California Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Such injuries can result in long-term physical and emotional damage, and they create a financial strain on victims. Along with physical damage, victims must also deal with medical bills and lost wages.

If you’ve been in a pedestrian accident, seek medical treatment immediately, even if you feel fine at that moment. Then, reach out to us for legal assistance.

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way?

In general, pedestrians do not always have the absolute right of way, but there are specific situations where they are given priority over vehicles. The rules can vary by jurisdiction, but there are some common principles found in most traffic laws:

• Crosswalks: Pedestrians typically have the right of way at marked crosswalks and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Vehicles must yield to pedestrians crossing the street within these designated areas.
• Intersections: At intersections with traffic signals, pedestrians must obey traffic control devices, such as "Walk" and "Don't Walk" signals. They have the right of way when crossing with a green light or walk signal.
• Sidewalks and Driveways: Drivers must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks when entering or exiting driveways, alleys, or parking lots. Pedestrians have the right of way in these situations.
• Pedestrian Overpasses and Underpasses: When a pedestrian overpass or underpass is provided, pedestrians should use it instead of crossing at street level. However, when crossing is allowed at street level, vehicles must yield.
• Jaywalking: Pedestrians crossing the street outside of crosswalks (jaywalking) do not have the right of way and must yield to vehicles. However, drivers still have a duty to exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian.
• School Zones and Residential Areas: In school zones, near playgrounds, and in residential areas, drivers should be especially cautious and yield to pedestrians, as children and others may be present and potentially less cautious.
• Special Circumstances: Pedestrians with disabilities, such as those using guide dogs or white canes, are often given special consideration and have the right of way in many situations.

While pedestrians have the right of way in many scenarios, they also have responsibilities, such as not suddenly leaving a curb and stepping into the path of a vehicle that is too close to stop safely. Both drivers and pedestrians must exercise due care to avoid accidents.

Understanding these rules helps ensure safety for both pedestrians and drivers, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on the road. If you have questions about your pedestrian accident case, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.