Explore your legal options after a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles. Learn how to file a claim, understand your rights, and seek fair compensation with help from experienced attorneys.
With personalized guidance, open communication, and powerful representation, we stand by you to pursue the best possible outcome—every step of the way.
Your safety should be your top priority
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
These witnesses can help strengthen your case
Contact your lawyer as soon as possible
Los Angeles is known for its vibrant communities and busy streets, but pedestrian collisions continue to pose a serious threat. Negligent motorists, poorly maintained infrastructure, and other roadway hazards can result in severe harm, leading to physical trauma, emotional distress, and significant financial burdens for victims and their loved ones. Whether the incident occurs at an intersection, during a hit-and-run, or due to a distracted driver, these accidents can change lives in an instant.
Pursuing a pedestrian injury claim in Los Angeles can be a challenging endeavor, especially when extensive medical care, rehabilitation, or permanent impairments are involved. Victims may have the right to pursue financial compensation for emergency room costs, income loss, and psychological suffering. Working with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles can be crucial in helping victims obtain the compensation they need to move forward.
This resource outlines the various forms of pedestrian accident cases, potential damages you may recover, and the essential actions to take when seeking justice. Knowing your rights can empower you to make informed decisions and prioritize your recovery.
Los Angeles is known for its sprawling urban landscape, bustling streets, and car-centric infrastructure. But behind the city’s vibrant energy lies a sobering reality: pedestrian deaths and traffic violence have reached alarming levels. Despite city-led initiatives like Vision Zero, which aim to eliminate traffic fatalities, the number of pedestrian and cyclist deaths continues to rise. These tragic incidents are not just statistics—they represent lives lost and families shattered. The data reveals a crisis that demands urgent attention from both policymakers and the public.
Below are key statistics that highlight the ongoing risks pedestrians face on Los Angeles streets:
In 2022, Los Angeles experienced its highest number of pedestrian deaths in two decades, with 159 pedestrians or cyclists killed in traffic collisions.
In 2023, pedestrians accounted for 53.3% of all traffic fatalities in Los Angeles. Combined with bicycle fatalities, these vulnerable road users comprised nearly two-thirds (60.4%) of total traffic deaths. Streets Are For Everyone
Since the launch of the Vision Zero initiative in 2015, pedestrian fatalities in Los Angeles have surged by 103%, indicating a troubling trend despite efforts to enhance road safety.
From January 1 to July 13, 2024, there were 170 vehicle-related deaths in Los Angeles, a slight decrease from the same period in 2023. However, the city remains on track to exceed 300 traffic fatalities for the third consecutive year.
During the first half of 2024, 90 pedestrians were killed in Los Angeles, a notable increase from 62 deaths during the same period in 2018, highlighting ongoing risks for those on foot.
Felony hit-and-run deaths rose to 62 from January 1 to July 13, 2024, up from 58 in the same timeframe the previous year. This marks more than a doubling of such incidents compared to 2018 figures.
Understanding these statistics can help raise awareness and encourage safer behaviors among both pedestrians and drivers.
Sources: Streets Are For Everyone, Crosstown, Spectrum News, Mayor LA City
Numerous elements contribute to pedestrian accidents throughout Los Angeles. While driver error is a leading factor, roadway conditions and pedestrian decision-making also significantly influence the likelihood of incidents.
Frequent contributing factors include:
Motorists who are distracted by mobile phones, GPS systems, or other in-vehicle distractions often fail to notice individuals on foot. Even brief lapses in attention can lead to serious collisions, especially in busy intersections or urban streets.
Driving above the posted speed limits decreases a driver’s ability to react in time to pedestrians. The impact of a high-speed crash is often far more severe, increasing the chances of major injury or death.
Crashes frequently happen at crosswalks and junctions where drivers don’t yield to people crossing the street. This could result from carelessness, aggressive driving, or a lack of understanding of local pedestrian laws.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics slows reflexes, impairs judgment, and hampers awareness of surroundings, making DUI-related pedestrian incidents particularly dangerous and often fatal.
