San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Attorney

There are numerous physical and mental health advantages to walking instead of driving. It contributes to an overall healthy lifestyle, reduces emissions, and decreases the risks of vehicle collisions. However, unfortunately, in California and the United States, pedestrians are struck every day by bike, car, and other motor vehicle drivers. Often, they suffer potentially serious injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured, whether slightly or severely, Rush Injury Law can help you win your personal injury case. If your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, our San Francisco pedestrian accident team is here to fight for you. We have the knowledge to get you the optimal settlement outcome.

What to Do After Being in a California Pedestrian Accident

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in California, it is important to take the following steps as soon as possible:

• Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries appear to be minor, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This will help document your injuries and their extent.
• Gather evidence. If possible, take photos of the scene of the accident. This includes any damage to the vehicle or surrounding area, and the positions of the vehicles involved. Try to obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Notify the police. Call the police to the scene of the accident and make sure that a police report is filed. The police report may be important evidence in your case.
• Contact your insurance company. If you have insurance coverage, notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible.
• Find an experienced pedestrian accident attorney. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can advise you on your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
• Keep records. Keep a record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Also, keep records of any pain and suffering you have experienced.

It is important to act quickly after a pedestrian accident to preserve your rights. It can also ensure that you receive the compensation you may be entitled to.

Laws Protecting Pedestrians in California

In California, there are several laws designed to protect pedestrians and ensure their safety on the roads. Some of the most important laws include:

• Right-of-Way Laws: California law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, marked or unmarked. They must also give pedestrians sufficient time to cross the road before proceeding.
• Crosswalk Laws: The law requires drivers to stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the road within any marked or unmarked crosswalk.
• Speed Limits: California law sets maximum speed limits to help ensure the safety of all road users, including pedestrians. Drivers must adjust their speed to consider the prevailing conditions, including the presence of pedestrians.
• Distracted Driving Laws: State law prohibits drivers from using handheld devices while driving, including texting, emailing, or using social media. Distracted driving is a major cause of pedestrian accidents. Offenders can face significant fines and other penalties.
• Drunk Driving Laws: California law prohibits driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drunk driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Violating the law can result in criminal charges, fines, and other penalties.

These laws are designed to protect the safety of pedestrians on the roads. However, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when walking or crossing the street.

Types of Injuries Suffered by Pedestrians in Accidents

Some common types of injuries suffered by pedestrians in accidents include:

• Head Injuries: Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to head injuries during an accident. These include traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and concussions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result in temporary or permanent paralysis. This can have a significant impact on a pedestrian’s quality of life.
• Bone Fractures: Pedestrians can suffer broken bones because of the impact of a vehicle. This includes fractures to the legs, arms, pelvis, and ribs.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can be difficult to diagnose. They can also potentially be life threatening.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as bruises, sprains, and strains, are common in pedestrian accidents, particularly if the pedestrian is knocked to the ground.
• Road Rash: Road rash is a type of injury that occurs when a pedestrian’s skin hits the ground or pavement, causing abrasion and injury.
• Psychological Injuries: Psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, can also occur due to a pedestrian accident. These can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health and well-being.

These are just a few examples of the types of injuries that can occur because of a pedestrian accident. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident to diagnose and treat any injuries.

Why You Should Contact an Accident Lawyer

There are several reasons why you should immediately consult a pedestrian accident attorney if you were injured:

• Time is of the essence. In many states, there is a time limit within which you must file a claim for compensation, called the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may be barred from recovering compensation for your injuries.
• Evidence disappears. Physical evidence at the scene of the accident can disappear quickly, making it more difficult to prove your case. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can act quickly to gather and preserve critical evidence.
• Insurance companies are not on your side. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they will often try to settle your claim for as little as possible. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve
• The other side will have an attorney. If the driver who hit you was at fault, their insurance company will likely have an attorney working on their behalf. It is important that you have an experienced pedestrian accident attorney on your side to protect your rights.
• Complex legal issues. Pedestrian accident cases can involve complex legal issues, such as determining fault, evaluating damages, and negotiating with insurance companies. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help navigate these issues. They can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is critical to seek the advice of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible. This can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need.

Pedestrian Accidents FAQs

Q: Can I claim compensation as a San Francisco pedestrian?

A: Yes, as a pedestrian, you may be eligible to claim compensation if you were involved in an accident with a vehicle and suffered injuries as a result. To be eligible for compensation, you must demonstrate that the driver of the vehicle was at fault for the accident. This can either be through negligence or because they broke a traffic law.

Q: What are three types of pedestrians?

A: There are walkers, who are individuals who walk for transportation, recreation, or fitness. They typically walk on sidewalks, trails, or pedestrian pathways. Joggers are individuals who run for transportation, recreation, or fitness. They typically run on sidewalks, trails, or pedestrian pathways. Lastly, wheeled pedestrians are individuals who use wheeled devices such as bicycles, skateboards, or scooters for transportation, recreation, or fitness. They typically use bike lanes, bike trails, or sidewalks.

Q: How much do accident lawyers charge in San Francisco, California?

A: Typically, accident lawyers in San Francisco, California work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they only charge a fee if they win the case. The fee is a percentage of the settlement or award obtained for the client. The percentage can range anywhere from 25% to 40% of the total settlement or award. If you decide to hire a lawyer, make sure you are comfortable with the terms of the fee agreement.

Q: What does “negligent pedestrian” mean?

A: “Negligent pedestrian” refers to a pedestrian who acts in a careless or irresponsible manner that contributes to an accident involving a pedestrian and a vehicle. Negligent behavior by a pedestrian can include:

• Crossing the road outside of a crosswalk
• Crossing the road against the signal
• Jaywalking
• Walking while distracted
• Walking under the influence of drugs or alcohol

In a pedestrian accident, the degree of negligence of each party involved will be considered when determining fault and liability.

Get Optimal Results: Contact Rush Injury Law Today

If you or someone you love has been involved in a personal injury case, do not wait any longer. Get the result you deserve with a confidential settlement. We have years of experience and a long history of successful injury case results. Our team at Rush Injury Law can help you understand your legal options and get the best possible outcome. Contact us today and find out how we can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.