Pedestrian Accident Attorney In Encino
Legal Guidance After Being Hit While Walking
When a vehicle strikes a person on foot, the pedestrian usually suffers the worst of the impact. Broken bones, head injuries, and lasting pain can follow in an instant, along with worries about medical bills and time away from work. If you or a loved one has been injured while walking in Encino or elsewhere in the San Fernando Valley, our team at Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation is here to help you understand your options.
We are a personal injury law firm based in Encino that represents people whose lives have been disrupted by sudden collisions. Our attorneys listen carefully to what happened and to what you want moving forward, then we work to develop a plan that fits your situation. We offer complimentary consultations, so you can speak with us, ask questions, and receive guidance without any upfront cost.
When you contact us at (818) 536-7776, you reach a firm that is committed to careful preparation and assertive representation. We understand that you are dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty, and our goal is to provide steady legal support so you can focus on healing.
Why Injured Pedestrians Turn To Williams And Seemen
After a serious collision, you may be looking at several law firm websites and wondering what really sets one apart. At Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation, our practice is rooted in personal injury and employment law, and we represent clients throughout Encino and the surrounding communities in the San Fernando Valley. This focus allows us to address both the immediate injury claim and, when it arises, the impact on your job and income.
Our attorneys, Antoine D. Williams and Bart A. Seemen, have earned recognition within the legal community for their steady and determined representation of injured clients. That recognition reflects years of handling complex cases and navigating difficult legal and factual issues. When insurers or defense attorneys push back, we respond with preparation and a clear strategy rather than quick compromises.
Clients often choose our firm because we have a consistent record of achieving favorable outcomes in personal injury matters. We cannot promise any specific result, but we can point to many situations where our work helped clients secure resolutions that allowed them to move forward with greater financial stability. Our file of satisfied client testimonials reflects our ongoing efforts to protect our clients’ interests effectively.
We treat every pedestrian injury case as unique. Our attorneys review the details with care, from where the crash happened to how the injuries affect your work and family. We then tailor our approach to your goals, whether that means prioritizing a prompt resolution or being prepared to pursue a case over a longer period. Throughout, we stay focused on communication, so you understand what is happening at each stage of your claim.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident In Encino
A collision involving a pedestrian can happen quickly at an intersection, along a neighborhood street, or in a parking lot. In the confusion that follows, it is hard to know what to do next. The steps you take in the hours and days after the incident can make a difference for both your health and your potential claim.
Focus on your safety and medical care:
- If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic and call 911. Emergency personnel can assess you at the scene and arrange transport if needed.
- Even if you can walk away, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as you can. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, may not be obvious right away.
Report the collision to law enforcement:
- When officers arrive, provide honest information about what you recall, but avoid guessing or accepting blame. The report can become an important piece of evidence.
- If you later notice an error in the report, let us know during your consultation so we can discuss ways to address it through additional evidence.
Gather information if you are able:
- Collect the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. If another person can help, ask them to do this for you.
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses and, if possible, take photos of the scene, vehicles, street signs, and visible injuries.
Be careful with insurance communications:
- Insurance adjusters may call quickly, sometimes asking for recorded statements or urging you to accept a settlement. It is often wise to wait before giving detailed statements.
- What you say early on can be used later to question your version of events or the severity of your injuries. Speaking with a lawyer first can help you avoid unintentional harm to your claim.
Talk with an Encino injury firm you can trust:
- Our attorneys review what happened, listen to your concerns, and discuss potential next steps during a complimentary consultation.
- We can help you understand your rights, how insurance coverage may apply, and what documentation to preserve as your treatment continues.
If you have already taken some of these steps, that is helpful. If you have not, we can still meet with you to discuss what can be done now. Our role is to guide you through the process, answer questions, and provide a clear path forward.
