Recent statistics show that pedestrian accidents and fatalities have reached record highs in recent years. Today’s vehicles are larger and heavier than ever, and distractions like cell phones often keep drivers from noticing nearby pedestrians. With no physical protection, pedestrians are especially vulnerable to severe injuries when struck by a vehicle. If you or a loved one was hit by a car, a Woodland pedestrian accident lawyer from Demas Law Group can help you understand your legal rights.
Our law firm has successfully represented injured people in California for over 30 years. We understand the stakes are high when you’re recovering from serious injuries — and getting financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and related losses can provide much-needed relief during this difficult time. Our personal injury lawyers will fight for you throughout the legal process and aim to recover maximum compensation as you rebuild your life and heal.
With 700+ Google reviews and inclusion in organizations like The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and Super Lawyers, our legal team has the experience, reputation, and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve and guide you confidently through every step of your case. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with a pedestrian accident attorney in Woodland, CA.
California Pedestrian Laws
California pedestrian and traffic laws address a wide range of rules, rights, and situations, including:
- Right-of-way – Cars must yield to pedestrians crossing the street in most circumstances. However, pedestrians cannot enter the street when doing so would create a dangerous situation. Pedestrians should also cross at intersections or crosswalks whenever possible. Additionally, drivers must yield to pedestrians at intersections, even when turning.
- Pedestrian signals – Pedestrians should only cross when the signal shows “WALK” or a walking person. They should not begin crossing when the signal says “DON’T WALK” or shows a raised hand, even if it’s flashing.
- Visually impaired pedestrians – People using guide dogs or white canes always have the right-of-way. Drivers should not honk, block the crosswalk, or try to direct them.
- No pedestrian signal – If there are no pedestrian-specific lights, pedestrians should follow the standard traffic signals and cross when it’s safe.
- Diagonal crossings – Some intersections have diagonal crosswalks for pedestrians. Pedestrians should only cross diagonally at these specially designated intersections and only when the proper signal is displayed.
What Should I Do After Getting Hit by a Car in Woodland?
Call 911 and seek medical attention before doing anything else after a pedestrian accident. Once you’ve taken those steps, you should:
- Gather your medical records – Collect all documents related to your medical care, including emergency room visits, follow-up appointments, prescriptions, diagnoses, and physical therapy. These documents can help your lawyer connect your injuries directly to the car accident.
- Document your injuries – Take clear photos of any visible injuries and track their progress during your recovery. Similarly, keep a journal to note the degree of pain you experience, any mobility challenges, or emotional distress. This information can serve as evidence to demonstrate your injuries and their impact on your daily life.
- Track expenses and lost wages – Save receipts for out-of-pocket costs like medical bills, transportation to appointments, or medical equipment. If you missed work, keep your pay stubs and proof of reduced working hours. You need these records to illustrate the crash’s financial cost.
- Avoid social media – Don’t post about the accident or your recovery online. Insurance companies may use your posts to downplay your injuries or deny your claim.
- Avoid speaking with the at-fault party’s insurance company – Adjusters may call you for a recorded statement or offer a quick settlement. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
- Consult a pedestrian injury lawyer – A pedestrian accident attorney in Woodland can explain your rights under California personal injury law, file your insurance claim, represent you during settlement negotiations, and take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to play fair.
How Our Woodland Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Demas Law Group, we’re here to handle your legal challenges and fight tirelessly to preserve your rights and interests. That starts by thoroughly investigating how the pedestrian accident happened and who is at fault for your injuries. At the same time, we’ll document your lost income, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses to maximize your claim’s value.
Once we complete the investigation, we can submit a demand letter to the liable party outlining why they’re responsible for the collision and the amount of compensation you’re seeking. We can represent you during settlement negotiations and counter lowball offers. While most pedestrian accident cases don’t reach the trial stage, our law firm includes top-rated trial lawyers who are fully prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary.
Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Woodland, CA
Most pedestrian accidents happen because of driver negligence and can lead to devastating injuries. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving – Motorists who text, talk on the phone, eat, or fiddle with the GPS may fail to notice pedestrians in the street.
- Speeding – Excessive speed limits a driver’s ability to react quickly and significantly increases the force of impact in a crash. When drivers are going too fast, they may be unable to stop in time to avoid striking a pedestrian.
- Failure to yield – Many drivers overlook pedestrian right-of-way laws, especially when making turns or approaching unmarked crosswalks.
- Running red lights or stop signs – Drivers who disregard traffic signals can recklessly enter intersections while pedestrians are lawfully crossing, putting lives at serious risk.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drug impairment lowers a driver’s awareness, judgment, and coordination, increasing the likelihood of hitting someone on foot.
- Poor visibility – Driving in bad weather without proper headlights can lead to serious accidents if drivers fail to spot pedestrians in time.
- Backing up without looking – Drivers exiting driveways or parking lots may hit pedestrians if they don’t check behind them carefully.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrians often sustain catastrophic injuries in crashes because they have no physical protection to absorb the violence of impact. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- External injuries to the head and face
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Internal bleeding
- Vital organ trauma
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Burns
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions
What Compensation Can I Receive for Pedestrian Injuries?
A pedestrian accident can affect your life in many ways. Working with an experienced attorney who can help you seek fair compensation is crucial.
In a California pedestrian accident claim, you could recover compensation for:
- Past and current medical bills
- Future medical treatment
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Diminished quality of life due to a long-term disability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in limited cases)
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation With a Woodland, CA Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Obtaining maximum compensation can make all the difference as you recuperate from pedestrian accident injuries. At Demas Law Group, we strive to deliver results that provide financial security and accountability for what you suffered. Contact us today for a free initial consultation with our experienced Woodland pedestrian accident attorneys. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you take legal action if you choose.
