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Pedestrian Injury Lawyers in Santa Barbara

Are You in Need of a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Santa Barabara

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the results are often catastrophic. You may be facing broken bones, spinal injuries, brain trauma, and other serious injuries. It can be a long road to recovery. NordstrandBlack PC helps injured pedestrians recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses and expenses.

We know how to hold negligent drivers accountable, and we are committed to helping you move forward. If you were hit by a car while walking, riding a skateboard, or riding a scooter, our legal team can seek the compensation you deserve by filing a claim or lawsuit against careless drivers and other negligent parties that caused your injuries.

Why Choose Us Over Other Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Santa Barbara?

NordstrandBlack PC has a successful track record of getting compensation for our clients. We bring deep experience, local knowledge, and a results-driven approach to every case. Here is what sets us apart:

Top Ratings: Our firm holds a 10.0 Superb Avvo rating based on professional achievement, client satisfaction and other important factors.
Accessible and Transparent: We explain the process, answer your questions, and give you the information you need to make smart decisions.
Free Consultations: We offer no-cost case evaluations, so you can talk to a lawyer without financial pressure.
Focused on You: You won’t be handed off to a case manager. Our attorneys personally handle your case and keep you informed throughout.
Santa Barbara Roots: As a local firm, we understand the unique traffic patterns, intersections, and legal landscape of Santa Barbara.
Proven Case Results: We have secured significant verdicts and settlements for injured pedestrians, including those hit by distracted or speeding drivers.
Award-Winning Representation: Renée Nordstrand-Black received the Deborah Talmage Attorney of the Year Award for her outstanding legal work.

Pedestrian Accident Case Results

$1,000,000.00 Settlement - Auto vs. Pedestrian - Multiple Injuries
$700,000.00 Settlement - Auto vs. Pedestrian - Hip Fracture
$475,000.00 Settlement Policy Limit - Auto vs. Pedestrian
$375,785.00 Settlement - Auto vs. Pedestrian - Hip Fracture
$300,000.00 Settlement - Auto vs. Pedestrian - Multiple Injuries
$335,750.00 Arbitration Award - Pedestrian Accident - Bone Fractures
$250,000.00 Settlement Policy Limit - Pedestrian Injury - Bone Fractures

^{∗ Selected cases listed. Every case is different. Past case results are not a guarantee, and similar results may not be obtained in your case. View more case results here.}

Do You Have a Legitimate Case?

If you were walking or traveling on a skateboard or scooter and you were hit by a vehicle, you could have a valid pedestrian injury claim. To determine if your case is legally actionable, several factors must be considered:

Was the driver acting carelessly or violating traffic laws?
Were you in a crosswalk, sidewalk, or other protected pedestrian area?
Did the driver fail to yield, speed, or drive under the influence?
Did the incident lead to financial losses, such as medical bills or time off work?

During your free consultation, one of our attorneys will listen to your story and tell you if you have grounds to pursue legal action. If your injury was caused by a driver’s negligence, you probably have a strong case. However, we need to investigate all potentially liable parties and sources of recovery.

Hit by a Car? Don’t Face the Insurance Company Alone

Call NordstrandBlack PC at (805) 962-2022 for a free consultation with a local personal injury attorney.

What’s the Legal Process for a Pedestrian Accident Case?

The legal process may seem overwhelming, especially if you're recovering from a serious injury. Our job is to handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. Here's what you can expect:

Free Consultation

We start with a no-cost conversation where we listen to what happened, answer your questions, and determine the next steps.

Investigation

We collect critical evidence, including:

Police reports
Eyewitness accounts
Surveillance or traffic camera footage
Medical records
Photos of the accident scene and injuries

Filing a Claim

We prepare a comprehensive claim and present it to the at-fault driver’s insurance company, and any other responsible party, outlining your damages and their liability.

Negotiation

Once the claim is submitted, we begin negotiations with the insurance company. We do not rush into accepting low offers. Instead, we push back with facts and evidence that demonstrate the true value of your losses.

Litigation (if necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we will file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Our legal team prepares every case with litigation in mind from day one, so we're always ready to move forward without delay. Oftentimes, the only way to get a fair settlement is to file a lawsuit, which does not necessarily mean that the case will win at trial.

We handle all the legal filings, discovery, depositions, and expert testimony necessary to present your case to a jury. Our courtroom strategy is built around clear, compelling evidence that shows exactly how the defendant caused your injuries and how those injuries have impacted your life.

We Help Injured Pedestrians, Scooter Riders, and Skateboarders

Call (805) 962-2022 to learn how we can support your recovery and hold the driver accountable.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for a pedestrian injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, if the claim involves a government entity (such as a city-owned vehicle), the window to file a claim is only six months.

Additional exceptions may apply, and certain circumstances can pause (toll) or alter this time limit. The information provided here is general in nature and not intended as legal advice. If you believe you may have a claim, we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Missing a deadline could mean losing your right to seek compensation.

Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation, no matter how strong your case is. That's why it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident in Santa Barbara.

Scooters, Skateboards, and Mobility Device Riders

Pedestrian injuries don't just affect people on foot. If you were injured while using a scooter, skateboard, or other form of personal transportation, you may still have a valid claim. California law generally treats these individuals similarly to pedestrians when crossing streets or using sidewalks.

