Long Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Long Beach, California is known for its pedestrian-friendly charm. With walkable neighborhoods like Bixby Knolls, kitschy shops on 4th Street’s Retro Row, and trendy restaurants lined along Pine Avenue and Belmont Shore’s 2nd Street, there’s plenty to explore on foot. The coastal breeze, the weekly farmer’s markets under Southern California sunshine make walking not only enjoyable, but often preferable. Sadly, this pedestrian-friendly environment has led to an increase in pedestrian accidents as vehicles and pedestrians learn to coexist amidst a growing population.

With 4,500 accident cases won, we at West Coast Trial Lawyers take pride in three things: results, compassion, and integrity. We take our clients’ cases personally, because we know how life-altering accidents can be. If you’ve been in an accident, speak to one of our lawyers for a FREE case review. We’re a 5-star rated firm on Yelp, Google and Facebook for a reason. 

Call (213) 927-3700 today or complete this easy online contact form.

Pedestrian Accidents Statistics

A pedestrian accident can occur in busy crosswalks, intersections, parking lots, or even residential neighborhoods. And with increasing tourism and more motor vehicles sharing the roads, pedestrian safety in Long Beach is a pressing issue. These accidents are more common than many realize. In its most recent annual report, the California Office of Traffic Safety showed there were 3,542 vehicle fatalities and injuries in Long Beach, 359 of which were pedestrians. That’s 109 more fatalities and injuries than the year before. 

In a bustling city like Long Beach, pedestrian accident victims can face long recovery periods, mounting medical bills, and emotional distress. Understanding your rights and legal options after an accident is critical to recovering damages and holding the at-fault driver accountable.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Most pedestrian accidents stem from driver negligence or inattention. One major factor is distracted driving, such as texting behind the wheel or interacting with in-car technology. But it’s not the only one. Here are a few more: 

Speeding

Speeding, especially in areas with a lower speed limit, increases the likelihood of a catastrophic pedestrian accident. Driver distraction in congested areas like 2nd Street or Pine Avenue can turn a simple stroll into a life-altering event.

Failure to Yield 

When drivers ignore traffic signals or stop signs, they put pedestrians in grave danger. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs reaction times and judgment, increasing the risk of pedestrian fatalities.

Aggressive Driving

Running red lights, tailgating or erratic lane changes can lead to dangerous situations where pedestrians are struck in intersections. Inexperienced drivers or those unfamiliar with Long Beach streets may also misjudge pedestrian zones or ignore posted signs.

Environmental Conditions

Poor lighting at night or rainy weather can further reduce a driver’s visibility, making it harder to see people walking along the road. Even infrastructure issues, such as faded crosswalks or lack of pedestrian signals, contribute to accidents.

Additionally, pedestrian accidents can result from the actions of the pedestrians themselves, such as jaywalking or walking while distracted by a smartphone. However, even in these cases, a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can assess liability and determine whether the motorist still bears partial or full responsibility.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident injury incident, your first priority should be medical attention. Even if injuries appear minor, conditions like traumatic brain injuries or spinal injuries can go unnoticed initially. 

Always request a police report. This is a key document in a pedestrian accident claim, because it covers when and where the accident happened, the vehicle involved, the driver’s information, any witness statements, and finally, the officer’s observations and preliminary assessment of who was at fault.

Next, contact a long beach pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to begin the legal process. Present them with all the evidence, including the medical records, photographs of the scene, and witness information. A legal professional will help guide you through insurance company communications, determine liability, and work toward securing the maximum compensation possible.

Types of Injuries Sustained in a Pedestrian Accident

We are all pedestrians. Which is why pedestrian injuries are so high. In 2023 alone 68,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. Such injuries can include:

Broken Bones 

Fractures are common in pedestrian accidents due to the impact of a vehicle. These may require surgery, immobilization, and extensive recovery time. In many cases, broken bones also lead to long-term complications or limited mobility.

Spinal Cord Injuries 

Injuries to the spine can result in long-term complications including paralysis or loss of mobility. Spinal cord injuries often involve high medical expenses and lifelong rehabilitation costs.

