San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident in San Bernardino? Here’s What You Should Know

San Bernardino has seen a troubling number of serious pedestrian accidents over the years, and too many have ended in tragedy.

On New Year’s Day 2025, a pedestrian was struck and killed while standing on the 215 Freeway off-ramp at 5th Street. It was just after 3 a.m., and CHP investigators were unsure why the person was on the road. Sadly, they didn’t survive the crash.

Just months earlier, in October 2024, a woman driving a green Dodge Caravan caused a chain-reaction crash in Rialto (in San Bernardino County). The van jumped the curb and hit a man who had been walking his bike. That man died at the scene, and a child nearby was also injured. Police later arrested the woman on suspicion of DUI.

And in March 2024, another pedestrian lost his life after being hit near W. 16th Street and E Street. The victim, a 51-year-old Moreno Valley resident, was rushed to Loma Linda University Medical Center, but he didn’t make it.

If you were hit by a car, or if someone you love was killed in a pedestrian crash, we’re here to help. The injuries are often severe. The trauma is real. And the legal process can feel overwhelming.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Do You Need a Lawyer or Can You Handle a Pedestrian Claim Alone?

It may seem like a simple case, especially if the driver was clearly at fault. But pedestrian accident claims often become more complicated than expected. Insurance companies may try to shift blame, downplay injuries, or delay payments. And if you say the wrong thing in a recorded statement, it could be used to weaken your case.

A lawyer helps protect your rights and deal with the insurance company from the start. We make sure you’re not pressured into accepting less than your claim is worth. At Thompson Law, we don’t charge anything upfront. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and find out where you stand.

 

San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

How Our San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help You

When you work with Thompson Law, you’re not just getting legal advice, you’re getting a team that handles the full process for you.

Here’s what we do:

  • Investigate the crash and collect all available evidence
  • Request police reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements
  • Work with doctors to document your injuries and treatment
  • Handle all communication with the insurance company
  • Negotiate medical bills and liens to help you keep more of your settlement
  • Fight for your compensation in court if a fair settlement isn’t offered

We’re available 24/7 and ready to move fast on your case.

Reach out to our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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(844) 308-8180

Why Choose Thompson Law?

At Thompson Law, we understand what you’re going through. A pedestrian crash can change your life, and it’s not fair to face it alone.

Here’s why people across California choose our team:

  • No fees unless we win your case
  • Over $1.9 billion recovered for injury victims
  • Fast action, we start building your case right away
  • Personal attention, you’ll know your lawyer and case manager
  • 24/7 availability, you can reach us when you need answers
  • We deal with insurance companies so you don’t have to

We’ve helped thousands of clients recover what they’re owed. Let us fight for you next.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Common Types of Injuries

Pedestrians don’t have the protection of a vehicle, which means injuries are often severe, especially in high-speed or intersection crashes.

Here are some of the most common injuries we see in pedestrian accident cases:

No matter how your injuries appear at first, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. These injuries can have lasting effects, and your compensation should reflect that.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorneys today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and get the support you need to recover.

At Thompson Law

We provide pedestrian accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our San Bernardino pedestrian injury lawyers will build a strong case with supporting evidence for injured victims so that you recover the money that you deserve.

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What You Can Be Compensated for After a Pedestrian Injury

If you were hit by a car, bike, or other vehicle in San Bernardino, you may be able to recover compensation for:

  • Emergency room care and hospital stays
  • Ongoing doctor visits and physical therapy
  • Lost wages if you missed work
  • Loss of future earnings if you can’t return to your job
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Property damage (like a destroyed phone or bicycle)
  • Out-of-pocket costs like prescriptions or transportation to medical appointments

Every case is different. Our team will help you calculate the full impact of the crash, not just the bills you’ve already seen.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Types of Pedestrian Accidents We Handle in San Bernardino

We represent injured pedestrians in a wide range of cases, including:

Even if the vehicle left the scene, we may be able to help you recover damages through uninsured motorist coverage or witness reports.

Injured on foot? Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What Makes Pedestrian Cases in San Bernardino Difficult to Prove

Many pedestrian accidents happen in a matter of seconds, and with few clear witnesses.

