Do I need a lawyer after a pedestrian accident in Cerritos?
If you were hit by a vehicle while walking in Cerritos, you likely need legal help. The driver's insurance company may contact you quickly, and their initial offer often does not cover all your medical bills, lost wages, or future needs.
What kinds of pedestrian accident cases do you handle?
We represent people injured in all types of pedestrian accidents. This includes incidents where a driver failed to yield, drove distractedly, ran a red light or stop sign, or otherwise operated their vehicle carelessly.
Pedestrian collisions can happen anywhere, from crosswalks to sidewalks, and often result in serious injuries. We focus on securing full compensation for your medical treatment, physical therapy, lost income, and the pain and disruption the accident caused.
Our work also extends to complex situations, like wrongful death claims arising from fatal pedestrian accidents in Cerritos. If a loved one died because of a driver's negligence, we can help surviving family members pursue justice. We also handle cases involving severe injuries, working to ensure victims of catastrophic injuries receive long-term care and financial support.
What should I do after a pedestrian accident?
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health is the first priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical record also provides documentation of your injuries.
- Report the Incident: Call 911 to ensure a police report is made. This report can be a key piece of evidence.
- Gather Information: If you can, get the driver's license plate number, insurance information, and contact details for any witnesses. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters: The driver's insurance company will likely call you. You do not have to give them a statement. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Before you sign anything or agree to a settlement, speak with a lawyer. A lawyer can protect your rights and handle communications with the insurance company.
Where in Los Angeles County will my claim be filed?
In Los Angeles County, a personal injury case is filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred. Your case will be assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department. For Cerritos, personal injury lawsuits are generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, at the Norwalk Courthouse, located at 12720 Norwalk Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim?
Most California personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, must be filed within two years of the injury (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). However, if your claim involves a city, county, or other public agency, you must present a written claim to that entity within six months of the incident (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2). Missing this shorter deadline can prevent you from filing a lawsuit later.
The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352). However, that pause does not apply to claims against public entities. If a public entity is involved, a minor still faces the six-month deadline to present a claim.
Under California law, you can seek recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic harm such as pain and suffering. A lawyer can help you determine the specific deadlines for your situation and pursue the full compensation available under California law.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
When you work with Casa Legal Los Angeles, we take over the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Our team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, obtains medical records, and handles all communication with insurance companies. We prepare your case for settlement negotiations or, if necessary, for trial.
Our focus is on pedestrian accident cases, ensuring we apply specific knowledge of California's traffic laws and pedestrian rights. We represent injured people not just in Cerritos but throughout Los Angeles, including Paramount, Pasadena, and Lawndale. For comprehensive information on personal injury law, visit our personal injury practice area hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the driver who hit me doesn't have insurance?
If the driver does not have insurance, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may cover your damages. UM coverage can pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses, up to your policy limits. An attorney can help you review your policy and file a claim with your own insurance company.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, you can still recover 80% of your total damages.
How long does a pedestrian accident case take to resolve in Cerritos?
The time it takes to resolve a pedestrian accident case varies widely. It depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the clarity of fault, and the willingness of the insurance company to settle. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others involving serious injuries or complex liability may take a year or more.
What if I was hit by a government vehicle in Cerritos?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, such as a city bus or a police car, specific rules apply. You must file a formal claim with the government entity within six months of the accident, as required by California Government Code § 911.2. This deadline is strict and exceptions are rare, even for minors.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Cerritos, call us today for a free consultation. You can reach Casa Legal Los Angeles at 888-585-2529. No attorney's fees or case costs unless we win.
This content is general legal information, not legal advice, and creates no attorney-client relationship. Deadlines have exceptions and must be confirmed with an attorney for your own facts.