Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been hit by a negligent driver, you’re probably dealing with mounting medical bills, lost income, and the stress that follows a serious crash. In moments like this, having an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney on your side can make all the difference.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we know how devastating a pedestrian accident can be. For more than 50 years, our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers have been standing up for injured individuals and their families, fighting for accountability, financial recovery, and peace of mind.

Proven Results: The multi-million-dollar case studies featured in our results demonstrate the milestones we have achieved in the field of law.
California Law Specialists: With decades of experience, we live and breathe California’s personal injury laws, ensuring your case gets the care and precision it deserves.
Client-Centered Care: Client testimonials highlight our commitment to clear communication, personalized attention, and compassionate support throughout every case.
No Upfront Attorney Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, so attorney fees are paid only at the end of your case, if there is a recovery.

Why Los Angeles Trust Jacoby & Meyers

The attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers are advocates committed to helping you pursue a recovery and move forward. Our car accident lawyers understand that a pedestrian accident can affect every part of your life, and we approach each case with genuine care about your well-being and rights. You deserve a lawyer who listens, fights for you, and truly understands the impact this has on your life.

Los Angeles trusts Jacoby & Meyers because of:

Our Longstanding Commitment to Injured Californians – Since 1972, we have been committed to providing accessible, high-quality legal representation, a dedication proven by the several awards we have received from prestigious and trusted legal organizations.
Statewide Resources with Local Focus – We have a network of 14 offices across California, supporting thorough investigation and case development.
Results that Speak for Us – Through our 50+ years of service to the Los Angeles community, we have recovered $2 Billion in verdicts and settlements for clients across the state.

When injuries are serious and the outcome matters, our team handles pedestrian accident cases with the care, discipline, and preparation they require.

Personal Injury Awards

Can I Afford a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer?

When a car crash disrupts your life, you should not have to choose between medical care and getting legal help. At Jacoby & Meyers, our fee structure is designed to make experienced legal representation accessible when you need it most.

Free initial case evaluation to review your situation and options
No upfront attorney costs, so you never pay out of pocket to begin your claim
Attorney fees are only paid if compensation is recovered. Keep in mind that some court expenses may still be covered by the client.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Los Angeles

Seek Medical Treatment First: Your health comes first. If you sustain serious injuries, call 911 to request an ambulance. On the other hand, even if your injuries do not appear to be severe, you should see a doctor immediately. Delaying medical attention can jeopardize your recovery, and having a doctor’s report will be critical in your pedestrian accident case.
Call the Police: Have a Los Angeles police officer come to the scene and file a police report. Police reports can help record crucial information, such as whether the driver was intoxicated, driving with a suspended license, or operating an unregistered car, which can help establish liability.
Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you can move, we recommend collecting evidence at the accident scene to help build your pedestrian accident case. This can include photos or videos of the accident, information on the parties involved, and contact details of witnesses nearby.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Once you’ve received medical care, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys. They will fight to pursue compensation that may be available for medical bills, lost wages, or emotional suffering.

Taking these steps will not only protect your health but also ensure that your legal rights are preserved.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

Pedestrian accident cases heavily rely on evidence that establishes right-of-way and driver conduct at the moment of impact. Crosswalk markings, signal timing, vehicle speed, and witness statements can materially affect fault analysis. Because video footage and third-party records may be overwritten or discarded quickly, early preservation requests and prompt documentation can be critical to proving liability.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, particularly in densely populated cities like Los Angeles, where traffic volume continues to increase.

In 2023, Los Angeles was the leading county for pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries, recording over 959 injuries and 273 deaths in collisions.

Moreover, according to the Los Angeles Department of Transportation’s Vision Zero Safety Study, pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries rose by approximately 13%, from 1,472 cases in 2017 to 1,658 cases in 2021. During that period, pedestrians accounted for the largest share of people killed or seriously injured in traffic collisions citywide, underscoring the heightened risks they face on Los Angeles streets.

