Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in Fresno.
Count on our trusted legal team to provide personalized strategies, clear communication, and strong advocacy—every step of the way.
Get to Safety
Your safety should be your top priority
Contact the Authorities
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Document the Scene
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Collect Driver Information
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
Gather Witnesses
These witnesses can help strengthen your case
Call your Lawyer ASAP
Contact your lawyer as soon as possible
Fresno is a fast-growing Central Valley city where pedestrians move through crowded intersections, school zones, downtown streets, and major corridors alongside heavy traffic, commercial vehicles, and cyclists. From Shaw Avenue to areas near Highway 99, people on foot are regularly exposed to high-speed traffic and congested roadways. When drivers lose focus or streets and crosswalks are poorly designed, a pedestrian accident can happen without warning—and the results are often devastating.
Unlike typical vehicle collisions, pedestrian accidents in Fresno frequently lead to severe injuries because pedestrians have no physical protection. Even low-speed impacts can cause serious harm, and these accidents are often the result of driver negligence, unsafe road conditions, or limited visibility. Many victims are doing everything right when their lives are suddenly altered by someone else’s actions.
The effects of a pedestrian accident extend far beyond the moment of impact. Injured pedestrians may face significant medical expenses, lost income, long-term rehabilitation, and emotional distress that disrupts daily life. This page covers Fresno pedestrian accident statistics, common causes, accident types, injuries, critical legal steps, available compensation, filing deadlines, and how an experienced Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer from RMD Law can help injured pedestrians pursue accountability and financial recovery.
Pedestrian accidents in Fresno are a serious and growing concern, reflecting the city’s busy streets, school zones, and major traffic corridors.
These statistics make clear that pedestrian safety in Fresno is a critical issue, with accidents affecting people of all ages across the city.
Pedestrian accidents in Fresno can occur in many everyday situations, often due to preventable factors. Understanding the common causes helps residents recognize risks and take action to protect themselves.
Drivers using phones, navigation systems, or other devices often fail to notice pedestrians crossing streets. Even a brief lapse in attention can result in severe collisions that leave pedestrians seriously injured. Many accidents happen when drivers look away for just a few seconds, highlighting how quickly distraction can turn deadly. Victims of these accidents often need the guidance of an experienced Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer to protect their rights.
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in a collision. Reckless maneuvers, such as running red lights or aggressive lane changes, put pedestrians in immediate danger. Busy intersections and crowded streets make speeding particularly hazardous, and legal support can help victims secure fair compensation after such collisions.
Broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, faded crosswalk markings, or missing signage create serious hazards for pedestrians. Navigating these areas can force pedestrians into dangerous paths near moving vehicles. Victims injured due to unsafe road conditions may have legal claims against the city or property owners.
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and impaired judgment. This significantly raises the risk of striking pedestrians, even in areas with crosswalks or traffic signals. Legal guidance is often necessary to hold impaired drivers accountable and pursue full compensation for injuries.
Nighttime conditions, poorly lit streets, or obstructions near intersections make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Reduced visibility is a leading factor in accidents during early morning or evening hours. Even cautious pedestrians can be struck if drivers fail to spot them in time, making legal assistance important for victims.
Temporary lanes, cones, and construction equipment can create confusion for both drivers and pedestrians. Pedestrians are often forced to navigate around obstacles, putting them closer to moving vehicles. Drivers unfamiliar with detours or distracted by the work zone may not anticipate a person crossing unexpectedly, and victims may need a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer to pursue compensation for injuries caused in these situations.
Pedestrian accidents in Fresno can occur in a variety of ways, each carrying unique risks and potential injuries. Understanding these common scenarios helps victims recognize the dangers and prepare for legal and medical steps after an accident.
Collisions at intersections or marked crosswalks often happen when drivers fail to yield or are distracted. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones or head trauma. Victims in crosswalk accidents may need a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer to ensure drivers are held accountable.
Accidents can occur when vehicles leave the roadway or in parking lots, where pedestrians have little protection. These collisions often result in severe injuries due to the unexpected nature of the impact. Legal guidance can help victims pursue compensation for injuries caused by negligent drivers or property owners.
When drivers flee the scene, victims face delayed medical care and added legal complications. Hit-and-run accidents often involve serious injuries, and tracking the responsible driver requires expert legal support. A Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer can help victims navigate insurance claims and hold fleeing drivers accountable.
Pedestrians are often struck while drivers make left or right turns at busy intersections. Timing errors, obstructed views, and driver inattention are common causes of these accidents. Victims may need legal assistance to establish liability, especially if the driver disputes fault or insurance companies minimize claims.
Pedestrian accidents in Fresno often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for those on foot. Even low-speed collisions can cause life-altering damage, requiring medical attention and sometimes long-term care. Understanding the types of injuries can help victims recognize the seriousness of their condition and the importance of legal guidance.
Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures can occur even at relatively low speeds. These injuries may lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, or long-term neurological issues. Victims with head injuries often need a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer to secure compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and future care.
