On October 13, 2013, at 9:37 pm, our client was struck by a 2004 Toyota Camry while walking in a marked crosswalk on Barrett Avenue at its intersection with 41st Street in Richmond, CA, Contra Costa County. The walk sign was green, and she had looked both ways before entering the crosswalk. The impact knocked her to the ground, resulting in serious injuries, lost work, and substantial medical bills.
Details of the Pedestrian Accident
The other driver’s inattentiveness caused this vehicle versus pedestrian accident. The accident occurred in a well-lit crosswalk with no adverse road conditions. Our client suffered injuries to her right knee, right elbow, and the back of her head. She was transported by American Medical Response ambulance to Doctor’s Medical Center in Richmond, CA, for treatment. State Farm Insurance Company insured the at-fault driver.
Case Facts and Client Concerns
Our client required ongoing medical treatment, including extensive physical therapy, and missed a significant amount of work. Facing mounting medical bills, she contacted GJEL Accident Attorneys with several pressing questions:
- Who is responsible for my medical bills?
- How will I pay these bills and manage my lost income?
- What if I have permanent, lifelong damage?
GJEL Accident Attorneys quickly evaluated her case and offered representation.
Legal Strategy and Settlement
GJEL Accident Attorneys initiated a thorough investigation, obtaining the police report from the Richmond Police Department, which confirmed the other driver was 100% at fault. An in-house investigator also secured a direct statement from the at-fault party.
A lawsuit was filed in Contra Costa County Superior Court. State Farm Insurance agreed to a $225,000 settlement following depositions and interrogatories. Attorneys Andrew Gillin and Jim Larsen successfully guided the client through this challenging time.
Key Case Details:
- Insurance Company: State Farm
- Police Report: Richmond Police Department
- Vehicle: 2004 Toyota Camry
- Accident Location: Barrett Avenue at the intersection with 41st Street in Richmond, CA
- Medical Facilities: AMR, Doctor’s Medical Center, Timberlake Respiratory Care & Medical Equipment
- Injuries: Fractured right knee and lower leg requiring implant surgery, back and neck bruises
Frequently Asked Questions About Crosswalk Injury Lawsuits
- What to do after being hit in a crosswalk: Call the police, seek medical attention, and contact a personal injury attorney.
- Building a compensation case: Document injuries and medical expenses, take photos and keep records.
- Statute of limitations in California: Typically two years from the accident date.
- Going to court: Be prepared, even with insurance settlements; an attorney can help.
- Common crosswalk injuries: Head injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and emotional distress.
This case highlights the importance of seeking experienced legal representation following a pedestrian accident. Even when liability seems clear-cut, such as with the police report confirming the other driver’s fault, navigating the complexities of insurance claims and securing a fair settlement requires expertise.
GJEL Accident Attorneys’ successful negotiation of a $225,000 settlement demonstrates their unwavering commitment to advocating for accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. From mounting medical bills and lost wages to dealing with pain and suffering, victims often face significant challenges in their recovery. GJEL Accident Attorneys understands these burdens and is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to help clients rebuild their lives.
Our team’s thorough investigation, strategic negotiation, and unwavering advocacy ensure that insurance companies do not take advantage of clients and that they receive the full compensation they are entitled to under the law. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Antioch office for a free legal consultation.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.