Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

We stand behind the principle that financial cost should not hinder your ability to attain experienced legal advocacy. It is our promise that you will not pay anything unless we win your case for you.

California laws on pedestrian accidents

California has specific laws to ensure pedestrian safety. These laws are designed to reduce pedestrian accidents and protect the rights of those involved.

Both drivers and pedestrians have certain responsibilities under these laws to ensure everyone’s safety on the road.

• Right of way at crosswalks: Vehicles must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
• No passing at crosswalks: Vehicles cannot overtake and pass another vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
• Pedestrians must obey traffic signals: Pedestrians must follow traffic signals and signs.

Duty of care to pedestrians

Both drivers and pedestrians have a duty of care to ensure road safety. They must act reasonably and prudently to prevent harm to themselves and others.

• Drivers’ duties: Drivers must be vigilant, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. They must yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and reduce speed in school zones.
• Pedestrians’ duties: Pedestrians must use crosswalks and pedestrian signals where available. They should avoid suddenly leaving a curb or other safe place and walking or running into the path of a vehicle.
• Shared responsibility: Both drivers and pedestrians should always avoid distractions and be aware of their surroundings.

Sacramento is a beautiful, walkable city. Someone must always walk from one place to another, ensuring endless pedestrian traffic on sidewalks and crosswalks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 140,000 pedestrian injuries in 2019 and 7,338 pedestrian fatalities in the same year. Even the safest pedestrian is at risk of being in an accident.

Who is at fault in a pedestrian accident?

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident is crucial for compensation claims. While it might seem straightforward, multiple parties could be at fault, depending on the circumstances.

Understanding who bears the responsibility is essential for a successful claim.

• The driver of the vehicle: In many cases, the driver of the vehicle that hit the pedestrian is at fault. It can be due to speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians.
• The pedestrian: Sometimes, the pedestrian might share some or all blame. It can happen if they are jaywalking, walking outside a crosswalk, or otherwise not following traffic rules.
• Local government or municipality: Fault can lie with the local government if poor road design, lack of proper signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident.
• Vehicle manufacturer: If a vehicle malfunction, such as brake failure, led to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer might be held liable.
• Property owners: Private property owners might be at fault if an obstruction or hazard on their property contributed to the accident, like a tree blocking a traffic sign.

What compensation am I entitled to after a pedestrian accident in Sacramento, CA?

After a pedestrian accident in California, you’re entitled to compensation for losses caused by the accident. The types of compensation you can pursue include medical expenses, lost wages, future earnings, pain and suffering, and more.

Specifics can include:

• Medical bills: Compensation can cover past, present, and future medical care required due to the accident’s injuries.
• Lost wages and income: If the injuries caused you to miss work, you could recover these lost wages, including benefits like sick days and bonuses.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your ability to work or advance in your career is affected, compensation for this loss may be claimed.
• Pain and suffering and emotional distress: These damages aim to compensate for physical pain and mental suffering resulting from the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If the accident limits your ability to participate in activities you enjoyed before the incident, compensation for this loss is possible.
• Loss of consortium: If a spouse is injured, the non-injured spouse may file for loss of companionship and other aspects of the relationship affected by the accident.

The compensation you can expect depends on factors like the extent of your injuries, lost wages, any fault attributed to you, and the insurance coverage involved. California operates under a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning compensation can be adjusted based on your percentage of fault in the accident.

For a detailed understanding and assistance with your specific situation, consulting a pedestrian accident attorney is highly advisable, as they can guide you through the complexities of your case, including navigating insurance claims and potential legal actions to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve

Pedestrian accident causes

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common and can result from various factors. While some incidents are purely accidental, many are due to negligence, recklessness, or a lack of awareness from the driver or the pedestrian. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and awareness.

Pedestrian accident injuries

Pedestrian accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to vehicle occupants. The nature and extent of these injuries can vary based on the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and other factors.

Below are listed some common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents.

California pedestrian accident statistics

The Office of Traffic Safety highlights the increasing danger of pedestrian accidents in California, emphasizing the need for both drivers and pedestrians to adopt safer behaviors. Pedestrian fatalities have significantly risen, making California the state with the highest number of such deaths.

