One moment on a crosswalk. One reckless driver. That’s all it takes to turn someone’s life upside down. Pedestrian accidents in Fresno often leave behind more than physical injuries — they bring trauma, bills, and a desperate need for justice.
We aim to step in at Dhanjan Car Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fresno when it matters most. A Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer from our team understands the local laws, the insurance games, and — most importantly — the real impact these accidents have on real people.
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Why Choose Us as Your Fresno Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
Choosing the right attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your pedestrian accident case. At Dhanjan Car Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fresno, we take pride in offering comprehensive and compassionate legal support tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients in Fresno, California.
Here’s why we stand out as your go-to Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer firm:
- Proven Case Results: Our legal team has consistently helped clients reach favorable outcomes in challenging legal situations. We understand the ins and outs of local traffic laws, insurance negotiations, and court procedures, which can make all the difference in your case.
- Client-First Approach: We prioritize open communication, ensuring you’re informed and supported at every step of the process. Your needs and concerns are at the heart of everything we do.
- No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. This ensures our focus fully aligns with getting you the compensation you deserve.
- Dedicated Advocacy: We’re committed to standing up for your rights and taking on insurance companies to secure maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
- 24/7 services. Available to discuss your case at any moment.
When you choose our firm, you’re backed by a legal team deeply invested in helping you rebuild your life after a traumatic accident. Our goal is not just to pursue compensation but to help you move forward with a sense of security and resolution.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Fresno
Unfortunately, Fresno’s busy streets and growing population increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents. Understanding the common causes can help raise awareness and potentially reduce these incidents.
According to the California Department of Public Health’s “Special Emphasis Report: Pedestrian Injuries,” the majority of pedestrian-related deaths (90%) and hospitalizations (86%) in 2021 were due to motor vehicle traffic incidents.
Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Distracted Driving
Distracted and impaired driving are among the most dangerous behaviors behind the wheel. Whether it’s texting, adjusting a GPS, or operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, these lapses in judgment significantly increase the risk to pedestrians. In Fresno, such behavior is frequently cited in accident reports involving serious injury or death.
Speeding
Speeding is another leading cause of pedestrian accidents, drastically reducing a driver’s reaction time in emergencies. Whether it’s a child stepping onto the road or a sudden change in traffic, high speeds make it harder to avoid collisions. Even more concerning, crashes that occur at higher speeds often lead to severe injuries or fatalities. For pedestrians who lack physical protection, the risks are even greater, emphasizing the importance of adhering to speed limits, especially in residential areas or school zones.
Failure to Yield
Failing to yield to pedestrians is a common yet preventable behavior that leads to accidents. Many drivers ignore or are unaware of pedestrian right-of-way laws, particularly at crosswalks. This negligence endangers lives and creates unnecessary risks for pedestrians navigating roads safely. Drivers must remain attentive and give pedestrians the priority they deserve to reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.
Drunk or Drugged Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a serious threat to pedestrian safety. Impaired drivers often have reduced coordination, slower reaction times, and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause accidents. Pedestrians involved in such crashes often face life-changing injuries or worse. These accidents highlight the importance of strict enforcement of DUI laws and public awareness campaigns to discourage impaired driving.
Poor Visibility
Poor visibility, especially at night or on poorly lit roads, increases the risk of pedestrian accidents. Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians crossing streets, walking along roadways, or standing near intersections. Weather conditions like rain or fog can further reduce visibility, compounding the danger. Installing better street lighting and encouraging reflective clothing can help mitigate these risks, making roads safer for everyone.
Additionally, intersections without clear signage, poorly maintained sidewalks, or inadequate pedestrian infrastructure can play a role. Understanding these broader systemic issues helps paint a fuller picture of the risk factors pedestrians face in Fresno.
Common Injuries in Fresno Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can lead to severe injuries, as pedestrians lack the protection that drivers have. These incidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences that can dramatically alter a person’s quality of life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A blow to the head can result in traumatic brain injuries, often leading to long-term cognitive, physical, or emotional impairments. A mild concussion can have lingering symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, or trouble concentrating. Recovery may involve extensive therapy; in some cases, full recovery is not always possible.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries, often caused by car accidents, sports injuries, or falls, can lead to partial or complete loss of sensation and mobility. These life-altering injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing support to adapt to new challenges, especially if paralysis occurs.
Broken Bones
From stress fractures to compound breaks, bone injuries can take months to heal and often require physical therapy or surgery. Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer injuries to the legs, arms, or ribs. Recovery time varies depending on age, overall health, and the location of the fracture, often disrupting daily routines or the ability to return to work.
Lacerations and Bruises
While surface wounds may seem less severe, deep lacerations can require surgical care and lead to complications such as infections or scarring. Prompt medical attention is crucial. Bruises and cuts sustained during pedestrian accidents may also signal deeper trauma beneath the skin, which requires proper diagnostic imaging.
Internal Injuries
Organ damage and internal bleeding are less visible but extremely dangerous. Symptoms may not show immediately, making emergency evaluation essential in the aftermath of an accident. These injuries often demand swift surgical intervention and close monitoring in a hospital setting, especially when the abdomen or chest is affected.
These physical consequences often extend to emotional and financial stress, particularly when recovery interferes with employment or daily life. Our legal team in Fresno can help pursue resources that support the full scope of recovery.
