Agoura Hills Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Fighting For Pedestrian Accident Victims in California
If a negligent driver injured you as a pedestrian, it’s important to file a claim that will include compensation from all sources and account for all of your long-term expenses. For more than 35 years, our lawyers have helped residents throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, and all surrounding counties, to recover compensation for their injuries caused by negligent motorists.
If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, schedule a consultation with our pedestrian accident attorney in Agoura Hills at Effres & Effres.
Identifying Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Typically, pedestrian accidents are due to a motorist’s failure to look out for pedestrians, especially at crosswalks and intersections, or failure to yield to pedestrians. Motorists who are speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, or distracted while driving (e.g. texting), are also less able to spot a pedestrian in time to avoid an accident.
Insurance companies will try to find a pedestrian at fault for his or her injuries in an accident. For example, if you were walking in a crosswalk while talking on the phone, the insurance adjuster might claim that your behavior caused your injuries; this makes it imperative that you talk to an experienced lawyer about your claim.
What Damages Are Recoverable in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Your pedestrian accident claim could include the following damages:
- Medical costs include not just short-term or emergency medical treatment but also future medical treatment.
- Lost income for all the days that you have lost from work due to your injury.
- Diminished earning capacity in the future due to the lowered ability to earn an income as a result of the injuries.
- Loss of quality and enjoyment of life.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in devastating injuries due to the vulnerability of individuals on foot when colliding with motor vehicles. Some of the most common injuries may include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The impact of a vehicle can cause severe head injuries, leading to traumatic brain injuries that may have long-term consequences.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Pedestrians may suffer spinal cord injuries, affecting mobility and sometimes resulting in paralysis.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a crash can result in broken bones and fractures, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Pedestrians may sustain internal injuries, like organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be instantly noticeable but can have serious implications.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and other soft tissue injuries are common in pedestrian accidents and may cause chronic pain and limited mobility.
- Emotional Distress: The psychological effect of a pedestrian accident can be profound, leading to emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Pedestrian Accident Claim in California?
Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a pedestrian accident claim in California. The statute of limitations imposes a deadline on the time you have to initiate legal proceedings. In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the incident.
It's crucial to act promptly and consult with our experienced Agoura Hills pedestrian accident lawyer at Effres & Effres to protect your rights. Failing to file a claim within the specified time frame may result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Agoura Hills Today
Economic damages, such as medical costs, are quantifiable. However, for human losses like loss of enjoyment of life and pain and suffering, your lawyer will gather evidence to help quantify the dollar value of this loss. It’s critical to get expert legal advice before you file an accident claim. Failure to account for all of your damages can lead to a lower settlement amount, which means financial distress later when you find yourself faced with mounting medical bills and other financial challenges.
For assistance filing a claim, call (818) 222-9720 and schedule a free consultation with our Agoura Hills pedestrian accident lawyer at Effres & Effres.