Limited lighting, adverse weather, or poor road design can reduce a driver’s ability to see pedestrians, especially during dusk or nighttime hours. Pedestrians wearing dark clothing are especially at risk in such conditions.
When pedestrians cross mid-block or against traffic lights, the unexpected behavior reduces a driver’s ability to avoid a collision. Although motorists must remain alert, these unpredictable movements increase the accident risk.
Improperly functioning pedestrian signals, faded markings, or lack of safe walkways can create perilous situations. In some cases, municipalities may bear responsibility if faulty infrastructure contributes to the incident.
Understanding these common scenarios can help reduce pedestrian injuries and guide efforts to improve public safety across Los Angeles.
Determining who is at fault in a pedestrian collision can be complex. Liability depends on traffic regulations, the behavior of involved parties, and environmental circumstances.
Parties who may bear responsibility include:
Drivers who violate traffic rules by texting, speeding, or ignoring signals are commonly held liable for pedestrian crashes. Evidence such as surveillance footage, crash reports, and expert analysis often supports these claims
Pedestrians may share responsibility if they cross illegally, disregard crossing signals, or step into traffic unexpectedly. California’s comparative fault law allows liability to be divided based on each party’s degree of negligence.
Government bodies in charge of road maintenance and traffic systems can be held liable when poor road design, broken signals, or unmaintained walkways contribute to an accident.
In cases where mechanical failure, such as malfunctioning brakes or lights, leads to a crash, the car manufacturer or parts provider might be found accountable under product liability laws.
Establishing fault usually involves a thorough review of evidence and expert input to support a claim for compensation.
Doctor showing patient xray of fractured bones
When a pedestrian is struck by a moving vehicle, the absence of physical protection often results in grave or life-threatening injuries that require extensive treatment and ongoing care.
Frequent injuries sustained include:
Head trauma from direct impact can cause concussions, brain swelling, and long-term cognitive impairments, often requiring rehabilitation.
Injuries to the spinal cord may result in partial or full paralysis, severe pain, or decreased mobility, with some requiring lifelong medical support.
Pedestrians commonly suffer from broken arms, legs, or ribs. These injuries may need surgical intervention and prolonged recovery periods.
Serious trauma can cause damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys, along with internal bleeding—conditions that require immediate emergency care.
Deep wounds and ligament tears can cause scarring or limited range of motion, sometimes leading to permanent physical impairment.
Tragically, some pedestrian incidents result in loss of life. Surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to recover financial and emotional losses.
Knowing what steps to take after a pedestrian accident can help secure your health, strengthen legal claims, and preserve essential evidence.
Here’s what you should do:
Even if injuries aren’t immediately visible, it’s critical to seek prompt medical care. Internal injuries or head trauma may not show symptoms at first but can worsen without timely treatment.
Notify local law enforcement so a formal report can be generated. Police documentation can include driver details, witness names, and initial fault assessments—important for insurance and legal claims.
Take photographs of the crash location, your injuries, vehicle positions, and environmental conditions. These visuals can support insurance claims and help reconstruct what happened.
Gather names and contact details of anyone who saw the incident. Third-party accounts are valuable when reconstructing events or when liability is in dispute.
Be cautious with your words, especially when speaking to insurance representatives or the other party. Don’t apologize or suggest fault, as it could be used against you.
Hiring a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you navigate claims, protect your rights, and ensure that you’re not taken advantage of by insurance adjusters.
Doctor writing down notes in chart
Victims of pedestrian incidents in Los Angeles may be entitled to various forms of financial recovery. The type and amount of compensation often depend on the extent of injury and damages suffered.
Recoverable compensation includes:
This covers hospital bills, surgical procedures, therapy sessions, prescription medications, and future medical needs, including home healthcare services.
If injuries prevent you from working, you may claim wages lost during recovery. In cases of permanent disability, compensation may also include diminished earning capacity.
Victims may be eligible for damages related to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or post-traumatic stress—common after serious pedestrian accidents.
