Northridge Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Faced with the prospect of braving crowded streets and dangerous freeways, spending large amounts of money on gas, and fighting for limited parking spaces, it’s easy to see why many Northridge residents prefer walking when possible to get to a destination or simply get some quick and easy exercise. Unfortunately, the benefits of walking are replaced by pain, expense, and trauma in a split second when pedestrian accidents occur. The skilled Northridge pedestrian accident lawyers at Walch Law know the victims in these situations are suffering through no fault of their own, which is why we start working for you the moment we’re hired. Robert and Gary know you need closure and a check quickly to start picking up the pieces and moving on with your life and will fight for you to get the compensation you need. Contact us today to see how 45 years of experience and a 95+% percent success rate can help get you the justice you deserve.

With the Galleria and CSUN just miles from each other in the center of Northridge, pedestrians are an everyday sight in the area. Unfortunately, just because drivers know they will encounter pedestrians walking to school, shops, restaurants, or bars in the area does not mean they behave with appropriate caution at all times; this has resulted in disaster near campus numerous times and prompted public outcry. Pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents have increased 47 percent in a single year, resulting in 2 pedestrian fatalities near campus. Some of the highest risk intersections for pedestrians are Reseda Boulevard and Devonshire Street, Lindley Avenue and Devonshire Street, Reseda and Vincennes Street, and Reseda and Nordhoff Street; though pedestrians should be careful at all times, these intersections in Northridge require particular vigilance to avoid injury or death.

Pedestrian accident victims may rightly believe they’re owed compensation from the party responsible for injuring them; however, belief alone will not get them an award of damages. Victims usually file personal injury lawsuits arguing they are owed money because someone’s negligence harmed them. Negligence occurs if:

• The defendant owed you a duty of care
• They breached their duty by either act or omission
• The breach was the cause of your injury

Negligence may also be proven if you can show the defendant was breaking a law or rule designed to promote safety when they harmed you. Many laws can result in a finding of negligence, including traffic laws such as:

• Texting while driving
• Failure to yield
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Speeding

Victims of pedestrian accidents, due to their vulnerability, lack of protection, and small size when compared to any vehicle or even bicycles, can easily suffer catastrophic injuries or death if the collision is severe. This can result in an extended incapacity to work and huge hospital bills. Damages for these and other physical, emotional, and financial injuries may be awarded at the expense of the party that caused them. Victims may recover for harms such as:

• Hospital bills
• Burial expenses
• Lost wages
• Scarring or disability
• Loss of consortium
• Pain and suffeirng

The moments after a pedestrian accident are emotionally charged and can often feel like a blur, so victims may be understandably confused in the aftermath. Even in these trying times, it’s important to remember a few simple tips that can help your health, strengthen your future legal claims, and prevent you making any expensive missteps that would damage your case.

• Notify law enforcement and give a detailed statement to aid in creating an accident report.
• Call 911 if you are injured.
• Get contact information from all witnesses.
• Get contact and insurance information from all drivers involved.
• Photograph the accident scene, all vehicles involved, and any visible injuries you suffered
• Get medical attention immediately even if you think you weren’t hurt. Some injuries may delay presenting symptoms but be fatal if not treated quickly.
• Retain important documents such as accident reports, medical bills, and paystubs.
• Avoid admitting fault or apologizing.
• Do not consent to anyone recording your statement.
• Do not post about the accident, lawsuit, involved parties, or your health on social media.
• Avoid commenting about whether you were hurt or saying you are “fine” or “okay.”

Pedestrian accidents often leave innocent victims suffering severe trauma, feeling overwhelmed, and not sure of how to begin recovering from their injuries. The Northridge pedestrian accident lawyers at Walch Law understand how the personal injury process works very well and know how to put together the strongest possible case while giving you peace of mind and helping you navigate a tricky legal landscape. We are here to fight for you and recover the maximum possible compensation on your behalf to help get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. Call today to learn more and take the first step.