Santa Monica Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been struck by a car while crossing the street, you have the right to explore your options for financial compensation. Our Santa Monica, CA pedestrian accident lawyer is ready to fight for the full recovery you deserve. From medical bills to lost wages and psychological trauma, you’re going through a lot, and you shouldn’t have to take on these burdens alone. Contact the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice and financial compensation.

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

Our pedestrian accident attorneys represent injured people and their families across Santa Monica when careless drivers, unsafe intersections, or hazardous conditions cause them harm. Because pedestrians have nothing to protect them from the impact of a vehicle, these types of accidents often result in catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, broken bones, severe lacerations, and even death.

Beyond the physical injuries, victims and their families are frequently left to deal with costly medical treatment, rehabilitation, time away from work, and profound emotional distress. All of these hardships should be accounted for in your claim for compensation. As your Santa Monica pedestrian accident lawyers, we’ll make sure to paint the full picture of your damages and losses.

Our team understands what our clients need most: clear communication, experienced advocacy, and meaningful results. While many cases resolve through settlement, we prepare every claim for trial. Other firms may think it’s a waste of time to be overprepared, but we believe it’s important to anticipate any twist or turn the defendants may throw at us. That’s how committed we are to securing the justice you deserve.

Why Experience Matters In Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accident claims often involve complex liability issues, disputes over negligence, and high damages due to the severity of injuries. Having experienced representation can mean the difference between a minimal settlement and a recovery that truly supports your future. Here’s what sets our firm apart from others:

• Decades Of Experience. Our team has over 45 years of combined experience handling serious injury cases, including countless traffic-related accidents.
• Successful Track Record. We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries, demonstrating our ability to advocate effectively for compensation.
• Strong Legal Education. Our founding attorney James V. Choulos earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, and partner Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, complementing their strong academic foundations with practical courtroom experience.
• Ongoing Legal Leadership. Both of our lead attorneys participate in the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA), with James also active in the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Association for Justice (AAJ), reflecting their engagement in the broader legal community.
• People-Focused Representation. Our firm is committed to hands-on, compassionate representation, listening closely to your concerns and developing strategies tailored to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

Our personal injury firm is passionate about helping victims and their families find a measure of peace and financial security after road accidents. Whether you were hit in a crosswalk, struck by a distracted driver, or injured due to poor roadway design, we are here to pursue justice on your behalf. We have the knowledge and compassion to handle even the most severe cases with confidence.

Don’t Put Your Health On Hold

You’re going through enough. We don’t want you to feel like you have to navigate recovery and all the coinciding expenses on your own. Our dedicated pedestrian accident lawyers are ready to guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to sustain a quality life. Call the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to request your free consultation and make moves toward an effective recovery.

Types Of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle

Whether you were crossing the street, walking on the sidewalk, or moving through a parking lot, getting hit as a pedestrian can cause life-changing injuries that take time and resources to recover from. When you work with our Santa Monica pedestrian accident lawyer, you have a legal team ready to take on cases of all types and fight for the compensation you deserve. The following is an overview of different kinds of pedestrian accidents we have experience handling:

Crosswalk And Intersection Accidents

Many pedestrian accidents occur at crosswalks and intersections where drivers fail to yield the right of way. Even when traffic signals are clear, distracted or impatient drivers may turn into pedestrians, creating dangerous situations. These accidents often involve severe injuries because pedestrians have no protection from a vehicle’s impact.

Jaywalking Accidents

Not every pedestrian accident occurs when someone is crossing at a designated crosswalk. In some cases, a pedestrian may be struck while jaywalking or crossing outside of an intersection. These accidents often raise questions about comparative fault, meaning both the driver and the pedestrian may share some responsibility. Even if you were not in a crosswalk, you may still have the right to pursue compensation if the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent. Cases like these require careful handling to make sure your rights are protected.

Sidewalk And Shoulder Accidents

You may assume that sidewalks are safe, but accidents can still happen when drivers lose control of their vehicles or drift onto the shoulder. In some cases, parked cars may block safe passage, forcing pedestrians into unsafe areas close to moving traffic. These incidents can cause serious harm and raise questions of liability that require careful review.

Hit And Run Accidents

Being struck by a driver who then flees the scene leaves you in an incredibly difficult position. Not only are you dealing with injuries, but also with the stress of not knowing if the driver will ever be held accountable. Our Santa Monica pedestrian accident attorney is prepared to help you pursue compensation through every available channel, including uninsured motorist coverage.

Parking Lot And Driveway Accidents

Accidents in parking lots or driveways are especially dangerous because they often involve drivers who are not paying attention to their surroundings. Pedestrians can be hit while walking behind reversing vehicles or moving between parked cars. These cases require detailed investigation into driver behavior and property conditions.

Accidents Involving Public Transportation

Buses, shuttles, and other public transportation vehicles can also pose risks to pedestrians. These accidents may happen at bus stops, when boarding or exiting, or when drivers fail to check for pedestrians in crosswalks. Because multiple parties may be involved, including transit companies, these cases can be complex but are important to pursue.

