The holiday season in Los Angeles brings parades, tree lightings, street festivals, and community celebrations across the city—from Hollywood and Downtown LA to the Valley and beach communities. While these events create memorable moments, they also increase the risk of pedestrian accidents due to crowded streets, heavy traffic, and distracted drivers.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Increase During the Holidays

Holiday events often require road closures, temporary detours, and increased foot traffic. Drivers unfamiliar with these changes may become confused or impatient, leading to dangerous situations. Poor visibility is another major factor. Evening events, decorative lighting, and winter glare can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians crossing streets or walking near roadways.

Distractions also play a significant role. Drivers may be looking for parking, checking navigation apps, texting, or simply focusing on the festivities instead of the road. At the same time, pedestrians may be distracted by phones, music, or crowds, reducing awareness of oncoming traffic.

High-Risk Areas in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, pedestrian accidents during the holidays commonly occur near:

• Parade routes and festival streets
• Shopping districts and outdoor malls
• Areas with temporary traffic patterns or barricades
• Intersections near parks, schools, and entertainment venues

Neighborhoods hosting large holiday gatherings often see a mix of cars, rideshare vehicles, buses, and pedestrians competing for limited space—raising the risk of serious injuries.

Common Injuries in Holiday Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians have little protection, so injuries are often severe. These may include broken bones, head injuries, spinal trauma, internal injuries, and long-term mobility issues. Even low-speed collisions can result in serious medical complications, especially for children and older adults.

What to Do If You’re Hit as a Pedestrian

If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident during a holiday event:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
• Report the accident to police and request a report
• Gather witness information and take photos if possible
• Avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal guidance

Know Your Rights

In California, drivers have a legal duty to yield to pedestrians, especially in crosswalks. If a driver’s negligence—such as distraction, speeding, or impaired driving—caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.

Staying Safe This Holiday Season

Pedestrians should wear visible clothing at night, use designated crosswalks, and stay alert in crowded areas. Drivers should slow down near events, follow posted detours, and remain focused at all times.

Holiday celebrations should be joyful—not life-changing due to preventable accidents. If you or a loved one is injured as a pedestrian during a holiday event in Los Angeles, understanding your rights can make all the difference. Call Goldberg Injury Lawyers 24/7 at 858-GOBARRY for a free consultation.