Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Count on our trusted legal team to provide personalized strategies, clear communication, and strong advocacy—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
San Francisco offers energy, diversity, and constant movement—but its busy streets also come with serious risks for pedestrians. Dense traffic, distracted drivers, and fast-paced intersections create hazardous conditions where even a moment of negligence can lead to devastating consequences.
From being struck while legally crossing the street to falling victim to a hit-and-run, these incidents often result in severe injuries and emotional trauma. For victims and their families, the impact can be overwhelming—physically, financially, and mentally.
Filing a pedestrian accident claim in San Francisco can be daunting, especially while managing medical bills, physical rehabilitation, and the road to recovery. Victims often have the right to pursue financial compensation for hospital expenses, lost income, and the emotional toll of the incident. Having a skilled legal advocate by your side can make all the difference in securing the justice and support you need.
This guide breaks down the key types of pedestrian accident claims, the compensation you may be entitled to, and the crucial steps to protect your rights. With the correct information—and the support of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco—you can take action with confidence and start moving forward.
San Francisco consistently reports some of the highest pedestrian accident rates in California. With its crowded streets, dense neighborhoods, and large number of people walking to work, school, or transit, pedestrian safety remains a serious concern. Each year, many individuals suffer severe—or even fatal—injuries after being struck by vehicles, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and accountability.
Key data highlights the extent of the problem:
(Source: The San Francisco Standard)
Pedestrian accidents don’t just happen—they often result from a combination of preventable factors. In a busy city like San Francisco, understanding the most frequent causes is key to improving safety for everyone on the road..
Common causes include:
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident involves a careful review of multiple factors, including local traffic laws, the driver’s actions, and the pedestrian’s behavior. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility, making fault determination more complex.
Drivers
Motorists who speed, ignore traffic signals, or drive while distracted—such as by texting or using a phone—are frequently at fault in pedestrian accidents. Liability can often be established through the use of traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimony, and expert accident reconstructions.
Pedestrians
While pedestrians typically have the right of way, they may share liability if they jaywalk, cross against traffic signals, or step into the road unexpectedly. Under San Francisco’s comparative fault laws, a pedestrian’s compensation may be reduced based on their share of responsibility.
City or State Agencies
Government bodies responsible for maintaining roads, signage, and traffic signals can be held accountable if poor infrastructure contributes to an accident. Examples include broken pedestrian lights, faded crosswalk markings, or missing warning signs.
Automobile Manufacturers
If a mechanical failure—such as defective brakes or malfunctioning headlights—plays a role in the crash, the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier may be held liable for producing or distributing faulty equipment.
Establishing fault in a pedestrian accident typically requires an in-depth investigation, a thorough understanding of local laws, and the guidance of experienced legal professionals. A qualified pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco can help identify responsible parties and build a strong case for fair compensation.
Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are especially vulnerable in traffic collisions. Injuries from these accidents are often severe, requiring extensive treatment, long-term recovery, and sometimes a lifetime of care.
Common injuries include:
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, acting quickly is essential. The steps you take immediately after the incident can significantly impact your health, safeguard your legal rights, and strengthen any future compensation claims.
Pedestrians who suffer injuries due to negligent drivers, dangerous road conditions, or defective infrastructure have the right to pursue financial compensation. The amount and type of compensation available depend on the seriousness of the injuries and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.
Common types of compensation include:
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help victims understand their rights, gather crucial evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the full compensation to which they are entitled. It’s essential to act quickly—under San Francisco law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident.
San Francisco enforces some of the strongest pedestrian protection laws in the country. Knowing your rights—and obligations—is essential if you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, as these laws can directly impact who is held liable and what compensation may be awarded.
Right-of-Way in Crosswalks
Under California law, drivers must yield to pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. This requirement is a key part of San Francisco’s ongoing efforts to reduce pedestrian injuries and promote safer streets.
Responsibilities of Pedestrians
Pedestrians are also expected to follow traffic signals, including walk and don’t-walk signs, and must avoid entering traffic suddenly or unpredictably. Failing to follow these rules may affect a pedestrian’s ability to recover full compensation in the event of an accident.
Legal Protection Outside of Crosswalks
Even when crossing outside a designated crosswalk, pedestrians are not without protection. Drivers still have a legal obligation to use reasonable care and avoid hitting anyone on the roadway. Motorists cannot ignore pedestrians just because they’re not in a marked crossing area.