Failure to yield the right-of-way: Drivers turning left or right often focus on oncoming cars and miss people in the crosswalk.
Distracted driving: Phone use, navigation screens, or in-vehicle distractions can prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians.
Speeding or unsafe driving: Higher speed reduces reaction time and increases injury severity.
Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug impairment slows perception and decision-making.
Backing-up and parking lot collisions: Drivers reversing out of stalls or navigating congested lots may not see pedestrians.
Unsafe road design: Faulty designs on the road can make it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians crossing the road.
Low visibility conditions: Night driving, glare, poor lighting, and weather can contribute to missed observations.

What Are the Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles

Pedestrians have little to no physical protection in a collision with a vehicle. As a result, injuries are often severe and may require extensive medical treatment or long-term care. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Concussions and more serious brain trauma caused by head impact with a vehicle, the pavement, or surrounding objects.
Spinal injuries: Damage to the neck or back, including herniated discs and spinal cord injuries that can affect mobility or cause permanent impairment.
Fractures: Broken bones in the legs, hips, arms, ribs, or face, which often require surgery, physical therapy, or prolonged rehabilitation.
Internal injuries: Organ damage or internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening without prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Soft tissue injuries: Laceration, sprains, strains, muscle tears, and deep bruising that can limit movement and interfere with daily activities.
Psychological impact: Anxiety, sleep disturbances, and other trauma-related symptoms that commonly follow a serious pedestrian collision.

Understanding California Pedestrian Laws

Pedestrian accidents often happen when either the driver or the pedestrian violates a traffic law. Because fault plays a direct role in whether compensation is available, it’s important to understand how California pedestrian laws apply before filing a claim.

Duty of Care

Under California law, pedestrians must exercise a reasonable duty of care when walking near or crossing traffic. This means taking basic, common-sense steps to avoid creating unnecessary danger, including:

Obeying traffic signals.
Using crosswalks.
Avoiding sudden movements that obstruct traffic, such as stepping into traffic.
Being aware of the surroundings before crossing.
Avoid being distracted while walking.
Walking sober.

Right-of-Way

According to Vehicle Code Section 21950, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at intersections in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. However, pedestrians are still expected to act safely. Stepping suddenly into traffic or creating an immediate hazard can shift or reduce liability.

Jaywalking

California’s Freedom to Walk Act (AB 2147) legally allows you to jaywalk only when it can be done safely. Jaywalking is still considered unsafe when foreseeable risks are present, such as:

Oncoming traffic: If you see vehicles approaching, crossing in front of them is deemed a foreseeable danger.
Insufficient visibility: Crossing at night, in bad weather, or in places with insufficient lighting may make it difficult for the driver to see you.
Blind spots: Jaywalking near a curve, incline, or barrier that blocks your or the driver’s view could be considered a hazard.
High-speed areas: Crossing streets at higher speeds poses a danger to you and the driver, regardless of whether you see an oncoming vehicle.

While jaywalking is now legal in California, pedestrians are still responsible for exercising caution and adhering to safety rules when crossing the road.

Understanding these traffic laws can help clarify whether you may be partially responsible for an accident. However, pedestrian accidents are rarely straightforward. Fault is often shared, disputed, or affected by multiple factors. In these situations, legal guidance can be critical when determining liability before dealing with insurance companies.

Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries

Liability in a pedestrian accident depends on whether the pedestrian, the driver, or both failed to follow California traffic laws. These cases often involve disputed facts, and fault may be shared under California’s comparative negligence rules.

When is the Pedestrian Liable?

Pedestrians, like drivers, have a legal duty to act with reasonable care. If a pedestrian’s actions create an immediate hazard and contribute to the collision, they may be found partially or fully responsible.

Examples of situations where pedestrian liability may apply include:

Walking in bike lanes when sidewalks or pedestrian routes are available.
Crossing outside a crosswalk when nearby intersections are controlled by traffic signals or police officers.
Walking against the traffic signal or “Don’t Walk” sign at an intersection.
Crossing outside a crosswalk in the presence of nearby vehicles creates an immediate hazard.
Texting while walking.
Walking while intoxicated.

