San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Need a San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Attorney? While walking is good for your physical health and the environment, it can be a potentially dangerous activity. Pedestrian accidents are a common occurrence on the roadways. In the United States, pedestrian fatalities are at a 25-year high. If you or a loved one is involved in a car crash, a pedestrian accident attorney can help you get fair compensation for your injuries.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

In 2017, almost 6,000 pedestrians were killed in an accident. The Governors Highway Safety Association states that the ongoing number of pedestrian deaths raises concerns. Even though other forms of traffic fatalities are starting to fall, pedestrian fatalities remain high.

From 2007 to 2016, pedestrian deaths increased by 27 percent. All other traffic-related deaths fell by 14 percent. In 2004, there were 4,675 pedestrian fatalities out of 42,836 total fatalities. By 2013, there were 4,745 pedestrian fatalities out of 32,719 total fatalities. This means that pedestrian fatalities went from 11 percent of total fatalities in 2004 to 14 percent in 2013. It is important to note that roughly 49 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred from 6 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.

What Are the Laws About Pedestrian Accidents?

A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights in California. In general, pedestrians and drivers are both expected to exercise caution. According to the California Vehicle Code, the driver must yield the right of way if the pedestrian is crossing a roadway within a crosswalk. The same rule applies if the pedestrian is crossing an intersection that does not have a crosswalk.

Drivers are only allowed to drive on a sidewalk if they are entering or leaving an alleyway or garage. Even in those cases, the driver must yield to a pedestrian. It is against the law for a vehicle to pass another car at a crosswalk. This is a safety precaution because the other vehicle could be stopped to wait for a pedestrian to cross. Drivers are also not allowed to stop in a crosswalk. On the other hand, pedestrians are not allowed to jaywalk. If a vehicle crashes because of jaywalking, the pedestrian is at fault for the accident.

When the driver is at fault for an accident involving a pedestrian, they can get a minimum of $220 in fines for causing injury after failing to yield the right of way. If the driver fails to yield to a blind pedestrian, they can get a maximum of $1,000 in fines, six months in prison or both punishments.

Both pedestrians and drivers must exercise due care in driving or walking. Even if the driver follows all traffic laws perfectly, they can be found negligent if they do not exercise due care. The same thing is true for pedestrians. Everyone must be aware of their surroundings and follow applicable traffic laws.

Pedestrian Safety

To avoid the need for a San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorney, take simple precautions to reduce accident risks. Follow road rules, use available sidewalks or crosswalks, and be cautious at intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. In areas without crosswalks, wait in well-lit spaces, check for safe gaps in traffic, and stay visible. When sidewalks are absent, walk away from traffic and face oncoming vehicles.

Avoid alcohol or drugs when walking or biking, as impairments contribute to 48% of pedestrian fatalities. Refrain from using electronic devices while walking, staying attentive to potential hazards like cars pulling out. Enhance visibility during nighttime walks with reflective materials or a flashlight, and opt for bright clothing in daylight to increase visibility and prevent accidents.

Types of Accidents and Injuries

Pedestrians can be injured in a variety of ways. Unlike the vehicle’s passengers, they do not have any steel or plastic protecting them during the accident. They can end up with broken bones, torn ligaments, internal bleeding, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. They may suffer from severe cuts, nerve damage, or leg injuries.

It is possible for pedestrians to get into an accident on a highway or roadway. They can even be involved in accidents that do not involve cars. The accident can occur on a crosswalk, at an intersection or on a sidewalk. Some pedestrian injuries involve things like tripping on uneven sidewalks or stepping into potholes. Wildlife and pets can also cause pedestrian injuries.

What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident

After you are in a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino, focus on your safety first. Leave the road and remain nearby but at a safe place. Then, call 911 to get proper medical care. If you can, get the driver’s name, insurance details, and contact information. If the driver flees the scene, record as many of the details as possible. Write down the vehicle’s make, model, and license information. You can also try to collect photos and talk to witnesses at the scene if you are in the physical shape to do so.

When you get in an accident, it can lead to expensive medical costs and unpaid time off of work. These costs can quickly add up. To make sure you are compensated for your injuries, you need to get an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer. If you or a loved one has suffered from a pedestrian accident, contact Rizio Lipinsky Heiting today for your free consultation.