Violations and Their Impact on Liability
If either the pedestrian or the driver breaks traffic laws, it can influence how fault is assigned under California’s comparative negligence rules. In such cases, the amount of compensation a victim can recover may be reduced based on their share of the fault or liability.
Navigating the insurance claims process after a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Insurance companies are often more focused on protecting their bottom line than ensuring you receive the compensation you truly deserve. Here are key strategies to help safeguard your rights and improve your chances of a fair outcome:
No two pedestrian accident cases are exactly alike, and the timeline for resolution can vary widely depending on the circumstances. Whether your case is settled out of court or proceeds to trial, several factors will influence how long it takes to conclude.
Elements That Influence Case Duration
The duration of your claim often depends on the complexity of the accident, how clearly fault can be established, and the length of your medical treatment. Cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability may take longer to resolve.
Settlements vs. Lawsuits
If both parties agree on a fair settlement, your case could be resolved within a few months. However, if a lawsuit is necessary—especially one that involves multiple court hearings or a full trial—the process may take a year or more to complete.
Why Patience Matters
While it’s understandable to want a quick outcome, rushing the process could result in an unfair settlement. Taking the time to complete medical evaluations and allow for thorough legal review helps ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
The Importance of Communication
An experienced attorney will keep you updated at every stage, setting realistic expectations and helping you understand the timeline ahead. With the proper legal support, you can navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to act quickly. San Francisco—and the state of California—enforces strict legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, that determine how long you have to file a claim. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to pursue compensation altogether.
Personal Injury Lawsuit Deadline
For most pedestrian accident cases that don’t involve a government entity, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you fail to file within this window, your case may be dismissed, regardless of how strong your claim is.
Claims Against Government Entities
If your accident involved a public agency—such as a city-owned vehicle or a hazardous condition on public property—you must file an administrative claim within six months of the accident. This shorter timeline applies to any local or state government entity. If the claim is denied, you typically have another six months to file a lawsuit.
Why Timing Matters
Failing to meet these legal deadlines can bar you from recovering any compensation for your injuries. Acting promptly and working with a qualified attorney ensures that all filings are submitted on time and in the proper format.
A knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco can help you navigate these legal requirements, protect your rights, and ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines.
The value of a pedestrian accident claim in San Francisco depends on the specific details of your case. From the severity of injuries to the financial and emotional toll of the accident, several factors will influence the compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Key Factors That Affect Claim Value
The total amount of compensation is determined by a combination of elements, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the long-term impact of your injuries on daily life.
Severe Injuries Often Lead to Higher Settlements
Claims involving serious or catastrophic injuries—such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or permanent disabilities—tend to result in higher compensation. These injuries often require extensive treatment, rehabilitation, and can significantly impact future earning capacity.
Compensation in Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. These cases can involve compensation for funeral and burial expenses, lost future income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. Due to their complexity, wrongful death claims often result in higher settlement values.
The Importance of a Legal Evaluation
Since no two pedestrian accidents are exactly alike, having an experienced attorney evaluate your case is essential. A knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco can help determine the full value of your claim and advocate for the compensation you deserve, whether through a settlement or litigation..
Selecting the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your pedestrian accident claim. Our firm combines deep experience, personalized service, and a proven track record to help you pursue the compensation you deserve with confidence.
Experienced Legal Advocates
With years of experience handling pedestrian accident cases throughout California, our legal team understands the complexities of personal injury law and the tactics insurance companies employ. We know how to navigate the system—and how to protect your rights every step of the way.
Focused on Maximum Compensation
We’re committed to securing the full compensation you’re entitled to, whether through skilled negotiation or aggressive litigation. Our attorneys won’t settle for less than what you genuinely need to move forward after your injury.
Tailored, Client-Centered Approach
No two cases are alike. That’s why we take the time to understand your unique situation, injuries, and long-term needs. This personalized approach allows us to build stronger cases and advocate more effectively on your behalf.
Proven Results
Our firm has a strong record of success representing injured pedestrians. From favorable settlements to courtroom victories, we’ve helped countless clients recover the compensation they need to heal and rebuild.
Pedestrian accidents can result in serious, life-altering consequences, from severe physical injuries to emotional trauma and significant financial burdens. Understanding your legal options is crucial to securing the compensation to which you are entitled. Working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco ensures you have the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal process effectively.
Experienced Legal Guidance
Pedestrian accident claims often involve complex liability issues and insurance challenges. A knowledgeable attorney who understands both California personal injury law and San Francisco-specific traffic regulations can help you build a strong case and avoid accepting less than you’re entitled to.
