IMO, it's sad that this motorist will probably have the book thrown at them for not slowing down and avoiding the students.
Don't be surprised if that happens. In California pedestrians rule, even if J-walking or occupying freeways.
If a motorist could see the person and wasn't paying attention, good luck.
This does not address people who lurch from in-between cars into traffic. It just means folks who are clearly in the street and should have been observed.
Driver should ask for a jury trial. I sure as hell would fight for at least a hung jury if I was a juror.