San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
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Accident Lawyers Standing By San Francisco Pedestrians Every Step Of The Way
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable and must protect themselves from the impact of the crash. Arash Law, founded by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has decades of experience assisting injured pedestrians across California. Call our San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
San Francisco is a significant economic and cultural hub in California. The city is the 17th most populous city in the United States and the fourth-largest in the state, with a population of 873,965, according to the 2020 United States Census report. San Francisco is a cultural and commercial hub in California.
The geographic area of the city is sprawling and makes up dozens of miles of the northern San Francisco Peninsula. Given the large area of land the city covers and the number of people who call it home, it is not surprising that traffic accidents are common throughout the city.
Pedestrians who are involved in a crash, if they do not lose their lives, may suffer serious injuries like internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, dislocations, and fractures. These injuries are often serious and expensive to recover from. You need a pedestrian attorney working on your side and helping you get your life back on track.
Our client was stopped at a two-way stop sign before proceeding into an intersection where he was struck by a police cruiser traveling 70 mph, resulting in serious injuries.
– ARASH KHORSANDI
Pedestrian Laws In California
California, like other states, has laws that govern traffic accidents, including those involving pedestrians. Following the applicable rules will keep everyone, both pedestrians and motorists, safe.
California is a comparative negligence state. Comparative negligence means that the amount of the plaintiff’s monetary award, if any, is reduced based on the percentage of negligence assigned to you. That means that a jury may find that the driver was negligent and caused the accident, but you did something to contribute to your injuries. For example, the driver may have run a red light, but if you jaywalked, you may be found to have contributed to the accident. If your final judgment is $100,000 and you are 10 percent at fault, your final award will be $90,000.
There are more laws that traffic accident victims should be aware of as they begin pursuing damages. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding California pedestrian traffic laws.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding San Francisco Pedestrian Accidents
Learn about your rights and responsibilities under the laws that apply to pedestrian accidents in San Francisco.
What Is The Crosswalk Law In California?
In 2023, California decriminalized jaywalking. Regardless, pedestrians must cross the street at designated crosswalks. Crossing anywhere else is extremely dangerous, especially on busy roads and streets. No pedestrian should leave the sidewalk and head into the path of a vehicle that does not have the chance to stop. A marked crosswalk has lights and signals to let pedestrians and motorists see where they should cross or watch for pedestrians.
Is It Jaywalking If There Is No Crosswalk?
If there is no crosswalk, then the pedestrian must take responsibility and avoid traffic accidents. Pedestrians must use due care while traveling. Jaywalking happens when a pedestrian crosses the road with no regard for the vehicles approaching them. If a pedestrian is jaywalking, then they may be considered to be partly negligent. Hence, they might receive reduced compensation if they were jaywalking at the time of the accident.
Do Pedestrians Have The Right Of Way?
Yes, pedestrians do have the right of way. According to the California Vehicle Code, motorists must yield to pedestrian travelers. Pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalk intersections. Pedestrians also have the responsibility to avoid going into the street in front of cars. If the pedestrian does walk in front of a moving vehicle that does not have the capability to stop, then the driver has the right of way.
What Is An Unmarked Crosswalk In California?
There are two types of crosswalks — marked and unmarked crosswalks. An unmarked crosswalk is any intersection of two roads with no crosswalk markings. Both pedestrians and drivers must use due care to avoid traffic accidents. Drivers must yield the right of way when appropriate and vice versa. Crossing an unmarked crosswalk is not illegal jaywalking.
Sometimes, it is challenging to know who has the right of way and, therefore, who is responsible for the accident. The skill of experienced San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers can help build your case and pursue the compensation you need after an accident.
After a pedestrian accident, defense teams and insurance companies may question the circumstances or examine the actions of all parties involved. They may claim that the pedestrian was doing one of the following activities:
- Walking while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Jaywalking.
- Crossing against the light.
- Texting while driving or being otherwise distracted.
- At fault for another reason.
However, drivers must prove that they yielded the right of way to the pedestrian. Drivers should look out for pedestrians in the following areas:
- In residential neighborhoods
- Parking lots
- Bus stops
- Crossing against the light
- Near school zones
- Downtown
- Any other area where people travel on foot
After a pedestrian accident, consider consulting with an attorney who understands the laws that protect your rights. While many traffic accidents share similarities, pedestrian cases often involve unique issues of liability and proof. Speaking with an experienced San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your options and the steps ahead.