Legs, arms, ribs, and other bones are commonly fractured in pedestrian collisions. Recovery may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended time away from work. Legal assistance can help ensure victims are compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing rehabilitation costs.
Collisions can damage the spine, potentially causing partial or full paralysis. These injuries often necessitate extensive care, adaptive equipment, and major lifestyle adjustments. A lawyer can guide victims in seeking compensation for both immediate medical expenses and long-term support.
Damage to organs can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery. Internal injuries are not always immediately apparent, making prompt medical attention critical. Legal representation helps victims pursue claims for the full scope of medical care and related financial losses.
Sprains, strains, and bruises may seem minor initially, but can result in chronic pain or mobility issues over time. Proper documentation and treatment are essential for recovery and legal claims. A Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer can assist in securing compensation for ongoing care and related impacts on daily life.
After a pedestrian accident, quick and proper action can protect your health and legal rights. Following these steps ensures injuries are treated and evidence is preserved for potential claims.
Even if injuries seem minor, prompt medical evaluation is crucial. It ensures proper treatment and creates a documented record of your injuries, which is critical for legal claims. A Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer can use these records to support your case and protect your rights.
Reporting the accident establishes an official record, including driver details and circumstances of the collision. Police reports are often essential evidence for insurance claims or court proceedings. Legal guidance helps ensure the report accurately reflects the incident.
Take photos of the accident location, vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements and contact information to strengthen your claim. Your lawyer can help organize and preserve this evidence to maximize potential compensation.
Do not accept settlement offers immediately, as initial offers are often far below what you may be entitled to. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize liability before injuries fully develop. Legal support ensures you understand your rights and negotiate a fair settlement.
Early legal guidance protects evidence, secures witness accounts, and helps victims understand their options. Attorneys can advise on interactions with insurance companies and the steps required to pursue compensation. Engaging a lawyer promptly improves the chances of recovering full damages.
Determining fault is critical to recovering compensation after a pedestrian accident. Liability can extend beyond the driver to municipalities, property owners, or even shared responsibility scenarios.
Failure to obey traffic laws, distracted or impaired driving, and speeding can make drivers fully liable. Establishing driver fault is key to securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer can gather evidence and prove negligence.
Poorly maintained streets, missing crosswalks, or inadequate signage may make the city or local government partially responsible. Legal action can hold municipalities accountable when unsafe infrastructure contributes to accidents. Attorneys often navigate these claims to ensure proper compensation.
In parking lots or private roads, owners may be responsible if unsafe conditions, such as uneven surfaces or debris, caused the accident. Victims may pursue claims against property owners for negligence. Lawyers ensure evidence is documented and claims meet legal requirements.
In some cases, pedestrians may share partial fault, such as jaywalking or ignoring traffic signals. California law allows compensation to be reduced proportionally based on shared fault. Legal guidance helps accurately assess liability and pursue the maximum allowable recovery.
Establishing negligence is essential for holding drivers or other parties responsible. Fresno attorneys use a combination of evidence and expert analysis to demonstrate fault and strengthen claims.
Police and traffic reports provide official documentation of the incident, including driver information and initial findings. These reports are often the first step in proving negligence. Lawyers can review reports to identify discrepancies or critical details supporting the victim’s case.
Medical documentation shows the extent and severity of injuries, linking them directly to the accident. Detailed records are vital for calculating compensation for current and future medical costs. Attorneys use these records to support claims for damages and rehabilitation needs.
Eyewitness accounts can clarify how the accident occurred and corroborate the victim’s version of events. Statements from bystanders, neighbors, or nearby drivers are particularly persuasive in contested claims. Lawyers often collect and preserve these statements to strengthen legal cases.
Accident reconstruction specialists, traffic engineers, and medical experts can testify about liability and injury severity. Their insights help establish how the collision happened and who is at fault. Fresno attorneys rely on expert opinions to build strong, evidence-backed cases.
Footage from nearby cameras can show exactly what happened during the accident, including vehicle speed, pedestrian movement, and road conditions. These videos provide objective proof that can be crucial in disputes. Attorneys work to secure and interpret footage before it is lost or overwritten.
After a pedestrian accident, victims may be entitled to several types of compensation. Legal guidance is key to calculating fair damages and navigating the claims process.
These include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses directly resulting from the accident. Fresno attorneys ensure all expenses are documented and accounted for in claims.
Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are recoverable to compensate for personal impacts. These damages address the mental and physical toll of the accident. Lawyers help quantify these impacts to achieve fair settlements.
In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may apply to punish the responsible party. These damages are meant to deter future wrongdoing. Legal counsel guides victims in pursuing punitive damages when the situation warrants.
The timeline for resolving pedestrian accident cases varies depending on complexity and injury severity. Understanding typical durations can help victims plan for medical, financial, and legal recovery.
Accidents with minor injuries may resolve within 6–12 months through settlements. Lawyers help ensure negotiations are fair and timely. Early legal guidance can prevent delays and protect the victim’s interests.
