A pedestrian accident can result in serious injuries, particularly because pedestrians are unprotected when struck by a moving vehicle weighing thousands of pounds. So, pedestrian safety is very important. But, responsibility for pedestrian safety doesn’t stop with drivers, it should also be shared by pedestrians.
Follow the Rules of the Road and the Law
California law mandates that drivers take necessary precautions to protect pedestrians on the road. It is especially important in areas where pedestrians are more likely to be present, such as school zones and construction zones. For this reason, the speed limits in those zones are reduced for pedestrian safety.
So, follow the speed limit and the rules of the road, and be extra cautious in school zones and construction zones.
Drivers and Pedestrians: Approach Crosswalks with Caution
A driver approaching an intersection should always be cognizant that a pedestrian may cross at any point. A pedestrian may appear from behind a car parked at the intersection or a jogger may jog through. So, just because you don’t see a pedestrian in the crosswalk the moment you approach it, it does not mean that one won’t appear!
A driver approaching the intersection should look to his/her right and to his/her left at least twice before making a turn. This will ensure that a pedestrian does not appear as the driver focuses in the opposite direction.
In California, unmarked crosswalks have the same force and effect as marked crosswalks. So, if you approach an intersection that does not have a marked crosswalk, you must treat it as if there is a marked crosswalk.
The same goes for pedestrians. Pedestrians need to be cognizant of vehicles as they approach a crosswalk at an intersection. Pedestrians should NEVER assume that a vehicle approaching the intersection will stop at the intersection.
More importantly, pedestrians must pay attention to their surroundings and avoid all distractions. The other day, as I approached an intersection, I saw a lady cross the intersection with her headphones on and face down. She never looked up! As a pedestrian, you must take responsibility for your own safety.
Drivers Should Be Aware of Other Vehicles Stopped at a Crosswalk
Say you are driving on a side street in the Santa Clarita Valley or the San Fernando Valley. As you approach an intersection, you notice that a car has stopped at the intersection (which may or may not have a marked crosswalk). The stopped car should give you an indication that the car has stopped at the intersection to allow a pedestrian to cross, and that you may not see the pedestrian because the car (at the intersection) is blocking your view.
So, if you see a vehicle stopped at an intersection, do not attempt to pass the vehicle without first confirming that the crosswalk is clear of a pedestrian.
Weather and Visibility Play a Factor
Rain or shine, the weather always plays a factor.
- Rain: visibility is limited because the windshield is covered with water. So, drivers need to slow down, and pedestrians need to be cognizant that they may not be seen.
- Night: visibility is poor, especially in darker areas. So, drivers should be more cautious, and pedestrians should wear lighter or reflective clothing to make themselves more visible.
- Sun: even sunny days can be challenging for drivers. Use sunglasses and the car’s sun visor to reduce glare, especially when facing the sun. Pedestrians should also be mindful that sun glares and direct sunlight can impair a driver’s view.
Never Drive Under the Influence
Needless to say, never drive under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or recreational drugs as they can impact your judgment and reaction time.
Conclusion
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 67,336 pedestrians were injured, nationwide, in traffic accidents, in 2022, and according to the Sacramento Bee, an estimated 1,057 pedestrians were killed in auto accidents in California in 2023. So, please take measures to keep pedestrians safe!
If, unfortunately, you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, and wish to know about your rights or just have questions, please do not hesitate to call us at The Mason Law Firm.
Our firm is managed by top-rated Super Lawyer Mason Rashtian, who has been litigating accident and personal injury cases since 1997. In addition to pedestrian accidents, we handle car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, bus accidents, and construction site accidents.
We also handle slip-and-falls, dog bite cases, burn injury cases, and nursing home and elder abuse cases.
We will answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you through the process. If needed, we ensure you receive proper and the necessary medical care and legal support.
We handle cases throughout California, including Los Angeles County, Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley, Antelope Valley (Lancaster and Palmdale), Ventura County, Orange County, and Kern County.
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid when you receive a settlement or verdict.
“We Meet Our Clients by Accident!”