Posted on Monday, April 2nd, 2018 at 5:16 pm
California is dangerous for pedestrians. The state leads the country in the number of pedestrian deaths in 2016. According to the NHTSA, 867 pedestrians died in traffic-related accidents in California during 2016. Nationwide, 5,987 pedestrians died in accidents, which was the highest number of pedestrian fatalities in one year since 1990. Pedestrian deaths rose nine percent from 2015 to 2016.
Pedestrians must be extremely careful when crossing roads, even when they are crossing in a crosswalk. If a reckless or negligent motorist hurt you, you should call our San Francisco pedestrian accident attorneys for a free case review. You may be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries.
California Law Regarding Crosswalks
Pedestrians have the right-of-way in unmarked and marked crosswalks in California. However, pedestrians must also follow traffic rules when crossing the road. For example, a pedestrian should not cross the road against a traffic signal. Pedestrians who are elderly, tourists, or children may have an increased risk.
Risks Pedestrians Face in Crosswalks
Even though a pedestrian has the right-of-way in a crosswalk, pedestrians still face risks when crossing the road in a crosswalk. Examples of risks that can cause a tragic accident in a crosswalk include:
- Speeding and reckless drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Poor weather conditions
- Fatigued or drowsy drivers
- Inexperienced drivers
- Low visibility at night
When a driver causes an injury to a pedestrian, that driver can be held liable for damages. If road conditions or defective traffic signals contribute to the accident, a government entity or other third party may also be liable for damages.
Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents
There is no way to ensure you will never be injured in a pedestrian accident. However, there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk of being injured in a pedestrian accident.
- Pay attention! Distracted walking can be as dangerous as distracted driving. When you are walking, avoid using your cell phone, reading, or doing anything that can take your eyes off your path.
- When crossing the street, try to make eye contact with the driver to ensure the driver sees you.
- If you are walking at night or when visibility is low, wear brightly colored clothing with light-reflective accents. A flashlight or other light source can help increase your visibility to drivers.
- Hold a child’s hand whenever you are walking near traffic and crossing a road. Children are not fully aware of the dangers of traffic.
- Never walk or cross roads when you have had too much to drink.
- Try to walk in groups. Groups are easier to see than a single pedestrian.
If you are injured, you need to seek immediate medical attention. When you are stable, you should contact our office for a free legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer in San Francisco.
San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to discuss your case with an experienced personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, emotional stress, and physical pain.