Liability, Insurance, & Your Rights As A Pedestrian
Many injured pedestrians worry that they did something wrong and will be blamed, such as crossing outside a marked crosswalk or walking at night. California uses a comparative negligence system, which means that more than one person can share responsibility for a collision. You may still have a viable claim even if someone argues that you were partly at fault.
In many cases, a driver’s careless or unlawful behavior plays a central role. This can include speeding, failing to yield at intersections, running red lights, or driving while distracted by a phone. In other situations, a commercial driver, rideshare driver, or another party may be involved, and multiple insurance policies might come into play.
Potentially liable parties in a pedestrian collision can include the driver, the owner of the vehicle, or, in some cases, an employer whose driver was working at the time. The specific insurance companies and policies that apply often depend on whether the vehicle was private, commercial, or used for app-based rides. Sorting this out is one of the areas where legal counsel is especially valuable.
Available compensation in a pedestrian claim can cover several categories of losses. These may include medical expenses, both current and reasonably anticipated, lost income from missed work, reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to the same duties, and pain and suffering. In more serious cases, long-term care needs and home modifications may also be part of the claim.
At Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation, we approach these issues with detailed attention. Our attorneys review police reports, medical records, photographs, and witness statements to understand how the collision occurred and how it has changed your life. We then work to build a strategy that reflects the facts, the applicable California law, and the insurance coverage that may be available.
For example, in a situation where a pedestrian is struck in a crosswalk along a busy roadway in Encino, we might examine nearby traffic signals, visibility, and any available video footage. In another case that occurs near a commercial area in the San Fernando Valley, we may focus on the driver’s work status and whether an employer bears some responsibility. In each scenario, our goal is to identify the full range of potentially liable parties and seek a fair resolution.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries & How We Help You Move Forward
Being hit by a vehicle while walking often leads to serious injuries, even at relatively low speeds. Pedestrians do not have the protection of a vehicle body, seat belts, or airbags, so the impact can cause widespread harm. The physical recovery process is often lengthy, and the financial strain can start quickly.
Injuries pedestrians often face include:
- Fractures and orthopedic injuries, such as broken legs, arms, or hips
- Head injuries, including concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries and back or neck trauma that may limit movement
- Internal injuries or soft tissue damage can be painful and slow to heal
- Cuts, bruises, and scarring that may have both physical and emotional effects
These injuries can interfere with your ability to work, care for family members, or take part in daily activities. You may need time away from your job, physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and perhaps changes to your home or transportation. It can feel overwhelming to balance these needs with calls from insurers and concerns about paying for care.
Our attorneys take these realities into account when we evaluate a pedestrian injury case. We do not look only at the first emergency room bill. Instead, we discuss your ongoing treatment, what your doctors expect, and how the incident has affected your job and household responsibilities. We aim to pursue compensation that recognizes both current and future needs.
We also focus on communication. Clients often tell us that clear explanations and regular updates make a difficult situation more manageable. When you understand what to expect from the legal process and how your case is progressing, it can reduce some of the stress that follows a serious injury. Our team works to provide that clarity at each stage.
Every person’s recovery path is different. By taking time to understand your health, your work, and your priorities, we can develop a plan that aligns with what matters most to you. If you would like to talk about your injuries and your options, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer Encino residents can rely on for careful, thoughtful representation.
Working With Our Encino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Reaching out to a law firm can feel like a big step, especially when you are already dealing with physical pain and regular appointments. We work to make that first conversation straightforward and respectful. During your initial consultation, we listen to what happened, review any information you already have, and ask questions to better understand your goals.
If you decide to move forward with us, our attorneys will outline the general steps in the process. This typically includes gathering additional records, communicating with insurance companies on your behalf, and evaluating potential settlement options. Throughout, we remain attentive to your questions, and we encourage you to contact us whenever something new arises with your medical care or work situation.
Our firm is rooted in Encino, and we represent clients across the San Fernando Valley. Injury cases that arise here are often handled in Los Angeles County courts, and we are familiar with the procedures and expectations involved. That local grounding supports our ability to prepare your case carefully and present it effectively when needed.
