​Newport Beach Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Newport Beach sees a steady flow of pedestrians along its scenic walkways, retail districts, and busy intersections. With sunny weather year-round and popular areas like Balboa Island and Fashion Island attracting locals and tourists alike, foot traffic often overlaps with cars, motorcycles, and trucks. This mix creates the potential for serious pedestrian accidents.

Newport Beach pedestrian accident lawyers at Bentley & More LLP help people injured on foot by careless drivers or unsafe roadway conditions. Whether a cyclist slammed into you on a sidewalk in Corona del Mar or a negligent driver hit you while you were using a crosswalk near Westcliff Plaza, the effects of the collision have likely changed your life forever.

You may feel overwhelmed by the physical injuries, medical bills, lost work, and strain on everyday life. Bentley & More LLP supports individuals and families who didn’t ask to be put in this situation. If someone else’s actions caused you harm, our attorneys are ready to listen and help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Newport Beach?

Pedestrian accidents in Newport Beach, California, often result from a mix of driver negligence, environmental factors, and pedestrian behaviors. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents based on regional patterns, California traffic studies, and urban safety data.

Distracted Driving

One of the top contributors to pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. In Newport Beach, with its bustling tourist areas and scenic routes, drivers frequently engage with GPS, smartphones, or infotainment systems, taking their attention off the road.

• Texting or calling while driving
• Adjusting navigation or audio settings
• Looking away from the road for even a few seconds

This behavior significantly increases the risk of missing crosswalks, pedestrians in intersections, or those crossing against signals.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalk

Although California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks (even unmarked ones at intersections), many motorists in Newport Beach either:

• Don’t see the pedestrian in time,
• Speed through yellow lights to beat a signal, or
• Misjudge the pedestrian’s pace.

This is particularly dangerous at night or during inclement weather when visibility is reduced.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Speed limits in residential or pedestrian-heavy areas like Balboa Peninsula or Pacific Coast Highway are often exceeded. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries when a pedestrian is struck.

• Drivers often ignore reduced speed zones around beach accesses and shopping areas.
• Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, sudden lane changes, or “rolling stops” at stop signs are common in commuter traffic.

Driving Under the Influence

DUIs remain a persistent issue. Newport Beach, known for its nightlife and bar scene, sees a noticeable increase in pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers during:

• Evening hours and weekends
• Holiday events or beach festivals

Alcohol or drugs reduce a driver’s coordination and judgment, making it harder to avoid a pedestrian, even if spotted.

Unmarked or Poorly Lit Crosswalks

While many crosswalks in downtown Newport Beach and shopping districts are well-marked, others, especially in more residential or transitional zones, lack:

• Adequate lighting
• High-visibility signage
• Pedestrian signals

These design shortcomings make it harder for both drivers and pedestrians to anticipate and react safely.

Weather and Road Conditions

While Newport Beach enjoys mostly mild weather, occasional rain or fog can reduce visibility and traction. Wet roads increase stopping distances, and fog may obscure crosswalks and signage.

You may have the right to sue for someone running you over. Don’t hesitate to contact a pedestrian accident attorney to explore your legal options today.

California Pedestrian Laws and Right-of-Way Rules

California’s pedestrian laws are embedded in the California Vehicle Code (CVC). Pedestrians are generally given the right-of-way in crosswalks, but there are nuances based on location, driver behavior, and pedestrian actions.

These regulations aim to balance the need for safety with reasonable expectations for shared road usage. They also place responsibilities on pedestrians to ensure their actions do not put themselves or others at risk.

Marked and Unmarked Crosswalks

Under California law, both marked and unmarked crosswalks are legally recognized spaces where pedestrians have the right-of-way. A marked crosswalk is visibly indicated with painted lines, while an unmarked crosswalk typically exists at intersections where sidewalks meet, even if there are no painted lines.

Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in both types of crosswalks. Failing to yield in these situations can result in citations, liability in the event of an accident, and potential criminal charges in cases of serious injury or fatality.

Responsibilities for Both Drivers and Pedestrians

Both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for road safety, and each must act with reasonable care.

For Drivers:

• Avoid distractions like texting or using GPS while driving.
• Observe all posted speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas.
• Be vigilant near parks, commercial districts, and bus stops where pedestrian traffic is high.
• Anticipate pedestrian actions, especially in poor visibility conditions such as at night or during rain.

For Pedestrians:

• Stay alert. Avoid using phones or headphones while crossing streets.
• Make use of pedestrian crossings whenever possible.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night.
• Look both ways before crossing, even if you have the right-of-way.

Legal and Liability Considerations

In the event of a pedestrian accident, determining liability often hinges on right-of-way laws. A driver who fails to yield properly may be held liable, but a pedestrian who crosses illegally or unexpectedly can also share fault.