If a pedestrian is found primarily responsible, compensation may be reduced or unavailable, depending on the circumstances.

When is the Driver Liable?

Drivers may be held liable when a pedestrian accident results from negligent or unlawful behavior. This includes failing to yield, violating traffic laws, or driving in a manner that endangers others.

Common forms of driver negligence in pedestrian accidents include:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Distracted driving
Speeding
Driving while fatigued
Failing to use headlights at night

However, proving a driver’s liability can become overwhelming for most injury victims. How can you gather evidence if you are seriously injured in the crash? Our Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the crash, help establish negligence, and address insurance challenges on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery while your claim is handled properly.

Damages You May Be Entitled to

The value of your compensation depends on the extent of the damages you suffer in a pedestrian accident. While some losses are immediate, others may impact your health, finances, and independence long after the collision. Under California law, these damages generally fall into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

These are financial losses that can be easily documented, such as:

Medical expenses, including treatments, equipment, and aids
Future medical needs related to your accident injuries
Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Lost wages from time off work
Future income loss if your injury affects your ability to work long-term

Non-Economic Damages

These cover non-monetary losses, which can be harder to quantify, such as:

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of companionship or affection

Punitive Damages

In cases where the at-fault party acted recklessly or intentionally, the court may award punitive damages as an extra penalty to punish the action and prevent it from happening again.

Because pedestrian accident damages can involve both immediate and long-term considerations, careful evaluation is essential before resolving a claim. A pedestrian accident law firm can help evaluate these factors and assist in pursuing compensation that may be available.

What Makes Pedestrian Accident Cases Legally Complex

Pedestrian accident claims often involve more than a simple determination of fault. Insurance companies frequently challenge liability and damages, making these cases legally complex for several reasons:

Disputed right-of-way: Insurers may argue the pedestrian crossed outside a crosswalk or against a traffic signal to shift responsibility.
Comparative negligence arguments: California law allows fault to be shared, which insurers use to reduce potential compensation.
Evidence challenges: Video footage, witness statements, and roadway conditions can change or disappear quickly after a crash.
Injury minimization tactics: Insurance companies may argue that injuries are pre-existing or inconsistent with the collision dynamics.
Multiple parties and coverage layers: Employer policies, commercial coverage, and public-entity issues can add procedural requirements.

An accident attorney is equipped to manage the complexities inherent in pedestrian accident claims, ensuring your case is positioned as effectively as possible.

What is the Deadline for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

California law generally gives most pedestrian accident claims two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For special cases involving a government entity, such as a city-owned vehicle or unsafe public infrastructure, an administrative claim must be filed within six months and must comply with specific notice and procedural rules.

Given these deadlines, it’s crucial to consult with a pedestrian accident attorney to ensure you take the proper legal steps and have a better chance for a fair settlement. Delaying action can jeopardize your claim, so it’s essential to act quickly and avoid the risk of running out of time.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer to Represent You

Pedestrian claims are often met with resistance because of the life-changing injuries. Working with a pedestrian accident lawyer can help protect your claim and reduce stress during recovery by:

Addressing insurance tactics: Responding to attempts to shift blame, minimize injuries, or resolve claims before the full impact is understood.
Building liability evidence: Collecting reports, preserving video footage, coordinating witness statements, and reviewing contested facts with appropriate experts.
Managing legal requirements: Handling deadlines, record requests, and procedural standards that can affect the strength of a claim.
Handling communications: Managing negotiations and legal proceedings so you can focus on medical treatment and recovery.

How to Choose the Right Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The lawyer you choose plays a significant role in how your pedestrian accident claim is handled. Because these cases often involve serious injuries and disputed liability, it’s important to select legal representation with the experience and resources to manage these claims effectively.

