In 2016, 867 pedestrians were killed in California — a 32.8% increase since 2012. In that same year, over 14,000 pedestrians were injured in accidents. The pedestrian fatality rate in California is almost 30% higher than it is in any other state.
Pedestrian accidents can lead to devastating injuries or even to death. At the Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we are committed to helping individuals who have been hurt in pedestrian accidents — and their loved ones. We are fierce advocates for victims and their families, and never charge a fee unless we recover money for you. Contact us today at (310) 209-1600 or info@michaelkahnlaw.com to schedule a free initial consultation.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are many ways that a pedestrian accident may occur. A person who is walking, jogging or running may be hit by a vehicle that is:
- Turning illegally
- Running a stop light or a stop sign
- Turning without a signal
- Speeding
- Swerving
In some cases, the driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or may be distracted. texting and driving is a growing problem in all types of motor vehicle collisions — including pedestrian accidents.
Given the size difference between a vehicle and a pedestrian, a person may suffer catastrophic or even deadly injuries if they are struck by a car, truck, SUV or even a motorcycle. Even if a pedestrian is hit by an e-scooter or a bicycle, they may be seriously injured. Common injuries from a pedestrian accident include:
- Fractures
- Lacerations
- Contusions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Amputation
Whatever type of injury a person may suffer, they will need a skilled California pedestrian accident lawyer to help them file a claim and recover for their losses.
Determining Fault in Pedestrian Collisions
In most pedestrian accidents, the driver of a motor vehicle that strikes them will be responsible for the collision. However, there are certain rules that pedestrians must follow when crossing the street, walking or running. If you violate these rules or otherwise act negligently, then you may be partially at fault for a pedestrian accident.
Under California law, drivers are required to follow the following rules with regard to pedestrians:
- Yield to crossing pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections;
- Only drive on the sidewalk to enter or exit a garage or alleyway, and yield to pedestrians while doing so;
- Not pass stopped vehicles at crosswalks; and
- Not stop in a crosswalk.
Pedestrians are not permitted to jaywalk, which involves crossing the street anywhere other than in a crosswalk or at an intersection.
California follows a rule of comparative negligence. This means that if a pedestrian is found to be partially at fault for an accident — such as by jaywalking — they can still recover for their damages. Their total recovery will simply be reduced by the percentage that they are found to be at fault. An experienced California pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the facts of your case to determine liability and pursue a claim for damages.
Questions? Call Us Today.
Pedestrian accidents can lead to catastrophic or even fatal injuries. Our firm can help. With more than 50 years of experience and a track record of success, we know how to get results.
The Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn represents individuals throughout California who have been injured in a range of personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents. Contact us today at (310) 209-1600 or info@michaelkahnlaw.com to schedule a free initial consultation with a California pedestrian accident attorney.
