Irvine Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Irvine

Pedestrian accidents can lead to serious injuries that require extensive medical care and time off work. If you were hit by a vehicle while walking in Irvine, you may be eligible for the following compensation:

• Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, and future medical needs related to the accident.
• Compensation for income lost while recovering from injuries, as well as reduced earning capacity if the injuries prevent you from returning to work.
• Monetary recovery for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact of the accident on your quality of life.
• Reimbursement for personal belongings damaged in the accident, such as a phone, glasses, or other valuables.
• Compensation for spouses and family members affected by the victim’s injuries or permanent disabilities.
• If a loved one was fatally injured, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death damages for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

Every case is unique, and the compensation you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. To learn more about what you may be entitled to, contact our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What You Need to Prove Fault in a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Establishing fault in a pedestrian accident claim requires solid evidence that clearly shows how another party’s negligence led to the crash. This can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can build a strong case:

• Gather the police report as it details critical information such as statements from drivers, pedestrians, and witnesses.
• Collect surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras that may have captured the incident.
• Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, crosswalk markings, and road conditions.
• Obtain medical records that link your injuries to the collision and document the extent of the harm caused.
• Secure eyewitness statements that can corroborate your version of events, providing additional credibility to your claim.
• Review traffic signals and signage to verify if the driver disregarded a stop sign, red light, or pedestrian right-of-way.

Proving fault requires a comprehensive investigation. Our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers at Thompson Law can gather the evidence you need to build a compelling case. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best Pedestrian Accident law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated Pedestrian Accident attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a Pedestrian Accident case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law‘s Irvine Pedestrian Accident Lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Why Irvine Pedestrian Injury Victims Trust Thompson Law for Legal Help

Thompson Law has built a reputation for advocating relentlessly for injured pedestrians in Irvine.

Here’s why victims trust us:

• We conduct thorough investigations, collecting crucial evidence like traffic cam footage, medical reports, and eyewitness statements.
• Our team works with accident reconstruction experts to pinpoint exactly how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
• We handle all communications with insurance companies, preventing them from offering lowball settlements that don’t cover your full losses.
• Our attorneys provide compassionate, one-on-one support, keeping you informed at every stage of your claim.
• We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay us anything unless we recover compensation for you.

If you or a loved one was hurt in a pedestrian accident, let our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Crosswalks vs. Unmarked Areas: How Location Impacts Your Claim

In Irvine, pedestrian safety laws play a crucial role in determining fault in pedestrian accidents. Understanding how crosswalks and unmarked areas are regulated can help clarify who is responsible after a collision.

Crosswalks in Irvine

• According to Irvine’s Traffic Engineering Division, marked crosswalks are designed to guide pedestrians to safer crossing points. However, studies show that marked crosswalks can sometimes give pedestrians a false sense of security.
• Research indicates pedestrians are twice as likely to be struck in marked crosswalks as opposed to unmarked ones. The assumption that drivers will always stop can lead to serious accidents.
• The City of Irvine follows state guidelines for crosswalk markings, focusing on areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, school zones, and intersections with significant vehicle-pedestrian conflict.

Unmarked Crosswalks

• Unmarked crosswalks exist at most intersections, even without painted lines. Drivers are still required to yield to pedestrians in these areas.
• Pedestrians must exercise caution, as drivers may not always expect someone to cross in unmarked areas.
• Pedestrians injured while crossing in unmarked areas may face disputes over liability, especially if the driver argues that the pedestrian entered the roadway unexpectedly.

School Crosswalks in Irvine

• School crosswalks in Irvine are marked with yellow paint and are located within 600 feet of school grounds.
• These crosswalks are meant to protect children and are closely monitored for driver compliance. Accidents occurring in school crosswalks can result in severe penalties for drivers who fail to yield.

Pedestrian Signals and Countdown Timers

• Pedestrian signals in Irvine are equipped with “WALK” and “DON’T WALK” indicators to help guide pedestrians safely across busy intersections.
• Countdown timers have been added at some intersections to show pedestrians how much time they have to cross safely.
• Failure to comply with these signals can affect the outcome of a pedestrian accident claim, as drivers may argue that the pedestrian disregarded the signal.

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in a crosswalk or unmarked area in Irvine, understanding how local laws apply to your case can make a significant difference. Contact our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION to learn how we can help you seek compensation.

