How Much Money Can You Get From Getting Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian?

SEO | September 8, 2025 | Pedestrian Accidents

How Much Money Can You Get From Getting Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian?

There’s no single “average” settlement for pedestrians hit by cars. Every case depends on the facts: how the accident happened, the severity of the injuries, and the available insurance coverage. 

Still, understanding the key factors that affect pedestrian accident payouts in California can give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Here’s what you should know. 

Who Pays for a Pedestrian Accident in California?

Pedestrian accidents are generally covered under the at-fault driver’s auto liability insurance. After a crash, the pedestrian (or their lawyer) files a claim against the driver’s insurer.

To recover compensation, the pedestrian must show that the driver was negligent—in other words, that they failed to act with reasonable care. Examples include:

  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failing to yield in a crosswalk
  • Distracted or impaired driving

If the driver is found negligent, their insurer pays damages up to the policy limits. If the pedestrian was partly at fault—such as jaywalking—California’s pure comparative negligence law applies. This means their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. 

For instance, if a jury finds a pedestrian 30% at fault, they can still recover 70% of their damages.

Factors That Affect Pedestrian Accident Compensation

Several key factors influence how much money a pedestrian can recover after being hit by a car in California. These include: 

  • Severity of injuries: More serious injuries, such as broken bones, brain injuries, or permanent disability, usually lead to higher compensation than minor injuries.
  • Insurance coverage: California requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $15,000 for property damage. These limits often cap what you can recover unless additional insurance is available.
  • Evidence and case strength: Strong proof of the driver’s negligence, such as police reports or witness testimony, can encourage insurers to offer larger settlements.
  • Comparative negligence: If a pedestrian is partly at fault, their recovery is reduced by their percentage of responsibility under California’s pure comparative negligence law.

Together, these factors determine the potential value of a pedestrian accident case. While no two claims are identical, understanding how insurers and courts evaluate them helps set realistic expectations about possible compensation.

What Is the Average Settlement for Pedestrian Accidents?

Because every case is unique, there’s no universal “average” amount. A pedestrian with minor injuries might settle for thousands of dollars, while someone with catastrophic injuries could receive hundreds of thousands—or more—depending on available insurance coverage and the strength of the case.

Why You Should Speak With a Lawyer

Calculating the value of a pedestrian accident claim is rarely straightforward. Insurance companies often minimize injuries or try to place blame on the pedestrian, making it difficult to recover fair compensation without legal help. 

A California pedestrian accident lawyer can provide critical support by:

  • Investigating the accident and gathering evidence of fault
  • Calculating damages, including medical costs, lost income, and future needs
  • Negotiating with insurers to pursue a fair settlement
  • Representing you in court if a trial becomes necessary

With this level of support, injured pedestrians are better positioned to protect their rights and recover the compensation they deserve.

Protecting Your Rights After Being Hit by a Car

The compensation available after a pedestrian accident in California depends on the severity of the injuries, the driver’s insurance coverage, and the facts of the case. Every situation is different, but having an experienced lawyer by your side greatly improves your chances of securing meaningful financial recovery.

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000