Hit by a car while walking in Los Angeles? We’re here to fight for you.
Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer - Expert Legal Representation
Struggling with injuries after a pedestrian accident? You don’t have to go through this alone. Our trial-tested attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience holding negligent drivers accountable and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. Call now for a free, no-obligation case evaluation—get answers, not excuses.
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How El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers Can Help After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles
For decades, our firm has fought for pedestrians injured on Los Angeles streets. These cases demand more than just general personal injury knowledge.
They require an understanding of traffic laws, city safety standards, and the medical realities of pedestrian injuries. Our attorneys use this expertise to hold negligent drivers, municipalities, and even corporations accountable.
Most importantly, we work tirelessly to secure the compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives after preventable accidents.
Unparalleled Expertise in Pedestrian Accident Law
Pedestrian accidents are rarely simple. Liability can involve distracted or impaired drivers, unsafe intersections, defective traffic signals, or even negligent corporations.
Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys have handled cases ranging from crosswalk collisions to multi-vehicle crashes, construction zone injuries, and accidents involving rideshare vehicles, buses, and commercial trucks. No matter how complex the case, our team has the experience and resources to fight for the maximum recovery.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, contact our Los Angeles office today for a free, confidential consultation.
Here are some of the things we can do for your recovery:
- Review the details of your case & identify all responsible parties
- Gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf
- Ensure you reach maximum medical improvement
- Outline the types of compensation owed to you
- Ensure the insurance company’s offers reflect the full extent of your damages
- Negotiate for a fair settlement amount and file a lawsuit if negotiations fail
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At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we’ve built a reputation for never backing down. Our top-rated Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers have secured millions for injured pedestrians—holding reckless drivers accountable every step of the way.
Pedestrian collisions are a Serious Public Safety Hazard in California
When Every Step Matters: Protecting Pedestrian Rights in Los Angeles
The streets of Los Angeles have become increasingly dangerous for those who walk them. In 2023 alone, a staggering 7,314 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents across the United States, representing a crisis that demands immediate attention and expert legal advocacy. Here in California, the situation is equally alarming with 1,158 pedestrian fatalities recorded in 2022, accounting for 26% of all traffic-related deaths in our state. These aren’t just statistics; they represent families torn apart, lives forever changed, and communities grappling with preventable tragedies.
As Los Angeles continues to grow and evolve, the intersection of urban development, increasing traffic density, and pedestrian safety has created a perfect storm of risk. From the bustling sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard to the residential crosswalks of suburban neighborhoods, pedestrians face daily hazards that can result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.
When these accidents occur, victims and their families need medical care and fierce legal representation that understands the complexities of pedestrian accident law and the unique challenges faced by those who have been struck by vehicles.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Driver Negligence: The Leading Cause of Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles
Most pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles happen because drivers fail to pay attention or follow the rules of the road. The most common forms of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving – Despite California’s hands-free laws, many drivers still text, scroll, or use in-car technology behind the wheel. For pedestrians, this often means the driver doesn’t see them until it’s too late, leading to severe, high-impact crashes.
- Impaired driving – Alcohol and drugs remain a major factor in pedestrian accidents, especially at night and on weekends in busy areas like Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Downtown LA. Impaired drivers have slower reactions, poor judgment, and often claim they “never saw” the victim.
- Speeding – On major streets like Sunset Boulevard, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Venice Boulevard, speeding drivers put pedestrians at serious risk. Even a small increase in speed can turn a survivable crash into a fatal one.
- Failure to yield – Drivers rushing through intersections, especially when making right turns, often fail to check for pedestrians in crosswalks. This violation is common during rush hour when driver impatience is high.
- Poor visibility awareness – Dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours make it harder to see pedestrians, but drivers have a duty to adjust. Failing to slow down, use headlights, or account for sun glare on east–west roads often leads to preventable accidents.
Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys know how to prove driver negligence and hold careless drivers accountable. By showing the true cause of a crash, we help victims recover the compensation they need for medical bills, lost income, and long-term care.
Pedestrian Contributing Factors
Although drivers cause most pedestrian accidents, certain pedestrian behaviors can affect how fault is divided:
- Jaywalking or mid-block crossings – Common in areas with few crosswalks, but drivers still have a duty to watch for pedestrians.
- Distraction – Using a phone, headphones, or other devices can reduce awareness, yet California law holds drivers to a higher duty of care.
- Intoxication – Alcohol or drug use can impair a pedestrian’s judgment, but it doesn’t excuse a negligent driver.
- Visibility issues – Dark clothing, poor use of signals, or standing in blind spots may make pedestrians harder to see, but attentive drivers should still take precautions.
Even when pedestrians share some responsibility, drivers usually bear the greater duty and injured pedestrians may still recover compensation.
