Steps to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents in California

The California Office of Traffic Safety reports California’s pedestrian casualty percentage to be nearly 25% higher than the countrywide average, with more pedestrian deaths on its roadways than any other state. As of 2018, pedestrian fatalities reached 893 on Golden State roadways, marking a 26% increase from 2014, and more than 14,000 pedestrians were injured in the same year.

Most Californians are embracing walking instead of driving to get to work, school, shopping, or simply to enjoy the weather outside. Unfortunately, walking has become increasingly dangerous. Although California law protects victims of pedestrian accidents, it’s also important to realize that your safety starts with you. Setareh Law can help you take steps to avoid pedestrian accidents. We will also work with you every step of the way if you were harmed in a pedestrian accident so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern for traffic safety, leading to thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a pedestrian was killed every 70 minutes in traffic crashes in 2022. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, poor visibility, and bad road design. Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents is essential to take preventive measures and promote pedestrian safety. By being aware of these factors, both pedestrians and drivers can work together to reduce the risk of accidents and create safer roadways for everyone.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can result from a combination of factors, each contributing to the overall risk. Here are some common causes:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones, eating, or other activities may not notice pedestrians in time to react, leading to dangerous situations.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of a collision, making it more likely for pedestrian accidents to occur.
• Poor Visibility: Dark streets, faulty road planning, and lack of sidewalks can put pedestrians in harm’s way, making it difficult for drivers to see them.
• Bad Road Design: Roads with inadequate crosswalks, poor lighting, and lack of pedestrian bridges can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Alcohol and Drug Impairment: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs may have impaired judgment and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.

By understanding these causes, we can take steps to mitigate them and improve pedestrian safety.

Steps Pedestrians Can Take to Promote Pedestrian Safety

Never assume that the person behind the wheel of a motor vehicle will respect your right-of-way. As a result, pedestrians need to exercise a lot of care when walking during the day and at night. Here are the top safety precautions to consider taking:

• Always ensure you are crossing the street at designated crosswalks. Drivers know to slow down at a crosswalk, as there may be passengers crossing
• When crossing at a crosswalk or walking across a parking lot, peer around stopped cars to ensure there are no oncoming vehicles
• Refrain from assuming the driver will see you, even when you have the right of way. Make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you before crossing
• When walking at night, ensure you are visible to oncoming drivers by using a flashlight, wearing a reflector, or wearing bright clothes
• Avoid using your phone when crossing the road or walking on the roadside
• Whenever possible, use sidewalks and walkways. When they aren’t available, walk on the edge of the road and in the direction of oncoming traffic
• Watch for traffic lights and turning vehicles at intersections
• When walking at night, endeavor to walk in well-lit areas
• Refrain from getting intoxicated when walking in high-traffic areas. Intoxication hinders you from making the proper judgment of situations

Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern for traffic safety, leading to thousands of injuries and traffic fatalities each year.

Walking may seem harmless, but you need to prioritize your safety. These tips may help save your life or that of a loved one.

Steps Motorists Can Take to Help Prevent Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian safety goes both ways. Motorists and pedestrians need to work together to make our roads safer. Here are measures motorists can take to prevent pedestrian accidents:

• Where possible, drive slowly in pedestrian areas. This will ultimately allow you more time to react should a pedestrian suddenly cross the road.
• Be on the lookout for cyclists to avoid hitting or startling them.
• Avoid swerving around stopped vehicles, as it could be disastrous. They may be waiting for a pedestrian you cannot see to cross the road.
• Drive slowly in poor weather or road conditions. Rushing could lead to fatal accidents with pedestrians or other motorists on the road.
• Always slow down in school zones. Children are only sometimes careful enough to look out for oncoming vehicles. If there are crossing guards, be sure to follow their signals.
• To avoid confusion at cross streets, make eye contact or gesture at pedestrians to let them know you see them, and that you will be stopping for them.

Motorists need to be on the lookout for pedestrians as well. The duty to prevent pedestrian accidents in our roadways lies with them both.

Preventing Pedestrian Accidents

Preventing pedestrian accidents requires a shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians. Here are some safety tips to promote pedestrian safety:

• Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
• Obey Traffic Signals: Follow traffic signals and signs to ensure pedestrian safety and avoid accidents.
• Use Crosswalks: Stick to marked crosswalks or intersections when crossing the street to ensure you are crossing safely.
• Make Eye Contact with Drivers: Establish eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the road to ensure they acknowledge your presence.
• Avoid Distractions: Avoid distractions while walking, such as using a phone or listening to music, to stay aware of your surroundings.

By following these safety tips, pedestrians can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and promote a safer environment for everyone.

Pedestrian Accident Prevention for Specific Groups

Certain groups, such as children, seniors, and people with disabilities, may be more vulnerable to pedestrian accidents. Here are some safety tips tailored to these groups:

• Children: Teach children to walk safely by setting a positive example, teaching them to look both ways before crossing the street, and holding an adult’s hand when crossing the street.
• Seniors: Seniors should be extra cautious when walking, especially at night or in low-light conditions. They should wear bright or reflective clothing and use crosswalks or pedestrian bridges to stay safe.
• People with Disabilities: People with disabilities should take extra precautions when walking, such as using assistive devices and being aware of their surroundings to avoid potential hazards.

By taking these tailored precautions, vulnerable groups can improve their safety and reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents.

What To Do if a Pedestrian Accident Still Happens

If a pedestrian accident still happens, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your legal rights and seek medical attention. Here are some steps to take:

• Seek Medical Attention: If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, seek medical attention immediately to address any injuries.
• Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles or property, to have a record of the incident.
• Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim and support you throughout the legal process.
• Report the Accident: Report the accident to the authorities and provide them with any relevant information to ensure the incident is properly documented.

By understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents, taking preventive measures, and knowing what to do in case of an accident, we can promote pedestrian safety and reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents.

Partner With a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer in California Today

Have you or a loved one been involved in a pedestrian accident in California? Setareh Law is a renowned personal injury law firm with an impressive track record of winning against tough opposition and successfully recovering the maximum compensation available. Our English- and Spanish-speaking lawyers are ready to work with you to protect your rights.

We understand the toll a lawsuit can take on you and take pride in being there for you at this time. Get legal representation from our seasoned pedestrian injury attorneys by contacting us at (310) 659-1826, or go online to fill out our contact form.