Pomona Pedestrian Accident

Every day, people in Pomona walk to work, school, or run errands. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are all too common in our community. Whether it’s a busy intersection near Downtown Pomona, a crosswalk on Holt Avenue, or a neighborhood street, a careless driver can cause devastating injuries in a matter of seconds.

If you’ve been hit by a car while walking in Pomona, you need experienced legal help right away. The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker understands the challenges pedestrian accident victims face — from medical bills and lost income to dealing with insurance companies. We’re here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today at (310) 736-6869 or visit www.carcrashlawyercalifornia.com for your free, no-obligation consultation.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Are So Common in Pomona

Pedestrian accidents happen frequently in Pomona due to a combination of factors, including heavy traffic, busy intersections, and driver negligence. Understanding the root causes of these accidents is crucial for building a strong case and preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Distracted Drivers

Pomona’s busy streets are often filled with drivers who are texting, using apps, or otherwise distracted by their phones. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents nationwide. This dangerous behavior can divert a driver’s attention from crosswalks, stop signs, and traffic signals, leading to devastating collisions with pedestrians.

Speeding Vehicles

Speeding significantly increases the risk of pedestrian accidents, especially in residential neighborhoods and school zones. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that speeding is a major factor in pedestrian fatalities throughout the state. Faster vehicles have a longer stopping distance, giving drivers less time to react to pedestrians crossing the street.

The Dangers of High-Speed Collisions

High-speed crashes often result in more severe injuries or fatalities for pedestrians. Our legal team carefully examines the speed of the vehicle involved to determine whether speeding played a role in your accident.

Poorly Marked Crosswalks and Intersections

Pomona has many intersections that lack proper signage, signals, or well-marked crosswalks, increasing the danger for pedestrians. According to the California Department of Transportation, clear crosswalk markings and pedestrian signals are essential for pedestrian safety. Our attorneys investigate whether poor design or maintenance contributed to your accident.

Failure to Yield to Pedestrians

California law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. However, many drivers fail to follow this law, putting pedestrians at risk. The California Driver Handbook explains these requirements and serves as a crucial reference in proving liability.

Drunk or Drugged Driving

Impaired drivers are a major threat to pedestrians in Pomona. Alcohol and drugs can severely affect a driver’s ability to see, react, and make safe decisions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight the dangers of drunk driving and its contribution to pedestrian fatalities each year.

Unfamiliarity with Pomona’s Streets

Many drivers, especially those working for rideshare services or delivery companies, may be unfamiliar with local roads. They often rely heavily on GPS apps, leading to sudden stops, missed turns, and confusion at intersections. This unfamiliarity can contribute to accidents involving pedestrians.

Common Injuries in Pomona Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering disabilities. Understanding the types of injuries often sustained in these accidents can help you seek the right medical treatment and build a stronger legal case.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of pedestrian accidents. Even a seemingly minor impact can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI), leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of permanent disability.

Symptoms and Treatment

Symptoms of a TBI can include headaches, confusion, memory problems, and mood changes. Prompt medical evaluation and documentation of your symptoms are critical to ensure proper treatment and strengthen your legal claim.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Pedestrians struck by vehicles are at high risk of spinal cord injuries, which can cause partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifelong care. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, early intervention can improve outcomes and help patients regain some function.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken arms, legs, hips, and ribs are common in pedestrian accidents due to the impact of a vehicle or hitting the ground. These injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended time away from work. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers guidance on fracture care and rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

The force of a pedestrian accident can cause internal injuries, including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and chest or abdominal trauma. These injuries are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. The Mayo Clinic warns that internal injuries are not always visible, making prompt evaluation essential.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises may seem minor at first, but they can cause chronic pain and long-term disability if left untreated. According to the National Institutes of Health, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a full recovery.

Psychological Trauma

In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accidents often cause significant emotional distress. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disturbances. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of PTSD in the United States.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Pomona

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take immediately can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. Here’s what you should do if you’re injured in a pedestrian accident in Pomona.

Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention

Your health and safety come first. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 for medical assistance. Even if you feel okay, some injuries may not show symptoms right away.

Why Immediate Medical Care Matters

Prompt medical evaluation not only ensures proper treatment but also creates a record of your injuries, which can be critical evidence in your legal case. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, early treatment reduces the risk of complications and long-term damage.

