Do you need a lawyer after a Fullerton pedestrian accident?
If you were hit by a car while walking in Fullerton, a lawyer helps protect your rights and deals with the insurance companies. Insurance adjusters work to pay as little as possible, and you need someone on your side.
Your lawyer can gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and handle all communications, letting you focus on your recovery. The process of making a claim after a crash is complicated.
What kinds of pedestrian accident cases do we handle in Fullerton?
We represent people who have suffered serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle while walking or cycling in Fullerton. Pedestrian accidents often cause severe injuries because walkers have no protection against a moving car.
We handle cases where someone walking was hit by a distracted driver, a driver speeding, or a driver who failed to yield. Our experience covers all types of vehicle-pedestrian collisions, from crosswalk incidents to crashes involving drivers who ran red lights.
If a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, we also handle wrongful death claims in Fullerton. These claims help families recover financial stability after an unimaginable loss.
What should you do after a Fullerton pedestrian accident?
Your first priority is your health. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some serious injuries, like a traumatic brain injury, may not show symptoms right away.
If you can, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved. Get contact information from witnesses. Do not admit fault or give detailed statements to insurance companies without speaking to a lawyer first.
Keep records of all medical appointments, bills, and any communication you have with insurance adjusters. This documentation can become crucial evidence for your claim.
Where does a pedestrian accident claim get filed for Fullerton?
A personal injury claim from a Fullerton pedestrian accident is generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Orange. The courthouse where these cases are heard is the Central Justice Center.
The Central Justice Center is located at 700 Civic Center Dr W, Santa Ana, CA 92701. This is the correct court for cases arising in Orange County, not the Los Angeles Superior Court.
When you file a claim, it goes through the local court system, which has specific rules and procedures different from those in neighboring counties like Los Angeles.
How long do you have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in California?
Most California personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, must be filed within two years from the date of injury. This deadline comes from California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1.
However, if your claim is against a city, county, or any other public agency in Fullerton or Orange County, you must present a written claim to that entity within six months of the injury. This shorter deadline is set by Government Code § 911.2.
The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor (CCP § 352). But, that pause does not apply to claims against public entities, meaning the six-month government claim deadline remains fixed for minors as well.
California law allows recovery for medical costs, lost earnings, and non-economic harm like pain and suffering. For survival actions filed on or after January 1, 2026, the deceased person's pain and suffering is not recoverable, but their economic losses before death are, as are punitive damages they could have recovered (CCP § 377.34).
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
When you work with us, we take on the burden of your legal claim. Our firm focuses solely on personal injury and employment law, giving us a deep understanding of these areas. We handle all aspects of your case, from initial investigation to settlement negotiations or trial.
We gather police reports, medical records, and witness statements. We talk to the insurance companies for you. Our goal is to ensure you receive the full compensation available under California law for your injuries and losses.
Our firm also helps clients in other Orange County cities, such as Lawndale, and throughout Los Angeles County, including places like Paramount and Pasadena. Our work is to pursue justice for those harmed by someone else's carelessness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I was partially at fault for the Fullerton pedestrian accident?
California uses a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. Your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 20%.
What if the driver who hit me in Fullerton was uninsured?
If the at-fault driver was uninsured, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage might cover your medical expenses and other damages. If you do not have UM coverage, other options like medical payments coverage or health insurance might apply. California law bars non-economic damages for uninsured vehicle owners involved in an accident, but this rule does not apply to uninsured pedestrians.
How long does a pedestrian accident claim take in Orange County?
The length of a pedestrian accident claim varies significantly depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and whether the other party disputes liability. Some claims settle quickly, while others may require filing a lawsuit and proceeding to trial, which takes longer. Speaking with an attorney helps you understand the likely timeline for your specific situation.
Can I still file a claim if I didn't get a police report after the accident?
Yes, you can still file a claim even without a police report. While a police report is helpful evidence, it is not always available or conclusive. Your attorney can gather other evidence, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records, to build your case. The absence of a police report does not automatically prevent you from seeking compensation for your injuries.
If you were injured in a Fullerton pedestrian accident, reach out to us for help. Call 888-585-2529 today for a free conversation about your options. No attorney's fees unless we win — and no case costs either.
This information is general legal information, not legal advice. Deadlines have exceptions, and you should confirm what applies to your own facts with an attorney.