You may be reimbursed for damaged personal items such as electronics, clothing, or assistive devices destroyed in the crash.
When accidents result in fatalities, eligible family members can seek compensation for burial expenses, loss of companionship, and income support.
A knowledgeable attorney can help determine the full value of your claim and ensure that all losses are accounted for before settling.
Los Angeles enforces various traffic rules designed to safeguard pedestrians. Understanding these regulations is vital in asserting your rights after an incident.
Key legal considerations include
State law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Failure to do so can result in traffic citations or legal liability.
Pedestrians must also follow signals and avoid darting into traffic. Noncompliance can affect compensation in personal injury cases.
Even when not in a designated crosswalk, pedestrians are not entirely without legal rights. Drivers must still exercise due caution and attempt to avoid collisions.
Breaching pedestrian or traffic laws can shift liability. For example, if a pedestrian crosses against the light, they may bear partial fault.
Knowing these laws helps both drivers and pedestrians reduce risks and understand how legal fault is assessed after an accident.
Managing communications with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be difficult. Adjusters often aim to settle claims quickly and cheaply.
Here’s how to approach insurance interactions:
Insurers aim to reduce payouts. They may question your version of events or downplay the severity of your injuries to justify lower offers.
Early settlement offers may be presented as generous but usually fall short of covering full medical and future care costs. Do not accept without legal review.
An attorney can shield you from manipulative practices, ensure all injury-related expenses are considered, and negotiate a fair outcome on your behalf.
Your lawyer can gather important evidence—medical records, accident reconstructions, witness statements—that strengthens your claim and counters insurer skepticism.
Each pedestrian injury claim varies in duration depending on the situation. Some resolve quickly, while others require more time due to legal and medical complexities.
Here’s what influences the timeframe:
Disputes over fault, the need for ongoing treatment, or involvement of multiple parties can significantly extend resolution times.
Many cases settle within a few months if liability is clear and negotiations proceed smoothly. These are generally faster and less expensive than going to trial.
If a fair agreement isn’t reached, the case may go to court. This process can take over a year, especially with formal discovery and expert testimony.
Your lawyer should provide regular updates and set realistic expectations, helping you understand each phase of the legal process while working toward a fair resolution.
Because people on foot lack any protective barrier, being hit by a car usually results in severe injuries that call for immediate care and extended recovery.
In most personal injury situations, California law grants victims two years from the incident date to initiate legal proceedings. A qualified attorney will help ensure your case is submitted accurately and on time.
If the pedestrian accident involved a government-operated vehicle—such as a city bus or municipal utility truck—you generally have just six months to submit an administrative claim before you can proceed with a lawsuit. A legal expert can guide you through these unique procedural steps.
Delaying your claim could make evidence harder to collect and reduce your case’s strength. Taking immediate legal steps enhances the chances of obtaining favorable results.
The value of a pedestrian accident claim in Los Angeles varies based on the severity of injuries, medical treatment costs, and other related damages. Legal representation can help maximize the recovery amount.
Your final settlement will be shaped by medical expenses, time away from work, pain and psychological distress, and any long-term impairments. A seasoned legal team will account for all damages to build a solid case.
Incidents that lead to catastrophic injuries—like traumatic brain damage or permanent disabilities—generally qualify for higher settlements. These cases require expert legal handling to account for extended medical care and diminished earning potential.
If a pedestrian fatality occurred, surviving relatives may pursue a wrongful death claim, covering funeral costs and emotional loss. Compassionate attorneys provide guidance through this sensitive process.
A thorough consultation with a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer helps clarify what your specific case may be worth and lays the groundwork for pursuing just compensation.
Choosing capable legal counsel is critical after a pedestrian collision. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers is ready to support you every step of the way.
Our attorneys bring a track record of success in handling various pedestrian accident claims across California. Whether your case involves distracted driving, crosswalk issues, or speeding, we know how to pursue justice effectively.
