do pedestrians have when preventing accidents?
As a pedestrian, you have some responsibility in preventing accidents so that everyone stays safe. This includes staying off the road and only crossing roads in designated pedestrian spaces. You should also keep an eye out for distracted or speeding drivers for your own safety.
How much money should you get if you are hit by a car?
The compensation you receive for a pedestrian accident will depend on the severity of your injuries. It is also essential to hire a knowledgeable personal injury attorney in Downey to create and manag your case, as they pursue the best outcome. In California, the average payout can range from $10,000 and up.
Contact a Downey Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, time is of the essence in filing your claim. Call a Downey pedestrian accident attorney at The JLF Firm at (888) 342-3173 or message us online to schedule your free initial consultation.