Environmental and Infrastructure Issues in Los Angeles
Not all pedestrian accidents are caused solely by drivers. Dangerous road design and city infrastructure often play a role:
- Poorly designed intersections – Outdated layouts, short crossing times, and blind spots put pedestrians at risk.
- Inadequate lighting – Dark streets and corridors make it harder for both drivers and pedestrians to see.
- Construction zones – Blocked sidewalks, bad signage, and unsafe detours often create liability for contractors and municipalities.
- Weather conditions – Rain, fog, and glare demand extra caution; failing to adjust driving can still be negligence.
- Signal problems – Short crossing phases and signals favoring cars over pedestrians increase crash risks.
Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys investigate these systemic issues to hold not only drivers, but also cities, contractors, and property owners accountable.
Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Hotspots
Certain areas of Los Angeles see higher rates of pedestrian accidents due to traffic volume, tourism, and inadequate infrastructure. Some of the most dangerous locations include:
Hollywood Boulevard & Walk of Fame – Heavy tourist crowds, jaywalking, street performers, and frustrated drivers create constant hazards.
Venice Beach & Santa Monica Pier – Tourists, cyclists, and beachgoers mix with heavy traffic on roads not built for today’s congestion.
Downtown LA (Skid Row & Arts District) – Poor lighting, construction zones, homeless populations, and commercial truck traffic increase risks.
Major corridors – Streets like Wilshire, Santa Monica, Sunset, and Vermont combine high-speed traffic, frequent bus stops, and dense development with little pedestrian protection.
School zones – Many LA schools lack safe crosswalks, proper speed controls, or crossing guards, making morning and afternoon pickup times especially dangerous.
By identifying these high-risk areas, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys build stronger cases and hold negligent drivers, contractors, and municipalities accountable.
Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Los Angeles
Pedestrian accidents often cause severe, life-changing injuries because the human body is no match for a moving vehicle. Understanding the scope of these injuries is critical for both medical treatment and legal recovery.
Common Injuries
- Head and Brain Injuries (TBI) – Skull fractures, bleeding, or swelling from dual impacts (vehicle + pavement) often lead to lifelong cognitive and motor challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Ranging from partial loss of function to permanent paralysis; these cases often involve millions in long-term medical care.
- Broken Bones – Fractures of the legs, ankles, pelvis, and ribs are common, often requiring surgery, hardware, and long rehabilitation.
- Internal Organ Damage – Liver, spleen, lung, and cardiac trauma from blunt-force impacts can be life-threatening and demand emergency surgery.
Levels of Severity
- Catastrophic Injuries – Permanent paralysis, severe TBI, multiple amputations. Victims usually need lifetime care and adaptive equipment.
- Serious Injuries – Partial paralysis, moderate brain injury, or complex fractures requiring multiple surgeries.
- Moderate to Minor Injuries – Fractures, soft tissue damage, or lacerations. Even so-called “minor” injuries can create chronic pain or disability over time.
Long-Term Consequences
- Chronic Pain & Mobility Limits – Conditions like arthritis, nerve damage, or loss of mobility can affect work and daily life for years.
- Psychological Trauma – PTSD, depression, and anxiety are common, especially in traffic-heavy areas like Los Angeles.
- Economic Impact – Ongoing medical bills, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and costs of home or vehicle modifications.
Medical Treatment & Recovery
- Emergency Care – Trauma teams, surgery, and intensive care are often required immediately after the crash.
- Rehabilitation – Physical, occupational, and speech therapy may last years and sometimes for life.
- Assistive Technology – Wheelchairs, prosthetics, and adaptive devices help restore independence but come with high ongoing costs.
Injured as a pedestrian in Los Angeles? Our attorneys make sure your case covers the full cost today and for the years ahead.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Los Angeles
Being struck by a moving vehicle is scary. The aftermath of a crash can be stressful, confusing, and chaotic. Knowing what needs to be done can make a big difference. Here are four steps to take after a serious pedestrian collision in Los Angeles:
STEP 1
Ensure the Crash is Reported to the Police
Make sure you notify the police of the collision and that you have information from all parties involved.
STEP 2
Get Medical Attention for any Injuries
Keep medical records for your claim and have a doctor evaluate all injuries.
STEP 3
Document the Crash (Record What Happened)
To bolster your case, take pictures, write down any and all specifics, and get in touch with witnesses after the crash.
STEP 4
Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster
For your protection, before speaking with insurance adjusters, consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.
How Do I Prove Negligence After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles?
California is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state, including for pedestrian collisions. No driver is automatically at fault for a pedestrian crash.
Instead, the specific circumstances of each case—most notably, how and why the pedestrian collision happened—will determine liability.