When evaluating a pedestrian accident attorney, consider the following factors:

Expertise and Experience: A pedestrian accident lawyer brings the specialized knowledge and experience needed to handle the complexities of your case. With a thorough understanding of legal procedures, necessary documentation, and how to effectively present your case, they ensure your rights are protected.
Ability to Establish Liability: Establishing fault in a pedestrian accident case can be challenging. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer knows how to gather and evaluate evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to develop a strong case that demonstrates the at-fault party’s negligence.
Comprehensive Damage Evaluation: A dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer will accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including both economic and emotional losses. With their negotiation skills, they can work with insurance companies and opposing parties to pursue compensation for your injuries and suffering.
Case Management: Pedestrian accident claims involve strict deadlines, documentation requirements, and insurance rules. Having legal guidance helps ensure these requirements are handled properly while the case moves forward.
Clear Communication and Support: Strong representation includes keeping clients informed, explaining legal steps clearly, and providing compassionate guidance throughout the process.

How Jacoby & Meyers Prepares Pedestrian Accident Cases for Settlement or Trial

With more than 50 years of experience representing injured Californians, Jacoby & Meyers follows a structured, evidence-driven approach to preparing pedestrian accident cases. Each case is developed with the expectation that it may need to proceed beyond early negotiations.

Initial case evaluation: We review how the accident occurred, identify potential liability issues, and assess the immediate and long-term impact of the injuries to determine the appropriate legal strategy.
Early investigation and evidence preservation: Our team gathers incident reports, medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and other available evidence. We also examine scene conditions, visibility, traffic patterns, and right-of-way factors to establish how the collision occurred.
Damage Documentation: We document medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and non-economic losses to ensure the full scope of damages is supported by records and expert input when appropriate.
Strategic demand development: Claims are presented to insurers with organized evidence and clear liability analysis to support a claim compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and related damages.
Trial readiness: If a fair resolution cannot be reached, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and present the case in court, with evidence and expert support developed from the outset.

How Can a Lawyer Help You Manage Your Medical Bills?

Serious pedestrian injuries make immediate medical treatment a top priority. However, the cost of medical care can quickly become overwhelming, even for those with health insurance. After your initial ER or hospital visit, it’s essential to consult with a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer to help you explore all options for managing your medical bills.

Here are some options for managing medical expenses:

Auto Insurance: Your car insurance may include medical payment coverage to help with bills if you’re struck as a pedestrian, and the at-fault driver’s insurance might also cover your costs. Consult with our lawyers before accepting any offers to ensure fair compensation.
Health Insurance: While health insurance may cover part of your treatment, out-of-pocket expenses may remain. Our lawyers can help you understand how a lawsuit settlement can work alongside your health coverage.
Medical Liens: We can arrange medical care on a “lien” basis, so you won’t pay up front. You’ll settle the bills once your case is resolved, allowing you to focus on recovery.

When you work with us, our team can help manage your medical expenses, and you won’t have to worry about attorney fees throughout the legal process, subject to the terms of the contingency fee arrangement.

Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

Choosing legal representation after a pedestrian accident is about more than legal knowledge. It requires a firm with the experience, resources, and commitment to handle serious injury claims while providing clear guidance throughout the process.

Jacoby & Meyers is trusted by clients because of:

Founded in 1972, Jacoby & Meyers has spent more than five decades representing injured individuals across California, with a focus on serious and complex injury cases.
Our firm has recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements, including cases involving catastrophic injuries and long-term disability. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
With us, you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case, allowing access to experienced representation without upfront financial pressure.
Consistent Accessibility and Support: With 24/7 availability and offices throughout California, clients have access to guidance, updates, and answers when they need them.

Client Stories

Our clients’ shared experiences reflect how Jacoby & Meyers approach every case: with clear communication, consistent follow-up, and client-focused attention.

“I had an excellent experience with Jacoby and Meyers. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. Gloria handled my case with expertise and care, ensuring everything went smoothly from the start. I truly appreciate her dedication and attention to detail. If you need a reliable and trustworthy law firm, I highly recommend them!

