Who is Liable When a Pedestrian is Hurt?

 Posted on December 31, 2024 in Car Accident

A string of pedestrian accidents in Riverside County reminds us how deadly car crashes can be. In three separate collisions in December 2024, two pedestrians were killed and three were injured. Even at slower speeds, pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable when struck by moving vehicles.

You may be entitled to compensation from the driver who hit you or your loved one. An experienced Temecula, CA car accident attorney can help you collect maximum compensation for your personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Recent Riverside County Pedestrian Accidents

Three pedestrian collisions impacted multiple families during the week before Christmas this year:

On December 18th, an Audi sedan hit two vehicles that were on the shoulder of the 91 Freeway. Three pedestrians were outside the stopped cars. One was killed immediately and another was taken to a hospital nearby with injuries. The impact reportedly pinned one of the pedestrians between vehicles.

On December 21st, a father and son were hit by a car in a Perris parking lot. One was stuck under a vehicle when first responders arrived. He was transported to a local hospital with injuries.

On December 23rd, a pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing an intersection and later died from the injuries sustained in the collision.

These accidents happened in a parking lot, on a road shoulder, and in an intersection, highlighting the fact that pedestrian collisions can happen anywhere, at any time. The constant remains: pedestrians have no protection when a car hits them, making catastrophic or fatal injuries likely.

Why Are Pedestrian Injuries So Severe?

When struck by a car, pedestrians typically experience at least three separate impacts:

• The initial impact usually hits an average-height adult’s thigh or hip; for children, the impact point may be their head.

• The pedestrian is usually thrown onto the car’s hood, typically causing facial, head, or neck injuries.

• Finally, the pedestrian usually hits the ground or another nearby vehicle or stationary object.

Each impact can create additional injuries or worsen previous ones, which may include multiple fractures; joint injuries; traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries; severe cuts, scrapes, and bruising; and internal organ damage. If they survive, these victims may be permanently disabled or disfigured. Multiple surgeries, chronic pain, and losing the ability to enjoy life are common results. The families of fatal victims face additional damages, which could be recovered through a wrongful death claim.

How Can a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help?

Victims of pedestrian accidents tend to suffer significant financial loss. However, when calculating damages, or the funds to compensate for a victim’s loss, insurance companies rarely offer amounts that cover all eligible costs. Instead, they usually try to minimize your payout. Although you can collect payment even if you were partially at fault for your accident, the insurers are likely to blame you for more than your fair share to reduce the amount they have to pay you.

When you work with a skilled pedestrian accident attorney, we will:

• Ensure that fault is appropriately assigned

• Carefully consider and calculate your eligible damages

• Pursue the maximum available amount, whether through settlement negotiations or a trial

We aggressively advocate for your best interests while you adjust to life after your pedestrian accident.

Contact a Dedicated Temecula, CA Pedestrian Accident Attorney

After a pedestrian accident, you need to focus on your recovery. You can trust Maineri Law Firm to handle your insurance claim and other legal aspects effectively and competently. We have served Riverside County since 1998, and you will benefit from our considerable experience. Contact us online or call 951-698-4200 to schedule your free case review with our skilled Riverside County, CA personal injury lawyer.