Report the Accident to the Police

Contact the Pomona Police Department or the California Highway Patrol to file an official report. A police report helps establish who was at fault and is an essential piece of evidence when pursuing compensation.

Information to Include

Be sure to provide details such as the driver’s name, license plate number, insurance information, and the exact location of the accident. The California Highway Patrol offers tips on what information should be included in an accident report.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If it’s safe, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicle that hit you, any visible injuries, and any other relevant details. Also, collect contact information from witnesses.

How Evidence Can Help

Photos and witness statements can be crucial in proving liability and the extent of your damages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stresses the importance of preserving evidence after an accident.

Notify the Driver’s Insurance Company

If you can, get the driver’s insurance information and report the accident to their insurer. Be factual and avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

Why Reporting is Important

Promptly notifying the driver’s insurance company initiates the claims process. However, it’s important to consult an attorney before accepting any settlement offers.

Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents often involve complex liability issues and multiple insurance policies. An experienced attorney can protect your rights, investigate the accident, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How Our Legal Team Can Help

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we have decades of experience handling pedestrian accident cases in Pomona. We understand the challenges victims face and are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve. 

Call us at (310) 736-6869 or visit www.carcrashlawyercalifornia.com to schedule your free consultation.

Types of Compensation Available After a Pedestrian Accident in Pomona

A pedestrian accident can result in significant financial and emotional burdens. Fortunately, California law allows victims to seek compensation for a wide range of damages, helping them rebuild their lives after a crash. Here’s what you may be entitled to recover.

Medical Expenses

Pedestrian accident victims often face high medical bills, from emergency room visits to surgeries and ongoing treatments. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, medical costs can quickly escalate, especially for serious injuries. Our legal team ensures that every dollar you spend on medical care is included in your claim.

Future Medical Care

Some injuries require long-term medical treatment, such as physical therapy, rehabilitation, or even home health care. We work with medical experts to estimate future costs and include them in your compensation demand.

Lost Wages and Income

If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost wages and any income you would have earned during your recovery. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that California’s average weekly wages are among the highest in the nation, so even a few weeks off work can have a significant financial impact.

Loss of Earning Capacity

Serious injuries can permanently affect your ability to work, requiring you to reduce hours, change jobs, or even stop working altogether. The Social Security Administration outlines how permanent disabilities can impact earning potential. Our attorneys work with vocational experts and economists to ensure you’re fully compensated for future lost income.

Pain and Suffering

Physical pain, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life are all compensable under California law. The American Academy of Pain Medicine notes that chronic pain can affect every aspect of a person’s life, making it crucial to include these damages in your claim.

Psychological Trauma

Accidents can leave victims with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of PTSD in the United States. We ensure that the emotional impact of your injuries is fully accounted for in your claim.

Property Damage

If your personal belongings, such as a bicycle, cell phone, or other items, were damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repairs or replacement. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommends documenting property damage to support your claim.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, such as drunk driving or hit-and-run accidents, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Under California Civil Code Section 3294, punitive damages may apply when a defendant’s actions are especially reckless or harmful.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Pomona

Taking the right steps immediately after a pedestrian accident can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. Here’s what to do if you’re hit by a vehicle in Pomona.

Prioritize Your Safety and Get Medical Help

Your health and safety should be your first priority. Move to a safe location, if possible, and call 911 for medical assistance. Even if you feel okay, some injuries, like head injuries or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.

The Importance of Prompt Medical Care

Seeing a doctor as soon as possible not only ensures that injuries are treated but also creates a medical record that can be vital for your case. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stresses that early treatment reduces the risk of complications and can improve your long-term prognosis.

Report the Accident to the Police

Call the Pomona Police Department or the California Highway Patrol to report the accident. A police report helps establish fault and provides an important record of the incident.

Key Information to Include

Make sure to provide details like the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and a description of the accident. The California Highway Patrol has guidelines on how to file an accurate report.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicle involved, any visible injuries, and street conditions. Collect contact information from any witnesses.

Why Evidence Matters

Photos, witness statements, and other evidence can be critical in proving liability and the extent of your damages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends gathering this information as soon as possible to preserve it for your case.

