Pedestrian Accidents: Finding the Right Attorney for Your Case
Pedestrians have little protection when struck by vehicles, often resulting in severe injuries. Raffi Naljian represents pedestrian accident victims throughout California, understanding both the physical trauma and the legal complexities these cases present. This page helps you understand your rights as a pedestrian and when hiring an attorney can make a significant difference in your recovery.
Hit by a car while walking?
Raffi Naljian
Lead Personal Injury Attorney
With 15+ years of experience, Raffi Naljian has recovered millions for accident victims across California. Known for aggressive negotiation and compassionate client care.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Pedestrian cases often involve serious injuries and complex liability questions. California law generally favors pedestrians, but insurance companies still look for ways to reduce payouts. Raffi Naljian handles pedestrian accident cases and can evaluate how California's crosswalk laws, right-of-way rules, and comparative negligence apply to your situation. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
What to Do Next
- 1Stay at the scene if physically able and call 911
- 2Get the driver's information if possible
- 3Ask witnesses to stay and provide statements
- 4Take photos of the scene, including crosswalks, signals, and your injuries
- 5Seek immediate medical attention
- 6Keep the clothing and shoes you were wearing
- 7Request traffic camera footage if available
📋Evidence Checklist
- Police report with diagram of the accident
- Photos of the accident location (crosswalk, signals, visibility)
- Witness contact information and statements
- Medical records documenting all injuries
- Photos of your injuries over time
- Traffic camera or surveillance footage
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Your clothing and shoes from the incident
Facing serious injuries from a pedestrian accident?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving the scene without getting driver information
- Assuming you can't recover because you weren't in a crosswalk
- Not documenting visibility conditions (lighting, obstructions)
- Underestimating the severity of internal injuries
- Accepting quick settlements before understanding injury extent
- Not preserving evidence like damaged clothing
How the Process Typically Works
Emergency Response
Medical treatment is the priority
Investigation
Gather evidence, identify all liable parties
Treatment
Follow medical treatment plan to completion
Demand
Present comprehensive demand to insurance
Negotiation
Work toward fair settlement
Litigation
File lawsuit if necessary
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Emergency medical care and hospitalization
- •Surgery and rehabilitation
- •Long-term care and disability accommodations
- •Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- •Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- •Scarring and disfigurement
- •Loss of quality of life
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I wasn't in a crosswalk?
You may still recover damages. While pedestrians should use crosswalks, drivers still have a duty to exercise care. California's comparative negligence rules may reduce, but not eliminate, your recovery.
What if the driver says they didn't see me?
Drivers have a duty to watch for pedestrians. "I didn't see them" isn't a defense—it may actually demonstrate negligence. Evidence of your visibility (reflective clothing, streetlights) can help.
Are pedestrian accidents always the driver's fault?
Not always. Fault depends on circumstances—where you were walking, signals, visibility. But California law generally requires drivers to yield to pedestrians. Each case requires individual analysis.
What if the driver fled the scene?
You may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto policy (if you have one) or through other avenues. Report the hit-and-run immediately to police.
How are pedestrian injuries different from car accident injuries?
Without vehicle protection, pedestrians often suffer more severe injuries—head trauma, spinal injuries, multiple fractures, internal organ damage. This typically results in longer treatment and higher damages.
Should I give a statement to the driver's insurance?
Be cautious about recorded statements without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters may try to establish contributory fault. Consult an attorney first.
Pedestrians deserve aggressive representation.
Related Resources
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.