That means it often comes down to details like speed, road conditions, visibility, and timing. Some drivers will claim the pedestrian “came out of nowhere” or wasn’t in a crosswalk, even when that’s not true.

Adding to the challenge, some intersections in San Bernardino have poor lighting, confusing signals, or fast-moving traffic. These conditions can make it harder to prove exactly what happened without legal help.

We bring in experts when needed, including crash reconstruction professionals, to back up your side of the story with real evidence.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Who’s at Fault in a Pedestrian Accident in San Bernardino?

Fault depends on how and where the crash happened. The driver is usually at fault if they:

  • Ran a red light or stop sign
  • Failed to yield at a crosswalk
  • Were distracted, speeding, or impaired
  • Drove onto a sidewalk or shoulder
  • Didn’t adjust for low visibility or weather

However, pedestrians can also be partially at fault if they were jaywalking or walking while distracted. Even so, California’s comparative fault law allows injured pedestrians to recover damages, even if they share some blame.

Our job is to gather the full facts, show how the driver caused the crash, and protect your right to compensation.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us help prove fault in your case.

What California Law Says About Pedestrian Rights and Driver Duties

California law is clear: drivers must watch for pedestrians and give them the right-of-way in most situations. But even though the law protects people on foot, pedestrian crashes still happen far too often in San Bernardino.

Here’s what drivers are legally required to do, and how those rules can impact your case.

Pedestrians Always Have the Right-of-Way at Crosswalks

Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. This includes crosswalks at intersections without signals. If a pedestrian steps off the curb, drivers must slow down or stop until the pedestrian safely crosses.

Some crosswalks have flashing lights or pedestrian signals, but even without them, pedestrians still have the legal right to cross safely. Failing to yield can result in citations or in serious injury claims if a crash occurs.

It’s Illegal to Pass a Car Stopped at a Crosswalk

If a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, other drivers can’t pass it. Why? There may be a pedestrian crossing that the second driver can’t see. Passing that stopped vehicle could lead to a devastating accident, and in some cases, criminal charges.

Turning Drivers Must Yield to Pedestrians

When turning right or left at an intersection, drivers must always check for pedestrians in the crosswalk and yield before turning. This applies even when the light is green or there’s a green arrow. Pedestrians still have priority.

Pedestrians Don’t Always Have the Right-of-Way, but Drivers Must Still Use Caution

While pedestrians must obey signals and avoid stepping into traffic unexpectedly, California law still requires drivers to slow down and be cautious, even when a pedestrian crosses outside a crosswalk. If a person is walking across the road, drivers are expected to do everything they can to avoid hitting them.

Special Protections for Blind or Disabled Pedestrians

Drivers must take extra care around people using white canes, service animals, wheelchairs, or other mobility devices. These individuals have the right-of-way at all times, even if they’re not in a crosswalk.

Honking, blocking the crosswalk, or turning in front of a blind pedestrian can put them in danger and may be used as evidence of driver negligence in a claim.

Pedestrians Are Considered Vulnerable Road Users

Under California law, anyone walking, using a wheelchair, skating, or traveling without a motorized vehicle is classified as a vulnerable road user. That means drivers have a higher legal duty to be alert, give them space, and prevent harm.

Why It Matters for Your Case

If you were hit while walking, the law is likely on your side. Proving that the driver broke one of these rules can help strengthen your injury claim and show that their negligence caused your injuries. That’s where our team steps in.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll help you understand how the law protects your rights and how to move forward with your claim.

How to File a Police Report After a Pedestrian Accident in San Bernardino

If the police came to the scene of your crash, a report should already exist. But if they didn’t, or if your accident was treated as non-emergency, you may need to file the report yourself.

You can submit a non-emergency police report online through the San Bernardino Police Department. You’ll need:

  • A valid ID
  • An email address
  • Basic crash details, including the time, location, and any injuries

After your report is submitted, the department will review it. If approved, they’ll send you a report number by email. If more details are needed, they may follow up with questions.

If the crash was serious or you’re unsure how to file, call the San Bernardino Police Department directly at 909-384-5742. For emergencies, always call 911.

Our legal team can also help collect the police report on your behalf and walk you through the next steps.

