The joy of Thanksgiving celebrations can turn tragic when pedestrians become victims of traffic accidents. Each year in California, the increased holiday traffic and early winter darkness create hazardous conditions for people walking to and from festivities.
If you were hit by a car on Thanksgiving, you have legal options to recover compensation after the crash — especially if it happened through no fault of your own.
Do you need compassionate support and effective representation?
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.
California Thanksgiving Pedestrian Accident Statistics
The risk of pedestrian strikes rises during major holidays. California Highway Patrol data shows that Thanksgiving weekend consistently ranks among the most dangerous periods for pedestrian injuries.
Recent 2024 crash data from Bakersfield revealed a 40% increase in pedestrian incidents during holiday periods. The same goes for other parts of the Golden State. Factors like increased traffic volume, distracted driving, and alcohol consumption contribute to these Thanksgiving pedestrian accident incidents.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents During Thanksgiving
Several factors increase the risk of being hit by a car on Thanksgiving day. In Santa Ana, local officers report that holiday shopping crowds near retail centers create particularly dangerous conditions. Common causes include:
- Impaired driving after holiday celebrations
- Distracted drivers rushing to family gatherings
- Poor visibility due to early sunset
- Unfamiliar drivers in residential areas
- Heavy traffic around shopping centers
- Weather conditions affecting road safety
Types of Injuries from Thanksgiving Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians who experience being struck by a vehicle often suffer serious injuries. Torrance Medical Center reports that holiday-related pedestrian accidents frequently result in:
- Head trauma and brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
Your Rights After Being Hit By a Car on Thanksgiving
California law protects pedestrians who are injured by negligent drivers. As a victim, you have the right to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Future medical care
- Loss of earning capacity
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death (surviving family receives the settlement)
Time Limits for Filing Your Claim in California
The California statute of limitations gives pedestrian accident victims two years from the injury date to file a legal claim. A recent case in Victorville demonstrates why prompt action matters — the victim lost their right to compensation by waiting too long to file. Evidence becomes harder to gather as time passes. Quick action helps preserve:
- Witness statements
- Security camera footage
- Physical evidence
- Medical documentation
- Police reports
Proving Liability in Your Pedestrian Accident Case
To receive compensation, you must prove:
- The driver owed you a duty of care
- They breached this duty through negligence
- Their negligence caused your injuries
- You suffered actual damages
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
- Seek immediate medical attention
- File a police report and accident report
- Document the accident scene
- Gather witness information
- Keep medical records and receipts
- Avoid talking to insurance companies
- Contact a qualified pedestrian accident attorney
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies often try to:
- Minimize injury severity
- Shift blame to pedestrians
- Make quick, low settlement offers
- Request unnecessary information to muddle investigation
- Delay claim processing
- Pressure victims to settle quickly
Maximizing Your Compensation
An experienced attorney will help:
- Calculate current and future damages
- Document all injury-related expenses
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Present compelling evidence
- Counter liability disputes
- Take your case to trial if needed
Suffered Serious Injuries After Being Struck by Vehicle? Call RTM Law Firm Today. No Win, No Fee.
Don’t let a Thanksgiving pedestrian accident derail your life. The experienced attorneys at RTM Law Firm serve clients throughout California, including Bakersfield, Santa Ana, Torrance, Victorville, San Diego and surrounding areas.
We understand how to secure fair compensation for pedestrian accident victims. By calling us, you get access to a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
You deserve medical care and money for your pain and suffering. Call RTM Law Firm now at (949) 2874342 to get a no-cost case evaluation. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Do you need compassionate support and effective representation?
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.