Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Tarzana, CA

At Barkhordar Law Group, we understand that pedestrian accidents can be life-altering. As a reputable law firm based in Tarzana, we are committed to serving the people of California. Our specialized team of Pedestrian Accident Attorneys is dedicated to helping victims of accidents recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Our practice areas encompass a wide range of personal injury cases. Among them, we have developed expertise in handling pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face this challenging situation alone. We are here to provide you with the legal support you need and to guide you through the complex legal processes to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can be devastating and often result in severe injuries or, tragically, fatalities. These accidents occur when a pedestrian, someone on foot, is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, such as a car, truck, or motorcycle. Pedestrians, by nature, are highly vulnerable in such situations, lacking the protective barriers that motor vehicle occupants have.

When a pedestrian accident occurs, it is typically the driver of the motor vehicle who is at fault, as they are responsible for following traffic laws and ensuring pedestrian safety.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

To truly understand the implications and importance of pedestrian accidents, it’s essential to explore the common causes. While every accident is unique, several recurring factors contribute to these accidents, including:

Distracted Driving

In today’s age of smartphones and constant connectivity, many drivers are distracted by texting, using mobile phones, or engaging in other activities that take their attention away from the road. This can lead to them not noticing pedestrians crossing the road, which can result in a serious pedestrian accident.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant factor in accidents. Impaired drivers may not have the reflexes and awareness to avoid hitting pedestrians. Los Angeles pedestrian accidents involving alcohol and substances require a trusted pedestrian accident lawyer.

Speeding

Speeding is another common cause of accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to pedestrians who may be crossing the road, which can lead to tragic consequences, including serious injuries sustained by pedestrians struck.

Failure to Respect Pedestrians’ Right-of-Way

Motor vehicle drivers are legally obligated to respect pedestrians’ right-of-way when crossing the road, particularly at marked crosswalks or intersections. Failing to do so can lead to serious injury.

Poor Lighting

Insufficient street lighting can make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians, particularly during nighttime or in poorly lit areas. This can result in accidents when drivers don’t notice pedestrians until too late.

Fatigued Driving

Fatigued drivers can have delayed reactions and difficulty focusing, making it harder to avoid accidents, especially at intersections or crosswalks.

Visibility and Time of Day

Many accidents occur at night or during early morning hours, primarily due to reduced visibility and glare from headlights. Both pedestrians and drivers may struggle to see each other clearly, increasing the risk of accidents.

Reckless Driving

Impatient and aggressive negligent drivers who engage in reckless behavior, such as weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring traffic signals, tailgating, or disregarding traffic laws, pose a significant threat to pedestrians.

Tarzana and Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Statistics

California’s vast and bustling urban areas, including Los Angeles and Tarzana, are known for their active lifestyles and heavy traffic. This combination leads to an increased risk of accidents. Understanding the statistics surrounding pedestrian accidents in California can shed light on the severity of the issue:

  • Approximately 38% of pedestrians involved in accidents sustain injuries to their head, neck, or face in these types of accidents, with 27% experiencing damage to their upper extremities.
  • In 2019, pedestrian deaths accounted for 17% of all traffic-related fatalities, which is an increase from 13% in 2010, as per the Governors Highway Safety Association’s 2020 report based on NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System data.
  • There was a significant 46% rise in pedestrian fatalities between 2010-2019, in contrast to a 5% increase in all other traffic-related fatalities during the same time frame, as stated by GHSA.

The statistics show that California can be a dangerous place for pedestrians, making it crucial for those involved in accidents to seek professional legal help to navigate the complex legal landscape.

The Role of a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. While the physical and emotional toll is undoubtedly significant, the financial strain can be overwhelming. Many victims are left wondering how they will cover their medical expenses, support their families, and rebuild their lives.

This is where the expertise of a dedicated pedestrian accident attorney comes into play. A seasoned attorney can be crucial in helping victims recover physically and financially. Barkhordar Law Group will always fight for maximum compensation if you are involved in a pedestrian crash.

Investigating Fault and Proving Liability

One of the primary responsibilities of a pedestrian accident attorney is to investigate the accident thoroughly. They work to determine fault and establish liability. In most cases, the motorist involved is at fault, as they are legally obligated to follow traffic laws and ensure the safety of pedestrians.

The attorney will work closely with law enforcement agencies to reconstruct the events leading up to the accident, questioning everyone involved and collecting evidence. Even if the accident occurred in a busy intersection, there are often witnesses who can provide valuable insight.

When there is a dispute over the sequence of events, an attorney can subpoena relevant evidence, such as cell phone records, if mobile phone use was a factor in the accident.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that fault is appropriately determined and liability is assigned to the responsible party.

Determining Monetary Damages

A crucial aspect of any pedestrian accident case is determining the monetary damages that the victim is entitled to. A seasoned attorney has the tools and resources to assess these damages accurately, taking into account various factors, including:

Medical Expenses

Pedestrian accident victims often incur substantial medical bills, including hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care costs.

Lost Income

Due to the injuries sustained in car accidents, victims may be unable to work for an extended period or even permanently. This results in lost income and a potential of future lost wages earning capacity, which must be considered when seeking compensation.

Mental Anguish

The emotional and psychological trauma of a pedestrian accident can be significant. Victims may experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), all emotional injuries that should be considered when determining damages.

Pain and Suffering

The physical pain and suffering endured by the victim as a result of the accident should also be factored into the compensation.

