California is a dangerous place for pedestrians. And it’s only getting worse. California’s Office of Traffic Safety reports that 25.6% of all traffic fatalities in the state are pedestrian deaths- that’s one out of four! California not only consistently leads the nation in the highest number of pedestrian deaths, but the number of pedestrian accidents also keeps increasing.

Walking is supposed to be a healthy, positive activity that can be enjoyed by everybody. However, when tragedy does strike and you do get hit by a car while walking, it’s important to know what steps to take in order to protect your health, safety, and best interests. Pedestrian accidents are particularly severe because the pedestrian has no protection and if they survive, often end up with significant injuries. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident while taking a stroll or walking around in California, there are certain steps you can take to pursue damages from the person responsible for your accident. Here is what you should do if you were hit while walking.

California Laws Protecting Pedestrians:

• Drivers must slow down or stop at an intersection when a pedestrian crosses any unmarked or marked crosswalk
• The driver should slow down when there are pedestrians around 
• Both drivers and pedestrians must practice the duty of care for their safety

What To Do After A Pedestrian Car Accident

• Immediately seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you suffered any serious injuries after the accident, you need to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Some injuries don’t manifest themselves for hours or even days after the accident due to the amount of adrenaline coursing through your body after trauma, so it’s important to make sure you get checked out. Moreover, it’s also critical to have proper documentation of medical care for your personal injury case.
• Get the other driver’s contact information: If you’re able to, collect the insurance and contact information of the other driver. Don’t discuss legal options with anybody until you secure proper legal representation. If you can, try and get the contact information and statements of any other witnesses to the accident.
• Take photos and videos of the scene: Document the scene of the accident as soon as possible with photos or videos. Capture the damage done to yourself, anything around you, and the car, as well as the surrounding area of the crash.
• Consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer: The insurance companies you’re going to deal with will have teams of lawyers on retainer specifically to make sure they pay out the least amount possible. To protect your own interests and ensure the optimal outcome of your personal injury case, you need an experienced California pedestrian accident lawyer on your side. 

Contact Us Today


If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, you should consult with an experienced California pedestrian accident lawyer to determine if you can collect compensation from your insurance, even if it was a hit-and-run. Call the Law Office of Ball & Yorke for a free initial consultation today.