Every year, countless people are hurt in car accidents involving pedestrians. These incidents can be devastating for both the pedestrian and the driver. Regardless of who is at fault, accidents like these almost always result in some form of injury or worse. If you find yourself in such a situation, seeking help from an experienced San Diego car accident lawyer is crucial to navigate this stressful time effectively.
Car Accidents & Pedestrians
When a car hits a pedestrian, serious injuries are almost inevitable. Pedestrians often suffer severe injuries or even death because cars are much larger and heavier. Even at low speeds, like in a parking lot, a car can cause significant harm to a pedestrian, particularly to children and the elderly.
Pedestrians can be at risk anytime they are near traffic. They might be using a crosswalk correctly, but if a driver fails to give them the right of way, an accident can occur. Pedestrians can also be injured if they are hit by a car that was pushed into them by another vehicle. Intersections, in particular, can be dangerous; drivers making turns may not always see pedestrians and could accidentally hit them.
San Diego California Accidents Attorney
If you’re a pedestrian who has been hit by a car, or a driver involved in such an accident, legal advice is essential. San Diego pedestrian accident lawyers can help injured pedestrians seek justice. Drivers may also need legal assistance to defend against claims of liability. Not all accidents are solely the driver’s fault; sometimes pedestrians step out in front of vehicles without warning.
Whether you are the driver or the injured pedestrian, working with an experienced California Accidents Attorney can help you achieve justice. These lawyers have the expertise to handle vehicle accident cases involving pedestrians. They can reconstruct accident scenes, utilize expert witnesses, and are adept at handling courtroom litigation.
When choosing a lawyer, look for someone with a proven track record in similar cases. Your attorney should be skilled in pre-trial negotiations, mediation, arbitration, and courtroom presentations. They will provide an honest assessment of your case and potential settlement amounts. You deserve personalized attention and tailored solutions for your unique situation.
San Diego Car Accident Injuries
Determining fault is crucial in winning an accident injury case. Injuries can occur anytime pedestrians are near moving vehicles. If a pedestrian runs in front of a moving car without caution or is distracted by texting, they might be at fault for the accident. Even if the driver tries to stop, serious injuries can still happen.
Both pedestrians and drivers have a responsibility to ensure safety on the road. When an accident occurs, either party might be liable for resulting injuries and associated costs. If a pedestrian is killed, their family may seek compensation for their loss. Both drivers and pedestrians can benefit from the advice and representation of a skilled San Diego pedestrian accident lawyer.
Pedestrian injuries from car accidents often include:
- Head, neck, and spine injuries – from being hit by the vehicle or colliding with nearby objects
- Bone injuries – fractures, broken bones, and amputations
- Soft tissue injuries – bruises and lacerations
- Mental and emotional injuries – trauma that can require extensive therapy
San Diego Personal Injury Accident Claims
Claims after car/pedestrian accidents are similar to other Personal Injury cases. They include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Families of pedestrians killed in accidents may also claim for wrongful death, including loss of companionship and guardianship.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California had the highest number of pedestrian fatalities in 2022, with 1,051 deaths. Nationwide, there were 7,388 pedestrian deaths and over 104,000 injuries in car/pedestrian accidents. Alcohol was a factor in about 50% of these fatalities, whether involving the driver or the pedestrian.
Pedestrian accidents result in a fatality approximately every 84 minutes and injuries every 10 minutes, based on NHTSA reports. These accidents are less common than vehicle-to-vehicle crashes, which might lead to less awareness about pedestrian safety. However, drivers and pedestrians alike need to be vigilant to prevent such tragedies.
Notable Pedestrian Accident Settlements
Here are ten notable settlements involving car accidents with pedestrians in San Diego:
- $7.6 Million Settlement – 2018
- A pedestrian was struck at an intersection in downtown San Diego, resulting in severe traumatic brain injuries. The driver failed to yield, leading to a significant settlement to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering.
- $5.5 Million Settlement – 2016
- In the Gaslamp Quarter, a pedestrian was hit by a commercial vehicle while in a crosswalk, suffering multiple fractures. The driver was found to be speeding and distracted, leading to a substantial settlement.
- $4.3 Million Settlement – 2019
- A pedestrian crossing the street in Hillcrest was struck by an SUV, causing serious spinal injuries and partial paralysis. The driver ran a red light, resulting in a multi-million dollar settlement.
- $3.2 Million Settlement – 2015
- In La Jolla, a pedestrian was hit by a delivery truck, resulting in a shattered pelvis and permanent disability. The delivery company was held liable for the driver’s negligence, leading to a significant settlement.
- $2.8 Million Settlement – 2020
- A driver under the influence swerved onto the sidewalk in Pacific Beach, injuring a pedestrian who sustained multiple broken bones and head injuries. The case was settled for nearly $3 million.
- $2.5 Million Settlement – 2017
- A pedestrian was struck by a rideshare vehicle in Mission Valley, leading to severe leg injuries and multiple surgeries. The rideshare company settled the case for $2.5 million.
- $2.3 Million Settlement – 2014
- A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle in North Park while crossing the street, resulting in traumatic brain injuries. The driver was found to be distracted, and the case settled for $2.3 million.
- $2 Million Settlement – 2019
- In Chula Vista, a pedestrian was hit by a car while crossing a residential street, suffering significant spinal injuries. The settlement reached was $2 million.
- $1.8 Million Settlement – 2021
- A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in Ocean Beach, resulting in severe leg and knee injuries. The driver was found negligent, leading to a $1.8 million settlement.
- $1.5 Million Settlement – 2013
- A pedestrian in La Mesa was hit by a vehicle in a crosswalk, leading to multiple fractures and long-term rehabilitation needs. The driver’s insurance settled for $1.5 million.
These settlements highlight the severe impact that pedestrian accidents can have and underscore the importance of driver vigilance and pedestrian safety.
San Diego Legal Advice & Representation
To maximize your settlement or jury award, obtaining professional legal advice and representation is your best bet. No matter how complex your case, a skilled attorney will ensure all deadlines are met, evidence is thorough, and your claims are well-presented. Start with a free consultation and let the attorney handle the hard work for you.