Legal Options for Fresno Pedestrian Accident Victims
Understanding your legal options after a pedestrian accident is a crucial step in recovery. Whether a negligent driver caused the accident, hazardous road conditions, or another factor, multiple legal pathways are available for seeking justice and financial recovery.
Determining Fault
California follows a comparative negligence law, which means multiple parties may share fault in an accident. Your attorney will investigate thoroughly to determine whether the driver, government agencies (due to unsafe road conditions), or even a vehicle manufacturer (defective parts) may hold partial or full responsibility.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Most cases involve filing a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. A lawyer helps gather documentation, calculate damages, and negotiate for a fair outcome.
Taking the Case to Court
If an insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, the case can proceed to court, where a judge or jury evaluates the claim and determines compensation.
Throughout this process, having representation from a pedestrian injury attorney ensures deadlines are met, documentation is complete, and pressure from insurance companies is managed effectively.
Potential Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Victims of pedestrian accidents in Fresno may be entitled to financial compensation for their losses. Compensation typically falls into two categories—economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and income potential
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Property damage (if applicable)
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
Each case is unique. Our legal team in Fresno will assess the short- and long-term impacts of an injury, from mobility loss to trauma, to ensure every relevant factor is taken into account.
Hire someone who has been trained to work on your legal case day in and day out. Working with the right attorney can make a huge difference. I’m here to help you navigate your case and bring you results.
Sarwinder Dhanjan
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Fresno
The moments after a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial for your safety and legal case.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
As discussed earlier, some injuries—like internal trauma or head injuries—might not be immediately obvious. Seeking prompt medical care not only safeguards your health but also generates documentation that may later prove vital when pursuing a claim for compensation. This early record helps confirm the link between the accident and the injuries sustained.
Contact Law Enforcement
Filing a police report is essential after an accident, especially involving a pedestrian. This official document provides a detailed account of the incident, including the facts, statements from involved parties, witness accounts, and any available evidence. It offers an unbiased third-party perspective, which can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action. A police report adds credibility to your version of events and strengthens your position when negotiating for a fair settlement or proving fault in court.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, take the time to gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Use your phone to take clear photos of the site, including the vehicles involved, road or traffic conditions, your injuries, and any visible property damage. Capture details like skid marks, traffic signs, or weather conditions that might have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from any witnesses present, as their testimony can be vital later on. Additionally, write down your account of what happened while the details are still fresh in your mind to ensure accuracy.
Do Not Admit Fault
Be mindful of your words immediately after the accident, whether you’re speaking to the other parties involved, witnesses, or even law enforcement. Avoid making comments such as “I’m sorry” or other statements that could be interpreted as admitting responsibility. Even a seemingly innocent remark could be used against you later, potentially affecting your ability to seek compensation. Stick to factual information and wait for legal advice before discussing fault. Protecting yourself legally starts with being cautious and deliberate in communicating following the incident.
Contact a Lawyer
After addressing your immediate medical needs, contacting a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer should be a top priority. An attorney will guide you through the often complicated legal process, help protect your rights, and ensure you don’t make any missteps that could weaken your case. They’ll gather critical evidence, handle communication with insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve. From medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, a lawyer will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for all damages caused by the accident.
How Long Do You Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Fresno, CA?
California enforces a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including pedestrian accident cases. Generally, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim. Missing this crucial deadline may result in losing your right to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.
However, there are exceptions, such as claims against government entities, which often have shorter deadlines.
Call Our Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be disorienting and emotionally draining. At Dhanjan Car Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fresno, we aim to bring stability, support, and reliable legal direction.
Contact us today at (559) 342-2000 or visit 2170 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States, to schedule a free consultation with a Fresno pedestrian accident attorney committed to helping individuals and families move toward recovery and resolution.
Other Areas We Serve:
- Personal injury lawyer in Fresno
- Car accident lawyer in Fresno
- Motorcycle accident lawyer in Fresno
- Truck accident lawyer in Fresno
- Wrongful accident lawyer in Fresno
- Bicycle accident lawyer in Fresno
- Dog Bite Lawyer in Fresno
- Brain injury lawyer in Fresno
- Spinal Cord Lawyer in Fresno
- Slip and fall lawyer in Fresno
Visit our office in Fresno, California
At Dhanjan Car Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fresno, we help victims of personal injuries all around the Fresno, California, area. We have an office at 2170 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States, and we provide 24/7 service. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 36.769953447603704, -119.73066635783323
Sarwinder Dhanjan
Sarwinder Dhanjan is our founding attorney who founded Dhanjan Car Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fresno in 2016. After attending Fresno City College and then UC Santa Cruz for his Legal Studies and Psychology Degrees, Sarwinder joined San Joaquin College of Law. Once that was complete, he quickly passed the California State Bar and opened up his law firm; he never looked back. Sarwinder continues to help his clients personally today.
Client Reviews
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
Jamie N.
January 2025 
In December 2023 a woman completely blew a stop sign and nailed me on my bicycle in Old Fig Garden (Fresno, Ca.). This was my first experience dealing with this type of incident, and due to my injuries it was advised I seek legal representation. Mr. Sarwinder Dhanjan agreed to take my case. He clearly explained my case in a way that easy to understand and assured me that he would fight for a fair conclusion. His team stayed in contact with me throughout the process until its conclusion in October 2024. I was very happy with how his team handled my case and would recommend his team to anyone who is going through a similar situation.
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