Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Protecting the Rights of Injured Pedestrians
Legal review by Frank D. Penney, founding attorney · Last updated
Dedicated Advocates for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Without the protection of a vehicle, a collision — even at low speeds — can cause catastrophic or fatal injuries. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle while walking, crossing the street, or jogging, you deserve an experienced legal team that will fight for the full compensation you're owed.
At Frank Penney Injury Law, we've recovered over $1 billion for our clients and have more than 30 years of experience holding negligent drivers and property owners accountable. Our pedestrian accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases present and are ready to fight for you.
What Is My Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
Get an instant, no-obligation estimate of your accident case value, then call (888) 888-0566 for a free, personalized review.
Disclaimer: The estimate provided by this calculator is based on general statistical data and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Case values vary significantly based on individual facts and circumstances. This tool does not create an attorney-client relationship. For a personalized assessment, call us at (888) 888-0566 or submit a free consultation request.
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Results That Speak for Themselves
Over $1 billion recovered for injury victims across California. A sample of our case results:
$10.5M
Wrongful Death
$4.5M
Motorcycle Accident
$3.4M
Truck Accident
$2.41M
Auto Accident
$1.2M
Pedestrian Accident
Any case results shown represent individual experiences and outcomes. These results are not a guarantee or prediction of the outcome of your case. Individual results may vary based on the unique circumstances of each case. See full disclaimer.
Types of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle
Pedestrian accidents can happen in a variety of situations. Our attorneys have experience with all types of pedestrian collision cases.
Crosswalk Accidents
Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Intersection Accidents
Collisions at intersections caused by drivers running red lights or making illegal turns.
Backing-Up Accidents
Drivers reversing in parking lots, driveways, or residential areas without checking for pedestrians.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Drivers who flee the scene after striking a pedestrian, leaving victims without immediate help.
Distracted Driving
Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted when they strike a pedestrian.
DUI Accidents
Intoxicated drivers whose impaired judgment and reaction time endanger pedestrians.
Left & Right Turn Accidents
Drivers making turns who fail to check for pedestrians in the crosswalk or shoulder.
Highway & Shoulder Accidents
Pedestrians struck on highway shoulders, road edges, or in construction zones.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Because pedestrians have no protection in a collision, injuries are often severe and life-altering. We fight to ensure every injury is fully compensated.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head trauma from impact with a vehicle or the pavement. Even "mild" concussions can cause lasting cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms that affect every area of life.
Spinal Cord & Back Injuries
Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and spinal cord damage that can result in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and the need for lifelong medical care.
Broken Bones & Fractures
Legs, hips, pelvis, arms, and ribs are frequently fractured in pedestrian collisions. Compound fractures may require multiple surgeries and extended rehabilitation.
Internal Organ Damage
The force of impact can cause internal bleeding, organ lacerations, and other life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent after the accident.
Soft Tissue & Road Rash
Deep lacerations, abrasions, torn ligaments, and severe road rash that can lead to permanent scarring, disfigurement, and infection complications.
Emotional & Psychological Harm
PTSD, anxiety, depression, and fear of walking near traffic are common after pedestrian accidents. These non-physical injuries are fully compensable under California law.
California Pedestrian Laws
California law provides significant protections for pedestrians. Understanding these laws is critical to building a strong case after an accident.
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CVC §21950 — Right-of-Way in Crosswalks
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Failure to do so is a traffic violation that establishes negligence. -
CVC §21954 — Pedestrians Outside Crosswalks
Pedestrians outside a crosswalk must yield to vehicles, but drivers must still exercise due care to avoid hitting any pedestrian on the roadway. -
CVC §21949 — Due Care for Pedestrian Safety
California law declares that the safety of pedestrians is a matter of statewide concern, and all levels of government must provide for pedestrian safety.
What If You Were Partially At Fault?
California uses a pure comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident — your award is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example:
If your damages total $200,000 and you are found 15% at fault (e.g., for jaywalking), you would still recover $170,000.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto pedestrians. Our attorneys counter these tactics with thorough evidence and expert testimony.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you've been hit by a vehicle, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case.
Seek Medical Attention
Get medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries don't show symptoms right away, and medical records are critical evidence.
Document the Scene
If you're able, take photos of the scene, the vehicle, your injuries, and any traffic signals or crosswalk markings. Get the driver's information and witness contacts.
Don't Give Statements
Do not give recorded statements to the driver's insurance company. Anything you say can be used to minimize or deny your claim.
Contact an Attorney
Reach out to a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal representation protects your rights and preserves crucial evidence.
Why Choose Frank Penney Injury Law
When you've been injured as a pedestrian, you need a law firm with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for maximum compensation.
Proven Track Record
With over $1 billion recovered for our clients, we have the experience and results to back up our reputation. We've helped numerous pedestrian accident victims secure life-changing compensation.
No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs and only get paid when you receive compensation.
Medical Expert Network
We work with leading medical specialists who can accurately diagnose, document, and testify about the full extent of your pedestrian accident injuries.
Compassionate Support
We understand the physical and emotional toll pedestrian accidents take on victims and families. Our team provides compassionate support throughout the legal process.
Aggressive Negotiation
Insurance companies know we're willing to take cases to trial. This leverage helps us negotiate maximum settlements for our clients without unnecessary delays.