Notify the Driver’s Insurance Company

If you can, get the driver’s insurance information and notify them of the accident. Be factual and avoid admitting fault. Keep the conversation brief and factual.

When to Contact a Lawyer

It’s best to speak with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers from the insurance company. They often try to minimize payouts, so having legal representation ensures that your rights are protected.

Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accident claims can be complex, involving multiple parties and different insurance policies. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, collect evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

How The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker Can Help

Our legal team has decades of experience representing pedestrian accident victims in Pomona. We fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. 

Contact us at (888) 888-8888 or visit www.carcrashlawyercalifornia.com to schedule a free consultation.

Preventing Pedestrian Accidents in Pomona

Pedestrian accidents remain a serious problem in Pomona, but many can be prevented with increased awareness, better infrastructure, and proactive safety measures. Understanding how accidents happen and what can be done to reduce them is key to protecting our community.

Community Education and Awareness

Education is one of the most effective tools for preventing pedestrian accidents. By raising awareness among drivers and pedestrians alike, we can reduce risky behaviors that often lead to collisions. The California Office of Traffic Safety emphasizes the importance of public awareness campaigns to promote safe driving and walking habits.

Tips for Pedestrians

Pedestrians can lower their risk of being hit by making sure they always use designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals. Crossing at marked crosswalks ensures drivers are more likely to see you and yield the right of way. Additionally, pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to confirm that the driver sees them and is prepared to stop. Wearing bright or reflective clothing at night is another crucial step, as it makes you more visible to drivers in low-light conditions. Finally, avoiding distractions like phones and headphones while walking is essential for staying alert and aware of your surroundings.

Improved Crosswalks and Sidewalks

Well-maintained crosswalks and sidewalks play a crucial role in pedestrian safety. Cracked sidewalks, faded crosswalks, and poorly lit intersections can all contribute to accidents. According to the California Department of Transportation, local governments must maintain safe walking infrastructure to protect pedestrians.

The Role of Local Governments

The City of Pomona can help prevent accidents by installing better lighting at intersections to make pedestrians more visible at night. Adding raised crosswalks and pedestrian islands can slow down traffic and provide safe refuge areas for people crossing busy streets. Implementing traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps and narrowed lanes, can reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety in residential areas. Regular maintenance of sidewalks and crosswalk markings is also essential to keep them visible and in good condition for pedestrians.

Holding Drivers Accountable

Drivers must also do their part to prevent pedestrian accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration urges drivers to slow down when driving through residential areas and near schools, where pedestrians are more likely to be crossing the street. Drivers should remain alert for pedestrians at all times, especially at night when visibility is reduced. Avoiding distractions like texting or using GPS devices while driving is critical for safe driving. Finally, drivers should never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as impairment can lead to devastating accidents and severe injuries.

Enforcement of Traffic Laws

Strong enforcement of traffic laws by the Pomona Police Department can deter dangerous driving behaviors. Regular patrols and the use of traffic cameras in high-risk areas are effective tools to catch drivers who violate speed limits or fail to yield to pedestrians. Targeted enforcement efforts, especially in school zones and high-traffic intersections, can significantly reduce the number of pedestrian accidents and save lives.

Rideshare and Delivery Drivers

With the rise of rideshare and delivery services in Pomona, drivers who are unfamiliar with the area often rely heavily on GPS for navigation. This reliance can lead to sudden stops or turns, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration highlights that proper driver training and accountability are essential for preventing these types of accidents.

Safety Measures for Professional Drivers

Companies like Uber, Lyft, and delivery services can help prevent pedestrian accidents by implementing driver training programs that focus on local traffic laws and safe driving practices. Encouraging drivers to slow down when entering residential areas can reduce the risk of pedestrian injuries. Reminding drivers to stay alert and watch for pedestrians, especially in busy areas and near schools, is also crucial for improving safety on Pomona’s streets.

Speak With a Pomona Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Pomona, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies’ tactics can quickly become overwhelming. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we’re here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Our team has decades of experience handling pedestrian accident cases in Pomona and throughout California. We know how to gather crucial evidence, prove liability, and hold every responsible party accountable. Let us focus on winning justice for you while you focus on your recovery.

Call us today at (310) 736-6869 or visit www.carcrashlawyercalifornia.com to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.