These cases often involve:

E-scooter riders hit in crosswalks
Skateboarders struck at intersections
Mobility scooter users clipped on sidewalks

How Careless Drivers Cause Pedestrian Accidents

Even when pedestrians follow all safety rules, a careless driver can change everything in an instant. When that happens, we step in to hold them accountable. Driver negligence includes:

Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore crosswalks or turn without checking for pedestrians.
Distracted Driving: Texting, using a phone, or looking at GPS instead of the road.
Speeding: Higher speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of injuries.
Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s ability to recognize and avoid pedestrians.
Rolling Stops: Failing to fully stop at intersections or signs.
Backing Up Without Looking: In parking lots or driveways.

Damages Available in a Santa Barbara Pedestrian Accident Claim

A successful claim for a pedestrian accident in California can include compensation for a range of economic and non-economic losses:

Medical Expenses

Hospital bills
Emergency transport
Surgery and specialist care
Rehabilitation and physical therapy
Long-term care or mobility equipment

Other Losses

Lost income due to missed work
Loss of future earning capacity if permanently injured
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life

If the accident was fatal, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to pursue damages for funeral costs, lost support, and more.

Other Cities We Serve

What Clients Are Saying About Us

She is amazing, very professional, and caring-Reva Easbey (5-Star Google Review)

Renee Nordstrand from NordstrandBlack PC handled a case for my son. I want to thank her for all the work and favorable outcome for him. If you ever need a good attorney, contact Renee Nordstrand. She is amazing, very professional, and caring. The office staff are awesome, always willing to help or answer questions.

I cannot recommend them highly enough-Steven Kepnes (5-Star Google Review)

Excellent, professional, kind, considerate, and concerned lawyers with exceptionally competent staff. This is a fine firm that does what is needed and best for clients. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Dr. Steven Kepnes

Speak With an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Santa Barbara

At NordstrandBlack PC, our Santa Barbara personal injury attorneys provide clients with aggressive representation so they can obtain full compensation. Contact our law firm today at (805) 962-2022 for a free initial consultation. We’ll explain your rights and options and show you how we can help after an injury.

Pedestrian Accident Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim if I was injured in a crosswalk?

You are allowed to file a claim if a driver hit you while you were in a crosswalk, but there are certain standards that can impact your case. Both drivers and pedestrians are expected to act reasonably and responsibly at crosswalks.

What if I was hit while riding a scooter?

If a motorist does not pay attention and strikes a person on a scooter who has the right-of-way, the motorist is likely at fault and liable for the accident.

What if I was riding a skateboard or roller skating?

If you were hit by a negligent driver while skateboarding or roller skating, then you can file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. However, it is important to remember that Santa Barbara has specific laws for skateboarders and roller skaters that prohibit where they are legally allowed to travel.

What should I do after a hit-and-run?

The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run incident is call for immediate medical attention, if necessary, as well as the Santa Barbara Police or Sheriff’s Office. A prompt police response can help you gather information regarding witnesses, evidence, and give the officer a head start on locating a suspect after the accident. While all of these efforts are used in a criminal investigation, this information may also be helpful in a civil lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

What can I do if my loved one died in a Santa Barbara pedestrian accident?

After a loved one is killed in a vehicle collision, it can be difficult to consider practical matters like filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. But filing a wrongful death claim can help you in more ways than one. Not only can it help with your financial peace of mind, giving you one less concern while grieving for a loved one, but it can also help with emotional closure. Knowing that those responsible must pay for their negligence can be an important part of healing after losing a loved one.

Do I have a case if I was hit outside of a crosswalk?

Possibly. California law still protects pedestrians outside of crosswalks, especially if the driver was speeding, distracted, or failed to yield. We can evaluate your case based on the full circumstances.

What types of injuries are common in pedestrian accidents?

Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries. Even seemingly minor incidents can have lasting impacts.

Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident case?

Yes. Insurance companies often minimize payouts or deny claims. An attorney from NordstrandBlack PC can protect your rights, negotiate fair compensation, and take your case to trial if necessary.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we win your case.

Meet Our Santa Barbara Personal Injury Attorneys

Renée J. Nordstrand-Black

Renée J. Nordstrand-Black is the founding partner of NordstrandBlack PC and a dedicated advocate for individuals who have been seriously injured due to negligence. With decades of experience and a reputation for results, she has become one of the most respected personal injury attorneys in the Santa Barbara region.

Renée has spent her legal career fighting for people. She has successfully represented clients in complex injury cases involving pedestrian accidents, motor vehicle crashes, dog attacks, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries. Known for her detailed case preparation and skilled negotiation, she combines compassion for her clients with a firm, strategic approach to every case.

Doug Black

Doug Black is a skilled trial attorney and partner at NordstrandBlack PC, where he focuses on representing individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to the carelessness of others. Known for his thoughtful strategy, clear communication, and deep commitment to his clients, Doug brings a results-oriented approach to every case he handles.

Doug represents clients in a wide range of personal injury matters, including pedestrian accidents, vehicle collisions, dog attacks, and premises liability claims. He is especially adept at navigating complex insurance disputes and preparing cases for trial when settlement is not a fair option.

∗When it comes to statute of limitations laws in California, there are frequently exceptions that may apply. Every case is unique, and that is why we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney about your claim as soon as possible.