Covina Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian Accident Attorney in West Covina, CA

Pedestrians in Covina deserve safe paths. Unfortunately, the actions of negligent drivers can quickly lead to a pedestrian crash. If you have been hit by a driver while walking in Covina, a Covina pedestrian accident lawyer can hold the driver accountable for their recklessness while also pursuing compensation for your damages.

Why You Should Choose Us

For over four decades, Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, A Professional Corporation, has provided skilled legal representation for injured pedestrians. We understand how catastrophic these accidents can be, leaving victims with physical and mental injuries as well as financial burdens. Our Covina personal injury lawyers can use their knowledge of California’s pedestrian accident laws and aggressive negotiation techniques to pursue the full recovery you deserve.

How Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Covina

Whether you are walking along Citrus Avenue or towards the Covina Town Square, reckless or inattentive driving can threaten your safety. In 2023, a total of 7,314 pedestrian deaths occurred, making up 18% of all crash fatalities in the United States.

Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, though certain locations and environmental factors may increase the risk of a crash. Of all pedestrian fatalities, 76% occur when it is dark outside, when people are not easily visible by drivers. Additionally, 75.76% of fatalities occur outside an intersection.

If you have been injured in a crash, you should hire a pedestrian accident lawyer. They can explain the pedestrian accident laws that apply to your case. They can also go over what your next steps should be to file a claim against the driver.

Damages in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accident cases in Covina often involve severe damage that impacts you for months or even years after the crash. While financial compensation cannot make up for the experience, it can alleviate the financial burden of an accident as well as provide closure. The three main types of damages you can recover are:

• Economic damages. Economic damages are the financial losses you have suffered in a pedestrian accident case. They often include medical bills, lost wages, permanent loss of earning potential, and property damage.
• Non-economic damages. Non-economic damages are the other, non-financial losses you face after a crash. Examples of this type of damages are pain and suffering, mental anguish, or permanent disability.
• Punitive damages. Punitive damages can be awarded to punish an at-fault driver for extreme negligence, such as if the driver was drinking and driving or a hit-and-run driver.

Reasons to Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer After a Crash

A pedestrian accident is one of the most physically and mentally difficult things to recover from. On top of your recovery, filing a claim can be especially challenging. A Covina pedestrian accident lawyer can make this process easier by:

• Determining fault. When filing a claim, you must prove that the driver’s actions directly led to the accident and your injuries. Even when it seems obvious that a driver caused an accident, a lawyer can work to legally establish their liability.
• Gathering evidence. You need evidence both to establish fault and to prove what damages you have suffered. A lawyer can gather evidence from the accident scene and during your recovery, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance camera footage, medical records, and pay stubs.
• Calculating fair compensation. It can be challenging to accurately determine what amount of compensation is fair, especially with intangible damages, such as pain and suffering, or future expenses, such as ongoing medical care. A lawyer can fully evaluate your damages to identify the minimum level of compensation you should receive.
• Advocating for you. Whether your case involves settlement negotiations or a court trial, a lawyer can present evidence and arguments to advocate for increased compensation. This is especially important when facing large insurance companies that often seek to minimize your damages or prey on small errors to reduce payouts.
• Managing the legal details. When you are recovering from your injuries, the thought of learning about various legal procedures and properly filing all court paperwork can be overwhelming. A lawyer can manage this for you, reducing your stress during your recovery.

FAQs

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way in California?

Yes, pedestrians do have the right-of-way in California, though they must still follow the traffic laws. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians, even if they are crossing outside a crosswalk or without a walk signal. Pedestrians do not have to be at a marked crosswalk to have the right of way.

What Is the New Pedestrian Law in California?

The new pedestrian law in California is the “Daylighting Law” that went into effect on January 1, 2025. This law prevents vehicles from stopping, standing, or parking within 20 feet of a marked or unmarked crosswalk on the approach side of the road. The purpose of the daylighting law is to improve drivers’ ability to spot pedestrians at intersections by preventing parked vehicles from blocking their view.

Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault for a Pedestrian Accident in Covina, CA?

Yes, a pedestrian can be at fault for an accident in California. This may happen if they were acting negligently, such as walking while intoxicated, or if their distraction led to the crash. As a pedestrian, you could still file a claim if you were partially at fault for the accident, though your compensation can be reduced.

Can You Still File a Claim  in Covina If the At-Fault Driver Hit Your Vehicle and Fled?

Yes, you can file a claim in Covina, even if it was a hit-and-run accident. Hit-and-run accidents are especially common in pedestrian crashes, making this a common issue. A lawyer can analyze evidence and work with the police to uncover the identity of the driver. If the driver can’t be identified, your Covina pedestrian accident attorney can explain other available options, such as filing a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage.

Reach Out to a Covina Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Filing a claim is a complex process involving evidence analysis, negotiation, court filings, and compensation. Contact Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, A Professional Corporation, to schedule a case consultation. In our first meeting, you can learn how experienced legal guidance can navigate the difficult legal process with ease.