Pedestrian Accidents In San Francisco And The Bay Area
Pedestrian accidents are far too common in San Francisco and the Bay Area. People often travel by foot to school, on their daily commute to work, to catch public transit, and for exercise and fresh air. The growing population has made pedestrian travel more dangerous. More accidents are happening daily.
Congested roads have become common across the city and area, making these roads more filled with reckless and distracted drivers. Here are some statistics about California pedestrian accidents:
- In January to June 2021, about 1,120 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents across California.
- Nearly 25% of all pedestrian fatalities involved a hit-and-run accident.
- California has almost 25% more pedestrian fatalities than the national average, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).
- Between 2009 and 2018, California saw nearly 7,500 pedestrian deaths.
- Speeding and distracted driving are some of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents.
- Large vehicles, such as SUVs, are more likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident.
- The San Francisco government declared a state of emergency when nearly 30 pedestrians were killed in a year’s time.
The above does not account for the many pedestrians who were seriously injured in traffic accidents across San Francisco and throughout California. Because of the number of traffic accidents involving pedestrians, California’s pedestrian fatality rate is significantly higher than the national average. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or was killed in a San Francisco pedestrian accident, contact an attorney to learn more about your legal rights.
Some Of The Most Dangerous Pedestrian Intersections In San Francisco
The intersection of Fifth Street and Market Street is the most dangerous intersection in the city for pedestrian travelers. This area has been a well-known, dangerous intersection for the past twenty years. Many people travel on foot in this area.
Fifth and Market Street has seen serious improvements to address pedestrian safety. However, many pedestrians meet an ill fate as they navigate this intersection.
If you have suffered an injury while traveling on foot at the intersection of Fifth Street and Market Street, contact a competent attorney who understands the area immediately after the accident. Having San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers on your side means you have knowledgeable advocates to guide and support you and your family through the aftermath of a traffic accident.
How Do I Prove Liability In A Pedestrian Accident?
The most important step in a civil accident lawsuit is proving liability. While you can show that you suffered an injury, if you cannot prove that the driver caused the accident, you cannot collect damages. Getting an attorney can help you work toward making a compelling case for collecting damages after a pedestrian accident.
Your San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers will know which laws apply to your case and how they may impact the outcome of your claim. For example, California has right-of-way laws that apply to traffic accident cases. California pedestrian right-of-way is designed to protect pedestrians against injury because pedestrians are the most vulnerable group of travelers.
To pursue a pedestrian accident case, you present evidence showing that the driver acted negligently. There are some actions, or inactions, that show a driver was negligent. Examples of negligent actions include the following:
- Reckless driving.
- Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
- Making phone calls, texting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Speeding or driving too fast for the weather conditions.
- Failing to obey traffic signs or signals.
- Fatigued driving or driving without adequate rest.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a traffic accident, you need a San Francisco pedestrian accident attorney on your side. Attorneys understand the law and can apply it to the facts of your case, offering guidance and support to help you navigate the legal process after an accident.
What Are The Most Common Types Of Injuries In Pedestrian Accidents In San Francisco?
The injuries you suffer are unique to your accident, but there are some common types of injuries that many pedestrians may face when they are in a traffic accident. Pedestrians tend to suffer significant injury or death at higher rates than drivers and passengers in vehicles.
Common injuries that pedestrians can face include the following:
- Infections
- Scarring
- Nerve damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Torn ligaments
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations and severe cuts
- Knee and leg injuries
- Fractured or broken bones
The facts surrounding the accident will determine the severity and extent of your injuries and other losses. Factors such as the vehicle’s speed, the angle of the crash, and the body part that suffered an injury can impact the severity of the accident-related injuries.
What Damages Are Available In A Pedestrian Accident In San Francisco?
There are specific types of compensable damages. You should be aware of all the potential damages you may be entitled to after an accident. There are generally two categories of damage that a pedestrian can pursue after an accident — economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the physical and tangible losses an accident victim suffers because of a crash. These losses are usually easy to spot. Although many victims can easily describe their injuries, an experienced attorney can assist in proving that you have suffered economic damages. Examples of economic damages include the following:
- Current and future medical bills.
- Current and future lost income.
- Lost earning capacity.
- The cost of medical treatment, long-term or rehabilitative care, or medical equipment.
- Cost of repairs if any of your personal property is damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages include intangible losses, and these losses are usually more difficult to prove in most cases. They include what you cannot see. Examples of non-economic damages include the following:
- Loss of companionship or consortium
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
What Should I Do After A Pedestrian Accident?