Cases involving severe injuries, multiple parties, or disputed liability may take 1–3 years to reach a conclusion. Extensive evidence gathering, expert testimony, and court schedules influence the timeline. Attorneys manage these complexities to maintain progress and protect client rights.
The severity of injuries, the number of defendants, evidence collection, and involvement of expert witnesses all affect how long a case takes. Legal representation helps anticipate obstacles and navigate the process efficiently.
California law imposes strict time limits for filing pedestrian accident claims. Missing these deadlines can prevent victims from recovering compensation.
Most pedestrian accident claims must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. Filing within this period is critical to preserving legal rights. Attorneys guide clients to ensure deadlines are met.
If the accident involves city or state property, an administrative claim is generally required within six months. Meeting this deadline is essential before pursuing a lawsuit. Lawyers handle the paperwork and procedural requirements to avoid disqualification.
If injuries involve medical treatment after the accident, different deadlines may apply based on the discovery of the injury. Legal experts ensure claims are filed correctly within these special timeframes. Proper guidance protects victims from losing their right to compensation.
Pedestrian accidents often create a range of physical, financial, and emotional challenges. Recognizing these obstacles highlights why timely legal support is critical.
Long-term care, therapy, and surgeries can quickly accumulate, straining family finances. Attorneys help recover compensation that covers both immediate and ongoing medical expenses.
Time away from work due to recovery or permanent disability affects household stability. Lawyers assist in securing lost wages and potential future earnings.
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize claims, dispute liability, or delay payments. Legal representation ensures victims are treated fairly and their claims are properly pursued.
Accidents often result in PTSD, anxiety, and stress, affecting daily life and relationships. Lawyers can advocate for non-economic damages to address these mental health impacts.
Navigating a pedestrian accident claim in Fresno can be complex, requiring local knowledge and legal expertise. Our attorneys combine experience, resources, and a client-focused approach to help victims recover fair compensation.
RMD Law has successfully represented pedestrian accident victims across Fresno and California, securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our experience ensures cases are handled efficiently and effectively.
Familiarity with Fresno streets, intersections, hospitals, and courts allows our attorneys to develop strategic case plans. We know how local conditions and traffic patterns impact liability and damages.
We prioritize clear communication and regular updates, guiding clients through every step of the legal process. Our team treats each client with empathy while aggressively advocating for their rights.
We collaborate with medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial experts to strengthen every case. Expert testimony and analysis are often crucial in establishing liability and compensation.
Our attorneys pursue all available damages, from economic and non-economic losses to punitive damages when applicable. We are dedicated to ensuring clients receive the full compensation they deserve while navigating the legal process with confidence.
Fresno, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, is a city celebrated for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant community. It offers a wide array of experiences and activities for both residents and visitors alike.
With its mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, diverse dining, and vibrant attractions, Fresno is a city that invites exploration, enjoyment, and the creation of lasting memories.
You’re not required by law to hire an attorney after a pedestrian accident, but having one can significantly improve your chances of success. An experienced Fresno pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the incident, collect key evidence like police reports, medical records, and witness testimony, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and work to secure the maximum compensation for your complex medical needs and losses.
After being hit by a vehicle, your priority should be to seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Contact law enforcement if not already involved, and gather any information you can about the incident, including the driver’s details and contact information of witnesses. If possible, take photos or videos of the scene and your visible injuries. Finally, before giving statements to insurance adjusters, consult with a Fresno pedestrian accident attorney who can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process while ensuring your injuries and losses are properly documented.
Yes. Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, you can still recover compensation even if you shared some of the blame for the incident (e.g., jaywalking). However, your settlement may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. A lawyer can help minimize unfair fault claims and strengthen your case.
In California, including Fresno, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits, including those for pedestrian accidents, is two years from the date of the injury. Acting quickly is crucial to preserving evidence, documenting your symptoms, and protecting your right to pursue a claim.
If the driver was uninsured, you still have options for seeking compensation. Your own auto insurance policy may cover you through Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if you have it. You may also be able to pursue a claim against the driver’s personal assets. Consulting with a pedestrian accident attorney is crucial to exploring all possible avenues for recovery.
Families in Fresno rely on us to handle their pedestrian injury claims with compassion and commitment. Here’s what they have to say:
Looking to understand your rights after a pedestrian accident? Visit our blog for expert insights, practical tips, and proven legal strategies that can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Start with these featured articles:
California roads are home to two very different types of ride-hailing options: human-driven Uber vehicles and Waymo’s autonomous robotaxis. Crash data reported by both companies
Key Takeaways Poorly designed intersections, inadequate lanes, and insufficient signage increase traffic accident risks for everyone. Downtown streets, complex intersections, and high-traffic corridors create environments
This article breaks down common lane-splitting accidents and explains how fault is determined. You’ll also learn what evidence can strengthen a personal injury claim, so you can protect your rights and make informed legal decisions after an accident.
Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