In cases where pedestrians have tragically lost their lives, their family members may be entitled to seek compensation through wrongful death suits, which can cover damages like funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of inheritance, and loss of consortium. In some instances, injured parties and bereaved families may also pursue punitive damages, with California having no limit on the amount of punitive damages that can be awarded.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies is a common and often challenging aspect of pedestrian accident cases. Insurance adjusters are trained to negotiate settlements, and their primary objective is to minimize payouts on behalf of the insurance company. Victims not well-versed in dealing with insurance companies can quickly find themselves at a disadvantage in these negotiations.

An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can level the playing field. They understand how to engage with insurance companies, how to present evidence compellingly, and how to negotiate for the highest possible settlement on behalf of their clients in a personal injury lawsuit. This allows victims to focus on their recovery and well-being while their attorney handles the intricacies of the legal process.

Litigating in Court

While the majority of pedestrian accident cases are resolved through negotiations and settlements, there are instances where litigation becomes necessary. If the responsible party refuses to accept liability or the insurance company fails to offer a fair settlement, the case may proceed to court.

A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer is prepared to take the case to court, presenting a compelling argument before a judge and jury. They will use their knowledge of the law, experience with similar cases, and expert witnesses to advocate for their client’s rights and interests. Having a strong legal advocate on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case that goes to court.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

While accidents are not always preventable, taking proactive measures to safeguard against the risk of accidents involving pedestrians is crucial. These safety tips are designed for both pedestrians and motorists to reduce the likelihood of accidents:

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

  1. Obey Traffic Laws: Always obey traffic laws and signs, crossing roadways and intersections only at designated crosswalks. This is especially important in areas with heavy traffic like Tarzana.
  1. Make Eye Contact: Before crossing the street, make eye contact with vehicle drivers, regardless of who has the right of way. This ensures that the driver has seen you and intends to yield.
  1. Use Sidewalks: Whenever possible, use sidewalks for walking. If sidewalks are unavailable, walk facing traffic. This provides you with a better view of oncoming vehicles.
  1. Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions, especially when crossing busy intersections or walking near roadways. Refrain from using handheld electronics, as they divert your attention from your surroundings.
  1. Limit Alcohol Use: Alcohol is a significant risk factor in car accidents, contributing to nearly half of all fatal incidents. Avoid alcohol consumption while walking near roads, especially during evening hours when visibility is reduced.
  1. Increase Visibility: Wear bright or reflective clothing and use a flashlight when walking at night to enhance your visibility to drivers. This is particularly crucial in areas with less street lighting, like some parts of Tarzana.

Safety Tips for Motorists

  1. Obey Traffic Laws: Motorists must adhere to traffic laws, including scanning for pedestrians in all directions before proceeding. This is especially vital at intersections and crosswalks.
  1. Yield to Pedestrians: Always wait for pedestrians in crosswalks before moving ahead. Exercise caution and proceed only when it is safe to do so. This is a fundamental traffic law in California.
  1. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These impairments can result in delayed reactions and an increased risk of accidents, particularly involving pedestrians.
  1. Minimize Distractions: Don’t be a distracted driver. Refrain from using handheld electronic devices, eating, or conversing with passengers while driving to minimize distractions that can lead to accidents.
  1. Exercise Caution at Night and in Inclement Weather: Be extra cautious at night and during inclement weather, as most accidents involving pedestrians occur after dark when visibility is reduced. Adjust your driving speed and increase following distances to compensate for reduced visibility.

Contact Barkhordar Law Group Pedestrian Accident Attorneys, Tarzana

Pedestrian accidents can have devastating consequences, and if you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, you may be entitled to compensation. At Barkhordar Law Group, we are committed to providing expert legal representation to injured pedestrians, ensuring they receive the justice and financial compensation they deserve.

Our attorneys are experienced and knowledgeable in handling pedestrian accident cases, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges presented in Tarzana. We have a proven track record of helping clients obtain the best possible outcome for their cases. Our commitment to open communication and transparency means that our clients are always well-informed about the progress of their cases and any significant developments.

With offices serving Tarzana and various locations across California, our team of well-versed pedestrian accident attorneys extends our legal services to clients throughout the state and other areas.

Don’t face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone. Seek the support and guidance of an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Tarzana. Contact Barkhordar Law Group today for a free consultation. We are here to stand by your side and fight for your rights. Your path to justice and financial recovery begins with us.

Your Tarzana and Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Accidents involving pedestrians are a growing concern in Tarzana and throughout the United States. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries and emotional trauma for victims. Our commitment at Barkhordar Law Group is to support pedestrians who have been injured due to the negligence of others. We aim to ensure they receive the justice and financial compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

Our dedicated team of Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers is well-prepared to navigate the legal complexities of pedestrian and car accident cases. We have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by pedestrians on Tarzana’s streets. We are here to provide the critical assistance you need. Whether you require help investigating fault, determining monetary damages, negotiating with insurance companies, or representing you in court, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.

While accidents are not always preventable, following safety tips can reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents. These tips offer an ounce of prevention for pedestrians and motorists, promoting safer roadways for everyone.

Your Pedestrian Collision Personal Injury Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, please contact Barkhordar Law Group. We offer a free consultation, where we can assess your case and provide guidance on the best course of action. You don’t have to face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone – we are here to provide the support and legal expertise you need to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

The rising number of pedestrian accidents is a concerning trend. Pedestrian injuries caused by a negligent driver deserve to be litigated fully so the injured pedestrian gets the compensation they deserve. Barkhordar Law Group is here to stand with you, fight for your rights, and help you on your journey to recovery and justice after a pedestrian collision.

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