A negligent party can be held legally responsible for a crash.
The Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions explains that negligence is the failure to take the proper care.
Under California’s comparative negligence rule, if a pedestrian is found partially at fault, he or she can still recover financial compensation through a personal injury claim.
However, the settlement or verdict will be reduced proportionally to their degree of fault.
As an example, imagine that you are 25 percent at fault for your pedestrian accident because you crossed against a “no walk” signal. You would bear legal liability for 25 percent of your damages.
Negligence
Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. It happens when someone acts carelessly—or fails to act—causing an accident or injury that a responsible person would have prevented.
Liability
Liability means being legally responsible for something—typically an accident or injury. If your actions (or failure to act) cause harm to someone else, you may be required to pay damages or face legal consequences.
To prove negligence in a pedestrian accident claim, you must establish these four key elements:
- Duty of Care – The at-fault party had a duty of care.
- Breach of Duty – They breached that duty.
- Causation – The breached caused your injuries.
- Damages – You can prove damages.
Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles: Know Your Rights
Walking in Los Angeles shouldn’t be dangerous, but busy streets, distracted drivers, and heavy traffic often put pedestrians at risk.
When a crash happens, the person on foot almost always suffers the most serious injuries. That’s why California law provides strong protections for pedestrians. These rules — from state traffic laws to local ordinances — determine who can be held responsible and how much compensation you may recover.
Knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting your health, your finances, and your future.
How California Pedestrian Laws Protect You After an Accident
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable people on Los Angeles streets. California law recognizes this and gives pedestrians strong legal protections.
At the heart of pedestrian accident law is the idea of negligence. If a driver fails to use reasonable care (by speeding, ignoring crosswalks, or driving distracted) they can be held responsible for the harm they cause.
Proving negligence in pedestrian cases often requires looking at details like:
- Visibility
- Traffic signals
- Road design, and
- How both the driver and pedestrian acted in the moments leading up to the crash.
That’s why it’s critical to work with a pedestrian accident attorney who understands the unique issues these cases involve.
Key California Vehicle Code Protections
Several sections of the California Vehicle Code are especially important in pedestrian accident cases:
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Section 21952 – Requires drivers to always use caution when a pedestrian is in the roadway.
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Section 22350 – Sets the “basic speed law,” requiring drivers to drive at safe speeds for current conditions.
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Section 21456 & 21955 – Govern pedestrian signals and crossing outside crosswalks.
Section 21954 – Reminds pedestrians not to suddenly step into the path of a vehicle, but also holds drivers responsible for using due care even if a pedestrian makes a mistake.
Understanding these rules and how they interact is essential when proving liability after an accident. Even if a pedestrian made an error, drivers may still be found at fault if they weren’t acting reasonably.
Comparative Negligence: Sharing Fault in Pedestrian Cases
California uses a comparative negligence system. This means that even if you were partly at fault for your accident, for example, crossing outside a crosswalk, you may still recover compensation. Your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
Courts will consider factors like:
- Whether you were in a crosswalk.
- Whether traffic signals were working.
- Time of day and visibility.
- If the driver was distracted, speeding, or impaired.
The bottom line: being partly at fault doesn’t mean you lose your rights. An experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer can build a strong case to maximize your recovery.
Right-of-Way Laws and Special Protections
Pedestrians usually have the right-of-way in California, especially at intersections and marked crosswalks. But there are important exceptions:
- Unmarked crosswalks exist at every intersection, but pedestrians must still use reasonable care.
- Mid-block crossings generally require pedestrians to yield unless a driver was negligent.
- Emergency vehicles or traffic officers may temporarily override normal right-of-way rules.
- School zones and areas near children receive heightened protections, placing greater responsibility on drivers.
These laws reflect California’s commitment to protecting pedestrians, especially in high-risk areas like school zones and busy city streets.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles?
In California, injured pedestrians have the right to pursue compensation for both their economic damages and intangible losses.
Following a bad pedestrian crash, you must be able to secure every dollar of financial compensation that is available under the law so that you can support yourself and your family.
Sadly, you cannot trust any insurance company to look out for your best interests.
Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys are passionate advocates for injured victims. We help people fight for the absolute maximum financial support, including:
- Ambulance costs
- Emergency room care
- Hospital bills
- Long-term medical needs
- Loss of income
- Loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Wrongful death
If you’ve suffered serious injuries, getting your case evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to securing the maximum compensation available.
Our trial-tested lawyers have the skills and resources to fight for every dollar you deserve. Call our Los Angeles office today to schedule your free case review.
Medical Bills
If you’re injured, your claim should cover emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medications, medical equipment, and rehabilitation.
Loss of Wages
If your injuries keep you from working, you can claim lost wages, future income loss, or reduced earning capacity due to disability.
