Pedestrian accidents can be among the most devastating. One moment, you’re walking along, the next, you’ve been struck and hurt by a vehicle. Navigating the aftermath of such an incident requires not only medical attention but also legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected. Belal Hamideh, a Palos Verdes pedestrian accident attorney, is here to stand by your side, offering compassionate support and relentless advocacy to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
With years of experience representing injured pedestrians, Belal Hamideh understands the unique challenges these cases present. From dealing with insurance companies to building a strong case for maximum compensation, he is dedicated to helping you rebuild your life after an accident.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Require Immediate Legal Attention
Common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal organ damage. These injuries can lead to extensive medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs.
In addition to the physical harm, pedestrian accidents can leave victims and their families grappling with emotional trauma and financial strain. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or shift blame onto you, making it crucial to have a skilled attorney who can fight for your rights.
Belal Hamideh has a deep understanding of the complexities involved in pedestrian accident cases. He knows how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and hold negligent parties accountable. Whether the accident involved a distracted driver, speeding vehicle, or failure to yield, Belal will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to fail to notice pedestrians.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment significantly impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore crosswalks, traffic signals, or stop signs put pedestrians at risk.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents often occur at night or in poorly lit areas where drivers have difficulty seeing pedestrians.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Drivers making left turns frequently fail to see pedestrians crossing the street.
Regardless of the cause, if you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Belal Hamideh can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your voice is heard.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
The moments following a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and overwhelming. However, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent, as the NIH explains.
Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to file an official report. This document can serve as critical evidence in your case.
Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicles involved. Collect contact information from witnesses as well.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low settlement. Refer them to your attorney instead.
Contact an Attorney: Reach out to Belal Hamideh as soon as possible. He can guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
Types of Compensation Available
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills, including surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged in the accident, such as a phone or clothing.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Belal Hamideh will work diligently to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to under the law.
Why Choose Belal Hamideh?
When it comes to choosing an attorney to represent you after a pedestrian accident, experience, dedication, and a proven track record matter. Belal Hamideh has helped countless clients recover the compensation they need to move forward with their lives.
How Belal Hamideh Can Help
Belal Hamideh is committed to providing personalized legal representation to pedestrian accident victims in Palos Verdes and throughout Southern California. Here’s what sets him apart:
Compassionate Client-Centered Approach
Belal understands that every case is unique, and he takes the time to listen to your story. He treats every client with the respect and compassion they deserve, ensuring you feel supported throughout the legal process.
Thorough Investigation
Building a strong case requires a detailed investigation. Belal works with accident reconstruction professionals, medical experts, and other resources to gather the evidence needed to prove negligence and liability.
Skilled Negotiator
Insurance companies often try to settle claims for less than they’re worth. Belal is a skilled negotiator who knows how to push back against lowball offers and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Trial-Ready Advocate
While many cases are resolved through negotiation, some require going to court. Belal is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions of a Palos Verdes Pedestrian Accident Attorney
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the degree of negligence involved. Belal Hamideh can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing the details of your case.
Will my pedestrian accident case go to trial?
Many cases are resolved through negotiation, but Belal is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation.
How the Insurance Company May Try to Reduce the Compensation from Your Palos Verdes Pedestrian Accident
Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize payouts on valid pedestrian accident claims in California. They may attempt to:
Disputing Liability – They may argue the pedestrian was partially or fully at fault, even if the driver was clearly negligent. California’s comparative negligence laws allow them to reduce compensation based on the victim’s alleged fault.
Downplaying Injuries – Insurers may claim injuries aren’t as severe as reported or were pre-existing, demanding excessive medical documentation to delay or deny the claim.
Lowball Settlement Offers – They might push for a quick, unfair settlement before the full extent of injuries and damages is known.
Surveillance & Social Media Scrutiny – Adjusters may monitor the claimant’s activities, looking for posts or videos they can twist to suggest the injuries aren’t serious.
Delaying the Claims Process – By requesting unnecessary paperwork or prolonging investigations, they pressure victims into accepting less.
Misinterpreting Medical Records – They might cherry-pick notes to argue treatment was excessive or unrelated to the accident.
Witness Manipulation – Insurers may contact witnesses directly, seeking statements that weaken the claim.
Disputing Lost Wages – If the victim missed work, they may challenge the proof of income or claim the injuries shouldn’t have caused that much time off.
Belal Hamideh has helped clients to receive the compensation that they deserve for everything that they’ve been through, as his reviews attest.
Ways Drivers Can Reduce the Risk of Pedestrian Accidents
As a Palos Verdes pedestrian accident attorney, Belal Hamideh has seen firsthand the devastating consequences of pedestrian accidents.
While he is dedicated to helping victims recover compensation and rebuild their lives, he also believes in the importance of prevention. By taking proactive steps, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents and make Palos Verdes’ streets safer for everyone.
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. When drivers take their eyes off the road—even for a few seconds—they increase the risk of hitting a pedestrian. Belal Hamideh emphasizes the importance of staying fully focused while driving.
- Put Your Phone Away: Avoid texting, calling, or using apps while driving. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location.
- Limit Other Distractions: Activities like eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to passengers can also divert your attention. Stay alert and keep your focus on the road.
Obey Speed Limits and Adjust for Conditions
Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision. Belal Hamideh advises drivers to always obey posted speed limits and adjust their speed based on road conditions.
- Slow Down in Pedestrian Areas: School zones, residential neighborhoods, and busy urban areas often have lower speed limits for a reason. Be extra cautious in these areas.
- Adjust for Weather: Rain, fog, and darkness can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. Slow down to ensure you can stop safely if a pedestrian crosses your path.
Yield to Pedestrians at Crosswalks
Crosswalks are designated areas for pedestrians to cross safely, but many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield. Belal Hamideh stresses the importance of respecting pedestrian right-of-way.
- Stop for Pedestrians: Always stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, whether they are marked or unmarked.
- Look Both Ways: Before proceeding through an intersection, check for pedestrians crossing from all directions.
Be Cautious When Making Turns
Left- and right-hand turns are common scenarios for pedestrian accidents. Drivers often focus on oncoming traffic and fail to notice pedestrians in the crosswalk.
- Check for Pedestrians: Before making a turn, scan the crosswalk for pedestrians.
- Use Your Signals: Always use your turn signals to alert pedestrians and other drivers of your intentions.
Avoid Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and reduced coordination, making them more likely to cause accidents.
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service.
- Be Aware of Medications: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can impair your ability to drive. Read labels carefully and avoid driving if you feel drowsy or unwell.
Accidents Can Occur Even in Beautiful Palos Verdes
Palos Verdes is a beautiful coastal community known for its stunning views, upscale neighborhoods, and serene environment. However, the area’s winding roads, hilly terrain, and frequent pedestrian activity can create hazardous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
Belal Hamideh is proud to serve the Palos Verdes community, helping injured pedestrians recover the compensation they need to move forward.
Whether you were injured on a busy street like Palos Verdes Drive or in a quiet residential area, Belal is here to help. He understands the unique challenges faced by Palos Verdes residents and is committed to providing the highest level of legal representation.
Belal Hamideh: Palos Verdes Pedestrian Accident Attorney That Helps Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact Belal Hamideh, the sooner he can begin building your case and fighting for your rights.
Belal offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions. He works on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless he wins your case.
You did not choose to be walking along the street when you were hit by a vehicle. Schedule a free case evaluation with Belal today.