We combine assertive advocacy with detailed preparation. That means we take the time to understand your case fully, then we work to present it in a clear, organized manner to insurers and, when appropriate, to the court. At the same time, we remain mindful that this is your life and your decision, so we explain options and possible paths rather than pressuring you into a specific choice.
If you have been injured as a pedestrian and are looking for guidance, speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney in Encino is a practical next step. There is no charge to talk with us about your situation. You can ask questions, share your concerns, and decide whether our approach feels right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire your pedestrian accident lawyers?
Your initial consultation with our firm is complimentary. During that meeting, we review your situation and explain how fees would work if we handle your case. Our goal is to make legal help accessible, so cost should not prevent you from reaching out with questions.
What if I were jaywalking or partly at fault for being hit?
You may still have a claim even if someone argues that you were partly at fault. California uses comparative negligence, so fault can be shared. We review the facts carefully, including where the collision happened and how, to help you understand how the law may apply.
Will I work directly with an attorney at Williams and Seemen?
When you contact our firm, you will meet with a member of our legal team, and our attorneys oversee your case. We believe in attentive, client-centered service, which includes clear communication from lawyers and staff who are familiar with your situation.
How long does a pedestrian accident case usually take?
The length of a case depends on several factors, including the extent of your injuries, how long treatment lasts, and how cooperative the insurance company is. We discuss expected timelines with you, keep you informed about progress, and work to move your case forward responsibly.
Should I talk to the driver’s insurance company before calling you?
It is often wise to speak with a lawyer before giving detailed or recorded statements to an insurer. Adjusters may focus on limiting payouts, and certain statements can be misunderstood or used against you later. We can review requests from insurers and help you respond in a way that protects your interests.
To discuss your pedestrian accident with our team at Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation, call (818) 536-7776 today.
Our Recent Wins
Justice Fought, Justice Won.
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$1.5 Million Police misconduct
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$1.1 Million Rideshare automobile accident
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$750,000 Automobile v. police car
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$650,000 Slip and fall
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$500,000 Rideshare automobile accident
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Common Questions About Your Legal Rights & Next Steps
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I have been in an accident, what should I do?If you have been involved in an accident there are certain steps you should take to make sure you are properly compensated for your damaged property, medical bills and injuries. Always make sure to gather as much information as you can about the other party. This includes vehicle descriptions, license plate number, insurance information, and contact information. Be certain to gather the contact information for any witnesses because many people leave the scene of an accident believing the other party has accepted responsibility only to find out later that the other party is actually placing you at fault. Also take photos of the scene, damage to all vehicles involved, and the individuals involved. If there is a police officer on the scene, get his/her name, badge or I.D. number, and contact information. This information will be useful when attempting to obtain the police report. These are just a few things to keep in mind to streamline the handling of your claim. Below is a list of common most common questions we receive regarding personal injury claims.
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I have been hurt in an accident, what do I do?First and foremost, seek medical treatment. This might include emergency care, urgent care, or a visit to your physician. It is a good idea to see a doctor in the abundance of caution because you could be injured and not know it right away. Once you are diagnosed, map out and consistently follow the physician’s plan for recovery. Remember, the main goal is to ensure that you recover from your injuries. Sometimes this requires physical therapy and or chiropractic treatment. Unfortunately, most insurance adjusters will not properly evaluate your injuries without tangible proof that you sustained and suffered from a particular injury.
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Why should I hire an attorney, can't I just handle my claim myself?The short answer is yes, you can handle your personal injury claim yourself, but it is never a good idea. Remember, the insurance company is there to represent the best interest of their insured. This means they will sometimes try to deny liability for your property damage, minimize your medical expenses, or outright deny your claim for bodily injury compensation. Personal injury law is complex and requires an experienced professional to analyze every factor involved in your case to ensure your rights are protected. This is why it is important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney with an in depth knowledge of the law to secure the best possible outcome for you and your family.
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