Punitive Damages
Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
Why Hire Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Handling the aftermath of a pedestrian wreck is never easy. You are probably feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of what needs to come next.
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we are the law firm you can trust. Our client testimonials and case results demonstrate our success in the field.
We are proactive and ready to go the extra mile to help you maximize your compensation. Along with other things, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers are ready to:
- Listen to your story and answer your personal injury questions
- Investigate your pedestrian crash—gathering the evidence to prove fault
- Advocate for you in any settlement negotiations with the insurance company
- Develop a personalized strategy focused on securing the best possible results
A Track Record of Results That Speaks Volumes
Our reputation in the Los Angeles legal community has been built on consistent results and unwavering dedication to our pedestrian accident clients.
We have secured millions of dollars in compensation for victims and their families, understanding that financial recovery, while never fully healing the wounds, provides the foundation for medical care, rehabilitation, lost income replacement, and long-term security.
Our case results demonstrate not only our legal acumen but our commitment to investigating every aspect of an accident to build the strongest possible case.
We approach each pedestrian accident case with the gravity it deserves, assembling teams of accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, economic analysts, and safety specialists who can provide the technical expertise necessary to prove negligence and demonstrate the full extent of our clients’ damages. This comprehensive approach has allowed us to achieve favorable settlements and jury verdicts even in the most challenging cases, including those involving disputed liability, pre-existing conditions, and complex insurance coverage issues.
Featured Pedestrian Accident Cases
Our results speak for themselves. Here are just a few examples of the compensation we’ve recovered for our clients:
$15 million settlement
Car vs Pedestrian
$5.31 million jury verdict
Car vs Pedestrian
$4.5 million settlement
Car vs Pedestrian
How El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers Will Help You
Recovering after a serious pedestrian accident isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. A Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers will fight to get you the compensation you need to move forward.
We will:
Review Your Case
Investigate & Strategize
Ensure Maximum Medical Recovery
Negotiate for Maximum Compensation
Time is limited to file your claim. Don’t wait—speak to a lawyer now! We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Pedestrian Accident FAQs
What are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is extremely dangerous. Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers are not fully attentive to the road.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions reduces a driver’s ability to stop or maneuver quickly enough to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
- Failure to Yield Right: Pedestrians are most vulnerable when crossing streets and drivers who fail to observe right-of-way laws at crosswalks and/or intersections.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in conditions of poor visibility, such as at night, during heavy rain, or in areas inadequately lit.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s reaction times, decision-making abilities, and overall driving performance. An intoxicated driver must be held accountable.
How Do Crosswalk Laws Work in California?
The overwhelming majority of pedestrian collisions in Los Angeles happen in or near crosswalks—either marked or unmarked. Pedestrians must understand the crosswalk laws in our state. Here is an overview:
- Right of Way at Crosswalks: In California, vehicles must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. However, if there is a “walk/don’t walk” signal, a pedestrian must follow that signal. A pedestrian does not have the right of way when crossing against a signal.
- Pedestrians Must Exercise Care: While pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, they must also exercise reasonable care for their safety. Among other things, this includes not suddenly leaving a curb or other place of safety and walking or running into the path of a vehicle that is close enough to pose an immediate hazard.
It should be noted that when there are no traffic signals in place, all intersections in California are presumed to be crosswalks. A pedestrian has the right of way to cross at these intersections. Motorists should safely yield to pedestrians.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Pedestrian Accident?
Two years. With limited exceptions, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident injury claim in California is two years from the date of the crash. There are only very few exceptions to the rule. Do not fall behind in the claims process: Consult with a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible after a bad collision.
The Insurance Adjuster Wants a Statement—What Should I Do?
Speak to an attorney first. Insurance companies are not on your side. It is advisable to consult with an experienced Los Angeles pedestrian crash lawyer before consulting with an insurance adjuster. Your lawyer will ensure that your rights and interests are protected.
Should I Accept a Settlement in My Pedestrian Accident Injury Claim?
It depends. Many pedestrian accident injury claims are settled. With that being said, you should not agree to a settlement until you are confident that you are receiving the maximum available financial compensation. A Los Angeles pedestrian lawyer can help.
How Much Does an Attorney Charge?
The Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers represent injured victims on a contingency fee basis. We do not charge upfront fees or hourly bills. Instead, our attorneys only get paid when you get paid. Your initial consultation with our Los Angeles pedestrian collision attorney is always free of charge.
Contact a Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney goes above and beyond to protect the rights and interests of victims. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a pedestrian collision, we are more than ready to help.
Injured Pedestrian? You Deserves a Strong Legal Team.
Pedestrian injuries can derail your life. We help victims hold negligent drivers accountable and recover full compensation—starting today.
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