Riverside Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Living in Riverside, California, is an exceptional experience. The weather is excellent all year round, and you can visit many beautiful natural places. Plus, you can shop, enjoy art and culture, and enjoy the nightlife.

Many people in Riverside like to walk or ride bikes instead of driving. It’s a fun way to explore the city and is good for your health. But cars and trucks can make walking in Riverside dangerous. Reach out to a Riverside pedestrian accident lawyer.

Some drivers might not pay attention and could hit you when crossing the street. Others might be drunk and drive onto the sidewalk unexpectedly. Some animals can cause accidents, and the areas around tourist spots can be tricky to navigate.

Sometimes, even if you follow the rules, you can still get hurt while walking. If that happens, you don’t have to deal with it alone. We can help you.

Why Choose Our Riverside Pedestrian Accident Attorney?

With over a decade of experience navigating California’s accident laws, we are deeply committed to your well-being and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Wilshire Law Firm stands out as the top choice when it comes to pedestrian accident representation in Riverside. Here’s why:

No Upfront Costs: We understand that dealing with an accident can be financially challenging. That’s why we operate on a “you don’t pay until you win” basis. Our interests are aligned with yours, ensuring accessible legal services regardless of your financial circumstances.

Free Consultation: Take advantage of our free, no-obligation consultation. During this session, we’ll review your pedestrian accident case, explain your legal options, and introduce you to our experienced team. 

There’s absolutely no pressure to sign on with us – we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

Recognitions and Awards: Our commitment to legal excellence has earned us numerous prestigious awards and accolades, including “Best Law Firm” by esteemed publications like U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®. We’re also proud to be recognized by The National Association of Distinguished Counsel, placing our attorneys among the nation’s top one percent of legal professionals. 

Our history of securing significant settlements and verdicts, including a $38.5 million settlement against a major insurance company, showcases our ability to handle complex cases effectively.

Convenient Location: Our Riverside office is strategically located at 7177 Brockton Avenue #217, Riverside, CA 92506, ensuring ease of access for our clients. Situated near Shamel Park and Woodcrest Christian Day School, our office is at the heart of Riverside, making it convenient for all your needs.

Choosing Wilshire Law Firm’s Riverside pedestrian accident lawyers means partnering with a dedicated team that puts your needs first. If you’ve been in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. 

Discover how we can assist you in obtaining the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve. Your well-being is our priority.

Do I Have a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

A successful pedestrian accident claim is based on negligence. A plaintiff must establish the four essential elements of negligence – the primary components in proving that the defendant is legally responsible. 

The four elements of negligence are:

1. Duty of Care: The plaintiff must show that the defendant was obliged to exercise reasonable caution to prevent harm to establish a legal claim. This duty applies universally to anyone operating vehicles or engaging in activities that could potentially harm pedestrians.
2. Breach of Duty: Plaintiffs must demonstrate that the defendant failed to fulfill their duty of care toward the pedestrian. This requires proving that the defendant’s actions or inactions deviated from the expected level of caution given the circumstances. 
3. Causation: Establishing a direct link between the defendant’s breach of duty and the pedestrian’s injuries is essential. The plaintiff must show that the defendant’s behavior significantly contributed to the accident, harming the pedestrian.
4. Damages: The plaintiff must have incurred provable losses because of the breach of duty. These damages may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and other quantifiable forms of harm.

What Damages Are Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims?

Victims might be entitled to damages to compensate for their losses due to a pedestrian accident. 

They are divided into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.

Here are common types of damages pursued in a Riverside pedestrian accident claim:

• Medical Costs: Victims can request reimbursement for essential medical expenditures resulting from the pedestrian accident, encompassing hospital bills, surgical procedures, medications, rehabilitation, and other medical therapies.
• Income Loss: When injured pedestrians cannot work due to accident-related injuries, they may be eligible for compensation to cover lost wages, encompassing both present and future income losses.
• Pain and Emotional Distress: Non-economic damage covers physical pain, emotional suffering, and reduced quality of life. These damages may be granted to compensate for the intangible hardships endured by the victim.
• Property Harm: Compensation may be pursued to repair or replace personal belongings damaged in the accident, such as clothing, electronic devices, or other possessions.
• Disability and Physical Alterations: If the pedestrian sustains enduring disabilities or disfigurement due to the accident, they may be entitled to compensation for the lasting impact on their life.
• Loss of Consortium: Spouses or family members may have the option to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and services resulting from the injuries sustained by the pedestrian.

Each pedestrian accident case is unique, and the recoverable damages depend on the circumstances of the incident. 

An experienced personal injury attorney can assess the full extent of damages applicable to your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Where Are the 13 Most Common Pedestrian Accidents?