We fight to recover the maximum possible damages for our clients, whether through out-of-court settlements or courtroom trials. Our Los Angeles team is known for aggressive yet ethical representation.
Each pedestrian injury case is unique. We tailor our strategies based on your injuries, how they affect your life, and your financial needs.
With numerous favorable settlements and verdicts, our firm has earned a reputation for excellence. When you hire us, you gain access to legal professionals who consistently deliver results.
Close-up Photo of Wooden Gavel
Pedestrian accidents can cause long-term physical and emotional trauma. Securing legal assistance ensures that your case is managed with diligence and expertise.
Accidents involving pedestrians can present legal complexities. An experienced attorney will help you interpret traffic laws, determine liability, and calculate damages.
Your lawyer will gather essential evidence, including surveillance footage, eyewitness testimonies, and police reports, to build a compelling case.
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A Los Angeles pedestrian injury attorney can push back against inadequate offers and secure fair compensation.
Your legal team will ensure all medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation, and other long-term expenses are factored into your claim.
Many injured pedestrians hesitate to seek legal help due to cost concerns. Fortunately, most pedestrian injury lawyers in Los Angeles work on a contingency basis.
You won’t owe attorney fees unless your lawyer secures a settlement or court victory on your behalf. This allows you to get top-tier representation without upfront costs.
Court filing fees, expert witnesses, and other case-related costs are often advanced by the law firm and only paid if your case succeeds.
Since your attorney only gets paid if you win, they are fully motivated to achieve the best possible result.
Anonymous women with bicycles crossing city road
Preventing pedestrian accidents begins with adopting smarter safety practices and improved city infrastructure.
Improved signage, well-lit intersections, and pedestrian-controlled signals significantly reduce accident risk.
Educational programs aimed at both drivers and pedestrians can help curb risky behavior and encourage safer road-sharing practices.
Los Angeles has implemented initiatives like Vision Zero to reduce pedestrian fatalities. Legal advocacy supports and amplifies these efforts by holding negligent parties accountable.
Injuries from pedestrian collisions can present major hurdles—physically, financially, and emotionally.
From surgeries to physical therapy, the recovery journey can be long and expensive. Legal help ensures these costs are covered.
Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression are common after serious accidents. These damages should also be part of your legal claim.
Lost income and lifestyle changes can put enormous pressure on accident victims. An attorney can help you seek financial relief.
Certain areas in Los Angeles are more prone to pedestrian collisions, often due to traffic congestion or poor urban planning.
Neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Koreatown, and Hollywood consistently report elevated numbers of pedestrian incidents.
Busy crosswalks near freeway ramps, school zones, and public transit stops are common hotspots for pedestrian accidents.
Analyzing local crash data helps authorities and advocates push for safer road designs and targeted interventions.
After an accident, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your legal rights and secure compensation.
Contact local law enforcement to document the event. A police report will serve as a crucial piece of evidence.
Even if injuries seem minor, prompt medical attention can reveal hidden trauma and support your legal claim.
A free case evaluation with a pedestrian injury attorney in Los Angeles can help you understand your legal options and the strength of your case.
Los Angeles is a dynamic metropolis in Southern California, known for its entertainment industry, scenic coastline, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration.
From oceanfront parks and historic districts to fine dining and vibrant nightlife, Los Angeles delivers a variety of experiences to delight every type of traveler.
The LAPD is the primary law enforcement agency in Los Angeles, providing comprehensive police services. If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in the city, you can file an official report at their downtown location. They offer a 24-hour non-emergency line for assistance.
Address: 100 W 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 473-4848
Website: lapdonline.org
SFPD serves the city of San Francisco and handles all types of accidents, including pedestrian incidents. Their station on 3rd Street is open for reporting accidents, and their dedicated officers are ready to guide you through the process of documenting the incident.
Address: 1245 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94158
Phone: (415) 553-0123
Website: sfgov.org/police
As the law enforcement agency for San Diego, the SDPD is equipped to assist with pedestrian accident reports. Located downtown, their station is easily accessible for residents and visitors, with staff available to provide immediate support in filing your report.
