San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents are a serious issue in San Bernardino, where busy intersections and heavy traffic put pedestrians at constant risk. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, getting skilled legal assistance can make a significant difference in your recovery.

At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, our San Bernardino accident lawyer has extensive experience helping injured pedestrians seek justice and fair compensation. Our team can meet with you for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and get started on fighting to protect your rights.

Pedestrian Accidents in San Bernardino

Pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino are more common than many people realize. Statistics reveal a troubling rise in incidents involving pedestrians. One recent year, bicyclists and pedestrians made up 5% of all people hurt in traffic accidents. That year, pedestrian injuries and deaths were the highest they had been since 2009, with 710 victims reported.

This marked an 11% jump in just one year and a 49% increase over ten years. High-risk areas include busy intersections, school zones, and residential neighborhoods. A lack of proper crosswalks, poorly maintained sidewalks, and dangerous road designs further contribute to the problem, making it crucial for drivers and local authorities to prioritize pedestrian safety.

Common Scenarios Leading to Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often occur in scenarios where pedestrians and drivers unexpectedly cross paths.

• Busy Intersections: Drivers who fail to yield or ignore traffic signals frequently cause accidents at intersections.
• Residential Neighborhoods and School Zones: Speeding and inattentive driving in these areas put pedestrians, especially children, at risk.
• Distracted or Impaired Drivers: Accidents are more likely when drivers are distracted by phones, impaired by drugs or alcohol, or simply not paying attention.

Key Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino are often caused by preventable actions and circumstances that put walkers and drivers at risk. Understanding the most common causes can help raise awareness and improve safety. Here are six key factors that frequently lead to pedestrian crashes:

Distracted Driving

Distracted drivers may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the road. This lack of attention can result in devastating collisions, especially in busy areas or near crosswalks.

Speeding

When drivers exceed speed limits, they have less time to react to pedestrians and are less likely to stop to avoid an accident. Higher speeds also increase the severity of injuries in the event of a crash, putting pedestrians at greater risk.

Failure to Yield

Drivers who ignore traffic signals or fail to yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks create dangerous situations. Pedestrians often rely on these signals for safety, and a driver’s failure to obey can lead to serious injuries.

Driving Under the Influence

Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to focus, making it more likely for them to hit a pedestrian. Intoxicated drivers are a major cause of pedestrian accidents, especially at night or in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Poor Visibility

Accidents often occur when drivers fail to see pedestrians due to low lighting, bad weather, or obstructions like parked cars. Without clear visibility, drivers may overlook pedestrians crossing streets or walking along roadways.

If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian crash in San Bernardino, working with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is essential. A knowledgeable attorney can help you throughout the legal process, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Pedestrian Right-of-Way in California

California law is clear about protecting pedestrians and their right-of-way. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and intersections, ensuring they can cross safely.

These laws aim to reduce accidents and play a critical role in determining liability after an incident. Knowing your rights under California pedestrian laws can strengthen your case and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Types of Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, many of which require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

• Physical Injuries: Head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and internal damage are common.
• Psychological Effects: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress following an accident.
• Long-Term Implications: Some injuries, such as paralysis or brain injuries, can permanently impact a person’s quality of life and ability to work.

These injuries highlight the importance of seeking fair compensation to cover immediate and long-term costs.

Determining Liability in Pedestrian Accidents

Liability in pedestrian accidents often involves multiple factors.

• Driver Behavior: Negligent actions such as speeding, failing to yield, or texting can make drivers liable.
• Local Government or Third Parties: Poorly maintained roads, defective traffic signals, or missing crosswalks can place responsibility on municipal authorities or contractors.
• Shared Fault Laws: In California, you can still seek compensation even if you share some fault for the accident, though your percentage of fault may reduce your settlement.

A pedestrian accident attorney in San Bernardino, CA, can help you understand these factors and build a strong case.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Victims of pedestrian accidents can seek compensation for various damages they face following an accident. Achieving recovery for these damages is essential to help victims rebuild their lives and move forward.

Economic Damages

Recovering medical expenses and lost wages ensures victims can afford necessary treatments and maintain financial stability during their recovery.

Non-Economic Damages

Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress acknowledges the profound impact the accident has had on a victim’s quality of life.

Punitive Damages

These damages are awarded in cases of extreme negligence to hold the at-fault party accountable and deter similar behavior in the future.

Understanding these types of compensation can help you work toward a fair settlement and secure the resources you need to recover fully.

Legal Challenges in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accident claims can be legally complex, often requiring a strong understanding of state and municipal regulations. Disputes over liability, damages, or fault can further complicate the process, as can the defense strategies used by at-fault drivers or their insurance companies. Working with a pedestrian injury attorney near me can help you overcome these challenges and move your case forward effectively.

How Our San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we understand that every case is unique. Our team is dedicated to providing the services and support you need for the best possible outcome. Here’s how we ensure your success:

• Personalized Strategies: We tailor our approach to fit your situation’s specific details, addressing your case’s unique aspects. This personalized attention ensures we focus on the evidence and legal strategies to maximize your chances of success.
• Maximizing Settlements: Our primary goal is to recover the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Whether it’s covering medical expenses or accounting for emotional distress, we fight for the full value of your claim to ensure you’re not left facing financial hardship.
• Step-by-Step Support: From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, we guide you through every aspect of the legal process. Our comprehensive support ensures nothing is overlooked and that your rights are fully protected.

Our top-rated injury lawyer in San Bernardino is committed to securing the best possible outcome. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact Our San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Don’t wait to take action if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. Evidence fades, and time limits on filing claims may impact your case. Contact the Nagelberg Bernard Law Group today to schedule a free consultation with our no-win, no-fee pedestrian accident lawyer in San Bernardino.

Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the justice you deserve.