Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Glendale

Pedestrian Accident Injuries & Their Impact

While every accident is unique in its circumstances, pedestrian accidents commonly cause the following types of injuries:

• Head & Brain Injuries: These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis and loss of body function at and below the impacted area.
• Fractures & Broken Bones: Multiple broken bones often require extensive surgery and rehabilitation.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These can include tears, sprains, and bruising, which may not be immediately apparent.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening.

Pedestrian accidents not only cause alarming rates of physical injury but also carry significant emotional and psychological harm to victims and their families. The sudden and violent nature of these incidents can leave individuals with lasting mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

These effects often require long-term psychological support and therapy to overcome, further emphasizing the profound impact of pedestrian accidents beyond the immediate physical harm.

In addition to personal suffering, the cost of emergency care, prolonged hospital stays, specialized surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments can quickly accumulate, leading to financial strain. This is compounded by the potential loss of income if the injuries result in extended time away from work or permanent disability, making it difficult for victims to sustain their livelihood. In Glendale, where healthcare costs are notably high, ensuring that victims receive adequate compensation is essential for their continued well-being and recovery.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Glendale

Typical causes of pedestrian accidents include driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving (e.g., texting), failure to yield at crosswalks, & driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Poorly designed intersections and a lack of proper pedestrian pathways also contribute to these accidents. In Glendale, high traffic density and frequent construction activities exacerbate these risks, making it crucial for drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant and cautious at all times. Understanding these contributing factors can help in creating more effective safety measures and urban planning initiatives to protect pedestrians in the future.

Seeking Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident

Victims of pedestrian accidents & their families can seek various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in the case of fatal accidents, wrongful death. However, these claims can be complicated due to many factors, including the complex nature of injuries that may not manifest fully until days or weeks after the incident. It is vital for victims to document their injuries and medical treatments thoroughly and to keep detailed records of all related expenses. This includes direct costs such as hospital bills and medication and indirect costs like transportation to medical appointments or modifications needed in the home due to mobility issues. Having a complete documentation trail enhances the chances of receiving the full compensation deserved.

The Complexity of Pedestrian Accident Injury Claims

Pedestrian accident claims involve establishing liability and accurately assessing the full extent of the damages. Determining fault in these cases often involves an intricate analysis of traffic laws, the actions of the pedestrian and the driver leading up to the accident, and environmental factors that may have contributed to the incident.

Insurers may attempt to devalue or outright deny fair compensation by arguing that you contributed to the accident, accusing you of negligence, such as jaywalking or crossing against a traffic signal. Additionally, insurance companies often scrutinize medical records and accident reports to minimize the perceived impact of injuries or to attribute them to pre-existing conditions.

These challenges highlight the importance of thorough documentation and legal representation from attorneys familiar with the tactics that may be used against you in seeking and securing fair compensation for all damages suffered. Navigating these legal waters can be daunting, but with informed guidance, victims can better understand their rights and leverage available legal options to safeguard their interests effectively. Our team is well-versed in handling complex pedestrian accident claims and strives to simplify the process, allowing our clients to focus on recovery.

Local Statutes & Regulations Impacting Pedestrian Accidents in Glendale

Understanding local statutes and regulations is crucial for successfully navigating pedestrian accident claims in Glendale. California's Vehicle Code includes specific laws related to pedestrian rights and responsibilities, such as the requirement for drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at marked crosswalks and intersections. Violations of these laws can significantly influence the outcomes of pedestrian accident cases, as proving a violation can help establish driver negligence.

Additionally, Glendale enforces its ordinances to enhance pedestrian safety, including initiatives like improved street lighting, designated pedestrian zones, and stricter enforcement of traffic laws during peak times. Familiarity with these local measures aids in building a robust case that considers all potential contributing factors. At Hartounian, APLC, we leverage our understanding of these laws and regulations to offer comprehensive legal strategies tailored to the nuances of Glendale's judicial landscape.