Address: 1401 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 531-2000
Website: sandiego.gov/police
Serving the state capital, the Sacramento Police Department handles all types of accidents, including pedestrian incidents. You can visit their Freeport Boulevard location to file your report, ensuring your accident is documented and investigated properly.
Address: 5770 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95822
Phone: (916) 264-5471
Website: sacpd.org
The Oakland Police Department is a vital resource for residents involved in pedestrian accidents in the city. Their 7th Street station is open to help file reports and offer assistance, ensuring that law enforcement can follow up on your case.
Address: 455 7th St, Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (510) 777-3333
Website: oaklandpolice.com
Located in Westwood, UCLA Medical Center is a top-tier hospital that provides emergency services for pedestrians involved in accidents. With comprehensive trauma care and advanced medical resources, they’re equipped to treat injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Address: 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Phone: (310) 825-9111
Website: uclahealth.org
As one of San Francisco’s leading hospitals, San Francisco General provides immediate care for accident victims. Their emergency room is open 24/7, and the medical staff is experienced in treating injuries caused by pedestrian accidents.
Address: 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: (415) 206-8000
Website: sfghsf.org
Situated in the heart of San Diego, Scripps Mercy Hospital offers emergency medical services for pedestrians injured in accidents. Their dedicated trauma center ensures you receive the care you need quickly and efficiently, helping with both minor and severe injuries.
Address: 4077 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (858) 657-7000
Website: scripps.org
Kaiser Permanente’s Sacramento location is known for its exceptional emergency services, making it a reliable option for those injured in pedestrian accidents. Their team provides immediate treatment and follow-up care, ensuring comprehensive recovery support.
Address: 2025 Morse Ave, Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: (916) 973-5000
Website: kaiserpermanente.org
Located in Berkeley, Alta Bates Summit Medical Center offers prompt and professional care for pedestrians involved in accidents. Their emergency department is well-equipped to handle a wide range of injuries, with experienced staff to guide your recovery.
Address: 2450 Ashby Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
Phone: (510) 204-4444
Website: altabatesummit.org
RMD Law boasts a proven track record of securing significant compensation for clients across California. With millions of dollars recovered in personal injury cases, including notable settlements and verdicts, the firm is committed to helping victims get back on their feet. Their successful history spans a wide range of accidents, from car crashes to wrongful death claims, and their team of dedicated attorneys works tirelessly to ensure clients receive the justice they deserve.
At RMD Law, our dedicated pedestrian accident attorneys understand the profound challenges injury victims face. With extensive experience, we’ve secured millions for California residents affected by personal injury incidents—including those in Los Angeles.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
Families across California trust our firm to handle catastrophic injury claims with dedication and care. Here’s what they’ve shared:
If you’ve been struck by a vehicle while walking, a knowledgeable attorney can evaluate your potential claim based on key criteria:
Were you injured due to a driver’s carelessness, traffic violations, or failure to yield? Common causes include distracted driving, ignoring signals, or speeding in pedestrian zones.
In California, injured pedestrians—and in some cases, their immediate relatives—have the right to file a claim seeking compensation.
Your claim should demonstrate how the accident impacted your health, income, and quality of life. Documentation such as hospital records, police reports, and expert assessments can help build your case.
California uses a comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault.
Even if you were jaywalking or distracted, you could still recover a percentage of the damages based on your level of responsibility.
The strength of your claim relies on compelling documentation. A skilled lawyer can help collect video footage, witness statements, and professional evaluations to defend your rights and seek a fair result.
Yes. Pedestrian accident victims and their loved ones may also be entitled to damages for mental and emotional suffering.
Serious injuries can alter your relationships and affect your emotional well-being. Compensation may be awarded for loss of companionship and life enjoyment.
Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after severe incidents and may be considered in your case.
Typically, the injured party or close family members can pursue these damages. Supporting evidence such as therapy records, personal impact statements, and medical diagnoses can help substantiate these non-economic losses.
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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.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
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.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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