Los Angeles is known for its car culture, but it’s also one of the most dangerous cities in the U.S. for pedestrians. Every year, hundreds of people on foot are seriously injured or killed in traffic collisions across L.A. streets. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle, it’s essential to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible.
This article explains the importance of legal representation, the laws that protect pedestrians, the claims process, and how to get the compensation you deserve.
The Pedestrian Safety Crisis in Los Angeles
Los Angeles consistently ranks among the top U.S. cities for pedestrian fatalities. According to city data and Vision Zero reports, more than 100 pedestrians are killed each year on L.A. streets, and thousands more are injured. Major boulevards like Sunset, Crenshaw, and Hollywood, as well as intersections with heavy traffic, are hotspots for pedestrian accidents.
Factors contributing to high accident rates:
Heavy vehicle traffic and high-speed roadways
Distracted and aggressive driving
Poorly designed intersections and crosswalks
Limited pedestrian infrastructure in certain areas
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in L.A.
Most pedestrian accidents occur because of driver negligence, which may include:
Speeding in urban areas
Failing to yield at crosswalks
Running red lights or stop signs
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Distracted driving (texting or using GPS)
Illegal U-turns or left turns without checking crosswalks
In many cases, pedestrians are following the rules when they’re hit, often in crosswalks or at intersections.
California Laws That Protect Pedestrians
Under California Vehicle Code § 21950, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the road within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
California law also protects pedestrians by requiring drivers to:
Exercise due care for pedestrian safety.
Slow down or stop when necessary to avoid hitting pedestrians.
Avoid passing a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.
Pedestrians also have duties under the law, but drivers are held to a higher standard of care due to the potentially severe consequences of collisions.
Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
Navigating a pedestrian injury claim in Los Angeles isn’t easy—especially when dealing with insurance companies or complex liability issues. A Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney provides critical support by:
1. Investigating the Accident
Your lawyer will collect and preserve evidence such as surveillance footage, traffic cam data, witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony.
2. Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or shift blame to the victim. An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate assertively for the compensation you’re owed.
3. Determining Liability
Even if the driver fled the scene or multiple parties were involved (e.g., commercial drivers or city maintenance crews), your lawyer will help identify all liable parties.
4. Maximizing Compensation
Lawyers know how to accurately calculate both economic and non-economic damages, including future medical costs and long-term suffering.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A successful pedestrian accident claim in Los Angeles may include compensation for:
Medical expenses
ER visits, surgery, therapy, medications, and ongoing care
Lost wages and future income
Time off work or permanent disability affecting your ability to earn
Pain and suffering
Physical pain, emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety
Loss of enjoyment of life
Permanent disfigurement or disability
Wrongful death damages
Funeral expenses and loss of financial support for families who lose a loved one
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in L.A.
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, follow these steps to protect your health and your case:
Call 911 immediately
Report the accident and request emergency medical assistance.
Get medical attention
Even if injuries seem minor, some may not appear until later.
Document everything
Take photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicle, and road conditions.
Collect witness information
Eyewitnesses can be vital in proving fault.
Do not admit fault or talk to the driver’s insurer
Anything you say can be used against you.
Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles
The sooner you get legal help, the better your chance of a successful claim.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim in California
California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. If you’re filing a claim against a government agency (e.g., due to a city-owned bus or road hazard), you may have only 6 months to act.
Delaying could result in losing your right to compensation altogether—another reason to consult with a lawyer right away.
How Much Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost in L.A.?
Most Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:
No upfront costs
No legal fees unless they win your case
Typically, the fee is a percentage of your settlement (usually 33%–40%)
This makes legal representation accessible for everyone, regardless of financial situation.
How to Choose the Best Lawyer for Your Case
Look for the following when selecting a pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles:
Proven track record with pedestrian injury cases
Trial experience, in case your case goes to court
Positive client reviews and testimonials
Clear and compassionate communication
Free initial consultation
Reputable firms in L.A. often provide 24/7 availability and multilingual support (especially Spanish), reflecting the city’s diversity.
Conclusion
Being hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian can change your life in seconds. In Los Angeles, where traffic is intense and roads are busy, these incidents are sadly too common. But you don’t have to face the legal and financial fallout alone.
A qualified pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you fight for justice, hold negligent drivers accountable, and secure the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in L.A., reach out to a local attorney today for a free consultation. Time is limited—and your future matters.