What If the Driver Fled the Scene? Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Cases in Irvine

Hit-and-run accidents leave victims not only injured but also feeling abandoned. In Irvine, fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious crime, and there are specific steps you can take to protect your rights:

1. Report the incident to the police immediately. Provide as much detail as possible about the vehicle, driver, and crash location.
2. Look for witnesses who may have seen the driver or captured the incident on video. Their accounts can provide valuable leads.
3. Check nearby businesses or residences for security cameras that may have recorded the vehicle fleeing the scene.
4. Seek medical attention right away to document your injuries and connect them to the hit-and-run incident.
5. Notify your insurance company about the accident, especially if you carry uninsured motorist coverage that may help cover your losses.

Our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers can help you track down the driver, gather evidence, and pursue compensation through all available avenues. Contact us for a FREE CASE REVIEW to learn your legal options.

Was Poor Lighting or Road Design a Factor in Your Pedestrian Accident?

Not every pedestrian accident is solely the driver’s fault. The following can also contribute to collisions:

• Dark, poorly lit roads that make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Crosswalks without proper markings or signage.
• Trees, parked vehicles, and poorly placed signage that can obscure a driver’s view of pedestrians attempting to cross.
• Broken or malfunctioning signals that can cause confusion, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
• Potholes, uneven pavement, and other hazards that can cause pedestrians to trip and fall into traffic lanes.

If poor lighting or road design played a role in your pedestrian accident, you may be able to hold the city or property owner liable. Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us assess your case.

Intersections in Irvine Where Pedestrian Accidents Are More Likely

Some intersections in Irvine are known for higher rates of pedestrian accidents due to heavy traffic, complex layouts, or frequent construction. Understanding these areas can help pedestrians stay safer when crossing:

• Jamboree Road and Walnut Avenue
• Jeffrey Road and Irvine Center Drive
• Alton Parkway and Culver Drive
• Main Street and Harvard Avenue
• Campus Drive near the University of California, Irvine

If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident at one of these intersections, get in touch with our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers. We can investigate the crash and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Roads and Areas in Irvine With High Pedestrian Traffic

Certain roads and areas in Irvine draw more pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Being aware of these locations can help drivers and pedestrians stay alert:

• The University of California, Irvine campus is a major pedestrian zone with crosswalks, bike lanes, and multiple intersections.
• Irvine Spectrum Center attracts heavy foot traffic, especially on weekends and during events, making it a hotspot for pedestrian accidents.
• Jeffrey Open Space Trail is a popular spot for walking and jogging, with pedestrians crossing multiple intersections.
• Orange County Great Park hosts recreational activities and sports events, increasing pedestrian traffic throughout the day.
• Downtown Irvine and surrounding shopping centers see constant pedestrian movement, especially in areas with limited crosswalks or poorly marked intersections.

If you were struck by a vehicle while walking in one of these areas, you might be entitled to compensation. Our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers can help you pursue claims for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Contact us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Local Laws and Ordinances Protecting Pedestrians in Irvine

Pedestrian accidents in Irvine often involve more than just driver negligence. Local ordinances also play a significant role in determining liability and establishing fault. Understanding these laws can be crucial when pursuing compensation for injuries caused by negligent drivers.

Sidewalk and Pedestrian Safety

In Irvine, vehicles (including bicycles and animal-drawn carts) are prohibited from operating on sidewalks (Sec. 6-3-501). Drivers who hit pedestrians on sidewalks can face liability, especially if they violated this rule. Riding animals like horses on sidewalks is also prohibited, adding further protection for pedestrians.

Signage and Speed Limits

Speed limits in Irvine are based on traffic studies and can be adjusted by the City Council to promote safety (Sec. 6-3-505). Exceeding these limits may establish fault, particularly if speeding contributed to a crash. Speed limit signs must adhere to the California Vehicle Code for proper enforcement.

Parking and Tow Zones

Parking regulations in Irvine restrict where vehicles can be left unattended, including bus stops, red-curb zones, and time-restricted areas (Sec. 6-3-571 and Sec. 6-3-573). Illegally parked vehicles that obstruct visibility or block pedestrian paths can complicate liability assessments in accident cases.

Stop Signs and Intersections

The Director of Public Works in Irvine is responsible for installing and maintaining stop signs to reduce intersection accidents (Sec. 6-3-563). Drivers who fail to yield at these intersections can be held liable for resulting collisions. If a stop sign was missing or improperly maintained, the city may also share responsibility.

Vehicle Abandonment

Leaving a wrecked, inoperative, or abandoned vehicle on public or private property for more than 10 days is illegal in Irvine (Sec. 4-11-219). These vehicles can be declared public nuisances and towed. If an abandoned vehicle contributed to a crash, the owner may be held responsible.

