With over 67,000 reported serious injuries and close to 8,000 fatalities in 2022, pedestrian accidents continue to rise nationwide. The California Office of Traffic Safety reported over 1,100 pedestrian fatalities in 2021 alone, a 9.3% increase from the previous year. While pedestrians must assess risk as they venture near public roads, when drivers of cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles act negligently, pedestrians are especially vulnerable to catastrophic and fatal injuries.
Pedestrian-vehicle accidents often result in serious injuries that have a life-changing impact on victims and their loved ones. The extent of catastrophic injuries typically requires long-term hospitalization, extensive rehabilitation, and at-home care. Understanding your rights and pursuing maximum compensation for injuries sustained in a pedestrian-vehicle accident can feel overwhelming. Working with an established pedestrian accident attorney who can help hold those responsible accountable for their negligence is essential to the success of your claim. The personal injury attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson have decades of experience handling complex cases involving catastrophic injuries from pedestrian accidents and are prepared to fight tirelessly for your rights.
Types of Pedestrian Incidents
Pedestrians and drivers alike must understand the severity of the injuries caused when a vehicle negligently strikes a person whether they are on the sidewalk, crosswalk, or in a parking lot. Pedestrian accidents are classified as when a motor vehicle or bicyclist hits an individual on foot. The sheer size and force generated by a car, truck, or moving bicycle can cause horrific damage to an unprotected person. These accidents may include:
- Hit-and-run
- Intersection accidents
- Parking lot accidents
- Crosswalk accidents
- Sidewalk accidents
While these incidents can be seen as accidents, generally these occurrences take place due to the negligence of the driver or cyclist. Holding negligent parties accountable and seeking legal recourse through a skilled attorney is crucial to ensure justice and fair compensation for those injured.
Catastrophic Pedestrian Injuries
A catastrophic injury is a type of personal injury that results in serious physical injury or impairment, leaving a lasting impact on the victim. In most cases, catastrophic injuries are permanent or create permanent damage to the victim, requiring extensive medical treatment including surgeries, therapies, medication, and medical support. Non-permanent catastrophic injuries can take months to years of medical care to heal, influencing the victim’s quality of life.
Within the context of a pedestrian injury, catastrophic injuries can include:
- Spinal cord injury
- Loss of limbs
- Damage to organs
- Concussion
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Severe Burns
Catastrophic injuries demand specialized care and long-term support, underscoring the importance of seeking legal representation to ensure adequate compensation for current and future medical expenses, nursing assistance, loss of earnings, and pain and suffering. By understanding the severity of these injuries and the potential long-term consequences, individuals can better advocate for their rights and pursue the justice they deserve with the assistance of experienced legal professionals.
How California’s Comparative Negligence Law Impacts Pedestrian Accidents
As a comparative negligence state, the plaintiff and the defendant may share fault in a California pedestrian accident. Insurance companies and defense teams may attempt to place fault on the plaintiff, leaving the victim with less likelihood of receiving the compensation they need for recovery. In California, obtaining the proper legal counsel is essential. At Bostwick & Peterson, our team has the resources to conduct thorough investigations and access experts in accident analysis to determine the truth and ensure complete recovery.
California Statute of Limitations
According to the state legislature, the statute of limitations for a pedestrian accident in California is, “Within two years: An action for assault, battery, or injury to, or for the death of, an individual caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another.” Catastrophic injuries from pedestrian accidents involve many complications that are unique to each case, including strict filing deadlines. Working with an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer who will work diligently to represent you and your case through its complications is paramount.
Work With Experienced Catastrophic Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one are significantly injured in a pedestrian accident caused by the negligence of a driver, hiring a lawyer who understands the complexities of catastrophic injuries will be key for your claim.
At Bostwick & Peterson, our team of attorneys understands the emotional and physical toll these accidents can have on victims. Our team's commitment to caring for our clients will help you navigate this difficult time.
Contact us to schedule an evaluation of your case.