Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Newport Beach

Experienced Representation of Pedestrian Accident Cases in Orange County

Although walking is a great way to stay in shape and enjoy the California weather, pedestrians are at risk of being seriously injured or killed if struck by a vehicle. In fact, the Governors Highway Safety Association reports about 700 deaths in California each year. 

At Manning Law, APC, our pedestrian accident attorneys in Newport Beach provide experienced legal representation for clients throughout California who have been injured as pedestrians.

Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrians are completely exposed and unprotected, while drivers in vehicles have seat belts, airbags, and the frame of the car to protect them from injuries. As a result, the pedestrian often sustains severe and catastrophic injuries. 

Pedestrian accidents can result in the following injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Broken bones
• Torn ligaments
• Severe lacerations
• Nerve damage

Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries, long-term disabilities, and emotional trauma. Victims may face high medical bills, lost income, and lasting lifestyle changes. In tragic cases, pedestrian accident injuries can be fatal. Whether you or a loved one is dealing with a serious injury or wrongful death, our Newport Beach pedestrian accident attorney can help ease these burdens and pursue fair compensation.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians can be severely injured while walking. From areas by the beach, such as Ocean Blvd, to sidewalks near Fashion Island, drivers can be negligent and harm pedestrians.

Common causes include the following:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers operating their phones, eating, or engaging in other distractions can easily miss seeing pedestrians, leading to accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who do not yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections can cause serious injuries.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, significantly increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can decrease visibility and make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs can result in devastating collisions with pedestrians.
• Back-Up Accidents: Drivers reversing out of driveways or parking spaces may not see pedestrians behind them, leading to accidents.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Poorly maintained roads, lack of sidewalks, and insufficient pedestrian crossings can contribute to accidents.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Pedestrian Accident Case?

Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be able to pursue compensation for economic and non-economic damages.

Potential damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical treatments required due to the accident.
• Lost Wages: If injuries stop the victim from working, compensation for lost income during recovery is essential. This also covers reduced earning capacity if the victim is incapable of returning to their previous employment.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident can be compensated. This includes anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property Damage: If any personal property was damaged in the accident, such as clothing or electronic devices, compensation for repair or replacement may be sought.
• Disability and Disfigurement: Severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent disability and disfigurement warrant substantial compensation.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injuries on the victim’s relationship with their spouse or family members may be included.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the driver's behavior was particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages could be granted to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

California's Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit regarding a pedestrian accident in California is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means individuals have a two-year window within which they must file their lawsuit to seek compensation for personal injuries suffered in a pedestrian accident.

Missing the statute of limitations can be detrimental, leading to the forfeiture of the right to pursue damages. Therefore, it's crucial for victims to engage with legal counsel as soon as possible. This not only ensures compliance with all legal timelines but also allows for thorough investigations to commence while evidence and eyewitness accounts remain fresh.

Navigating Newport Beach: Local Roads & Safety Tips for Pedestrians

In Newport Beach, pedestrian safety is of particular concern due to the bustling nature of local streets and the increase in tourism during peak seasons. Notable roads such as Pacific Coast Highway, Jamboree Road, and Newport Boulevard see high traffic volumes, which can lead to increased pedestrian risks. Pedestrians should be vigilant, using designated crossing points and waiting for green signals at intersections to mitigate potential dangers.

Local initiatives promote safety by maintaining crosswalk visibility and adding pedestrian-friendly signs at busy intersections. However, both pedestrians and drivers should consciously engage in attentive behaviors. Drivers ought to reduce speeds in pedestrian-heavy zones and anticipate sudden crossings near beach access points or shopping districts. Mutual awareness contributes significantly to reducing pedestrian accidents and maintains a safer environment for everyone in Newport Beach.

Why Hire Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Newport Beach?

At Manning Law, APC, we understand that each pedestrian accident has unique factors and consequences. Our approach is personalized, making sure that the legal strategies we use are effectively aligned with each client's specific situation and needs. We prioritize open communication and clarity, guiding clients through the complexities of legal proceedings and addressing every aspect of their situation comprehensively.

Our Newport Beach pedestrian accident lawyers negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to ensure that victims obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court.

Our commitment to integrity and results is reflected in our client-first philosophy and contingent fee structure, which underscores our dedication to putting client needs ahead of financial gain. By choosing our team, clients receive not only legal representation but also a partner in recovery and advocacy, working tirelessly to pursue the fairest outcomes possible for their circumstances.