San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Walking is a way of life in San Francisco, with scenic neighborhoods, busy streets, and iconic landmarks. However, navigating the city’s sidewalks and crosswalks isn’t always safe.

Pedestrians often face dangers from reckless drivers, poorly maintained roads, or inadequate safety measures. When an accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating.

At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents take on victims and their families. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, our experienced accident lawyer in San Francisco is here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in San Francisco

San Francisco’s dense urban environment makes it one of the most walkable cities in the country, but it also presents unique risks for pedestrians. In 2023, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported over 1,200 pedestrian injuries in San Francisco alone, with dozens resulting in fatalities. These figures underscore the urgency of addressing pedestrian safety and holding negligent parties accountable.

Many pedestrian accidents occur at intersections, crosswalks, and areas with high traffic volume. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are common causes. Poor road maintenance or inadequate signage can also contribute to accidents. As a San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyer, we have the experience and resources to investigate these incidents thoroughly and determine who is at fault.

California Laws Protecting Pedestrians

Pedestrians in California have rights under state law but also responsibilities. California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21950 requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks. However, pedestrians must also exercise caution and avoid stepping into the path of oncoming vehicles when it’s unsafe.

CVC Section 21951 prohibits drivers from overtaking another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to allow pedestrians to cross. Violating these laws can lead to severe penalties for drivers and provide critical evidence in a pedestrian accident claim.

As a pedestrian accident attorney in San Francisco, we aim to ensure these laws are enforced and your rights are protected.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

The lack of physical protection makes pedestrians especially vulnerable in collisions. Injuries can range from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ injuries
• Cuts, bruises, and abrasions
• Emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time off work, leaving victims with mounting expenses. At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive compensation to cover their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Establishing Fault in a Pedestrian Accident Case

Determining fault in a pedestrian accident requires a thorough investigation. As your legal team, we gather and analyze evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Traffic camera footage
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Accident reconstruction analyses

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning multiple parties can share responsibility for an accident. Even if you were partially at fault, you could still recover damages. For instance, if a court determines you were 20% at fault for not using a designated crosswalk, you may still recover 80% of the total damages.

Our team of top-rated pedestrian accident attorneys in San Francisco has extensive experience navigating these complex cases to maximize our clients’ compensation.

Pursuing Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents often lead to significant financial burdens. As your advocate, we pursue compensation to address the following:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment
• Lost income: Wages lost due to time off work and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering: Emotional and physical distress caused by the accident
• Property damage: Personal items damaged in the collision, such as phones or clothing
• Wrongful death damages: Funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support for families who lose a loved one

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but we know how to counter their tactics. We aim to secure the maximum settlement or verdict to help you rebuild your life.

Why Choose Nagelberg Bernard Law Group?

When searching for a pedestrian crash lawyer near me, you want a firm with a proven track record of success. For over 30 years, we’ve advocated for injury victims across California, recovering millions of dollars for our clients. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized attention: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
• No upfront fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Aggressive advocacy: We’re not afraid to take on insurance companies or go to trial to get the results you deserve.
• Comprehensive support: From medical referrals to dealing with bill collectors, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention: Your safety is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, get a professional evaluation to rule out hidden complications.
2. Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and any property damage.
3. Gather information: Collect contact details from the driver, witnesses, and any responding officers.
4. File a police report: An official report can be critical evidence in your claim.
5. Contact us: As experienced pedestrian accident attorneys in San Francisco, we can guide you through the process, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Statistics Highlight the Need for Vigilance

Pedestrian safety remains a significant concern in San Francisco. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 20% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. involve pedestrians. That figure is even higher in urban areas like San Francisco due to the density of foot traffic and vehicles.

In 2022, San Francisco recorded 31 pedestrian fatalities, an increase from previous years. Factors such as distracted driving and speeding continue to pose serious risks. These statistics reinforce the importance of legal representation for victims and proactive measures to prevent accidents.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we provide compassionate and effective representation. Our team understands your challenges and is committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Call us today for a free consultation. Let a trusted San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyer stand by you and help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. We can make a difference in your recovery and hold negligent parties accountable.