Pedestrian accident attorneys can take on a wide range of cases. Each case is different, as every accident has unique circumstances that affect the type and severity of a victim’s injuries. Hundreds of pedestrians are killed every year on California roadways, while thousands more are badly hurt. Experts attribute the growing popularity of trucks and larger vehicles to the surge in pedestrian accidents and fatalities.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a vehicle, the pedestrian accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani can help in cases that involve:
A Vehicle Backing Up
Backup cameras have helped reduce the number of accidents related to vehicles backing up, but they’re standard only on new cars. A lot of people still drive vehicles without them. Backup accidents occur when someone is hit by a vehicle backing out of a driveway or parking spot. The driver typically fails to realize the space behind them is not clear. Since these accidents usually occur at low speeds, the injuries tend to be less severe.
Turning Vehicles
When making a turn, a driver is often looking for other vehicles. Many pedestrian accidents happen at intersections where a driver may have multiple areas of focus or not be paying attention. However, illegal turns and speeding often contribute to accidents that result in severe injuries.
Multiple Drivers
A pedestrian’s safety can be threatened by more than one car, especially on California’s busy roadways. One driver may have stopped to let someone cross. Regardless of their attentiveness, a second driver in the next lane may not see the person crossing, as their view is blocked by the first vehicle. Pedestrian safety is dependent on all drivers in that location stopping. Dealing with multiple defendants can complicate matters for pedestrian accident attorneys, which is why you need a skilled lawyer.
Distracted Driving
A driver’s duty of care includes staying focused on their surroundings while behind the wheel. Texting, reaching for something to eat, or any other task besides driving, even for a few seconds, increases the risk of an accident. A driver must fully assess the road ahead to ensure the safety of those around them.
Driving Under the Influence
Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to identify pedestrians on the roadway and react accordingly. Pedestrian accidents often occur at night or on weekends. Incidents involving intoxicated drivers are more frequent during these times.
Crosswalk Accidents
Pedestrians always have the right-of-way, whether in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Drivers should always be on the lookout for people crossing the road. A lack of attention, being in a hurry, and failure to obey traffic rules contribute to crosswalk accidents, but other factors that can play a role include:
- Trapped Pedestrians: A “Walk” signal is on when the pedestrian enters the crosswalk, but changes to “Don’t Walk” before they finish crossing. Trapped in the crosswalk, the person may be struck by a driver who proceeds after a traffic signal changes.
- Poor Lighting: A lack of adequate lighting in a town or city can reduce pedestrian safety. If roadway lighting is poorly designed or absent, a victim or their family can file a claim against the local government.
- Improper Marking/Signaling: If a crosswalk lacks the proper markings and signals, it may be unclear as to when it’s safe to cross. Drivers may also not have enough cues to stop at the right times. A local government agency, traffic authority, or road crew may be liable.
Bus Accidents
Buses are large vehicles that take longer to stop. Bus drivers also have a limited view of their surroundings. But aside from being hit by a bus, a pedestrian can be struck by another vehicle as they’re getting on or off it. Unfortunately, many bus accidents involve children struck by drivers who fail to stop for a school bus or slow down in a school zone.
Safety Tips
Pedestrians legally have the right of way at any crosswalk or intersection. Drivers must yield and be prepared to stop. Other safety tips for drivers include:
- Don’t exceed the speed limit
- Avoid using the phone while driving
- Be extra attentive at night or in bad weather
- Always stop at the crosswalk line
- Assess surroundings when backing up
A pedestrian’s case can be affected by their behavior at the time of the accident. While they have the right of way, any pedestrian who is jaywalking, intoxicated, or not paying attention is at risk of having their compensation reduced or denied. Talking on the phone or texting increases the risk of an accident. A pedestrian should also look before crossing, obey traffic signals, and watch for approaching or turning vehicles.
Call Jacob Today
The pedestrian accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani have won millions of dollars in damages for clients. Pedestrian accidents are usually vehicle-related (hit-and-run accidents often result in high payouts and punitive actions on the driver). They can also involve matters of premises liability (especially in slip and fall cases). No matter the cause or severity of an accident, we’ll fight for your rights and maximum compensation for medical expenses, reduced earnings, and pain and suffering.
Request your free consultation with a pedestrian accident attorney by calling (888) 952-2952 today.