The most common types of pedestrian accidents include:

1. Crosswalk Accidents: Pedestrians are struck while legally crossing at marked crosswalks or intersections.
2. Intersection Accidents: Pedestrians are hit when crossing streets at intersections, especially when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way.
3. Distracted Driving Accidents: Pedestrians are injured due to drivers who are distracted by texting, talking on the phone, or other activities while driving.
4. Speeding Accidents: Speeding drivers have less time to react to pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
5. Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers may not be able to see or react to pedestrians promptly.
6. Failure to Yield Accidents: Drivers who do not yield to pedestrians as traffic laws require.
7. Backing Up Accidents: Pedestrians can be struck by vehicles backing out of driveways or parking spaces without noticing them.
8. Jaywalking Accidents: Pedestrians crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks or against traffic signals are at risk.
9. Left-Turn Accidents: Pedestrians may be hit by drivers making left turns at intersections.
10. Parking Lot Accidents: Pedestrians can be struck by vehicles while walking through parking lots.
11. School Zone Accidents: Areas around schools often have high pedestrian traffic, making accidents more likely.
12. Pedestrian Right-of-Way Violations: Some pedestrians may not obey traffic signals or signs, increasing their risk of accidents.
13. Nighttime Accidents: Reduced visibility at night can lead to accidents, especially if pedestrians are not wearing reflective clothing or drivers are not using headlights.

These accidents can result in various injuries, from bruises to severe, life-threatening injuries, emphasizing the importance of drivers and pedestrians following traffic laws and exercising caution to prevent accidents.

How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in California?

As the most densely populated state in the country, California unfortunately holds the unenviable position of leading in pedestrian fatalities.

A staggering 504 pedestrians lost their lives after motor vehicles struck them, according to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association. This marked a troubling 70 percent increase in 10 years.

The state’s pedestrian fatality rate stood at 1.29 deaths per 100,000 people, surpassing the national rate of 1.04. Research indicates that this alarming rise can be attributed to the growing number of vehicles on the road.

Riverside itself has seen as many as 113 pedestrian accidents in a single year, as many as 24 of them younger than 15.

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, with severity varying. In these accidents, pedestrians frequently sustain the following common injuries:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Pedestrians often experience fractures or breaks in their limbs, such as arms, legs, or wrists, when a vehicle strikes them.
• Head Injuries: When a pedestrian’s head hits the ground or a vehicle, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur, ranging from concussions to more severe brain injuries.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents may damage the spinal cord, resulting in varying degrees of paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired motor function.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries involve muscles, tendons, and ligaments and result in strains, sprains, or tears.
• Internal Injuries: Pedestrians may sustain injuries to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys, which may necessitate surgical or other medical interventions.
• Road Rash: Pedestrians can suffer skin abrasions, known as road rash, when their skin contacts the road surface, potentially leading to infections.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp objects or vehicle components can cause cuts and lacerations, often requiring stitches or surgical treatment.
• Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Amputations: In severe cases, the impact of a collision may necessitate limb amputation.
• Fatal Injuries: Tragically, pedestrian accidents can result in fatal injuries, leading to the loss of life.

The specific injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident depend on various factors, including the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and the age and health of the victim. 

Seeking immediate medical attention and legal advice after a pedestrian accident is crucial to assess and address injuries and seek compensation for medical expenses and suffering.

How Can a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Help Me?

A lawyer can provide valuable assistance after a pedestrian accident in several ways:

• Legal Guidance: A lawyer explains your rights and directs you through the legal process, helping you understand the steps needed to get your settlement.
• Investigation: Lawyers investigate the circumstances of the accident, collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. This helps establish liability and build a strong case.
• Determining Liability: Lawyers can assess liability by examining the actions of all parties involved, including the driver, other potential negligent parties, and even the road conditions to establish who was at fault.
• Medical Documentation: Your lawyer can help you gather and organize all medical records, bills, and reports on your injuries. This documentation is crucial in proving the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your medical treatment.
• Negotiating With Insurers: Lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. 

• Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, but an attorney fights for your rights and helps you get compensation to cover your losses.
• Calculating Damages: Lawyers can help you accurately calculate your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. They work to ensure you seek the maximum compensation possible.
• Settlement Negotiations: Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. A lawyer can negotiate with the responsible party’s legal team for a fair settlement covering your losses.

A lawyer can provide critical support in the aftermath of an accident by ensuring your rights are protected, building a solid case, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for fair compensation. 

Call Us if You Have Experienced a Pedestrian Accident in Riverside 

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Riverside, we can help.

Our attorneys can help you start the legal process, from filing a claim to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing your interests in court. Reach out to a Riverside personal injury lawyer.

We are committed to ensuring our clients receive the legal representation they deserve when they need it most.

After a pedestrian wreck in Riverside, contact us online for a free consultation or call (951) 749-5800 to discuss your case.

Our Riverside Office Location

Wilshire Law Firm
Riverside
7177 Brockton Ave #217
Riverside, CA 92506
Tel: (951) 749-5800

Open Mon – Sun
Available 24 Hours
by Appointment Only