10 Critical Facts About Crosswalk Accidents in Los Angeles: Injuries, Legal Rights, and How to Recover Compensation
Crosswalk accidents in Los Angeles occur far too often, leaving injured pedestrians to deal with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income. California law, specifically Vehicle Code 21950, mandates that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, but negligence from drivers who fail to obey traffic laws or drive while distracted—or under the influence of alcohol—continues to cause severe harm. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crosswalk accident, you need to understand your legal rights and the compensation you may be entitled to receive. The qualified attorneys at Eisenberg Law Group PC have extensive experience helping injured people across Los Angeles and California navigate these complex cases to recover the money they need.
What is a Crosswalk Accident and What Are Common Causes in Los Angeles?
A crosswalk accident involves a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian who is lawfully within a marked or unmarked crosswalk. In Los Angeles, a bustling city with heavy traffic, these accidents often result from driver negligence. Drivers may fail to stop for pedestrians, disobey traffic signals, drive while distracted, or operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. The force of a car impacting a pedestrian, even at low speeds, can cause catastrophic injuries and, tragically, fatalities. Understanding the common causes is the first step in building a strong legal case for compensation.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident in a Crosswalk?
If you are involved in a crosswalk accident, your actions can significantly impact your health and your legal case. First, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away. Next, contact the police to file an official report—this document is crucial evidence. If possible, collect information from the driver, witnesses, and take top rated attorney photos of the scene, the crosswalk, and your injuries. Do not agree to any settlement or make statements to insurance companies before consulting a qualified pedestrian accident attorney. Finally, contact a law firm like Eisenberg Law Group PC for a free consultation to protect your rights and begin the process of seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Los Angeles Crosswalk Accident?
Victims of crosswalk accidents in Los Angeles may be entitled to significant compensation. This financial recovery, secured through a skilled legal team, is designed to make you whole after a driver's negligence. Compensation can cover both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- All related medical expenses, both current and future Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity Pain and suffering, including emotional distress Property damage Loss of enjoyment of life
How Does California Law Protect Pedestrians in Crosswalks?
California law strongly protects pedestrians. The foundational statute is Vehicle Code 21950, often called the "Crosswalk Law." It states that the driver of a vehicle must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. This means drivers in Los Angeles must exercise due care and reduce speed to ensure pedestrian safety. When drivers violate this law and cause an accident, they can be held legally liable for the injuries that result. Proving this liability often requires a deep understanding of local traffic laws and how courts in Los Angeles interpret them—expertise that a firm like Eisenberg Law Group PC brings to every case.
Why Do I Need a Specialized Crosswalk Accident Attorney in Los Angeles?
Navigating a pedestrian accident claim alone is a mistake. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and the legal process can be complex. You need a specialized crosswalk accident attorney who understands the specific nuances of these cases in Los Angeles. A qualified legal team will investigate the accident, gather evidence like traffic camera footage and witness statements, consult with medical and accident reconstruction experts, negotiate aggressively with insurers, and, if necessary, take your case to trial. The legal professionals at Eisenberg Law Group PC provide this comprehensive help, fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians so clients can focus on recovery.
What Makes Eisenberg Law Group PC the Right Choice for My Pedestrian Accident Case?
Eisenberg Law Group PC stands out for its committed, client-focused approach to pedestrian injury law in Los Angeles. The firm leverages extensive local experience and a proven track record of securing compensation for victims. They understand that each crosswalk accident case is unique and requires personalized attention. From the initial free case evaluation through to settlement or litigation, their attorneys guide clients every step of the way, ensuring they understand their rights and options. The firm's dedication to justice and deep knowledge of California pedestrian law makes them a powerful advocate for anyone hurt in a crosswalk accident.
What Are the Most Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents?
Injuries from crosswalk accidents are often severe due to the lack of protection for the pedestrian. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal organ damage, and severe lacerations. These injuries can lead to long-term disability, requiring ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation. Documenting these injuries and their impact on your life is critical to your legal case. The attorneys at Eisenberg Law Group PC work with top medical professionals to fully assess your injuries and future needs to build a compelling claim for full and fair compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Crosswalk Accident Lawsuit in California?
In the state of California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited time to take legal action. Missing this deadline can forever bar you from seeking compensation through the courts. It is imperative to contact a Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure all filings are completed accurately and on time. The team at Eisenberg Law Group PC can quickly assess your case and ensure all deadlines are met.
Can I Still Recover Money If I Was Partially at Fault for the Crosswalk Accident?
Yes, under California's comparative negligence law, you may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your total compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your assigned fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you could still recover $80,000. This complex area of law makes having an experienced attorney essential. The lawyers at Eisenberg Law Group PC are skilled at navigating fault disputes and fighting to minimize the fault assigned to injured pedestrians to maximize their recovery.
Contact a Los Angeles Crosswalk Accident Attorney Today
If you or a family member has been injured in a crosswalk accident in Los Angeles, do not wait to get the legal help you need. The path to recovering compensation for your injuries starts with a single step. Contact Eisenberg Law Group PC today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
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Company: Eisenberg Law Group PC
Address: 811 Wilshire Blvd #1720, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 616-5353