Oakland Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Oakland Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Walking is a popular way to get around Oakland–especially during the warmer summer months when the city streets are bustling with tourists and residents. However, walking around the city has proven dangerous with over 300 annual Oakland pedestrian accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an Oakland pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation. Our experienced team of Oakland pedestrian accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your accident and work hard to build your case and help you get the best result possible.

Do I Need an Attorney After an Oakland Pedestrian Accident?

After a pedestrian accident, our team of accident lawyers in California at The Barnes Firm are here to help you get the best results possible. No matter the type of pedestrian accident or severity of your injuries, our team of experienced Oakland pedestrian accident lawyers will work to help you every step of the way. When you hire The Barnes Firm, our Oakland pedestrian accident attorneys will:

• Evaluate your case for FREE and answer any questions you may have.
• Assist you in filing a pedestrian accident claim.
• Investigate and review the circumstances surrounding and leading up to your accident.
• Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Prepare and take your case to trial, if necessary.

Above all else, our dedicated Oakland pedestrian accident attorneys will help you navigate the legal process every step of the way. At The Barnes Firm, we understand how painful and traumatic a pedestrian accident can be for the victim and their family, which is why we will fight hard against the insurance company to help you get the best result possible. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation and see what your case is really worth.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Often, the cause of a pedestrian accident can be traced back to negligent drivers and motorists. The most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Oakland are:

1. Failure to Yield Right of Way to Pedestrians. Motorists should prioritize the safety of pedestrians by yielding to them at intersections or marked crosswalks, even without a traffic signal present. Pedestrians have the right of way when the traffic signal displays a “WALK” signal or a walking person symbol. Pedestrians should also exercise caution and not step out in front of a vehicle that is too close to yield. Crossing during a “DON’T WALK” signal or solid hand is also prohibited.
2. Distracted Driving. Interacting with passengers, using mobile phones to talk, text and video call, or music can lead to veering off the road and into pedestrians
3. Aggressive Driving. Speeding, neglecting blind spots, or running red lights and stop signs pose a significant risk to pedestrians and other motorists.
4. Unsafe Backing Up. A motorist’s failure to check behind them before backing up can put pedestrians at risk for being struck by a motor vehicle. Drivers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings to prevent accidents while backing up their vehicle.
5. Unsafe or Illegal Turns at Intersections. Impatient drivers often make unsafe or illegal turns at intersections, disregarding the right of way of pedestrians. Such actions can result in collisions with pedestrians who have the legal right of way.
6. Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Driving while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs significantly reduces reaction time and impairs judgment. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by impaired drivers due to their smaller profile and decreased ability to respond quickly. Never get behind the wheel if you are intoxicated. If you notice someone else driving erratically, report them to your local authorities immediately.
7. Road Hazards. Road hazards, such as cracked sidewalks, potholes, construction zones, improperly marked crosswalks, and defective signage, all contribute to pedestrian accidents.

Common Injuries Caused by Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents involving motor vehicles can result in minor to severe injuries. Our skilled team of Oakland pedestrian accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm understand the inherent dangers associated with such incidents. Over the years, we have effectively handled numerous cases involving a wide array of pedestrian injuries, including:

• Head injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Spine and back injuries
• Paralysis
• Amputations
• Wrongful death
• Internal organ damage
• And more…

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident and suffered an injury, seeking legal assistance from our experienced Oakland pedestrian accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm is crucial. Our team will provide the necessary guidance and support to navigate the complexities of your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 to speak with an Oakland pedestrian accident lawyer and find out what your case is really worth.

Pedestrian Rights in Oakland

Oakland pedestrians are protected by rights when walking. Despite these protections, negligent drivers still cause accidents. Some of the most important rights and protections that Oakland pedestrians have include:

• Right of Way at Crosswalks. Oakland pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the road at marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians and allow them to safely cross the street.
• Crossing at Intersections. Pedestrians have the right to cross the street at intersections, even if there is no marked crosswalk. Motorists must yield to pedestrians crossing at intersections.
• When Traffic Signals are Present. Adhering to traffic signal displays, such as a “WALK” signal or a walking person symbol, is both a pedestrian right and responsibility. Pedestrians are legally allowed to begin crossing the road during this signal phase. Additionally, if the signal changes to “DON’T WALK” or the hand signal starts flashing, pedestrians who have already started crossing the road have the right to complete their crossing safely.

What to Do if You Are Involved in a Pedestrian Accident

In the event of a pedestrian accident resulting in injuries to you or a loved one, prioritizing the well-being of everyone involved is most important.

• Begin by ensuring the safety of all individuals present.
• Alert authorities that the accident occurred.
• If you are in a stable condition, it is essential to document the accident scene. Take pictures and videos of:
  • those involved in the accident
  • injuries and damages sustained by you or other victims
  • the scene of the accident–including nearby traffic signage.
• If witnesses are present, gather their statements.
• Additionally, request a copy of the police report as soon as possible.
• Seek medical attention.

Who is Liable in an Oakland Pedestrian Accident?

In terms of liability, California follows comparative negligence protocol. This means that liability in a pedestrian accident case is determined by comparing the negligence of both the motorist(s) and the pedestrian(s) involved in the accident. Even if a pedestrian is partially liable, they may still seek compensation for their injuries. Some factors that contribute to determining liability in an Oakland pedestrian accident include:

• Evidence. Photo and video surveillance of the accident, eyewitness testimonies, and damaged property can all provide substantial evidence in determining the degree liability for all involved parties.
• If a worker was on the job when the accident occurred. If a negligent worker driving a company vehicle causes a pedestrian accident, liability for negligence may be imposed on both the driver and company.
• If the property where the accident occurred was poorly maintained. When an accident happens on a hazardous or inadequately maintained property, the property owner can bear liability for negligence, even if they were not directly involved in the incident. For instance, if a pedestrian accident occurs due to insufficient lighting in a parking lot at night, the property owner may be held accountable for negligent upkeep.

Remember, California’s statute of limitations, the law that sets the timeframe in which you can pursue legal action after a pedestrian accident, provides you with a two-year timeframe to file a lawsuit. That’s why if you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you shouldn’t hesitate to call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation. It could be the best call you make.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Pedestrian Accident?

After a pedestrian accident, the compensation you can recover depends on the severity of your accident and injuries. Our experienced Oakland pedestrian accident attorneys may be able to help you recover the following damages after a pedestrian accident:

• Lost wages
• Medical costs
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Lost future earnings
• And more…

Call The Barnes Firm Today For A Free Case Evaluation

Oakland pedestrians are entitled to safe crosswalks and walkways. It’s a shared responsibility between pedestrians and motorists to adhere to the traffic signals, signs, and laws that are in place. However, adhering to these can’t prevent negligent drivers from causing pedestrian accidents to happen.

At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced and dedicated Oakland pedestrian accident attorneys will work tirelessly to defend your rights and help secure the compensation you deserve. Call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation and find out what your case is really worth.

“We take great pride in bettering the commnuities we serve by helping clients acheve the best results possible.”

Rich Barnes

Founding Attorney

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