School Zone Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Glendale & Los Angeles
Nothing is more devastating than a child being struck by a vehicle near their school. School zones exist to protect our most vulnerable pedestrians — children who are smaller, less visible, and less predictable than adults. When a driver ignores school zone speed limits, blows through crosswalks, or drives recklessly near a school, the consequences can be life-altering or fatal. Attorney Anand Desai has spent over 20+ years championing the rights of accident victims, including children and families impacted by school zone pedestrian accidents. Call (833) 270-7800 for a free consultation.
School Zone Laws in California
California imposes strict regulations on driving near schools to protect students:
- Vehicle Code Section 22352(a)(2) — establishes a 25 mph speed limit when passing school grounds during school hours and children are present, unless otherwise posted
- Vehicle Code Section 21950 — requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, which applies with special force in school zones
- Vehicle Code Section 21100.3 — allows cities to use crossing guards to control traffic near schools, and failing to obey a crossing guard’s directions is a violation
- Vehicle Code Section 22112 — establishes rules for passing or approaching school buses with flashing red lights
Violating any of these laws establishes negligence per se, providing a strong foundation for a personal injury claim.
Why School Zone Accidents Happen
Despite the protections in place, school zone accidents continue to occur throughout Glendale, Los Angeles, and the San Fernando Valley. Common causes include:
- Speeding through school zones — drivers ignoring reduced speed limits during drop-off and pick-up times
- Distracted driving — parents and commuters on their phones while navigating crowded school-area streets
- Illegal U-turns near schools — parents making dangerous maneuvers in congested zones
- Backing up without looking — drivers in crowded parking areas and drop-off zones reversing into children
- Double-parked vehicles blocking sight lines — children stepping from between parked cars into traffic
- Failure to stop for crossing guards — ignoring crossing guard signals
Children Are Uniquely Vulnerable
Children face elevated risks as pedestrians for several reasons that California law recognizes:
- They are physically smaller and harder for drivers to see
- Their peripheral vision is narrower than adults’
- They have difficulty judging vehicle speed and distance
- They are impulsive — they may dart into the street without warning
- They may not understand traffic signals or right-of-way rules
Under California law, drivers owe a heightened duty of care when children are present or reasonably expected to be present — such as near schools. This heightened standard strengthens claims when a driver injures a child in a school zone.
Injuries to Children in School Zone Accidents
Because children’s bodies are still developing, injuries from vehicle strikes can have lasting consequences:
- Traumatic brain injuries — children’s brains are more susceptible to lasting damage
- Bone fractures — growth plate injuries can affect development
- Spinal cord injuries — potentially life-altering at any age
- Internal organ damage — children’s organs are less protected by muscle and fat
- Severe emotional trauma — PTSD, anxiety, and fear of walking near roads
- Facial and dental injuries — from contact with vehicle surfaces or the ground
Filing a Claim for an Injured Child
When a minor is injured, the legal process has additional requirements:
- A parent or guardian files the claim on behalf of the child
- Any settlement must be approved by a California court to ensure it protects the child’s interests
- Settlement funds are typically placed in a blocked trust account until the child turns 18
- The statute of limitations for minors is tolled — it does not begin running until the child’s 18th birthday, giving them until age 20 to file
Attorney Desai guides families through these procedural requirements while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation.
Potential Liable Parties
Liability in school zone accidents may extend beyond the driver:
- The driver — for speeding, distraction, or other negligent behavior
- The school district — for inadequate drop-off/pick-up zone design, missing crossing guards, or insufficient traffic controls
- The city or county — for failing to install school zone signage, maintain crosswalk markings, or provide adequate traffic signals (Government Code Section 835)
Compensation for School Zone Accident Victims
Families in Glendale, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Burbank, and surrounding areas can seek:
- All medical expenses — immediate and long-term
- Future medical needs related to growth and development impacts
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Parents’ lost wages for time spent caregiving
- Counseling and therapy costs
- Wrongful death damages in fatal cases
Why Trust Anand Desai with Your Family’s Case
Anand Desai has earned a 5.0-star rating on Google from 114 reviews and Avvo Clients’ Choice 2025 by treating every client like family. As a former LA County Public Defender who tried 50+ jury cases, he has the courtroom presence and preparation to take on negligent drivers and their insurers. He works on a no win, no fee basis and speaks 11 languages. BBB A+ rated.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Zone Accidents
What should I do if my child is hit by a car near school?
Call 911 immediately. Do not move your child unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Get medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Photograph the scene and get witness information. Then call (833) 270-7800.
Can I sue the school district if inadequate safety measures contributed to the accident?
Yes. If the school failed to provide crossing guards, safe drop-off zones, or adequate traffic controls, they may share liability. Government claims must be filed within six months, so act quickly.
Is there a different statute of limitations for child injury cases?
Yes. California tolls the statute of limitations for minors. A child has until their 20th birthday to file a personal injury claim. However, parents should not wait — evidence deteriorates and witnesses’ memories fade over time.
What if the driver who hit my child fled the scene?
Report the hit-and-run to police immediately. Schools and nearby businesses may have surveillance cameras. Your own auto insurance uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Attorney Desai will investigate all options.
How is settlement money handled when the victim is a child?
California requires court approval of any settlement involving a minor. The court ensures the settlement amount is fair and the funds are protected, usually in a blocked trust account until the child turns 18.
Free Consultation — Protect Your Child’s Rights
Your child’s safety and future matter. Call Anand Desai at (833) 270-7800 for a free consultation, or reach out online. No win, no fee. Available 24/7.