Orange County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

If a careless driver hit you while you were walking in Orange County, you may still be dealing with pain, stress, and a complete disruption of your life. Pedestrian accidents often cause serious injuries, missed work, and sudden medical bills. You shouldn’t have to shoulder those burdens alone, especially when someone else caused them.

The Orange County pedestrian accident attorneys at Neale & Fhima APC stand up for people hurt by negligent drivers and work to hold the at-fault party accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation to find out how we can help.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Orange County?

Pedestrian crashes happen in all kinds of settings, from busy city streets to quiet neighborhoods. Many of them stem from careless choices or poor road design.

Driver Negligence and Distracted Driving

When a driver’s eyes leave the road, even for a few seconds, they may miss a pedestrian stepping off the curb. This is especially dangerous in places like Newport Beach, where walkers often cross near busy shops and beaches.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalks and Intersections

Some drivers ignore crosswalks or roll through stop signs without checking for people on foot. At intersections in Tustin or Laguna Hills, drivers turning right or left might only look for cars and completely miss someone in the crosswalk.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

A speeding car in Fullerton may not stop in time if a pedestrian steps into the street, even when the pedestrian has the right-of-way. Speed also increases the chances of severe injury.

Poor Road Conditions and Inadequate Signage

Some areas lack proper signage, lighting, or marked crosswalks. In Mission Viejo, for example, a pedestrian might try to cross a wide road without a signal. Walkers are at risk if drivers aren’t warned to slow down or yield.

Parking Lot Incidents

Drivers in parking lots often rush to find spots or pull out without checking behind them. Even low-speed impacts can seriously injure someone walking in a lot, like those near malls or grocery stores in Orange.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?

Responsibility doesn’t always fall on just one person or party.

Negligent Drivers and Vehicle Owners

The driver who hit you may be at fault. If someone else owns the car, that person could also share liability. This often comes up when teenagers borrow their parents’ vehicles or when companies let employees drive fleet cars.

Government Entities for Road Defects

If the road lacked proper signs, working signals, or crosswalk markings, the city or county might be responsible. For instance, a dangerous street setup in Dana Point could shift fault away from the driver and onto the local government.

Property Owners for Unsafe Conditions

Private landowners have to keep walkways and parking areas safe. If poor lighting or obstacles contributed to the crash, they may bear some of the blame.

Multiple Party Liability Scenarios

Sometimes, more than one party plays a role. For example, a speeding driver hits someone in a poorly lit lot owned by a business. Both the driver and property owner may be responsible.

California Pedestrian Laws and Right-of-Way Rules

Understanding the law helps build a strong case.

• Pedestrian Rights at Crosswalks: California law gives pedestrians the right-of-way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must stop and allow safe crossing.
• Driver Duties and Responsibilities: Drivers must stay alert and reduce speed near crosswalks, intersections, and school zones. They also have to avoid actions that could hurt someone walking nearby.
• Comparative Negligence in California: If a pedestrian shares some blame, they can still recover damages. For example, someone crossing outside a crosswalk in San Clemente might get a reduced payout, but the driver could still owe a large portion.
• Jaywalking and Its Impact on Claims: Jaywalking may affect a claim, but it doesn’t automatically excuse a driver’s behavior. A driver still has a duty to watch the road and avoid hitting people whenever possible.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Pedestrian Accident?

You may be able to seek payment for many types of losses.

• Medical expenses and future care costs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering damages

How Our Orange County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Can Help

Neale & Fhima handles every case with care and attention to detail.

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection

We gather witness statements, camera footage, and police reports to build a strong case from day one.

Medical Expert Consultations and Documentation

We work with doctors to understand your injuries and how they may affect you long term.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to downplay your injuries or shift blame. We push back and work to hold them accountable.

Litigation and Trial Representation

If the at-fault party won’t settle fairly, we prepare to take the case to court and present your side to a judge or jury.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?

Take action early. What you do right after an accident matters.

Immediate Steps After an Accident

Call 911, get medical help, and report the crash to police. Get the driver’s contact and insurance information if possible.

Preserving Evidence and Documentation

Save photos, witness names, and copies of all records. Don’t rely on memory alone.

Seeking Medical Attention and Legal Counsel

Always see a doctor. Then, call a lawyer who knows how to handle pedestrian claims. The sooner you act, the better your chances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?

You typically have two years from the date of the accident. However, claims involving government agencies may have shorter deadlines.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

You may still recover damages. California uses a system that allows compensation even if you’re partly to blame.

What if the driver who hit me didn’t have insurance?

We can look into uninsured motorist coverage or other possible options to recover money for your losses.

How long does a pedestrian accident case typically take?

Some claims settle in a few months. Others may take longer, especially if court becomes necessary. Each case moves at its own pace.

Let Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in OC Help

At Neale & Fhima APC, we handle pedestrian accident claims with care and focus. We don’t rush cases or settle too early. We take time to understand your needs and press for full recovery of all losses.

Call us now at 888-407-2955 to learn your options and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.