Every day, pedestrians in Burbank step into crosswalks assuming safety, but the unfortunate truth is, crosswalks are no longer safe zones. With speeding vehicles, distracted drivers, and a lack of enforcement, accidents involving pedestrians are on the rise. If you’ve been injured while crossing the street, you’re likely searching for pedestrian injury crosswalk help, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
What Qualifies as a Crosswalk Accident?
A crosswalk accident happens when a vehicle hits a pedestrian who is lawfully crossing the road, typically at an intersection or marked pedestrian lane. These incidents are often the result of driver negligence—such as texting while driving or failing to yield—and can lead to devastating injuries or even fatalities.
Major Causes of Crosswalk Accidents in Burbank
Distracted Driving
From texting and talking to checking GPS, distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian collisions.
Speeding
Speeding drivers have less time to react, and impacts at high speeds are far more dangerous for pedestrians.
Failure to Yield
Many drivers ignore pedestrian rights-of-way, especially at non-signalized crosswalks.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly reduces reaction time and decision-making.
Low Visibility
Poor lighting, bad weather, or blind spots increase the chances of an accident, even when pedestrians are fully visible to alert drivers.
Common Injuries Suffered by Pedestrians
Head Injuries
A blow to the head can lead to concussions or traumatic brain injuries, which can have lifelong effects.
Fractures
Leg, hip, or pelvic fractures are common due to the force of impact against a car bumper.
Spinal Cord Damage
These injuries may result in partial or full paralysis.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash, torn ligaments, and deep bruises are painful and can require long-term therapy.
Psychological Trauma
Being hit by a car is terrifying. Many victims suffer PTSD, anxiety, or depression after the accident.
What Is ‘Pedestrian Injury Crosswalk Help’?
When we talk about pedestrian injury crosswalk help, we’re referring to the comprehensive legal, medical, and emotional support available to victims after an accident. It includes:
-
Access to medical care
-
Help navigating insurance claims
-
Legal representation for compensation
-
Assistance with lost wages and ongoing treatment
California Laws Protecting Pedestrians
California Vehicle Code Section 21950 mandates that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Violations of this law are a major factor in pedestrian accidents. Knowing this law gives you the leverage needed to pursue pedestrian injury crosswalk help through legal channels.
Your Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
As a pedestrian hit in a crosswalk, you have the right to:
-
Seek compensation for injuries
-
Recover lost wages and medical bills
-
File a lawsuit for pain and suffering
-
Hold the at-fault party accountable
With experienced legal help, you can claim all of these without upfront costs in most cases.
Steps to Take Immediately After the Accident
Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel “okay,” internal injuries may not show symptoms right away.
Call the Police
An official report is critical for your insurance claim or legal case.
Gather Evidence
Take photos of your injuries, the crosswalk, traffic signals, the driver’s vehicle, and road conditions.
Collect Witness Contact Info
Bystanders can confirm your version of events if needed.
Avoid Talking to Insurance Alone
Insurance adjusters are trained to lower your payout. Consult a lawyer before giving statements.
Contact an Attorney for Pedestrian Injury Crosswalk Help
An attorney can help build your case, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Support You
An experienced pedestrian injury attorney will:
-
Investigate the crash scene
-
Obtain surveillance video (if available)
-
Contact witnesses
-
Work with medical experts to document your injuries
-
Negotiate with the insurance on your behalf
-
Represent you in court if needed
This full-service support is what pedestrian injury crosswalk help is all about—taking the burden off your shoulders while you focus on healing.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Medical Expenses
Covers emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future care costs.
Lost Wages
If you miss work due to your injuries, you can recover lost income.
Pain and Suffering
Injuries affect more than your body—they impact your quality of life.
Emotional Distress
Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are very real and compensable damages.
Loss of Earning Capacity
Long-term injuries may limit your ability to earn in the future.
Punitive Damages
If the driver was especially reckless, the court may award additional damages to punish them.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
In California, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if a government entity is involved (e.g., unsafe crosswalk design or public transit vehicle), you must file a government claim within 6 months. Don’t wait—getting timely pedestrian injury crosswalk help is essential to protect your case.
What If the Driver Fled the Scene?
Hit-and-run crosswalk injuries are particularly cruel. But you’re not helpless. Your lawyer may:
-
Use street camera footage to identify the vehicle
-
Interview witnesses and canvass local businesses
-
Help you file a claim with your own uninsured motorist policy
Even without identifying the driver, you can still access financial support through alternative legal avenues.
Child Victims and Crosswalk Accidents
Children are among the most vulnerable road users. When a child is hit, the legal and emotional stakes rise exponentially. The law considers a child’s long-term physical, educational, and emotional well-being when calculating damages. That’s why getting proper pedestrian injury crosswalk help for your child is non-negotiable.
Why Local Experience in Burbank Matters
Not all crosswalks are the same, and not all lawyers know Burbank like a local does. Specific intersections like Olive Avenue, Glenoaks Blvd., and San Fernando Blvd. have higher-than-average pedestrian incidents. A Burbank-based lawyer understands these patterns and knows how to present them in court or negotiations.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer?
Most lawyers offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
-
No upfront costs
-
You only pay if they win your case
-
Fees are typically a percentage of your compensation
It’s a risk-free way to get professional pedestrian injury crosswalk help without adding financial stress.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti
With years of experience handling pedestrian injury cases in Burbank and throughout California, our firm offers personalized, aggressive, and compassionate representation. We understand the pain, confusion, and legal complexity victims face after being hit by a car. We don’t back down until you get the justice you deserve.
Conclusion
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crosswalk accident, it can feel like your life was turned upside down. But you’re not alone. Real pedestrian injury crosswalk help is available. From legal action and medical support to emotional healing and financial recovery, help is just a call away. Don’t delay. The sooner you get help, the stronger your case will be.
FAQs
Q1: How much is my pedestrian injury case worth?
Each case is unique, but serious crosswalk injuries often settle for tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars based on medical costs, lost income, and pain.
Q2: Can I still claim if I wasn’t in a marked crosswalk?
Yes! California law protects pedestrians in unmarked crosswalks too. You still have a strong case.
Q3: What happens if both the driver and I were partially at fault?
California uses comparative fault. You can still recover damages, though they may be reduced based on your share of fault.
Q4: What if my injuries developed days after the accident?
That’s common. Medical issues like whiplash or internal injuries may appear later. You can still claim compensation.
Q5: How soon should I contact a lawyer?
Immediately. Early legal intervention ensures critical evidence is preserved and your case is as strong as possible.