Pedestrian Accident ATTORNEYS
Each year, thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed on California roads. When drivers fail to yield or become distracted behind the wheel, the consequences for pedestrians can be devastating. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians often suffer severe, life-altering injuries when struck by cars, trucks, or motorcycles.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a pedestrian, Penney & Associates can help. Our experienced trial attorneys have successfully represented pedestrian accident victims throughout California, and we have the expertise needed to maximize your compensation.
WE CAN HELP YOU RECOVER
- Medical expenses for immediate and long-term care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma
- Rehabilitation costs for physical therapy and recovery
- Compensation for permanent disabilities and disfigurement
- Punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence
PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS ARE RISING IN CALIFORNIA
California consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. According to recent statistics, pedestrian fatalities have increased by 70% since 2010, with California's pedestrian fatality rate of 1.29 deaths per 100,000 people significantly exceeding the national average.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 1,057 pedestrians lost their lives in California in 2023—approximately one-quarter of all traffic fatalities in the state. Urban areas present particular dangers, with cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and Bakersfield frequently ranking among the nation's most hazardous for pedestrians.
COMMON CAUSES OF Pedestrian ACCIDENTS
DISTRACTED DRIVING
Drivers using cell phones, adjusting navigation systems, or engaging with passengers frequently fail to notice pedestrians, even in marked crosswalks. In a recent survey, over 18% of Californians identified distracted drivers as a primary safety concern when walking.
FAILURE TO YIELD RIGHT-OF-WAY
Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections, particularly when making turns.
SPEEDING AND RECKLESS DRIVING
Higher vehicle speeds dramatically increase fatality risk for pedestrians. At 25 mph, a pedestrian has a 10% chance of being killed if struck. This rises to 50% at 40 mph and 90% at 55 mph.
POOR VISIBILITY CONDITIONS
Inadequate street lighting, inclement weather, and visual obstructions can reduce a driver's ability to see pedestrians, particularly at dawn, dusk, or night.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIENCIES
Lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic signals creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians. Locations without sidewalks are more than twice as likely to experience pedestrian accidents.
PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INJURIES CAN BE CATASTROPHIC
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle weighing thousands of pounds, the injuries are often severe and life-altering:
- Traumatic brain injuries resulting in cognitive impairment and personality changes
- Spinal cord injuries potentially causing partial or complete paralysis
- Multiple fractures requiring surgical intervention and extended rehabilitation
- Internal organ damage that may not be immediately apparent
- Severe lacerations and road rash leading to permanent scarring
- Psychological trauma including PTSD, anxiety, and depression
WHO CAN BE HELD LIABLE?
Liability in pedestrian accidents often extends beyond just the driver:
- Motorists who violate traffic laws or drive negligently
- Government entities responsible for unsafe road design or inadequate signage
- Construction companies that create hazardous conditions for pedestrians
- Vehicle manufacturers in cases involving brake failures or other defects
- Property owners who fail to maintain safe walking conditions near roadways
WHY CHOOSE PENNEY & ASSOCIATES?
Our team of experienced pedestrian accident attorneys understands the unique challenges these cases present. We thoroughly investigate each accident, gathering crucial evidence including:
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Medical documentation
- Expert testimony from accident reconstructionists
We work tirelessly to establish liability and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have secured substantial settlements for pedestrian accident victims throughout California, including urban centers like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento, where pedestrian accidents are most common.
IF YOU'VE BEEN INJURED AS A PEDESTRIAN
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills accumulate while you're unable to work, and insurance companies often offer inadequate settlements that fail to address your long-term needs.
Don't face this challenging time alone. The experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at Penney & Associates are ready to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.