Escondido Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
With a growing number of pedestrians sharing the roads with vehicles in Escondido, accidents are an unfortunate possibility. If you or a loved one is struck by a car while walking along or across the street, you might feel confused about your rights or even believe the accident was partially your fault. Insurance companies often exploit such uncertainty, using your statements to minimize or deny your claim.
The Escondido pedestrian accident attorneys at North County Injury Lawyers are well aware of the dangers associated with these incidents and the serious injuries that can result, often requiring extensive medical treatment and significant time off work. Our team has decades of experience securing compensation for car accident injury victims in Escondido, and we are here to manage everything on your behalf, including dealing with insurance companies, so you can focus solely on your recovery. Our office is conveniently located off SR-78 in San Marcos.
Reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation to determine if you have a case and how we can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for your injuries. There’s no risk and no obligation to you.
Call (760) 571-5500 to learn how our Escondido pedestrian accident lawyers can support you.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Escondido
Accidents can occur without warning, leaving you in a state of shock, both physically and mentally. However, there are crucial steps you should take after being involved in a pedestrian accident to protect your rights and ensure your safety:
- Dial 9-1-1 for emergency medical assistance and undergo a thorough medical examination.
- Capture photos and videos of the accident scene, the involved vehicle, and your injuries.
- Record the driver’s name, address, and insurance information.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses present.
- Refrain from making any statements to the driver or insurance company.
After seeking medical care, it’s essential to contact a skilled pedestrian injury attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you reach out, the sooner they can start investigating your case and negotiating with the insurance company.
Another reason to consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Escondido promptly is the possibility of needing to file a lawsuit to secure compensation. Legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, dictate how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after a pedestrian accident. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. After this period, you may lose the right to seek compensation.
While two years may seem ample, gathering all the necessary evidence and building a strong case takes time. Contacting us as soon as possible allows us to start working on your claim immediately. At North County Injury Lawyers, we’re prepared to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit if the insurance claims process doesn’t yield the results you deserve.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Escondido
Many pedestrian accidents are the result of drivers ignoring traffic laws or driving carelessly, leading to severe injuries. According to the latest data, there are approximately 50 pedestrian accidents in Escondido annually, with several resulting in injuries or fatalities.
These incidents are frequently caused by drivers who:
- Drive while distracted
- Speed or drive recklessly
- Text or use a cellphone while driving
- Fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Ignore traffic signs or signals
- Make turns without checking for pedestrians
- Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Disregard weather or traffic conditions
- Drive while fatigued
- Fail to check blind spots
- Run red lights or stop signs
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to serious and life-threatening injuries when struck by a vehicle. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time without treatment, potentially leading to permanent disability.
Common injuries from pedestrian accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Neck and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Lacerations and torn ligaments
- Cuts and bruises
- Spinal cord injuries
- Emotional trauma
- Fatalities
These injuries often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and counseling. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Escondido will work with you to accurately assess the value of your injuries and other damages, helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
What If the Accident Was Partially My Fault?
In some cases, a pedestrian may share responsibility for an accident. This could occur if the pedestrian was texting, talking on a cellphone, failed to use a crosswalk, or disregarding traffic signals.
California follows a “pure” comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you are found to be 99% at fault for an accident, you can still recover 1% of the total damages from the other party. For example, if you were 30% at fault and awarded $100,000 in compensation, your award would be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000.
Our experienced Escondido pedestrian injury lawyers are well-versed in California law and the rules concerning liability. We will thoroughly review your case and fight for the compensation you deserve, ensuring you are not unfairly assigned more fault than appropriate.
Compensation for Pedestrian Accidents
The financial burden from a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, which is why it’s critical to have a trusted attorney to help you pursue the compensation you need for medical bills and other expenses. Our Escondido pedestrian accident lawyers can help you seek the maximum amount for your injuries and damages, including:
- Medical expenses: This covers costs for emergency services, medical treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, and other necessary related medical expenses.
- Lost wages: Injuries may require significant time off work for recovery or may impair your ability to return to your previous job or any work at all.
- Permanent injuries: Severe injuries like TBIs or spinal cord injuries can result in lasting disabilities, including cognitive impairments or paralysis, which may warrant compensation.
- Pain and suffering: Physical and mental pain and suffering resulting from serious injuries may also be compensable.
Our Escondido Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Are Here to Help
North County Injury Lawyers handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including those involving seriously injured pedestrians. We advocate tirelessly for the rights of injured victims and pursue just compensation from negligent drivers.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs or fees—you only pay if we help you recover compensation.
Our Escondido pedestrian accident attorneys are ready to assist you. Call (760) 571-5500 to schedule your free consultation.