Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is known for its weather, festivals and sporting events. With millions of visitors and a growing local population, the city’s streets are bustling. But if you’re trying to cross N. Palm Canyon Dr. on a busy Saturday night or the intersection of Ramon Rd. and S. Sunrise Way, you’ll see that it can be dangerous to walk in Palm Springs.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), it was ranked fourth among similarly sized cities for pedestrians over 65 injured and killed in accidents in 2021. And the city ranks second overall for accidents caused by drunk driving.

If you or a loved one were seriously injured in a pedestrian accident in Palm Springs, you need an experienced personal injury attorney by your side. The Dominguez Firm has over 30 years of experience helping pedestrian accident victims put their lives back together again and we can do the same for you. Call us for a free consultation today at (800) 818-1818.

This guide will help you understand why hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer in Palm Springs is crucial, as well as the steps you should take following an accident.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Palm Springs

Pedestrian accidents can be life-altering, leading to severe injuries and long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Unfortunately, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in a crash with a vehicle.

If you were hit by a vehicle in Palm Springs, you’ve likely suffered serious injuries. The last thing you need is to deal with an insurance company adjuster. Despite the extent of your injuries, the insurance company will probably make you a lowball offer which won’t cover the full extent of your damages. Hiring an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected, and you get the compensation needed to recover.

Understanding the High Number of Traffic Accidents in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a hub for visitors from around the world. This increase in foot traffic, combined with a high volume of cars, creates an environment ripe for accidents.

Key factors contributing to pedestrian accidents in Palm Springs include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers often fail to notice pedestrians due to distractions like smartphones.
• Driving under the influence: Palm Springs is known for its vibrant nightlife, which unfortunately leads to accidents caused by impaired drivers.
• An elderly population: There is a significant senior citizen population throughout the Coachella Valley. Slower reaction times and weaker vision can lead to potentially lethal pedestrian accidents.
• Tourist activity: Tourists unfamiliar with the local roads may not always adhere to traffic signals or pedestrian right-of-way laws.
• Speeding: Many drivers exceed speed limits, especially in areas where they may not expect heavy pedestrian traffic.

The Devastating Effects of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can lead to life-changing injuries. The impact between a vehicle and an unprotected pedestrian often results in serious and even permanent consequences, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations and bruising

These injuries can leave victims facing lengthy recoveries, permanent disabilities, and steep medical costs. Beyond the physical trauma, many pedestrians suffer emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.

Types of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents come in many forms, but some of the most common types include:

Crosswalk Accidents

Crosswalks are designed to provide pedestrians with a safe place to cross the road. However, drivers don’t always respect these boundaries. Failure to yield the right of way, speeding, or turning right without looking can lead to terrible accidents, even when a pedestrian is legally in a crosswalk.

Car Accidents Involving Pedestrians

In many cases, pedestrian accidents occur outside designated crosswalk areas. Whether it’s a person walking along the side of the road or crossing between parked cars, the risk of being hit by a vehicle remains high. These accidents can occur suddenly, leaving little time for a pedestrian to react and avoid harm.

Accidents With Other Modes of Transportation

The popularity of e-scooters, motorcycles and e-bikes adds another layer of danger for pedestrians. Even an accident between a traditional bicycle and a pedestrian in Palm Springs can cause devastating injuries.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one suffered a pedestrian accident in Palm Springs, there are several key steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but could become serious later on. 

Document the Accident Scene

If you’re physically able, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicle involved, your injuries, and any relevant road signs or signals. This documentation can be invaluable when building your case.

Gather Evidence

Beyond photos, try to gather contact information from any witnesses. Their statements can help corroborate your version of events. Additionally, obtain a copy of the police report. It provides an official record of the accident.

Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Before doing anything else, reach out to a qualified pedestrian accident lawyer. At The Dominguez Firm, we offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options. Once you become our client, our litigation attorneys will guide you through the entire claims process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.

The Benefits of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accident cases can be complicated, especially when proving fault and negotiating with insurance companies. A skilled pedestrian accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of receiving the compensation you need and deserve.

Legal Guidance and Support

Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, particularly when you’re recovering from a serious accident. A pedestrian accident lawyer provides the knowledge and experience necessary to handle the legal complexities of your case, from filing claims to ensuring all legal deadlines are met.

Maximizing Compensation

Without an attorney, you might accept a settlement for far less than you’re entitled to. The Dominguez Firm’s experienced lawyers will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation, factoring in all current and future medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing payouts, often using tactics like shifting blame or downplaying the severity of injuries. Your lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring they can’t take advantage of you and that any settlement offer reflects the true value of your claim.

Representing Your Best Interests in Court

While most cases settle out of court, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can take your case to trial. At The Dominguez Firm, our attorneys are skilled litigators with extensive courtroom experience, ready to fight for your rights before a judge and jury if necessary.

What if I Was Partially at Fault for My Pedestrian Accident?

California follows what’s known as a comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. Our attorneys will fight to ensure that your level of fault, if any, is assessed fairly and that you aren’t unjustly blamed for the accident.

If the court finds you share some of the responsibility for your pedestrian accident, that percentage will be determined and subtracted from your total settlement or verdict amount. For example, if you are awarded $1.5 million and are found to be 20% at fault for your injuries, you would receive $1.2 million ($1.5 million – 20%/$300,000 = $1.2 million).

How The Dominguez Firm Can Help You

The Dominguez Firm has over 30 years of experience representing accident victims across Southern California. We understand the unique challenges pedestrian accident cases present and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Experience and Knowledge in Handling Pedestrian Accident Cases

Our attorneys have successfully handled numerous pedestrian accident cases, giving us the insight and experience needed to navigate the complexities of these claims. We understand the tactics used by insurance companies and are well-versed in California’s pedestrian laws.

Helping Victims Seek Rightful Compensation

We know that every pedestrian accident is different, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. Our team will carefully review your case, gather evidence, and consult with medical experts to build a strong claim on your behalf.

Waiting Can Hurt Your Palm Springs Pedestrian Accident Claim

In California, there are strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a pedestrian accident claim. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file. If your accident was with a government vehicle, you only have six months to do so.

However, waiting can seriously hurt your case. If you wait, weeks or even days to contact us, vital evidence can be lost. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Palm Springs, don’t wait! Call us immediately. 
The personal injury attorneys at The Dominguez Firm are here to provide you with the legal representation and support you need during this difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation at (800) 818-1818.  Let us fight to get you the compensation you deserve!