Do I need a lawyer for a San Marino pedestrian accident?
You probably do. An insurance company will try to settle your pedestrian accident claim quickly and for as little money as possible. An attorney protects your rights against tactics designed to reduce your compensation.
What kinds of pedestrian accident cases do you handle in San Marino?
We represent San Marino residents injured while walking, jogging, or cycling due to someone else's carelessness. This includes injuries from being hit by cars, trucks, motorcycles, or other vehicles while in crosswalks, on sidewalks, or along roadsides.
We also handle claims involving dangerous property conditions that lead to pedestrian falls or injuries. Our firm focuses exclusively on personal injury and employment law, including claims for those harmed in cities like Pasadena and Alhambra.
What should I do after a San Marino pedestrian accident?
- Call for medical help immediately. Even if you feel fine, some serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding might not show symptoms right away. Your health is the most important thing.
- Call the police. A police report documents the incident and details from the scene. This report helps establish fault later on.
- Exchange information. Get the driver's name, insurance information, license plate number, and contact details. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too.
- Take photos and videos. Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, traffic signs, and road conditions. These visuals are strong evidence.
- Do not give statements to insurance companies. An adjuster will likely call you quickly. Do not sign anything or provide recorded statements until you speak with your own attorney.
- Call Casa Legal Los Angeles. We can start gathering evidence and protect your rights from the moment you hire us.
Where do I file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in San Marino?
Personal injury cases arising from incidents in San Marino are generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Under Los Angeles County's filing rules, these cases are assigned to the Northeast District at the Pasadena Courthouse.
The Pasadena Courthouse is located at 300 E Walnut St, Pasadena, CA 91101. This location handles cases from various cities in the region, including pedestrian accident claims from Paramount and Agoura Hills.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim?
Most California personal injury claims must be filed within two years (CCP § 335.1) from the date of injury. However, if your claim is against a city, county, or other public agency, you must first present a written claim within six months (Gov. Code § 911.2) of the incident. Not meeting these deadlines can cause you to lose your right to recover damages.
The law generally pauses the deadline while an injured person is a minor (CCP § 352), but that pause does not apply to claims against public entities. What a claim is worth depends on the specific facts; California law allows recovery for medical costs, lost earnings, and non-economic harm. For San Marino residents, this means any claim involving public property or a public employee, such as a city bus driver, faces a much shorter deadline.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
When you choose our firm, we handle all aspects of your pedestrian accident case. This includes investigating the incident, gathering evidence, communicating with insurance companies, and preparing your claim for negotiation or trial. Our goal is to ensure you receive the full compensation available under California law for your injuries and losses.
Our firm also helps clients with other personal injury matters, such as car accidents and motorcycle accidents in San Marino. We also represent individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the driver who hit me doesn't have insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Your UM policy typically covers medical expenses and other losses if you are hit by a driver without insurance. Contacting an attorney helps you understand your policy's terms and pursue a claim.
Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California is a pure comparative negligence state, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your total compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your award would be reduced by 20%.
What damages can I recover in a pedestrian accident claim?
You can recover economic damages, which include medical bills, lost wages, and future medical care or lost earning capacity. Non-economic damages cover pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The specific facts of your case determine what is recoverable under California law.
Are there different deadlines if my accident involved a public city bus or vehicle in San Marino?
Yes. If a public entity, such as the City of San Marino, Los Angeles County, or a public transit agency, caused your injury, you must file a formal claim with that entity within six months of the accident, according to Government Code § 911.2. This is a much shorter deadline than the two-year period for private individuals or companies, so acting quickly is important.
A pedestrian accident can turn your life upside down. You need clear information and strong advocacy. Contact Casa Legal Los Angeles today at 888-585-2529. No attorney's fees or case costs unless we win. This information is general legal information, not legal advice, and creates no attorney-client relationship. Deadlines have exceptions and you should confirm what applies to your own facts with an attorney.