Wrongful Death Pedestrian Accidents

Tragically, some pedestrian accidents result in fatalities. Families facing this loss are left with grief and unexpected financial burdens. Wrongful death claims can provide a path to holding negligent drivers responsible and seeking damages that support your family during this difficult time.

Share Your Story With Us

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we represent clients in all types of pedestrian accident cases. Our team of California pedestrian accident lawyers will work closely with you to understand every detail of your situation so we can effectively hold responsible parties accountable and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to. If you or a loved one has been injured, reach out to us today to learn how we can help.

Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents

Plenty of different factors can lead to a pedestrian accident. By knowing the most frequent causes, you can better understand your options if you’ve been hurt. When these accidents occur, our Santa Monica pedestrian accident lawyer can help you take the next steps to protect your rights. Below are some of the most common causes we see in these cases:

Distracted Driving

One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who look at their phones, adjust controls in the car, or focus on something other than the road may fail to notice people crossing the street. A few seconds of inattention can result in life-changing harm to a pedestrian.

Speeding

Drivers who exceed the speed limit put pedestrians at serious risk. The faster a vehicle is moving, the less time a driver has to react and the more severe the impact will be if a collision occurs. Speeding near intersections, schools, and residential areas is especially dangerous for pedestrians.

Failure To Yield

Traffic laws require drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to stop when they should. Our accident attorneys in Santa Monica have seen first-hand how these situations often lead to collisions, especially when drivers attempt to rush through an intersection or ignore traffic signals.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of pedestrian accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, reduced coordination, and poor judgment, all of which contribute to dangerous conditions for people on foot.

Poor Visibility

Pedestrian accidents often happen in low-light conditions or bad weather. Drivers may claim they could not see a pedestrian due to darkness, rain, or glare from headlights. While visibility issues can be real, drivers still have a duty to operate their vehicles with caution in these situations.

Left-Hand Turns

Accidents involving left-hand turns are more common than many people realize. Drivers focusing on oncoming traffic may not notice a pedestrian in the crosswalk until it’s too late. These collisions often occur at intersections and can cause severe injuries.

Lack Of Sidewalks Or Other Pedestrian Infrastructures

Pedestrian safety is greatly affected by the design of the streets and walkways. In many areas, a lack of sidewalks or poorly maintained roadways forces people to walk close to moving traffic. This increases the likelihood of being struck, especially in neighborhoods without crosswalks, lighting, or designated walking areas. Drivers may not anticipate pedestrians in these spots, creating dangerous situations that can lead to serious harm.

Backing Up Too Hastily 

Drivers who back out of driveways, alleys, or parking spaces without checking carefully can hit pedestrians walking behind the vehicle. Our Santa Monica pedestrian accident attorneys can attest that children and shorter adults are especially vulnerable in these situations, as they may be harder to see.

General Aggressive Driving

Drivers who ignore traffic laws, weave through traffic, or fail to stop at red lights and stop signs put pedestrians at great risk. Aggressive behaviors create unpredictable and hazardous situations for anyone nearby.

Turn Your Situation Around

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we are committed to standing by your side and protecting your rights after an accident. If you’ve been injured in one of the above situations, we can help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact our team today to speak with our team about your case.

Santa Monica Pedestrian Accident Infographic

Santa Monica Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Pedestrian accidents remain a serious public safety issue in the United States, consistently accounting for a significant portion of traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Data from national traffic safety agencies shows that pedestrian deaths typically comprise between 15% and 20% of all traffic fatalities, with tens of thousands more injured each year. These incidents frequently occur in urban environments, especially outside of designated crosswalks or intersections, where drivers may not expect foot traffic.

The majority of pedestrian fatalities occur at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. Studies indicate that more than three-quarters of pedestrian deaths happen during dark hours, often between 6 p.m. and midnight. This trend underscores the dangers of limited visibility and the need for better lighting and reflective safety gear.

Location plays a major role in pedestrian safety. A large percentage of fatal pedestrian accidents occur on arterial roads and busy non-interstate highways, where vehicle speeds are higher and pedestrian infrastructure is limited. In urban settings, pedestrian fatalities are more likely to occur mid-block rather than at intersections, where drivers might be less vigilant.

Speed is another critical factor in pedestrian accidents. The likelihood of a pedestrian being killed or catastrophically injured increases dramatically when vehicles travel above 30 miles per hour. Vehicle type also matters, larger vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks are associated with higher pedestrian fatality rates due to their size and the height of impact.

Pedestrian Accident FAQs

Our personal injury attorneys understand the serious impact pedestrian accidents can have on victims and their families. We work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for maximum compensation. Below, we’ve answered common questions about pedestrian accident claims in California to help you understand your legal rights.

What Is The Most Common Cause Of Pedestrian Accidents?

The most common cause of pedestrian accidents is driver negligence, including distracted driving, speeding, and failing to yield at crosswalks.

Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers are not paying attention to their surroundings. Texting while driving, running red lights, or making unsafe turns are frequent causes of catastrophic injuries. Poor visibility and impaired driving also contribute to these accidents. Our Santa Monica firm investigates each case thoroughly to determine the cause and identify liable parties.