Head Injuries 

Traumatic brain injuries range from concussions to more serious brain trauma, affecting memory, behavior, and cognitive function. These head injuries can result in permanent disability or require long-term medical care.

Catastrophic Injuries 

These are severe, life-altering injuries that can result in permanent disability and require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. Catastrophic injuries often include multiple surgeries, extensive therapy, and loss of earning capacity.

Emotional Distress 

Psychological effects such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common following traumatic incidents. Emotional distress may also impact a victim’s ability to work or maintain relationships.

What Happens if a Pedestrian Causes an Accident?

When a pedestrian is at fault—such as by jaywalking, ignoring traffic signals, or entering a roadway unexpectedly—they can be held legally liable. In most U.S. states, this is handled under comparative negligence statutes: if the pedestrian is found, say, 30% responsible for the accident, they must compensate the driver for 30% of the damage costs.

Pedestrians causing accidents may also face criminal or civil liability. Criminal charges (like reckless endangerment or causing bodily injury) are rarer but possible. Civilly, pedestrians must cover damages via personal assets or insurance. While most personal auto policies don’t cover pedestrian-caused incidents, pedestrians might rely on homeowners or umbrella policies.

The Cost of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accident lawyers generally work on a contingency fee basis, which is typically 25–40% of the final settlement or judgment. State bar rules often cap the maximum percentage (e.g., California law mandates written contingency agreements, and the state bar may limit the amount). This setup means: no win, no fee—but if you win, the lawyer is paid a percentage of the award to cover for costs like court filing fees, expert witness or accident reconstruction fees, and other administrative costs.

Hiring a lawyer often significantly increases recovery vs. a self-handled claim, because attorneys know how to accurately value all damages (medical, lost wages, pain/suffering), handle negotiations with insurance adjusters, and file timely lawsuits (avoiding statute of limitations pitfalls).

Most Common Mistakes in Pedestrian Accident Claims

There are several pitfalls that can seriously derail pedestrian accident claims, including:

Delay in Medical Attention

Failing to seek immediate medical care—or gaps in treatment—gives insurers room to argue injuries are minor or unrelated. Hidden injuries like TBI or internal bleeding often emerge only later.

Skipping the Police Report

Not contacting police (or being persuaded not to) deprives you of a critical neutral report, including statements, eyewitness details, and officer fault determinations.

Failing to Gather Evidence & Giving Recorded Statements

Not taking photos, collecting driver and witness contact info, and preserving the accident scene makes it hard to prove liability or injury severity. In addition, if you give insurance adjusters recorded statements, they can use it against you because offhand comments (e.g., “I’m fine”) can be used to reduce or deny claims.

Accepting Low-Ball Settlements from Insurers

Insurers are in the business of paying you as little as possible. Early offers may not account for long-term costs like recurring medical care or diminished earning capacity. Attorneys often advise waiting until recovery plateaus.

Putting off Hiring a Lawyer

Timing matters. Hiring legal counsel early helps preserve evidence, wards off intimidation or tactics from insurers, and keeps your case on track legally.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident in the Long Beach area, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. However, not all law firms are the same but at West Coast Trial Lawyers, our in-house trial team comprises graduates from Harvard and other prestigious universities who have fought and won against the world’s largest corporations. 

With over 20 years of experience fighting for our client’s rights, we’re trusted by major news organizations worldwide for our legal expertise and our team of attorneys are confident that they can get you the help you need. Best of all, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are zero upfront costs and you only pay when we win. 

Call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We’re available 24/7 to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach Pedestrian Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

Seek medical attention, contact law enforcement officials, and obtain a police report. Then consult with a long beach pedestrian accident lawyer for legal guidance.

Can I Still Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially responsible, though your final settlement may be reduced.

What if the Driver Who Hit Me Was Uninsured?

You may still have options through your own medical insurance or uninsured motorist coverage. A pedestrian accident lawyer can explore these avenues for you.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in California?

Typically two years from the date of the accident, but it could be less if a government entity is involved.