Your actions after a pedestrian accident are very important. Consider taking the following steps to protect your legal rights to pursue appropriate compensation.
Call First Responders
After a traffic accident, always call 911. Request for the police and paramedics to appear at the scene. Wait for the officers to arrive and make an accident report when they do. An accident report is essential to your case. Many insurance companies will refuse to start the claims process without an accident report.
Paramedics will take you to the hospital if you have a serious injury. It is important to seek treatment after a traffic accident, even if you do not think that you suffered a severe injury.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
You need to be evaluated by a medical professional after a traffic accident. When you see a doctor or medical staff, make sure to tell them about what happened and how you received your injuries. Go into detail about your injuries. Tell your medical team of any pain and all symptoms related to your injuries.
Take Good Notes
You need detailed notes about the accident to help protect important evidence about your claim. After an accident, if you are physically able, talk to the driver and their passengers. The driver and their passengers may become witnesses as the case progresses. Take notes about them and other potential eyewitnesses. Write down the driver’s license number, get their name, phone number, and insurance policy information.
Take pictures and videos of the accident, the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Capture photos of the other vehicle and its license plate. Take note of their other driver’s insurance card, too.
Start Documenting Your Injuries
It is a good idea to keep personal notes on your accident-related medical conditions and how they affect you. Document the medical care that you receive. Describe your injuries, including the following:
- Your medical prognosis.
- Physical limitations like the inability to walk, headaches, sleep issues, bleeding, dizziness, or other symptoms related to your accident injury.
- Your mobility levels.
- Your pain levels.
- Issues with performing your job duties.
Keep A Journal
Keeping a personal injury journal can be helpful as you recall the facts of your case. You will be asked to tell your story often, so having it written down while it is fresh in your mind is crucial.
Write down how your injuries and losses have affected your daily life. Describe your doctor’s visits and how you understand your doctor’s orders. Take note of your emotional state and how the accident has affected your mental health. This data can be helpful to you and to your San Francisco personal injury attorney as your case proceeds.
Talk To A Lawyer
Contact San Francisco pedestrian accident attorneys after a car accident. They can assist you in navigating the claims process and handling communications with insurers and defense counsel.
There are many things that you should never do after a traffic accident. These actions can lead to a negatively impacted case. Never do the following:
Avoid Giving A Recorded Statement To Anyone
After a traffic accident, you may get calls, letters, and maybe even emails from insurance companies asking for information about the accident. You should never comply with these requests, especially if you have not retained legal counsel. Consult an attorney before answering any questions.
Never admit fault. Even an apology can be used against you. It may be a knee-jerk reaction to say, “I’m sorry,” but that may adversely affect your case.
Do Not Destroy Or Discard Evidence
Many items that may seem insignificant end up being important to your case. For example, do not discard any damaged personal property, like ripped clothes, eyeglasses, etc. Also, do not clean your damaged personal property. Keep everything in the same state it was in after the accident to avoid losing critical evidence.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Should I Hire Arash Law’s Pedestrian Accident Attorneys In San Francisco?
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, consulting with Arash Law’s attorneys can help you understand your legal options and receive guidance throughout the process. Here are some ways they can assist you:
Help With Your Claims
Experienced San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers can work to help you seek compensation that may be available to move forward with your life after a pedestrian accident. We are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and interests.
Take On Your Case On Contingency
Many accident victims are hesitant to file an accident claim or pursue a lawsuit because they do not believe they can afford legal representation. Fortunately, the attorneys at Arash Law work on a contingency fee basis. Although we work on a contingency fee basis, clients may still need to cover certain court costs or additional expenses.
Compassionate Representation
We care about our clients, and we take an individualized approach to representing them. We are committed to supporting our clients throughout the claims process, leveraging decades of experience in assisting injured Californians. Our team works diligently to provide guidance and representation during challenging times.
Contact Our San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Pedestrians must share the road with others every day in San Francisco. Unfortunately, traffic accidents are common. Pedestrians are vulnerable travelers and can suffer from serious injuries when they are involved in an accident.
If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, call the attorneys at Arash Law. Our legal team has decades of experience helping injured victims pursue compensation after a pedestrian accident.
We also represent personal injury victims in nearby communities and beyond, including Fremont, San Jose, Los Angeles, Fresno, Berkeley, Sacramento, Santa Rosa, and more. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
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