Contact our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Where Pedestrian Accidents Commonly Happen in San Bernardino

San Bernardino has several roads and intersections known for pedestrian crashes. Many of these areas combine high traffic with poor visibility or limited pedestrian infrastructure.

According to traffic data from 2020 to 2024, the most dangerous intersection in the city is:

  • North Sterling Avenue and East 5th Street

Other high-risk areas include:

  • E. Date Street and N. Del Rosa Avenue
  • N. Arrowhead Avenue and W. Baseline Street
  • E. Highland Avenue and N. Valencia Avenue
  • W. Baseline Street and N. Mountain View Avenue

Pedestrian-involved crashes are also commonly reported on:

  • G Street
  • Sierra Way
  • Baseline
  • Gilbert Street
  • Sepulveda Avenue
  • Lugo Avenue

San Bernardino’s pedestrian crash rate is over 13% higher than the statewide average, and the fatal injury rate is more than 30% higher. If you were hit while walking in one of these areas, you’re not alone, and you may have a strong case.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Hospitals That Treat Pedestrian Accident Victims in San Bernardino

After being hit by a vehicle, it’s important to seek medical care, even if you feel fine. Some serious injuries don’t show up right away, including internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal damage. Getting checked out early helps protect your health and can also support your legal case.

Here are trusted hospitals in and around San Bernardino where pedestrian accident victims often receive care:

  • St. Bernardine Medical Center
  • Redlands Community Hospital
  • Community Hospital of San Bernardino
  • Riverside Community Hospital
  • Mountains Community Hospital

If you receive treatment at any of these hospitals, keep your records. This includes discharge paperwork, prescriptions, imaging results, and receipts. These documents help prove your injuries and treatment costs when we build your claim.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW, we can help collect your medical records and handle the paperwork.

What to Expect When You Contact Our San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

From your first call to final resolution, Thompson Law takes care of every detail. Here’s what you can expect:

  • You’ll be assigned a dedicated case manager and attorney
  • We’ll explain your rights and help you understand your options
  • Our team will gather police reports, witness statements, and crash evidence
  • We request medical records, bills, and wage loss documents
  • If fault is disputed, we bring in experts to analyze what really happened
  • You’ll get regular updates and can reach out anytime with questions
  • If a lawsuit is needed, we’ll prepare everything, including what to expect if you need to appear
  • We negotiate liens so you keep more of your settlement
  • We provide a realistic timeline based on your case type and injury severity

You don’t have to gather every document right away. We’ll help with that too.

Call our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW, it’s fast, easy, and pressure-free.

Let’s Talk About Your Case. Your Consultation Is Free and Confidential

When you’ve been hit by a vehicle, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. But getting help doesn’t have to be. At Thompson Law, your first consultation is always free, and it stays completely confidential.

You don’t need to have all the answers or paperwork ready. Just tell us what happened. We’ll listen, offer guidance, and explain what your next steps might look like.

If you have a case, we’ll get to work right away. And remember, you won’t pay anything unless we win for you.

Contact our San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyers now for a FREE, NO-PRESSURE CONSULTATION. We’re here to help.

 

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FAQs About Pedestrian Accident Cases in San Bernardino

What if I was hit outside of a crosswalk?

You may still have a case. While crosswalks offer stronger legal protection, California law still requires drivers to use caution and avoid hitting pedestrians, even outside of crosswalks. Your case will depend on the details.

Can I still file a claim if I didn’t report the accident right away?

Yes. While it’s best to report a crash as soon as possible, you can still file a claim later. Just keep in mind that the longer you wait, the harder it may be to collect evidence. A lawyer can help you take the right steps now.

What should I do if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

You may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage, or other sources. We can help explore all available options, even if the driver fled or had no insurance.

How long does a pedestrian accident case usually take to settle?

It depends on the injury, the evidence, and how cooperative the insurance company is. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take a year or more, especially if a lawsuit is needed. We’ll give you a clear idea once we review your case.

Can I file a claim on behalf of a child or senior who was hit?

Yes. If your child or an elderly family member was injured or killed in a pedestrian crash, you may be able to file a claim on their behalf. We handle wrongful death and legal guardian cases with the care and experience they deserve.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.