Moreno Valley Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Why Empire Accident Attorneys Is the Best Option for You

Empire Accident Attorneys is the leading personal injury law firm serving Moreno Valley, Riverside County, and the Inland Empire. We dedicate our lives to serving accident victims in areas including pedestrian accidents, motorcycle accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, and rideshare accidents.

After such a traumatic event, no one should have to suffer the burden of financial stress on top of physical injuries. We firmly believe victims need to be sufficiently compensated from the liable party in order to heal and reclaim their livelihood.

As part of our mission to help victims in their time of need, our law office only operates on a contingency-fee-basis. Therefore, until we win your case and you are compensated, our services are not billed. Our legal team is always available to discuss your case and explain the next steps at no additional cost. Contact one of our Moreno Valley pedestrian accident lawyers and schedule a free case evaluation to get started.

Benefits of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Attorney

In situations where a motor vehicle collides with a pedestrian, there is never one course of action. Factors such as local road laws, insurance companies, and the severity of the injuries can all factor into the end result. Not to mention the other party might have a different idea of what happened during the accident. 

This is why it is absolutely necessary to hire a pedestrian accident attorney. Only an experienced attorney specializing in personal injury will be able to thoroughly investigate your case and build a strong claim. Without legal representation, the road to compensation can be a long and empty one.

From the moment you pick up the phone and call us, we will begin an investigation of your case and gather all the required evidence and documentation. You will feel a sense of relief knowing you have an experienced and dedicated legal team on your side during this difficult time. We will communicate with you every step of the way, letting you know important deadlines and other pertinent information. Most of all, we will work to gather all the information for you so you can remain at home and focus on your recovery. 

Why Empire Accident Attorneys

Here are more reasons you should hire Empire Accident Attorneys to represent you:

1. We will conduct a meticulous investigation and gather all evidence such as witness statements to build a solid case that proves the motorist is at fault.
2. We will never settle for less than your case is worth. We will negotiate tirelessly with the insurance company until we agree on a fair settlement.
3. If the insurance company isn’t willing to negotiate, we will take your case to court and represent you. Our attorneys have trial experience and are ready to fight on your behalf.
4. We will be available 24/7 to answer all of your questions and concerns.

After you have sought medical treatment and filed a report with the police, contact our pedestrian accident lawyers in Moreno Valley to begin your claim.

How Much Is a Pedestrian Injury Claim Worth?

There is no magic calculator to determine the value of your case, and you should steer clear of any law firm promising a settlement amount. At Empire Accident Attorneys, our dedicated team will speak with you about the details from your case so that we can provide you with a more accurate estimate, rather than an empty promise. 

In most personal injury claims, victims can recover two types of losses, also known as damages. These include economic (monetary) damages and non-economic (non-monetary) damages. Common damages our attorneys can seek include:

• Past and future medical expenses, including hospital bills
• Loss of wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Loss of quality of life
• Physical therapy
• Emotional distress

Again, each case is different. The severity of your injuries and the lost income will factor into the total dollar amount of your claim. According to Section 335.1 of California’s Code of Civil Procedure, victims of pedestrian and car accidents have two years after their accident to file a personal injury claim under the statute of limitations. It’s important to speak with a Southern California personal injury attorney as soon as possible to start the claims process so you do not miss important deadlines. 

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Moreno Valley

What happens when an innocent stroll turns into a terrifying incident involving a motor vehicle? In 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed in auto accidents in the U.S., accounting for 25% of the total traffic-related fatalities.

According to crash data conducted by UC Berkeley, from 2017 to 2021, there were 2,369 pedestrian crashes reported in Riverside County. Of those accidents, 369 pedestrians were killed. While details are not given, it is safe to assume that many of these accidents were caused by distracted drivers who failed to see pedestrians. Sadly, many of these tragedies could have been avoided if the driver had been more alert. The following are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Moreno Valley, CA:

Distracted driving: Whether texting a friend or changing the radio station, distracted drivers pose a risk of severe injuries for pedestrians.

