Orange County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Orange County boasts some of the most spectacular destinations in the United States, from Newport Beach to Adventure City. With over 3 million residents, according to the Census Bureau’s 2021 estimates, this bustling county is full of activity.
Unfortunately, California is the most dangerous location for pedestrians in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 2020 figures. There were 986 pedestrians who perished in traffic accidents in California in 2020. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that 591 pedestrians were injured or killed in Orange County in 2020.
The Orange County pedestrian accident team at Atticus Injury Law understand the struggles victims and their families face and are here to help. Being in a pedestrian accident can be a terrifying experience, uprooting your life and forever changing it. Atticus Wegman, named after the literary hero Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird, goes the distance for his clients and is there for them every step of the way.
Our Pedestrian Accident Law Firm Answers Your Common Questions About Pedestrian Laws
If I Was Hit by a Car While Jaywalking, Can I Still Recover?
Technically speaking, jaywalking is illegal because it violates the California Vehicle Code. Under California law, pedestrians must use designated crosswalks to cross the road. But if you were hit by a car while jaywalking, you can still sue to recover compensation for your injuries.
Fortunately, California’s pure comparative fault law allows plaintiffs to recover compensation for the damages caused by the at-fault party’s conduct. That means a plaintiff may be eligible to recover damages even if they are more than 50% at fault. California’s negligence law may reduce your overall compensation by the percentage of fault the jury (if a jury trial) or judge (if a bench trial) assigns you for the accident.
What Compensation Can I Receive for a Pedestrian Accident?
Under California law, injured pedestrians may be eligible for a financial award compensating them for the injuries caused by the at-fault driver’s conduct. This includes compensation for the following:
- Pain and suffering,
- Loss of enjoyment in life,
- Medical bills,
- Physical therapy,
- Lost wages, and
- Lost earning capacity.
In rare circumstances, you may be entitled to receive exemplary damages, which serve to punish the at-fault driver for engaging in oppressive, fraudulent, or malicious behavior.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver?
It can take time to recover from your injuries and take steps to pursue a claim against the person who caused them. But California law imposes strict deadlines on when you must file a lawsuit against the liable party. If you miss these deadlines, you may be precluded from ever bringing a claim against the person who hurt you.
In California, the deadline, or statute of limitations, to bring a lawsuit is typically two years after the accident, but this deadline is longer or shorter in certain cases. Talking to an attorney early on is essential to ensure you do not miss this important filing deadline.
Should I Hire an Orange County Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
Being struck by a vehicle is a tremendously difficult situation for most people. After the accident, you must take care of your physical and mental health. You may also be left to manage mounting medical expenses and fortify your financial future. Add to this the idea of representing yourself in a legal case involving the driver and negotiating with their insurance company, and it’s enough to push anyone over the edge.
A pedestrian accident attorney takes care of your legal matters so you can focus on healing and moving forward. Further, they communicate with third parties on your behalf, which is a massive relief for many people.
How Can A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Orange County Help Me?
Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer is incredibly beneficial for you and your family. An attorney provides valuable services to help alleviate your burden rather than add to it.
The team at Atticus Injury Law has years of experience fighting for the people of Orange County. Atticus prides himself on providing personalized legal services and helping those who are hurting.
Fierce Advocacy
If you are looking for the best pedestrian accident lawyer to help you with your case, finding a fierce advocate is an excellent idea to aggressively pursue justice on your behalf. Atticus has extensive trial experience and has secured millions on behalf of injured clients. He isn’t afraid to fight the faceless insurance companies and at-fault parties who hurt you and resist paying out what your claim is worth.
Loyal Legal Representation
Insurance adjusters and negligent drivers are out for their own interests—not yours. Your lawyer is your advocate, keeping your best interests at heart during all stages of the case. Atticus will tell you if a deal is worth your time or if pressing the case to trial might result in a better outcome.
Compassionate Counsel
Dedication and Diligence
Atticus Injury Law: Fierce Orange County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you’re in a pedestrian accident, you have enough on your plate without having to tend to legal matters yourself. But filing a lawsuit or seeking legal help may be your best avenue to recover the compensation you need to put your life back together after your accident threatened to rip it apart.
Atticus works in and serves the people of Orange County, and he never leaves home without his small-town values. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and genuinely cares about what happens to them. His hard work and dedication has earned him many awards, including being named “Top 40 Under 40 Attorneys” by the National Trial Lawyers in 2020.
Call our team today to schedule a free consultation if you or your loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident.