Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Fresno

Most people don’t think of walking or jogging as a dangerous activity. But when you walk or jog near a road, there’s always a measure of risk. A pedestrian accident can happen to anyone, and the results can be devastating.

Often, the cause of the accident is a negligent driver. If you are an accident victim, contact a pedestrian accident attorney in Fresno. Grossman Law Offices can help you receive compensation for your injuries and other damages.

Common Pedestrian Accident Causes

Again, pedestrian accidents often occur due to negligent or distracted drivers. Common causes include speeding, failing to yield at crosswalks, running red lights, and distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone. Poor visibility conditions, like low lighting or adverse weather, can also contribute, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians. Impaired driving from alcohol or drugs also significantly increases the risk of accidents. 

Regardless of the cause, if you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, consulting with an experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

In the worst-case scenario, a pedestrian accident can be fatal. However, there are other outcomes, typically involving serious injuries. Because pedestrians have no protection from oncoming cars, they tend to experience the collision at full force.

The seriousness of your injuries depends on the specifics of the accident. For instance, the vehicle’s speed, the angle of impact, and the site of the accident all matter. 

Here are some of the most common injuries experienced by victims of pedestrian accidents:

Broken Bones

Although it is possible to repair a broken bone, the injury is still serious. A broken bone tends to be extremely painful and usually comes with a long healing period. Once it does heal, you might need physical rehabilitation to regain full use of your injured body part.

Spinal Cord Damage

If a vehicle hits a pedestrian, it is possible for the victim to suffer from spinal cord damage. Even minor damage can result in a short-term disability. Severe damage could lead to permanent paralysis or death. In any case, spinal cord damage requires hospitalization and costly procedures.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Many victims of pedestrian accidents suffer from brain injuries. The result could be a loss of motor function, short-term memory, and other life-altering effects. 

Internal Bleeding

Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent. This is the case with internal bleeding. And it happens to be one of the more common injuries in pedestrian accidents. Typically, victims who have internal bleeding need immediate surgical care. Without rapid care, the risk of death is high.

Cuts or Lacerations

Whether cuts or lacerations are caused by the vehicle or colliding with something after the impact, they can be severe. In the wrong place, a laceration can cause excessive blood loss.

After you receive medical attention, you could still suffer—a cut on the face results in disfigurement. For the rest of your life, you might have a permanent scar.

What to Do at the Scene of a Pedestrian Accident

Safety is the top priority if you’re involved in a pedestrian accident. If possible, move to a safe location, and immediately call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor. Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver and gather contact details from any witnesses. Avoid making statements about fault, as these can impact your case later. Take photos of the scene, including vehicle positions, injuries, and any visible hazards. Contacting a pedestrian injury lawyer as soon as possible is crucial to protect your rights.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

After a pedestrian accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine; some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Keep all medical records and document your injuries and recovery process. Notify your insurance company of the accident, but avoid detailed discussions until you consult a lawyer. Write down your account of the incident while it’s fresh in your mind, noting any details about the accident and your injuries. Reach out to a pedestrian accident law firm to evaluate your case and guide you through the next steps to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

In California, there are many laws in place to protect pedestrians—but as we’ve all seen, motorists don’t always follow those laws. If a driver breaks the law and hits a pedestrian, they are liable. If you file a personal injury claim, you could receive money for your injuries and other damages. When a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, you could file a wrongful death claim.

Still, a successful claim requires some strategy. You need to be able to show that the other driver was legally responsible for the accident, which means showing that they acted negligently. 

Here are some common incidents that result in the driver being liable for the accident:

Speeding

When a driver exceeds the speed limit or goes too fast for the weather conditions, they can’t react to other drivers or pedestrians. As a result, they could hit an innocent bystander.

Driving While Drowsy

When people are behind the wheel and overtired, their reaction times slow—a common cause of pedestrian accidents. There are laws in place to prevent truck and bus drivers from driving while drowsy, but some people neglect those laws.

Driving While Distracted

If a driver is on the road, they should be fully focused on the road. But that doesn’t always happen. Often, drivers spend time texting on their phones or talking to passengers. In the seconds that they avert their eyes, anything can happen.

Driving While Drunk

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a recipe for disaster. When people drive under the influence, they often neglect the rules of the road. They also have slower reaction times. For that reason, drunk drivers usually cause accidents. Many of those accidents involve pedestrians.

When to Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer is crucial as soon as possible after the accident. If you’ve sustained injuries, face mounting medical bills, or have unclear liability, legal representation can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation. A lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery while pursuing the compensation you deserve.

About Grossman Law

A pedestrian accident can profoundly affect your life, making it essential to have a dedicated and compassionate lawyer by your side. At Grossman Law Offices, we don’t just see cases—we see people. With over 50 years of experience in the Fresno, we’ve built our practice on understanding and supporting the communities we serve. Our pedestrian accident lawyers are committed to providing personalized legal services in English and Spanish, ensuring you feel heard and supported at every step. 

With us, you won’t face any out-of-pocket expenses, and you only pay if we win your case. We offer face-to-face attention because you’re more than just a case—you’re a valued community member.

What to Expect From Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, with injuries, medical bills, and uncooperative insurance companies adding to your stress. At Grossman Law Offices, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging time and seek the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. 

Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys in California’s Central Valley will guide you through every step, beginning with a thorough investigation to gather evidence and determine liability. 

We’ll collect medical records, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong case on your behalf. We’re committed to fighting for your rights, from negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary. And with our no-fee guarantee, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. The process can vary in length, but we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Get a Free In-Person Consultation

Pedestrian accidents can be life-altering, often resulting in severe injuries and complicated legal battles. No matter how or where your accident occurs, the lawyers at Grossman Law Offices are here to provide the support you need with a free in-person case evaluation. With decades of experience serving Central Valley communities, our dedicated team understands the unique challenges pedestrian accident victims face. We’re committed to guiding you through this difficult time with patience, expertise, and personalized attention. 

Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced attorney, and let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.