Daniela Altamirano

“Recently, I was hit by a vehicle while walking my dog in a crosswalk, and it quite literally turned my world upside down. I was suggested to look into speaking to an injury lawyer, so I decided to call Jacoby & Meyers, and I’m so glad I finally did. I had the pleasure of working with Isabella (Bella), and I can’t thank her enough for her support during a challenging time. She provided me with peace of mind by expertly managing all my medical appointments and ensuring I wasn’t overwhelmed by bills. Thanks to her efforts, I was able to focus on my recovery without the stress of being overwhelmed by bills. It was such a relief to know that I had someone fighting for my best interests. My only regret is not contacting Jacoby & Meyers sooner. Isabella has made a significant difference in getting my life back on track, and I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of legal assistance.“

Esther S.

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

Case Results

Our law firm has helped injured clients across California recover more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements, including multi-million-dollar outcomes in serious and catastrophic injury cases.

$19 million – Ride-share Passenger v. Auto / Quadriplegic
$17.5 million – Bicycle v. Truck / Paraplegic
$11.9 million – Wrongful death v. Truck
$11 million – Motorcycle v. Truck / Paraplegic
$9.24 million – Auto v. Pedestrian / Spinal cord injury
$6.7 million – Auto v. Pedestrian
$6 million – Auto v. Pedestrian

Disclaimer: Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me

Our firm has established offices in 14 locations to provide legal representation for injured pedestrians in Los Angeles and communities throughout California, including:

Orange County
San Jose
San Francisco
San Diego
San Bernardino
Sacramento
Ontario
Oakland
Los Angeles
Fresno
Escondido
Brea
Bakersfield

Frequently Asked Questions in a Pedestrian Accident Case

Can I still file a claim if I am partially at fault for the accident?

In California’s pure comparative fault system, you can file a personal injury claim even if you’re partly to blame for the accident. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of the compensation. On the other hand, the other party can also claim compensation based on their percentage of fault.

Consulting an injury lawyer is crucial to ensure you’re receiving the right amount. They will evaluate the total damages, determine how much you’re entitled to based on your share of the fault, and negotiate with the insurance company to pursue fair compensation.

Can I settle my case even before I’m fully recovered?

You can, but settling too early is often risky. Pedestrian injuries may worsen over time or require future treatment that isn’t immediately apparent. Once a settlement is accepted, you generally cannot seek additional compensation later.

Careful case evaluation helps determine whether your condition has stabilized and whether future medical needs, limitations, or complications have been properly considered before accepting an offer.

How long will my pedestrian accident claim take?

The timeline varies depending on injury severity, recovery progress, and whether liability is disputed. Some claims resolve in months, while others take longer if negotiations stall or litigation becomes necessary.

The process often moves more efficiently when deadlines are tracked, documentation is organized, and insurer delays are addressed promptly. Legal support with these steps can help prevent unnecessary slowdowns.

What if the driver fled the scene or was uninsured?

Hit-and-run and uninsured driver cases are common in Los Angeles. Compensation may still be available through uninsured motorist coverage or other applicable insurance policies.

Legal guidance can help identify all potential sources of recovery and handle communications with insurers when the at-fault driver cannot be located.

What if I need to go to trial?

Although many pedestrian accident cases settle, a trial may be necessary when liability is disputed or when settlement offers do not reflect the evidence. A trial allows both sides to present testimony, documents, and expert opinions so fault and damages can be formally decided.

Preparing for trial involves extensive planning, evidence development, and procedural work. An experienced pedestrian attorney ensures the case is presented clearly and effectively, while allowing you to remain focused on your recovery.

Directory

Emergency Rooms

Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga, CA 91042
Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer – We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

Experienced Legal Representation for Serious Injury Cases

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, understanding your rights and options is an important first step. Jacoby & Meyers has decades of experience handling serious pedestrian injury cases and is available to explain your options and answer your questions with clarity.

Call today or submit our contact form to request a free case evaluation from our Los Angeles pedestrian injury lawyers and start your case.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Injury Cases We Take On

Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude