This page was written and reviewed by Michael J. Cefali, Esq. Attorney Cefali is a founding partner of Cefali & Cefali, APC, based in San Juan Capistrano, CA. He holds a Juris Doctor from Chapman University Fowler School of Law and a B.A. in Global Studies & Maritime Affairs from the California Maritime Academy. Widely recognized for his advocacy in personal injury law, he has secured multi-hundred-thousand-dollar settlements in motorcycle accidents, hit-and-runs, and red-light collision cases. He maintains a perfect 10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo.
Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Cefali actively supports his community through the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano, contributes to housing and meal programs for those in need, and enjoys fishing and spending time with his rescue dogs.
The date below reflects when this page was last reviewed for accuracy. Please see our Editorial Guidelines.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek legal help. The Moreno Valley pedestrian accident attorneys at Cefali & Cefali can help you get the compensation you deserve. We have years of experience handling personal injury cases and will work tirelessly to get you the results you need.
If you are hit by a car, the injuries can be catastrophic. If you get hit by a car and it wasn't your fault, then you might have the option to sue the other driver for compensation for your injuries. If the driver who hit you flees the scene, it may be a hit and run accident. This can make it more difficult to receive compensation, but you may still be able to file a claim. Speak with pedestrian accident lawyers in Moreno Valley CA to learn more.
If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, we understand that your world has been turned upside down. The attorneys at Cefali & Cefali can help you file a wrongful death claim and get the compensation you deserve. We will fight for justice on your behalf and make sure that the person responsible is held accountable.
If you need a pedestrian accident lawyer in Moreno Valley, contact Cefali & Cefali today for a free consultation. We will review your case and let you know how we can help.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in California
People have the right of way in a crosswalk. If a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, they have the right-of-way over a car turning into the street, even if the light is green for the car. Cars must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether or not there is a traffic signal. However, just because a pedestrian has the right-of-way, it does not mean they are immune from being hit. Drivers should always be aware of pedestrians, especially in busy areas or areas with lots of foot traffic.
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, there are some things you should do:
Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don't think you are injured, it is important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Contact the police and report the accident. The police will create a report that will be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Contact your insurance company and report the accident. Be sure to ask about your coverage for pedestrian accidents.
Contact a lawyer. A Moreno Valley pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
If you have any questions about pedestrian accidents, please contact us at Cefali & Cefali. We would be happy to provide more information and answer any questions you may have.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Moreno Valley
Pedestrian accidents can occur for a number of reasons, such as a driver not paying attention, running a red light, or driving while intoxicated. However, the most common type of pedestrian accident is when a pedestrian is hit by a car that is either turning or going straight. In Moreno Valley, these types of accidents often result in serious injuries.
Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries include:
Head injuries
Broken bones
Internal injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Brain injuries
These types of injuries can often require extensive medical treatment and leave the victim with long-term disabilities. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek legal help. A qualified personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim against the driver who caused the accident and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Moreno Valley
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Cefali & Cefali, we have successfully represented many victims of pedestrian accidents and know how to get you the compensation you deserve.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a pedestrian accident. Some of the most common causes include:
Driver negligence. Drivers who are distracted, texting while driving, or driving under the influence are often responsible for pedestrian accidents.
Poor road conditions. Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can all lead to serious accidents when a road is not properly maintained.
Manufacturer defects. A defective vehicle or component can lead to serious injuries for pedestrians when the driver loses control or cannot stop in time.
Pedestrian error. Careless mistakes such as walking in front of oncoming traffic or crossing without looking both ways can contribute to accidents.
Speeding. When drivers exceed safe speeds, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a pedestrian crossing the street.
Reckless driving. Drivers who behave recklessly may not pay attention to their surroundings and may fail to see pedestrians crossing the street.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek legal help right away. The experienced attorneys at Cefali & Cefali can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us today for a free consultation.
How Much is Your Moreno Valley Pedestrian Accident Claim Worth?
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering how much your claim is worth. The amount of money you can receive in a pedestrian accident claim depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of medical bills you have incurred, and whether or not you are able to return to work.
If the other driver was partially or fully at fault for the accident, you may be able to recover damages from them. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the other driver was completely at fault, you may be able to recover damages from their insurance company.
California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning an injured pedestrian can recover damages even if partly at fault, with compensation reduced by their percentage of responsibility. Unlike some states, California does not have a general cap on personal injury damages. A limited cap on non-economic damages applies only in medical malpractice cases under the MICRA statute, not in typical pedestrian accident cases.
If you are considering filing a pedestrian accident claim, it is important to speak to an experienced Moreno Valley pedestrian accident attorney. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
Types Of Cases Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Handle
There are many types of cases that a Moreno Valley pedestrian accident attorney handles. Some of the most common include:
Car versus pedestrian accidents
Pedestrian knockdown accidents
Slip and fall accidents involving pedestrians
Accidents caused by defective sidewalks or streetlights
Each of these types of cases can be complex, so it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. The car accident lawyers at Cefali & Cefali will work diligently to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Can I Still Recover If I Was Crossing Outside a Crosswalk?
In California, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks under Vehicle Code section 21950. An unmarked crosswalk exists at nearly every intersection where sidewalks meet, whether or not there are painted lines. Outside of a crosswalk, CVC 21954 requires pedestrians to yield to close traffic. Since the Freedom to Walk Act (AB 2147) took effect January 1, 2023, police can no longer cite a pedestrian for crossing outside a crosswalk unless the crossing created an immediate danger of a collision, though the underlying duty to yield still applies. Even when a pedestrian is crossing outside a crosswalk, drivers still owe a general duty of care, so a driver who was speeding, distracted, or impaired can still bear significant fault. California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning an injured pedestrian can recover damages even if partly at fault, with compensation reduced by their percentage of responsibility. For the full framework, see our guide on California pedestrian right of way law.
Why You Should Consult a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Right Away
Moreno Valley pedestrian accident lawyers are there to help clients who have been injured in a pedestrian accident. This type of accident can be very serious, as pedestrians are not protected by a car like the driver and passengers are. In addition, insurance companies may try to deny or reduce a pedestrian's claim, so it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. Recovery from a pedestrian accident can be a long and difficult process, and it is important to have the right team behind you. Our attorneys have years of experience dealing with these types of claims and will work diligently to get you the best possible outcome.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, please call our office for a free consultation. We can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.
Damages That Can Be Claimed in a California Pedestrian Accident Case
When a pedestrian is hit by a car, they can suffer from a number of serious injuries. Some of the damages that can be claimed in a California pedestrian accident case include:
Medical expenses. A victim of a pedestrian accident may require extensive medical care, from emergency treatment to long-term rehabilitation. Victims can seek compensation for these costs.
Pain and suffering. Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries that cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Victims can seek damages for this pain and suffering.
Lost wages. If a victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they may be able to recover damages for the income they lost while recovering.
Loss of future earning capacity. If injuries affect the victim's ability to work in the future, they may recover damages for reduced long-term earning ability.
Wrongful death. If a pedestrian is killed in an accident, their loved ones may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. Damages in a wrongful death lawsuit can include funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship.
Contact a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek legal assistance. Pedestrian accidents can often be complicated, and the law can be difficult to navigate. A skilled California pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
At Cefali & Cefali, we provide client-centered legal services. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive the assistance you need. We have extensive experience with pedestrian accident cases and we know what it takes to win. Contact our personal injury law firm today for a free consultation.
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you may have several issues to deal with. You may be facing medical bills and other expenses, not to mention time off work. You may also be dealing with the emotional aftermath of the crash. Our personal injury attorneys can help you address all of these issues and more. We will guide you through the legal process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
If you would like more information or would like to speak with a personal injury attorney, please fill out our contact form or call us at (949) 325-7790. At our law firm, we take on clients from Los Angeles to San Bernardino and down to San Diego. We also work with clients in Orange County and the rest of Southern California.
Michael Cefali is a dedicated accident attorney based in San Juan Capistrano, California, committed to securing justice and fair compensation for accident victims.
A graduate of Newport Harbor High School, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Global Studies and Maritime Affairs from the California Maritime Academy, followed by his Juris Doctor from Chapman University School of Law.
Deeply invested in his community, Michael is an active member of the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano, contributing to efforts that provide meals, housing, and support to those in need. Outside of his legal work and volunteer service, he enjoys fishing in Dana Point and spending time with his three rescue dogs—a Chihuahua, a Spaniel mix, and a Shepherd mix.
Driven by his strong belief in justice and fairness, Michael remains steadfast in advocating for individuals harmed by the negligence or inaction of others.
