Pedestrians have the right to feel safe when crossing the street — especially in marked crosswalks where the law is meant to protect them. Yet every year, thousands of people in California are seriously injured in crosswalk accidents caused by distracted, speeding, or negligent drivers. If you or someone you love was hit while crossing the street, understanding your legal rights is critical.
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can help you hold the responsible party accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why Crosswalk Accidents Are So Dangerous
Crosswalks are designed to protect pedestrians, but they often become high-risk zones due to driver negligence. Common causes of crosswalk accidents include:
- Drivers failing to yield while turning
- Speeding through intersections
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, phone calls)
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving under the influence
Because pedestrians have no physical protection, even low-speed impacts can lead to serious or life-altering injuries.
California Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws
Under California Vehicle Code §21950, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. However, pedestrians are also expected to exercise reasonable care and not suddenly step into traffic.
That said, drivers bear the greater legal responsibility in most crosswalk-related collisions — especially when:
- The pedestrian was legally crossing
- The driver was distracted or speeding
- Visibility conditions required extra caution
A knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer can evaluate how fault is determined and protect you from unfair blame.
Common Injuries in Crosswalk Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the direct impact with a vehicle. These may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Soft tissue injuries
- Wrongful death in fatal cases
Medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care can be extremely costly. This is why legal representation is so important from the very beginning.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured in a crosswalk accident, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame onto pedestrians. Having experienced legal representation levels the playing field.
What to Do After a Crosswalk Accident
If you’ve been hit by a vehicle while crossing the street, take these steps if possible:
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention
- Report the accident to police
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle, and injuries
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
- Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible
Early legal guidance can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
Why Choose Bojat Law Group
At Bojat Law Group, we understand how devastating pedestrian accidents can be — physically, emotionally, and financially. Our firm has experience handling serious injury claims and fighting insurance companies that try to undervalue victims’ lives.
When you work with a pedestrian accident lawyer from our team, you get:
- Personalized legal strategy
- Aggressive negotiation with insurers
- Trial-ready representation
- No fees unless we win your case
We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.
Speak With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a crosswalk accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Bojat Law Group today for a free consultation.
Call (818) 877-4878 or reach out online to get started.