California follows a comparative negligence system, which means damages may be reduced based on the injured party’s share of fault. For instance, if a pedestrian jaywalks and is hit by a speeding driver, both parties could bear a portion of the blame, which will affect any legal recovery.

What Types of Injuries Do Pedestrian Accident Victims Typically Suffer?

When a car hits a person, the damage goes far beyond scrapes or bruises. Even at low speeds, the force of impact can cause severe injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injuries and Head Trauma

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

A sudden blow to the head may cause a concussion or brain bleeding. These injuries often happen when someone hits their head on the hood, windshield, or pavement.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Wrists, arms, legs, and ribs often break during pedestrian accidents. Victims may need surgery, physical therapy, and extended time off their feet.

A high-impact collision can cause lasting damage to the spine. Some victims lose movement or function in parts of their body permanently.

Internal Organ Damage

Seat belts and airbags protect car occupants, but pedestrians don’t have that shield. A strong hit to the abdomen or chest can injure organs like the liver or lungs.

Soft Tissue Injuries and Road Rash

Muscles, tendons, and skin take a hard hit when someone lands on concrete. These injuries can leave scars or limit a person’s ability to move normally.

How Our Newport Beach Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Can Help

Greg Bentley & Keith More, Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Bentley & More LLP supports clients from the moment they reach out. Our personal injury attorneys handle the legal steps so you can focus on recovery.

• Free Consultation: Our team will review your case and answer your questions with no cost upfront.
• Evidence Collection: We gather traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to strengthen your claim.
• Medical Testimony and Accident Review: When needed, we consult with doctors and accident experts to explain how the injury occurred and its long-term effects.

Bentley & More LLP supports clients from the moment they reach out. We handle the legal steps so you can focus on recovery.

• Free Consultation: Our team will review your case and answer your questions with no cost upfront.
• Evidence Collection: We gather traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to strengthen your claim.
• Medical Testimony and Accident Review: When needed, we consult with doctors and accident experts to explain how the injury occurred and its long-term effects.
• Insurance Negotiations: We work directly with insurers who try to reduce their payouts or deny claims. Our attorneys push for a fair resolution.
• Trial Representation: When the at-fault party or insurer refuses to offer a reasonable amount, we’re ready to take your case to court.
• No Upfront Fees: You won’t pay any legal fees unless compensation is recovered for you through a settlement or verdict.

What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

After suffering injuries or losses in a pedestrian accident someone else caused, you need to take the right steps early on to protect your health and your legal claim.

Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene

• Call 911. Ask for both police and medical responders.
• Take pictures of the area, vehicle, and your injuries if possible.
• Ask witnesses for their contact details.
• Don’t talk about who was at fault or say anything that could be taken as accepting blame.

Steps to Take After Receiving Medical Treatment

• Ask for copies of your medical records, imaging, and doctor’s notes.
• Write down all costs you’ve faced, including bills, missed work, and any equipment needed.
• Let your insurance provider know what happened, but keep details limited.
• Don’t give statements to the other driver’s insurance company.
• Call a pedestrian accident lawyer to help with your next steps.

Compensation Available to Newport Beach Pedestrian Accident Victims

Pedestrian accident cases involve more than just doctor bills. The harm can touch every part of a person’s life. The law allows for financial recovery that may include:

• Medical Costs: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up care, therapy, and medication.
• Lost Wages and Future Income: Accounts for missed work now and possible limits on future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Addresses the physical discomfort and impact on daily life.
• Property Damage: Replaces or repairs damaged phones, clothes, eyeglasses, or mobility devices.
• Punitive Damages: May apply when the at-fault party acted with extreme carelessness, like in drunk driving cases.

Our pedestrian accident attorneys will thoroughly assess your damages and determine how much compensation you can get, fighting to recover the maximum amount for all of your losses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Newport Beach Pedestrian Accidents

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Some exceptions may apply in cases involving government entities.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California follows comparative fault rules. You may still recover money, but the amount could be reduced based on your share of responsibility.

Can I still recover compensation if the driver fled the scene?

Yes. Uninsured motorist coverage or other forms of insurance might apply. Your attorney can help identify all possible sources of recovery.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

Uninsured motorist coverage through your own auto policy might step in. We can help you file a claim and pursue all available options.

How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?

Each case is different. The value depends on the injury, the effects on your life, the insurance policies involved, and whether the at-fault party contests responsibility.

Let Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Newport Beach Help

Deadlines apply in every pedestrian accident case. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather strong evidence. Our attorneys offer free consultations and work without any upfront fees. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you won’t owe anything for our time.

Bentley & More LLP has handled serious pedestrian injury cases across Newport Beach. We’ve helped clients recover through both settlements and jury awards when needed. If you’re wondering if it’s worth hiring a personal injury lawyer, our team is here to provide answers and guidance. Let us fight for a result that helps you move forward. Call us today at (949) 870-3800 to schedule your free case review.

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