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Pedestrian safety has become an increasing concern in California. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), pedestrian fatalities increased by 26 percent between 2014 and 2018. More than 14,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents in California in 2018.
Such incidents often leave victims facing substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. When a negligent driver causes these serious injuries and deaths, they may be held accountable for the damage caused. This may help deter future negligent behavior and reduce the risk of traffic accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can discuss whether you have a valid case and help you explore your legal options.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
It is important for both drivers and pedestrians to understand the causes of pedestrian accidents. This can help reduce the risk of injury or death while on the road. Here are some of the common causes of pedestrian accidents in California:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents across the world. Smartphones, navigation programs, in-vehicle entertainment systems, and other electronic devices often play a major role in distracted driving accidents. Many drivers also become distracted by food and drinks, or by children and pets riding in the vehicle. These distractions have the potential to result in serious accidents. Provide your children and pets with whatever items they need before driving, so you arenโt taking your eyes off the road to attend to them.
Distracted Walking
Pedestrians may also be distracted by smartphones, which may result in serious accidents. Pay attention to your surroundings when walking. If you are wearing earbuds, it is important to remain aware of what is happening around you. Use caution at intersections or when crossing the streets, and communicate with drivers to indicate your intended path.
Drunk Driving And Drunk Walking
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than ten thousand victims were killed by drunk drivers in California between 2003 and 2012. Pedestrians are at even greater risk from drunk drivers than other road users. While a vehicle occupant has a seat belt, an airbag, and a steel frame for protection during a collision, a pedestrian is subjected to the full force of impact.
Pedestrian fatalities are thus likely to occur as a result of these incidents. Drunk driving accident lawyers can help victims and their families understand their rights and learn whether they can pursue claims against negligent drivers.
Did you know that drunk walking can also increase the risk of a pedestrian accident? The CDC reports that one out of every three fatal pedestrian accidents involves a pedestrian with a blood alcohol concentration at or above 0.08 percent. Pedestrians must stay off the road while impaired.
Lack Of Crosswalks
When there are not enough crosswalks or crosswalks are spaced far apart, pedestrians might be tempted to cross over the middle of a road. Many pedestrian accidents occur due to jaywalking. If a pedestrian is not on a sidewalk or crosswalk, they face a higher risk of being hit by a vehicle. Cross at intersections or designated crosswalks, even if it requires extra time. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of accidents.
Safety Tips For Drivers And Pedestrians
The OTS has the following recommendations for drivers:
- Donโt speed. Even traveling at the posted speed limit might be too fast to avoid pedestrians in the roadway. Be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not drive while distracted. While smartphones and other electronic devices are the main culprits of distracted driving, be careful not to be distracted by food, children, or pets.
- Donโt drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Be especially cautious at night, during inclement weather, and during any other periods of low visibility.
- Prepare to yield and to stop. Pedestrians have the right-of-way at any crosswalk or intersection.
- Be cautious when backing up. Distraction and limited visibility can make it difficult to avoid pedestrians.
- Use caution when driving past schools, daycare centers, playgrounds, and other places where children are present. Young children may not yet understand the rules of the road. They might be impulsive and dart out into the road unexpectedly. Be prepared to react quickly any time you are driving near children.
The OTS also has safety tips for pedestrians:
- Look left, then right, then left before crossing a street.
- Be visible to drivers. Wear light clothing or use reflective tape when walking at night. Use a flashlight or other light sources so you can be seen by other road users.
- Walk on the sidewalk and cross at intersections or crosswalks. If you stay where drivers expect pedestrians to be, they will be less likely to hit you.
- Donโt assume a driver can see you. Make eye contact and use hand signals to indicate your intended direction.
- Impairment due to drinking can increase your chances of being struck while walking. If you plan to walk, do not do so intoxicated.
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid distractions such as your phone, music, pets, or anything else.
Dedicated Pedestrian Accident Attorneys For California Injury Victims
The pedestrian accident lawyers at Arash Law have years of experience assisting clients in pursuing compensation for their injuries and losses. We offer our legal services to victims injured by negligence throughout California, including San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Sherman Oaks, and other areas. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule your free initial consultation. Consulting with an experienced California pedestrian accident attorney can be beneficial for learning if and how you can pursue a pedestrian accident claim.
