Santa Barbara Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Santa Barbara is a very walkable city. With the gorgeous weather and beautiful scenery, it is no surprise that so many people choose to walk to work, complete errands, and just enjoy everything the city has to offer. Unfortunately, pedestrians are not always safe as they make their way around the city. Drivers are sometimes careless and they do not look for pedestrians, resulting in many pedestrian accidents in the city. If you have suffered injuries due to a negligent driver, you can likely file a claim against them for compensation. Our Santa Barbara pedestrian accident lawyer can help you do it.
Why are Pedestrian Accidents So Dangerous?
Pedestrians do not have any protection when they are out walking. As such, when they are hit by a vehicle that is much larger and heavier than them, they sustain some of the most severe injuries. The faster a vehicle is traveling when it hits a pedestrian, the more severe the resulting injuries will be. Paralysis, traumatic head injuries, and multiple broken bones are just a few of the serious injuries pedestrians sustain. In the most tragic of cases, a pedestrian accident can even result in wrongful death.
How Much are Pedestrian Accident Claims Worth?
It is natural to wonder how much compensation you can claim after a pedestrian accident. Unfortunately, without first fully reviewing the facts of your case, no one can say with certainty how much compensation you can recover. Still, there are some guidelines you can follow to estimate how much your claim may be worth. These include:
- The nature and extent of your injuries: In Santa Barbara, and throughout California, accident victims can claim full damages for their medical costs and treatment. As such, the more severe your injuries are, the more you can recover in damages. The cost of medical treatment often makes up the bulk of personal injury claims.
- The amount of pain and suffering you endured: The law recognizes that your physical pain and mental distress are also injuries and you deserve compensation for them. It is important to consult with a lawyer about the value of your pain and suffering, as these damages are not as easy to calculate.
- Your percentage of fault: Many people think that pedestrians are never to blame for a crash, but that is not always the case. For example, if you ran out into the street without giving motorists enough time to stop, you could be found partly to blame. If you contribute to a pedestrian accident, you can still claim damages as long as you were not 100 percent at fault. Any compensation you are awarded will be reduced by your same percentage of fault.
Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Santa Barbara Can Help After a Crash
When involved in a pedestrian accident, you will sustain some of the most severe injuries. At Zavala Law, our Santa Barbara pedestrian accident lawyer can help you claim the compensation you need to cover the cost of your losses. Call us now at 805-429-4292 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.