California roads are dangerous places for pedestrians. Whether you’re crossing at a marked crosswalk, walking through a parking lot, or simply stepping onto a sidewalk, a single careless driver can change your life in an instant. Pedestrian accidents often lead to serious injuries, high medical bills, and long recovery periods. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle, understanding your rights is the first step to protecting your future.
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we help injured pedestrians recover compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial losses. Even when drivers claim the pedestrian “came out of nowhere,” California law protects your right to walk safely—and holds negligent drivers accountable.
Why Pedestrian Injuries Are So Severe
Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection in a collision. Even a low-speed impact can cause serious harm. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Spinal cord and neck injuries
- Severe lacerations and soft tissue damage
These injuries often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and time off work—costing victims both physically and financially.
Who Is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
California law requires drivers to exercise reasonable care toward pedestrians. This means slowing down in crosswalks, avoiding distractions, and staying alert in residential areas. A driver may be legally responsible if they:
- Failed to yield at a crosswalk
- Were texting or distracted
- Ran a red light or stop sign
- Were speeding, intoxicated, or driving recklessly
Even if you were not in a marked crosswalk, you may still be entitled to compensation. California’s comparative negligence laws allow injured pedestrians to recover damages even if they were partially at fault—as long as the driver also acted negligently.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
Right after an accident, it’s hard to think clearly. But taking the right actions can help protect your health and your legal claim.
- Call 911 and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Document the scene with photos or videos
- Collect witness names and contact information
- Never apologize or admit fault
- Contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn as soon as possible for advice
Medical records, witness statements, and police reports are often critical in proving your case.
What Compensation Can Pedestrian Victims Receive?
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we work to help injured pedestrians recover full compensation for their losses. Depending on your situation, you may be able to receive money for:
- Emergency medical treatment and ongoing care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Long-term disability or reduced quality of life
- Property damage (such as broken phones or personal items)
Severe pedestrian accidents may lead to permanent disability, requiring long-term financial planning and future care considerations.
Why You Need an Attorney
Insurance companies may try to claim the driver “couldn’t see you” or that you stepped into traffic unexpectedly. At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we know how to uncover the truth using evidence like traffic camera footage, accident reconstruction, and medical records. Most importantly, we fight back when insurers attempt to undervalue your losses or pressure you to settle quickly.
Pedestrian accident cases are not just about compensation—they are about recovery, accountability, and protecting your future.
If you were injured while walking in California, don’t wait. Reach out to Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 for a free consultation. Let our team help you get the justice and financial support you deserve.
