Pedestrians face significant risks every time they walk near traffic. With no physical protection, even a low-speed collision can cause devastating injuries. In California, where busy intersections and heavy traffic are part of everyday life, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common. At Hillstone Law, we stand up for injured pedestrians and their families, ensuring they receive justice and maximum compensation.
Pedestrian Accidents in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), more than 1,100 pedestrians are killed each year in traffic crashes across the state. Thousands more suffer serious injuries that impact their health, work, and daily lives.
Source: https://www.ots.ca.gov/
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that pedestrian fatalities nationwide remain alarmingly high, with most accidents occurring in urban areas and at night.
Source: https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian crashes often happen due to driver negligence, unsafe road design, or lack of visibility. Frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, calls, or GPS use)
- Speeding in residential or school zones
- Failing to yield at crosswalks or intersections
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Left-hand turns where drivers fail to notice pedestrians
- Poor street lighting or lack of pedestrian signals
Common Injuries from Pedestrian Collisions
Pedestrians are highly vulnerable to severe injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ injuries
- Severe lacerations and scarring
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than occupants of motor vehicles to be killed in a traffic accident.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/pedestrian_safety/
Who May Be Liable?
Liability in pedestrian accidents often falls on negligent drivers, but other parties may also share responsibility:
- Government agencies (unsafe crosswalk design, poor lighting)
- Employers (if a commercial vehicle driver caused the crash)
- Manufacturers (if a vehicle defect contributed to the accident)
California’s comparative negligence law allows injured pedestrians to recover compensation even if partially at fault (for example, crossing outside of a crosswalk).
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.
- Get a police report documenting the crash.
- Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle, and injuries.
- Do not give statements to insurance companies without a lawyer.
- Contact a pedestrian accident attorney to protect your rights.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
At Hillstone Law, we fight to secure maximum compensation for victims of pedestrian accidents. Our legal team:
- Investigates the accident and gathers evidence
- Works with medical experts to show the full extent of injuries
- Negotiates aggressively with insurance companies
- Files lawsuits when necessary to ensure justice
We pursue damages for:
- Medical bills (emergency care, rehab, and future treatment)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages for grieving families
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in California, Hillstone Law is here to help you rebuild your life.
