Walking should be one of the safest and healthiest ways to get around Glendale. But when drivers are distracted, speeding, or ignoring traffic laws, pedestrians are at serious risk. If you’ve been hit by a car while walking in Glendale, you may be facing painful injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and time off work. A trusted Glendale pedestrian accident lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
This article will explain what to do after a pedestrian accident, how liability is determined, and why having the right lawyer on your side can make all the difference in your recovery.
Pedestrian Accidents Are Rising in Glendale
Like many cities in Southern California, Glendale has seen an increase in pedestrian-related injuries and fatalities. Busy intersections, dense traffic, and distracted driving are common culprits. According to data from state traffic agencies, pedestrian deaths now account for a significant percentage of all traffic fatalities in California.
Whether you were crossing Brand Boulevard, walking near a school zone, or hit in a crosswalk, your injuries can be life-altering and you need strong legal representation to recover.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents occur due to driver negligence. Common causes include:
Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, eating behind the wheel)
Speeding, especially near intersections or school zones
Failure to yield at crosswalks
Running red lights or stop signs
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Reckless driving in residential or urban areas
Even low-speed collisions can cause devastating injuries to pedestrians, who have no protection from the impact of a vehicle.
Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accident injuries are often severe due to the direct force of impact. Common injuries include:
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord damage
Internal organ injuries
Lacerations and road rash
Permanent disability or disfigurement
These injuries often require extensive treatment, physical therapy, and time away from work. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Glendale will work to recover every dollar you need to get your life back on track.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Glendale
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be confusing and stressful. Here’s what you should do to protect your health and your legal rights:
Call 911 Immediately – Request medical assistance and ensure the accident is officially documented.
Gather Evidence – If possible, take photos of the scene, vehicle, injuries, and any relevant signage or road conditions.
Get Driver and Witness Information – Obtain contact and insurance info from the driver and speak with witnesses.
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get evaluated. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
Avoid Giving Statements to Insurers – Do not admit fault or give recorded statements until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
Contact a Glendale Pedestrian Accident Attorney – The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your case will be.
Who Is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
While many assume the driver is automatically at fault, California uses a comparative negligence rule. This means fault can be shared between the pedestrian and the driver. Even if you were partially at fault (e.g., crossing outside a marked crosswalk), you may still be eligible for compensation just reduced by your percentage of fault.
A Glendale pedestrian accident lawyer will investigate thoroughly to prove the driver’s negligence and minimize any blame placed on you.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you've been hit by a vehicle while walking, you may be entitled to significant damages, including:
Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehab, medications)
Lost wages and future income
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Loss of quality of life
Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)
A knowledgeable attorney will calculate the full value of your claim and negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies.
Statute of Limitations in California
In most personal injury cases in California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, if the driver was a government employee or the city is liable due to poor road conditions or lack of signage, you may only have six months to file a claim.
Acting quickly ensures evidence is preserved and your legal rights are protected.
Why Hire a Glendale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
You may be facing pain, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Insurance companies may try to pressure you into a quick, low settlement. A trusted local lawyer can:
Investigate the accident thoroughly
Handle all communication with insurers
Fight to prove driver negligence
Accurately calculate your damages
Guide you through every step of the legal process
Most importantly, they’ll work to get you justice so you can focus on healing.
Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents can leave victims with serious injuries and long-term financial burdens. But you don’t have to face it alone. A skilled Glendale pedestrian accident lawyer will be your advocate holding the at-fault party accountable and helping you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact a local attorney today for a free consultation. Time is limited, and your recovery begins with taking the first step.
