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Santa Ana Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents occur in California all too frequently. If you experienced and were injured in a pedestrian crash, you may need help from a Santa Ana pedestrian accident lawyer in pursuing compensation to help you recover your damages.
An experienced accident attorney in Santa Ana could help you pursue both economic and non-economic damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs.
Pedestrian Accidents on the Rise
Countless pedestrians enjoy California’s amazing weather and tourist destinations. However, with more people out and about on the roadways, there comes a notable increase in motor vehicle accidents involvingâand injuringâpedestrians.
Each year, more pedestrians are dying in motor vehicle accidents on average, with about an 11 percent increase in pedestrian deaths across the country in 2016. Some attribute the rise in pedestrian deaths to distracted drivers looking down at their smartphones.
Roughly 6000 pedestrians died in 2016 as a result of pedestrian accidents. Researchers at the Governors Highway Safety Association report that this increase is the largest ever in pedestrian deaths, and the highest total number of pedestrian deaths in more than 20 years.
Comparative Negligence Rules in Santa Ana, California
Under Santa Ana law, more than one party may be at-fault in causing an accident. A victim found to be partially at-fault in bringing about their own injuries may have their compensation award reduced by the percentage of fault they themselves contributed to the accident.
Unlike some states, California does not bar victims from recovering damages altogether, even if they are partiallyâor even mostlyâat-fault. For this reason, any pedestrian accident victim should immediately consult with an experienced Santa Ana pedestrian accident attorney, regardless of whether they believe they had a hand in causing the accident.
How Could a Pedestrian Be At-Fault in an Accident?
Some of the ways a pedestrian could potentially be found to be at-fault in an accident include jaywalking or not using a crosswalk, crossing before their light is green, not adequately supervising children, or not watching where they are going.
A bicyclist could be found partially at-fault if they are not wearing a helmet, even though helmets are not required by California law unless the bicyclist is under age 18. However, even when a pedestrian or bicyclist is partially at-fault, they may still pursue a damage award from the other responsible party.
California Pedestrian Laws
California pedestrian laws require motorists to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, whether they are in a crosswalk or not. While this does not negate the need for pedestrians to abide by crosswalk regulations, the heavier duty of care still falls to drivers.
Consult with a Santa Ana Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
In the event of a pedestrian accident that results in physical harm, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Santa Ana could help you preserve your right to a personal injury claim.
In addition to preparing your case for trial if necessary, your Santa Ana pedestrian accident lawyer could work with police investigators, medical billing groups, collection agencies, and insurance companies, conducting negotiations on your behalf. They may also investigate the circumstances of your accident and determine which party or parties may be at fault.
Call today to schedule an initial meeting and get started on your case.