What Time Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Happen?

Most pedestrian accidents occur in the evening and nighttime hours when visibility is low and driver awareness may be reduced.

Studies show that pedestrian accidents are more likely to happen between 6 PM and midnight. This is due to increased traffic, reduced lighting, and higher chances of impaired driving. However, pedestrian accidents can occur at any time of day, especially in busy urban areas. Our California personal injury team understands these risks and how to help injured pedestrians navigate their legal claims.

Can A Pedestrian Be At Fault?

Yes, a pedestrian can be partially or fully at fault if they were acting negligently.

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still recover compensation. However, their settlement may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

For example, if a pedestrian was distracted by their phone and walked into traffic, they could share liability. Our Santa Monica lawyers are happy to help you understand how fault will be determined in your specific case. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.

Does Insurance Cover Pedestrian Accident Injuries?

Yes, several types of insurance may cover pedestrian accident injuries, including auto insurance and health insurance.

If a driver was at fault, their auto liability insurance should cover the pedestrian’s medical expenses and other damages. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, the pedestrian’s own auto insurance policy may provide coverage through uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.

Also, health insurance can help cover medical bills while a claim is being processed. Our Santa Monica pedestrian accident lawyer will guide you through the insurance process and help you understand the full amount of compensation you deserve.

When Should I Consult An Attorney About My Case?

You should consult our attorney as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident to protect your legal rights and maximize your compensation.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and evidence can disappear quickly after an accident. Speaking with our personal injury attorney early in the process makes sure that your case is properly documented, and your legal options are clear. Our attorneys fight aggressively for injured pedestrians, handling negotiations and addressing any legal hurdles so they can focus on recovery.

Pedestrian Accident Glossary

Santa Monica, CA pedestrian accident lawyer services are essential for anyone who has suffered serious harm while walking along city streets, sidewalks, or public walkways. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we represent clients who have been injured by careless drivers or unsafe pedestrian infrastructure, helping them seek full and fair compensation. If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Santa Monica, it’s important to understand the legal terminology that may come up in your case. Below are some of the key terms and phrases you’ll encounter as we work together to pursue your claim.

Civil Claim Process

The civil claim process refers to the legal steps an injured person takes to pursue financial recovery from a person or entity responsible for their injuries. In the context of a pedestrian accident, this process begins when we gather evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and medical documentation. From there, we may file a formal claim against the responsible party’s insurance company or proceed with a lawsuit in civil court. The civil system is separate from any criminal proceedings and focuses solely on financial recovery rather than punishment. For victims in Santa Monica, this process is critical in securing compensation for medical care, lost income, and related impacts.

Crosswalk Regulations

California has detailed laws about pedestrian crossings, especially at marked and unmarked crosswalks. A crosswalk is any part of the roadway that is distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings or, in many cases, is implied at intersections even when no markings exist. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who are in a crosswalk, and failure to do so can lead to liability if an accident occurs. However, pedestrians must also act with reasonable care while crossing. If a pedestrian steps into the path of a vehicle without giving the driver time to stop, it can complicate a legal claim. Knowing your rights and responsibilities at crosswalks is vital to building a strong case.

Injury Documentation

Injury documentation refers to the collection of medical records, physician assessments, diagnostic imaging, and treatment plans related to injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident. This documentation serves as the foundation of a personal injury case. It helps us demonstrate how the incident affected your health, your ability to work, and your daily life. We often work closely with medical professionals to clarify the severity of the injuries and the expected recovery timeline. Whether the injury involves a fracture, brain trauma, or ongoing physical therapy, proper documentation allows us to present a detailed picture of the harm caused by the accident.

Accident Reconstruction

Accident reconstruction involves analyzing the physical and factual details of a pedestrian accident to understand exactly how it occurred. This can include reviewing skid marks, surveillance footage, vehicle damage, or scene photographs. In some cases, we may consult with specialists who can recreate the sequence of events leading up to the collision. The goal is to establish a clear and credible account of what happened. In disputes where the facts are unclear or contested, this type of evidence can be crucial in showing that the pedestrian was injured due to another party’s actions or inactions.

Settlement Negotiation

Settlement negotiation is the process of reaching an agreement with the opposing party’s insurance company or legal representatives without proceeding to trial. Most pedestrian accident claims are resolved through negotiation rather than court. We start by presenting a claim that outlines the facts of the incident, your injuries, and the amount being sought. Insurance adjusters may respond with a lower offer, and from there, we work to reach a resolution that reflects the true value of your losses. If the insurer refuses to make a fair offer, we’re fully prepared to escalate the matter to court. Having legal representation during this phase is critical for protecting your interests.

If you’ve been injured while walking in Santa Monica, our team is here to help you move forward. Contact our office to speak with our pedestrian accident attorney who will prioritize your recovery and fight for what you’re owed. Let’s talk about your case today.

Get Legal Help Today

At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’re committed to protecting injured pedestrians and securing the compensation they need to move forward from their accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian collision, our team is here to help. Contact our Santa Monica pedestrian accident lawyer today for a free consultation and to learn about your legal options.