Standing Up for Injured Pedestrians in California
Every day in Los Angeles, pedestrians are struck by distracted, speeding, or careless drivers — often at intersections, crosswalks, or freeway onramps. Whether you were hit while crossing the street, walking through a parking lot, or even outside a designated crosswalk, Rulsky Law Group can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
We know how quickly these accidents happen — a driver checking their phone, rolling through a red light, or failing to yield during a left turn. Pedestrians suffer the most severe injuries in these collisions: broken bones, spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, or worse.
Our firm investigates every angle: scene photos, surveillance footage, witness statements, police reports, and even vehicle telematics if available. We fight to prove fault, handle the insurance companies, and make sure you get every dollar available under California law.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles
- Distracted or texting drivers
- Speeding or running red lights
- Failing to yield at crosswalks
- Illegal U-turns or rolling stops
- Backing out of driveways or parking spaces without checking
- DUI or drug-impaired driving
- Drivers making sudden turns at onramps or offramps
These collisions often occur on major routes especially where exits meet residential or commercial zones.
Jaywalking and Shared Fault in California
Many pedestrians hesitate to pursue claims because they think jaywalking means they can’t recover damages. That’s not true.
Under California’s comparative negligence law, even if you were crossing outside a crosswalk or against a signal, you may still recover compensation — reduced only by your share of fault.
California’s Freedom to Walk Act (2023) decriminalized most jaywalking as long as the pedestrian acts safely. However, drivers still have a legal duty to keep a proper lookout and avoid hitting pedestrians, even when they cross mid-block or outside marked intersections.
In short: you still have rights, and drivers are still responsible for exercising care.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage Protects Pedestrians Too
If you were hit by a driver who fled the scene or had no insurance, your own auto policy’s uninsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may protect you — even though you weren’t in a car.
This coverage applies to pedestrians struck by vehicles, and it can cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We handle these complex claims and make sure your insurer treats you fairly.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in California
- Call 911 and insist on a police report.
- Get medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries.
- Collect driver and witness information.
- Take photos of the vehicle, scene, and visible injuries.
- Do not talk to the insurance company before speaking to us.
We’ll preserve critical evidence, including surveillance or traffic-camera footage that could vanish within days.
Compensation You May Recover
- Medical expenses (ER, surgery, rehab, long-term care)
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (for families who’ve lost a loved one)
We don’t just fight for reimbursement — we fight for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. California’s comparative negligence system allows recovery even if you crossed illegally, as long as the driver was also negligent.
You may still recover through your uninsured motorist coverage, which applies to pedestrian collisions.
Yes — insurers often deny or minimize pedestrian claims. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected.
Nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win.