Thorough Case Investigation
A skilled lawyer will gather critical evidence—such as surveillance footage, accident reports, medical documentation, and witness statements—to establish fault and support your claim. This comprehensive approach helps create a compelling case for maximum compensation.
Handling Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or pressure victims into accepting low settlements. Your attorney will manage all communication with insurers, advocate on your behalf, and push for compensation that reflects the full extent of your medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Pursuing Full Financial Recovery
An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer will assess both current and future expenses related to your injury, including long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and reduced earning capacity. Their goal is to maximize your financial recovery and assist you in rebuilding your life.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, financial worries shouldn’t stop you from getting the legal support you need. Fortunately, many personal injury attorneys in San Francisco work on a contingency fee basis, allowing you to pursue your claim without paying anything upfront.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
Under a contingency fee arrangement, your attorney only gets paid if your case results in a successful settlement or court award. This structure allows you to focus on your recovery without the added stress of legal bills during an already difficult time.
No Upfront Costs
With contingency-based representation, there are no out-of-pocket legal fees at the start of your case. Instead, your lawyer’s fee is deducted from the compensation you receive, making legal support more accessible and affordable.
Motivated to Win
Because your attorney’s payment is a percentage of the final settlement or award, they have a direct incentive to fight for the highest possible compensation. Your success is their success..
Hiring a trusted San Francisco pedestrian accident attorney on a contingency fee basis ensures you get strong legal representation without added financial pressure.
California’s roads—especially in cities like San Francisco—pose significant risks to pedestrians. But by taking simple, proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the chance of being injured. Whether you’re walking to work, running errands, or commuting to school, following these safety practices can help keep you protected.
Use Crosswalks Whenever Possible
Always cross at marked crosswalks or intersections. Not only is this the safest place to cross, but it also helps protect your legal rights in the event of an accident.
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
Keep your attention on your surroundings. Looking at your phone, wearing noise-canceling headphones, or being otherwise distracted can make you less aware of approaching vehicles and increase your vulnerability to injury.
Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing
Especially when walking at night or in low-light conditions, choose clothing that increases your visibility. Drivers are more likely to spot you if you’re wearing reflective gear or bright colors.
Follow All Traffic Signals
Wait for the walk signal before stepping into the street—even if traffic seems clear. Obeying pedestrian signals not only keeps you safe but also reinforces your legal standing should an accident occur.
A pedestrian accident in San Francisco can leave lasting consequences—physically, emotionally, and financially. For many victims, the path to recovery is long and uncertain. Recognizing these long-term effects is essential not only for healing but also for seeking proper support and pursuing rightful compensation.
Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur in specific high-risk areas across California, particularly in cities and neighborhoods with dense traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure. Being aware of these standard danger zones can help you stay alert and reduce the risk of serious injury.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the proper steps immediately after the incident is crucial. Prompt action can not only protect your health but also strengthen your legal case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, it’s essential to file an official police report and seek medical care as soon as possible. Below is a list of trusted San Francisco-based police stations and hospitals that can assist you.
Address: 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: (628) 206-8000
Website: zuckerbergsanfranciscogeneral.org
Address: 505 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143
Phone: (415) 476-1000
Website: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/locations/parnassus
Address: 1101 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 600-6000
Address: 900 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 353-6000
Website: https://sfcommunityhospitals.ucsfhealth.org/
Website: concentra.com
RMD Law has a strong record of achieving substantial compensation for injury victims throughout California. With millions recovered through settlements and verdicts, the firm consistently delivers results across a wide range of personal injury cases—from auto accidents to wrongful death claims. Their experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for justice and helping clients rebuild their lives.
RMD Law has a strong record of achieving substantial compensation for injury victims throughout California. With millions recovered through settlements and verdicts, the firm consistently delivers results across a wide range of personal injury cases—from auto accidents to wrongful death claims. Their experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for justice and helping clients rebuild their lives.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, a qualified attorney can assess your case by looking at several critical factors:
California follows a comparative fault system, which means you can still receive compensation, even if you share some responsibility for the incident.
Yes. Emotional suffering is a recognized part of many personal injury claims, especially in serious pedestrian accident cases.
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco can guide you through the process, evaluate your eligibility, and help you pursue all possible avenues for compensation, physical, emotional, and financial. Consulting an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in San Francisco can ensure your legal rights are protected and that you pursue all available forms of compensation.
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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.
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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.
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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