• In 2018, California witnessed 893 pedestrian deaths, marking a 26% rise since 2014. That same
• year, over 14,000 pedestrians were injured.
• The increase in pedestrian fatalities was 26% from 2014 to 2018.
• From 2009 to 2018, nearly 7,500 pedestrians lost their lives in the state.
• California’s rate of pedestrian fatalities is about 25% above the national average.
• California leads the nation in the number of pedestrian deaths on its roads.

What to do after pedestrian accident in Sacramento, CA?

Experiencing a pedestrian accident can be traumatic and disorienting. However, your actions immediately after the incident can significantly impact your compensation.

Follow these crucial steps after a pedestrian accident to prepare a strong personal injury claim.

• Seek medical attention: Some injuries might not manifest immediately, even if you feel fine. Get a medical evaluation as soon as possible.
• Contact 911: File an official report. It can be valuable evidence if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
• Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
• Avoid admitting fault: Be careful with your words. Don’t apologize or admit fault; it can be used against you later.
• Contact your insurance: Inform them about the accident, but avoid giving detailed statements until you consult a pedestrian accident lawyer in Sacramento.
• Consult a Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney: They can guide you on the best steps, especially if you’re considering legal action.

How to stay safe as a pedestrian in Sacramento, CA?

Safety should always be a priority. While pedestrians don’t have control over drivers, they can take certain precautions to reduce their risk of accidents. Remember, your safety is in your hands.

Below are some essential tips to ensure your safety.

• Always cross streets at designated crosswalks or intersections.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during nighttime or in low-light conditions.
• Refrain from using phones or headphones while crossing. Stay alert to your surroundings.
• Before crossing, ensure that drivers see you. Making eye contact can prevent many accidents.
• Obey pedestrian signals and avoid jaywalking.
• Avoid walking while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Speak to a Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney today

When you’re the victim of a pedestrian accident, the road to recovery can be long and fraught with challenges. Legal complexities shouldn’t be one of them. JG Winter Law specializes in representing victims of pedestrian accidents. We are not just a team of Sacramento personal injury lawyer but your allies in this journey.

Our Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation. With our expertise, we aim to alleviate the stress of legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on recovery. We stand ready to champion your cause. Contact us today and take your first step towards justice.

What our clients have to say

FAQs on Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney

About Sacramento, California

The city of Sacramento blends innovation and history to create a fascinating atmosphere. As the capital of California, it stands proudly at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, with landmarks like the California State Capitol Building and Old Sacramento reflecting its rich heritage. The city’s story unfolds through its unique districts, such as East Sacramento and Downtown Sacramento, from the legacy of John Augustus Sutter to the multicultural charm of its historic Chinatown. Museums, festivals, and educational institutions like UC Davis and California State University, Sacramento, reflect the city’s vibrant culture. Embrace the warm Mediterranean climate as you explore landmarks like the Tower Bridge and enjoy sun-soaked days. The city’s past and present weave seamlessly, offering a unique experience where modern spirit meets historical significance.

Local courthouse – pedestrian accident lawyer near Sacramento, CA

If you or your loved one have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Sacramento, California, we know you are going through a tough time. Hiring the right pedestrian accident lawyer can make a significant difference when dealing with such a difficult time. You will spend hours and hours at your local Sacramento Courthouse trying to figure out what to do on your own. If you don’t hire a lawyer, you might waste countless hours and likely receive less settlement than you could have gotten with professional help. That’s why hiring the right lawyer can help to resolve your case and settle it faster. Most importantly, you’re more likely to receive a larger settlement.

At J.G. Winter Law, we’re here to help, and it won’t cost you anything to consult with us. If you have any questions or want to know how much you might be owed, contact us for a free consultation. In California, you have up to 2 years to file a claim and sue for compensation. If you decide to go to the court by yourself, you can find Sacramento County Courthouse at 720 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. But, if you want professional help, our pedestrian accident lawyer in Sacramento would gladly assist you.

Sacramento local resources