Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney

On the road, pedestrians can experience dangerous, life-threatening situations due to their proximity to motor vehicles. The injuries a pedestrian can suffer are catastrophic due to their vulnerability. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the victim can suffer broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, impact injuries, and other serious harms from the force of the collision. 

Our team of experienced lawyers understands how frightening and stressful a pedestrian accident can be. Make sure you have the proper representation to recover your damages. From medical transportation to hospital fees, you have the right to seek compensation for the losses you incur due to a negligent driver. When you work with Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., you can trust that your legal representative will protect your rights. 

Why Do Sacramento Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

In a bustling city like Sacramento, pedestrian accidents are bound to occur. This does not, however, mean they aren’t preventable. Most pedestrian accidents result from inattentive, negligent, or reckless drivers. Others stem from dangerous crosswalks or poor city planning. These are all types of negligence that can result in drivers striking and even killing pedestrians. Pedestrian collisions occur most often due to:

  • Reckless driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol
  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Failure to yield right of way at crosswalks
  • Failure to signal while turning
  • Disobeying traffic signs
  • Driving unsafely for weather or traffic conditions

Drivers owe even greater duties of care in the presence of children, such as in school zones or residential neighborhoods. Children are prone to running into the road without warning, playing near the road, or playing in the street. It is a driver’s duty to exercise special care in these areas, slowing down and paying careful attention, lest a child dart into the road from between parked vehicles.

Types of Injuries Caused in a Sacramento Pedestrian Accident

Unfortunately, there are some instances where a pedestrian may suffer severe injuries in an accident. The injuries that a person can suffer vary in severity depending on the impact and location of the area. Some common injuries a person can sustain include: 

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Concussion
  • Whiplash
  • Fractures and sprains
  • Internal injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries

If you’re in a severe accident that results in injuries, you can seek legal action to recover your damages. With the help of a dependable pedestrian accident attorney, you can work to receive the compensation you need.  

Should You Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

An accident can happen without a moment’s notice and turn your life upside down. The harm you sustain can dramatically affect your ability to enjoy your hobbies and time with those you love. In order to have a complete and successful recovery, a reliable lawyer can offer honest advice about your best options. 

The following are some examples of how a pedestrian accident lawyer can help you:

  • Legally advocating for clients
  • Seeking the best compensation possible
  • Answering questions and explaining the legal process
  • Gathering evidence of injuries and damages
  • Negotiating with insurance companies
  • Protecting the rights and interests of clients
  • Guiding clients through the medical process
  • Discovering how your injuries affect your life
  • Telling your story in a compelling way to the responsible party and, if necessary, a jury

The process of filing a Sacramento pedestrian accident claim can feel overwhelming and complicated. However, with our help, you can feel confident in your representation. 

How to Stay Safe as a Pedestrian in Sacramento, CA

Sacramento has many areas for pedestrians to enjoy. Both residents and visitors make use of its many scenic areas, from walkways to parks. However, walking in or near areas with high traffic volumes can be dangerous. Consider the following tips to help you stay safe in Sacramento.

Check Before You Cross

Looking in both directions twice is essential when walking around Sacramento. While you may want to get to your destination as soon as possible, your safety should be your main priority. Some individuals may run a red light or turn a corner fast, so checking your path before you’re in the street can save you from harm. 

Avoid Distractions

One of the main dangers for pedestrians is distractions both on the road and in their hands. Cell phones and navigation applications can help guide you in unfamiliar areas. Unfortunately, if you are looking down at your phone and a driver is distracted, you may end up in a dangerous accident. 

Take Caution at Night 

There are many exciting events and attractions to enjoy at night, but walking around can be dangerous. Drivers may have difficulty spotting you on the road at night, so having a light or wearing reflective clothing can help .Also, checking your route before you leave can help protect you from dangers while walking around the area. 

Anytime drivers breach their duties of care resulting in an accident, pedestrian victims have the right to file personal injury claims in the Sacramento courts. If you or your loved one were involved in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to contact our Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer today. We will make sure to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Can Pedestrians Be At-Fault in a California Accident?

In some pedestrian accidents, the driver is not 100% to blame. The pedestrian may have crossed the road without waiting for a signal, crossed where there was no intersection or crosswalk, or darted in front of a vehicle. In cases where pedestrians breach their duty of reasonable care for their own safety, the courts will assess contributory negligence. California follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which allows the plaintiff to sue for a percentage of damages if they were partially at fault for the accident.

Contributory negligence subtracts the amount of awarded compensation the plaintiff takes home by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. Since California is a pure comparative fault state, the plaintiff can take home compensation regardless of their percentage of fault. This is good news for many injured pedestrians, as it means there is hope for damage recovery even in the event of shared fault. Always speak to a Sacramento personal injury attorney about the merit of your claim before deciding not to file—you may find you’re eligible for recovery for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage.

Call Our Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp

Eric J. Ratinoff and his team of hard-working pedestrian accident attorneys in Sacramento have dedicated their lives to defending the rights of those who cannot defend themselves. Founding the firm on the value of people over profits, his team has stayed true to this principle in their 25-plus years representing plaintiffs in California.

At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we are seasoned trial lawyers who work relentlessly for our clients, telling their stories in powerful and compelling ways in front of insurance agents, judges, and juries. We know exactly what we need to do to maximize your compensation.