California has a higher rate of pedestrian fatalities than many other states, with pedestrians making up nearly 25% of all traffic fatalities. This is partly because of the state’s large population. You might be wondering why pedestrian accidents are so frequent, what you can do to prevent becoming a victim, and how you could contact a pedestrian accident lawyer if such a tragedy were to happen. In this blog article, we’ll discuss some of the main causes of pedestrian accidents and what to do in the event of an accident.
Some victims of pedestrian accidents might not be aware that they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. You are not at fault if someone ran a stop or yield sign, entered a crosswalk, disregarded a traffic signal, was driving too fast, or hit you. You need a skilled and determined California pedestrian accident attorney if you want to make sure you receive all the compensation you are due for your accident. We are dedicated and committed to every client, thus maximizing their recovery.
Distracted Drivers and Pedestrians
Drivers who text or talk on their cell phones endanger not only other drivers but also pedestrians. However, accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles can also happen to pedestrians who are using digital devices as they cross the street. In conclusion, avoid using electronic devices while walking or driving in heavy traffic.
Drunken Drivers
Everyone on the road is at risk when a driver is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, but pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Accidents involving pedestrians can happen when intoxicated drivers ignore traffic signals and crosswalks or when they turn left directly in front of a crowd of people walking. All pedestrians crossing streets at night should be alert for intoxicated drivers.
Impatient Drivers
Generally speaking, pedestrians have the right of way. Pedestrian still has the right of way if they begin crossing the street against the light because they cannot see your car. Many pedestrian accidents are caused by impatient drivers who do not watch out for pedestrians or who try to avoid walking pedestrians in crosswalks.
Children Left Unsupervised As They Cross the Street
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one-third of child pedestrian fatalities occur when children cross the street alone. The likelihood of children darting into the street without looking both ways or checking for oncoming traffic is higher. Teach your kids how to cross the street safely and about road safety. Always be aware of where your kids are and whether or not they are crossing the street safely.
Recklessness
One of the main factors contributing to pedestrian accidents is carelessness, on the part of both drivers and pedestrians. Pedestrians may be in danger from drivers who do not watch for pedestrians or who drive recklessly through crosswalks.
It is evident from the causes mentioned above that both the driver and the pedestrian have a big part to play in preventing accidents. Both parties must abide by the fundamental rules of the road that guarantee everyone’s safety. In contrast to drivers, who benefit from the enclosed frame of their vehicle, pedestrians are more likely to sustain catastrophic injuries.
What Happens If I Get Hurt?
If you are the victim of a pedestrian accident brought on by a driver’s negligence, you have the same right to seek compensation as anyone else on the road. It is crucial that you get medical care for your wounds, and you should also try to start gathering evidence to back up a personal injury claim. Your pedestrian accident lawyer can assist you in compiling all relevant information so that you can present it in a settlement discussion or civil court trial to support your claim for full payment of your economic and non-economic damages.
Pedestrian Accidents Occur, But That Doesn’t Mean Nothing Can Be Done.
Tragically, serious pedestrian accidents in California happen frequently, but that does not excuse those who cause them from being held accountable. The majority of pedestrian accidents involve innocent people who are struck by a car without any fault of their own. If you have been hurt in a serious pedestrian accident, you require a personal injury lawyer who is on your side and committed to assisting you in obtaining fair compensation for your injuries, pain, and inconvenience.
Do Not Delay In Starting Your Case.
Generally speaking, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim for the personal injuries you suffered. There are, however, some circumstances in which you must file your accident case much earlier. Make sure you don’t lose the chance to win your accident case. The very last thing you want is to not get paid what you should for everything you’ve gone through. You should have legal representation if someone struck you with their car while you were out walking. For a risk-free consultation, contact our California pedestrian accident attorney right away.