Reckless driving: Drivers who do not follow speed limits, who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or who are extremely tired put everyone, including themselves, at danger.  Reckless driving leads to less of a reaction time and a higher chance of a crash.

Failure to acknowledge the right of way: In many cases, drivers will fail to give a pedestrian the right of way at a crosswalk or intersection, leading to major physical harm. 

Failure to signal before turning: When a driver doesn’t signal when turning, a pedestrian might mistake their action and then become involved in an accident. 

Poor visibility: Pedestrians walking or running at night or in bad weather face a far greater risk of being struck by a vehicle due to poor visibility. It is recommended that pedestrians wear reflective or bright clothing and stay on sidewalks. 

Backing up: A major cause of pedestrian accidents is when drivers fail to look before they back up. This is especially dangerous in neighborhoods and schools where children may be playing. Moreno Valley has provided this useful map of safe walking routes to schools in the city.

Determining Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Case

You may be wondering, “Who is held liable in a pedestrian accident?” In order to file a successful pedestrian accident claim in California, you must prove liability. To prove the driver was at fault in a personal injury case, you should be ready to demonstrate these four elements:

1. Duty of care: Every driver has a duty of care to respect road laws and drive safely. You must prove the driver in the accident had a duty of care.
2. Breach of duty: You must prove the driver breached their duty of care by speeding, failing to yield, ignoring traffic signals, etc.
3. Causation: You must prove that the at-fault driver caused the accident and your injuries. You must provide medical records showing the accident caused your injuries.
4. Damages: You must show you suffered losses, like loss of income and medical expenses, due to the negligent driver who caused the accident. 

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

When a motor vehicle is involved in an accident with a pedestrian, the injuries are often serious. The severity of the injuries will depend on various factors including the speed of the vehicle and the point of impact. Oftentimes, it can take months or even years to regain strength after an accident, and extensive surgeries and physical therapy may be required. If you were seriously injured in a Moreno Valley pedestrian accident, you need to seek legal help to recover losses and gain compensation for your injuries.

Examples of Common Injuries

The following are some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries in Moreno Valley:

• Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are commonly caused by a blow or violent jolt to the head. They are categorized into mild TBI/concussions, moderate TBI, and severe TBI.
• Broken/fractured bones: A broken bone can range from mild to severe, depending on which bone was fractured and where the fracture is. Fractures to the spine are the most serious and can result in paralysis. 
• Neck and back injuries: Whiplash and disc injuries are common neck and back injuries that can require extensive treatment and physical therapy.
• Soft tissue damage: When a pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle, it will undoubtedly cause lacerations, bruises, tears, sprains, and contusions. 
• Emotional trauma:  Mental injury is just as serious as physical injury. Anxiety, depression, and lack of sleep can all follow a traumatic event like a pedestrian accident.
• Wrongful death: In the worst cases, some injuries are too severe. If your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, you can file a wrongful death lawsuit.

What to Do After a Moreno Valley Pedestrian Accident

Get Medical Attention

A crucial first step after an accident is seeking immediate medical care. Only a licensed doctor will be able to examine you and determine your injuries. You must provide medical records in a personal injury claim, so keep those in a safe place.

File a Police Report

Most likely the accident victim or a witness will call the police immediately to the scene of the car accident. The responding officer will create a report detailing the facts of the accident, and who they believe is at fault. Make sure you or an accident attorney obtains a copy of the report.

Do Not Discuss Fault

Discussing who is at fault can hurt your case, because you may make a statement that implies you were the negligent party and caused the crash. Therefore, it is highly advised not to discuss this with anyone other than a lawyer.

Retain Photos and Documents

If you can, take photos or videos of the accident and your injuries. You should also retain medical reports/expenses and a police report following your accident so the legal team can build a strong case.

Seek Legal Advice

Having the support of pedestrian accident lawyers will give your claim substance and credibility. Before you speak with an insurance company, be sure to contact a personal injury lawyer who can represent you and have your best interests in mind.