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, 893 pedestrians were killed on Golden State roadways, reaching 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.
Steps Pedestrians Can Take to Help Avoid Accidents
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
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 Avoid 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 crossways, 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.
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.