Truck Route and Weight Restrictions

Commercial trucks in Irvine must adhere to designated routes and weight limits to minimize traffic hazards (Sec. 6-3-565). Trucks exceeding these limits or traveling on prohibited roads may face heightened liability in pedestrian accident cases, especially if the violation contributed to a crash.

Noise and Disturbance Violations

Operating a vehicle in a way that creates excessive noise, dust, smoke, or fumes is prohibited in Irvine (Sec. 4-11-222). This rule may apply if a driver was operating recklessly or if excessive noise distracted a pedestrian, leading to a collision.

If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident in Irvine, understanding how these local laws affect your claim can make a significant difference in the outcome. Contact our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your rights and potential compensation.

Where Pedestrian Accident Victims Can Seek Medical Care in Irvine

Receiving medical care right after a pedestrian accident is essential for your health and for building a strong claim. Irvine has several medical facilities equipped to handle a wide range of injuries:

• Irvine Urgent Care
• Hoag Hospital Irvine
• MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente Orange County – Irvine Medical Center
• UCI Medical Center

Seeking immediate medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates vital records that can support your injury claim. If you need help identifying the right facility for your specific injuries, contact our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers for a FREE, NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION.

Steps to Get a Police Report After a Pedestrian Accident in Irvine

Obtaining a police report can be crucial for proving fault and establishing the facts of your pedestrian accident case. In Irvine, you can request a report through these steps:

• Visit the Records Division at the Irvine Civic Center or request the report online through the official Irvine Police Department website. You will need the report number, date of the accident, and the names of the involved parties.
• If the accident occurred on a freeway or involved a commercial vehicle, contact the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Their reports may include more comprehensive details, such as road conditions and vehicle logs.
• Provide complete and accurate information, including the incident date, report number, and vehicle information.
• Pay the required processing fee. Report processing times may vary from several days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the investigation.
• Once received, review the report carefully for errors or missing information. Any discrepancies could impact your claim, so notify the police department promptly if corrections are needed.

If you need assistance obtaining a police report or understanding its contents, our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers can guide you through the process and use the report to support your claim. Talk to us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Statute of Limitations for Filing a Pedestrian Injury Claim in Irvine

California law imposes strict deadlines for filing a pedestrian injury claim, and missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation:

• Pedestrian injury claims involving physical harm must be filed within two years from the accident date.
• Claims for damaged property, such as clothing or electronic devices, must be filed within three years of the accident.
• If the incident involved a government vehicle or occurred on public property, a notice of claim must be filed within six months.

Acting quickly is essential to preserve your right to compensation. If you’re unsure about the deadlines that apply to your case, reach out to our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Why Timing Matters: Preserve Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident

Taking swift action after a pedestrian accident can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Delays can weaken evidence, complicate medical documentation, and make it harder to locate witnesses.

Here’s why acting quickly is vital:

• Evidence such as surveillance footage and witness statements can be lost or become less reliable over time.
• Medical records created immediately after the accident establish a clear link between your injuries and the crash, making it harder for insurers to dispute your claim.
• Insurance adjusters may argue that delays in seeking treatment indicate that your injuries are not severe or were caused by another event.
• Filing your claim promptly ensures you stay within California’s statute of limitations, preventing your case from being dismissed due to missed deadlines.

If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to get legal advice. Contact our Irvine pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case and protect your right to compensation.

FAQs About Irvine Pedestrian Accidents

What if the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk when they were hit by a vehicle?

Even if a pedestrian was not in a designated crosswalk, they may still be entitled to compensation if the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent. California law requires drivers to exercise caution regardless of where the pedestrian is crossing.

Can I still pursue a claim if I was hit by a car but did not suffer immediate injuries?

Yes. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly and document any symptoms as they develop. Delayed treatment can complicate claims, so consulting a lawyer early can help protect your rights.

What happens if the driver who hit me was uninsured or underinsured?

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage, you may still have options to recover compensation. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit are potential avenues for financial recovery.

Can the city of Irvine be held liable for pedestrian accidents caused by poor road conditions?

Possibly. If dangerous road conditions, poorly maintained crosswalks, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident, the city or a government agency responsible for road maintenance may be held liable. These cases have strict filing deadlines, so acting quickly is crucial.

How do I handle my medical bills if I can’t work after a pedestrian accident?

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover lost wages through a personal injury claim. Some medical providers may also agree to delay billing until a settlement is reached. Speaking with an attorney can help you explore options to cover your medical expenses while your case is pending.