Local Expertise
With offices and service areas across California, we know the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters. This local knowledge gives our pedestrian accident clients a strategic advantage.
California Pedestrian Accident Law: What You Need to Know
California law protects pedestrians, but the rules cut both ways. Here is what matters most.
Two-Year Filing Deadline
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit (as little as six months if a government entity is involved).
Crosswalk Right-of-Way
Under California Vehicle Code § 21950, drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks. Pedestrians also have duties — they cannot suddenly leave a curb into traffic (Vehicle Code § 21950(b)).
Comparative Negligence & Coverage
California's pure comparative negligence rule lets you recover even if you were partly at fault — for example, if you crossed mid-block. The driver's auto insurance usually pays, and your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can apply in a hit-and-run.
Not sure what your claim could be worth? Try our case value calculator, read the latest California accident news, or explore our injury law blog. We serve pedestrians in Sacramento, Roseville, Oakland, and across Northern California.
Pedestrian Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?
In California you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). If a government vehicle or agency is involved, you may have as little as six months to file a claim, so it is important to speak with an attorney quickly.
Who has the right of way in a crosswalk in California?
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks under California Vehicle Code § 21950. Pedestrians still have a duty not to leave a curb suddenly into the path of a vehicle that is close enough to be a hazard.
Can I still recover if I was jaywalking or crossing mid-block?
Often, yes. California's pure comparative negligence rule means you can recover even if you were partly at fault; your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault rather than barred entirely.
How much does it cost to hire Frank Penney Injury Law for a pedestrian accident case?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. The initial consultation is always free.
What Our Clients Say
Real five-star reviews from clients on our Google Business Profile.
Was involved in a car accident not my fault and I called Penney and they got me in right away. Josh my lawyer at Frank Penney fought hard for me. They were able to get me 5 times the settlement originally offered by State Farm. Couldn't be happier.
I was assigned to Mark McCauley and have been impressed with his work-ethic and caring demeanor since our very first meeting. Over the last 18 months, I have had extensive treatment all because Mark was willing to push even when my insurance company resisted. I will continue to recommend Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to anyone that is in need of an exemplary attorney.
If you have been in an auto accident, seek out Frank Penney Injury Lawyers. They are the best at what they do. A very special thanks to Joshua Boyce — my guiding star, the man in my corner, and an incredible and caring human being.
My case was a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle and car — I broke my femur. In the end, the opposing party was negligent and I won the case and earned the maximum settlement offered by the opposing insurance company. Stop looking around and choose Frank Penney Injury Lawyers.
I feel so blessed to have had Frank Penney Injury Lawyers represent me after I was injured in an auto accident. I was a victim of a hit and run and I am so thankful I found them to help. My attorney, Mark, was so responsive and made sure I received updates on my claim.
From the very beginning, the team was professional, compassionate, and always made me feel like a priority. Frank and his staff truly cared about my recovery and worked hard to make sure I received a fair settlement. I'm so grateful for their dedication and highly recommend them to anyone in need of a reliable and trustworthy personal injury lawyer!
Working with Frank Penney as my personal injury attorney has been an amazing experience. He's dedicated and fights hard for his clients. I would highly recommend Frank Penney Injury Lawyers and his team to anyone needing a trustworthy and powerful firm.
Mark McCauley was just astounding. He fought hard for me and my settlement was more than I thought possible. If you are looking for a personal injury attorney, make them your first call.
I can't say enough about Frank Penney Injury Lawyers and all the hard work they put into winning my case. I am very impressed on how they got such a great settlement for me and my daughter. They will be my personal injury lawyer for life.
Frank Penney and his team seriously came through for me. I got rear ended on the freeway, and had no idea what to do next. They handled everything — paperwork, calls, negotiations — and when the settlement hit, I was astonished.
While stopped at a red light, a very high speed motorcycle went into the back of my car, completely totaling my vehicle and creating significant injuries for me. From the very first call to Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, I felt sympathy, compassion and a desire to help me. I could not have asked for a better legal team in my corner.
After I was injured in a substantial rear-end collision, the other insurance company fought hard to avoid accepting responsibility — but James and Priscilla fought both harder and smarter on my behalf. I was shocked when my case ultimately went all the way to trial, but James delivered a solid victory — a victory that not only met but exceeded our last demand.
Joshua, at Frank Penny Injury Lawyers, handled my very complex injury case as if I was part of their family. His dedication and thoroughness resulted in a settlement that will help me overcome the injuries and complications I had suffered. Thanks again, Frank Penney and Staff.
I was in a car accident and rear ended. My chiropractor actually referred me to Frank Penney! They lined me up with the medical help I needed and negotiated a great settlement for me in a timely manner. Highly recommended.
Me and my husband got into a car accident back in October 2020. We went with Frank Penny Injury Lawyers because they're only the best around! We closed our case without having to go to court. Thank you Frank Penny Injury Lawyers — we were very pleased!
Testimonials reflect the individual experiences of past clients and are not a guarantee or prediction of the outcome of your case. See full disclaimer.
Struck by a Vehicle? Fight for the Compensation You Deserve.
Pedestrian accident victims face some of the most severe injuries on the road. Don't let insurance companies minimize your claim. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you.