Summary
After a pedestrian crash in Visalia, call 911, get medical attention, file a police report, gather evidence, and speak with a personal injury lawyer. Act quickly—California law limits how long you must file a claim. Victims may recover costs for medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Table of Contents
One moment you’re walking near Mooney Boulevard, and the next—sirens, panic, and confusion. A pedestrian crash in Visalia can turn a regular day into a nightmare. In 2022 alone, 47 pedestrians were injured or killed in the city—including eight children and seven seniors.
With busy roads and distracted drivers, pedestrian safety remains a serious concern. Victims are left with medical bills, confusion, and urgent questions. What happens next? Who pays for your lost wages or pain and suffering?
Here, we explain what you should do—and what to avoid—to safeguard your health, rights, and future.
Step 1: Get Emergency Help Immediately
Your priority after a pedestrian crash is safety. Call 911 or have someone do it for you. If you or anyone else is injured, request an ambulance.
When you call:
- Report your exact location (mention a known street like Mineral King Ave or Caldwell Ave)
- Inform if there are multiple victims or if it was a fatal hit
- Cooperate with emergency medical personnel and emergency responders
Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask pain. Let emergency crews assess you.
Step 2: Ensure the Police File an Official Report
An official accident report is a critical part of your personal injury case. Ask the responding police officer from the Visalia Police Department or the California Highway Patrol to create a full report.
Why this matters:
- Proves the date, location, and time of the accident
- Includes info about the fault driver
- Can document potential witnesses and traffic signals involved
Auto accidents involving pedestrians often require deeper investigation, especially if government entities or uninsured driver coverage is involved.
Step 3: Gather Evidence and Identify Witnesses
While waiting for help or right after being treated, collect evidence if you’re able:
- Photos of the scene, vehicle, and crosswalk
- Names and contact info of potential witnesses
- The driver’s license, insurance info, and vehicle plate
- Note nearby businesses with security cameras
These details are crucial for personal injury attorneys in building your case.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention—Even if You Feel Fine
Some injuries, especially head trauma, may not be immediately apparent. Seek a comprehensive medical evaluation at Kaweah Health Medical Center or another nearby hospital.
Keep detailed records of:
- All visits and treatments
- Diagnoses and prescribed medication
- Medical expense bills and receipts
- Referrals to specialists or physical therapy
These records support your claim for pain and suffering damages, lost wages, and medical bills.
Step 5: Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer in Visalia
Don’t deal with the insurance company alone. Their goal is to minimize payouts. You need someone who knows the legal system—especially when driving laws, punitive damages, or even wrongful death may be involved.
An experienced attorney can help with:
- Navigating personal injury claims
- Negotiating settlements
- Filing lawsuits if needed
- Ensuring fair compensation for your pain and suffering
Contact our top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Visalia for support.
Why Timing Matters: Statute of Limitations in California
If you wait too long to file a claim, you might lose your chance. California’s statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years from the accident date.
Exceptions apply:
- Claims against government entities (like city vehicles): as little as 6 months
- If the injured person is a minor, time limits may be extended
To avoid missing critical deadlines, consult a Farahi Law Firm injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Legal Consequences for Drivers
Drivers involved in pedestrian accidents may face serious legal consequences under California law—especially if:
- They ran a red light or ignored traffic signals
- They were speeding on high-speed roadways
- They were distracted or impaired
- They fled the scene
Depending on the facts, charges may range from traffic violations to criminal penalties.
In some cases, a driver could be liable for:
- Funeral expenses
- Punitive damages
- Long-term support for the injured party
FAQs
Report it immediately to the Visalia Police Department. If the driver is found, they may face hit-and-run charges.
Yes, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim for funeral arrangements, lost companionship, and more.
California follows a comparative fault system. You can still recover damages, but they may be reduced based on your share of fault.
Yes, children are generally considered less responsible, and courts often assign full liability to the driver.
Most Visalia personal injury attorneys work on contingency. You pay nothing unless they win your case.
Legal Help That Cares—Fights for Every Dollar Owed
Recovering from a pedestrian crash in Visalia isn’t just about healing physically—it’s about fighting for justice. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical expenses, pain and suffering, or need help with funeral costs, don’t go through this alone. A top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Visalia can help you navigate the system and get the compensation you deserve.
📞 Get a free legal consultation today. We’re here to assist injury victims in taking the first step toward justice.
