Every October, the U.S. Department of Transportation recognizes National Pedestrian Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most serious and overlooked issues in cities like Los Angeles pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
In a city where walking is becoming more common due to tourism, outdoor lifestyles, and a growing number of car-free residents, pedestrian safety is more critical than ever. Los Angeles consistently ranks among the most dangerous cities for pedestrians in California, with thousands of injuries and hundreds of preventable deaths every year.
At Estrada Law Group, we see firsthand how devastating these accidents can be and how quickly a single act of negligence can change a life forever.
The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles
Between speeding, distracted driving, and poor visibility, pedestrians face constant danger. According to recent California traffic safety data:
- Over 30% of all pedestrian fatalities in the state occur in Los Angeles County.
- The majority of these incidents happen at night or in areas without marked crosswalks.
- Many victims are hit by distracted or impaired drivers who fail to yield the right of way.
These aren’t just numbers, they represent families, workers, and students who were simply trying to cross the street safely.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
While every situation is different, most cases share one or more of these preventable causes:
- Distracted driving: texting, using GPS, or adjusting music while driving through crosswalks.
- Speeding in residential or school zones: even a few miles over the limit can make stopping in time impossible.
- Failure to yield: ignoring crosswalks or turning right on red without checking for pedestrians.
- Driving under the influence: alcohol or drugs drastically reduce reaction time and awareness.
- Poor visibility or lighting: common on side streets and intersections without signals.
When these factors lead to an accident, California law holds negligent drivers financially responsible for the injuries they cause.
Pedestrian Rights Under California Law
California gives pedestrians strong legal protections. Under Vehicle Code Section 21950, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
This means that if a driver strikes a pedestrian who is legally crossing, even if the traffic light has just changed, the driver can still be held liable.
Pedestrians injured in Los Angeles may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost income or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Long-term disabilities or disfigurement
In cases involving reckless or drunk driving, victims may also pursue punitive damages to hold the driver accountable beyond standard compensation.
Esther’s Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or someone you love is struck by a vehicle, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But taking the right steps immediately after the incident can make all the difference in your recovery and your case.
- Call 911 - even if injuries seem minor, always request medical help and a police report.
- Get the driver’s information - name, license, insurance, and plate number.
- Collect witness statements if possible. Eyewitness accounts can be critical in proving fault.
- Take photos and videos of the scene, your injuries, traffic signals, and any skid marks.
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.
- Call a personal injury lawyer who understands pedestrian accident claims in Los Angeles.
Having legal guidance early ensures that evidence is preserved, deadlines are met, and your claim is handled properly.
How Estrada Law Group Helps Pedestrian Accident Victims
At Estrada Law Group, we represent pedestrians injured by negligent, distracted, or reckless drivers throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Our team investigates each case in detail, gathering:
- Traffic camera footage and surveillance video
- Eyewitness and police reports
- Cell phone records (to show distraction or texting)
- Medical documentation that proves the full extent of your injuries
Our goal is to build a strong case that not only recovers compensation but also brings accountability to dangerous drivers.
Safety Tips for Los Angeles Pedestrians
While drivers have the legal responsibility to protect those on foot, pedestrians can take extra steps to stay safe:
- Use crosswalks and follow traffic signals.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Avoid distractions like phones or headphones while walking across streets.
- Wear reflective or bright clothing at night.
- Stick to well-lit areas and avoid jaywalking, especially in high-traffic zones.
Even with these precautions, remember: if a driver’s negligence causes harm, you have the right to seek justice.
Community Focus: Building Safer Streets in LA
National Pedestrian Safety Month isn’t just about awareness, it's a reminder that city planning, driver education, and accountability all play a role. Los Angeles continues to invest in safer intersections, protected crossings, and public awareness campaigns.
But change also happens through action by holding negligent drivers accountable and supporting victims in their recovery. Every claim pursued and every voice raised helps make our city safer for everyone who walks it.
The Bottom Line
Pedestrian safety is everyone’s responsibility, but when drivers fail to act responsibly, the consequences can be devastating. Whether you were hit in a crosswalk, in a parking lot, or on a neighborhood street, you have rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
📞 Call Esther The Lawyer today at (323) 609-5000 or email intake@estradalawgroup.com.
We fight for victims. We fight for families. We fight for justice.
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