Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality, especially in areas where dense population centers and heavy traffic create busy or congested conditions. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), more pedestrians are killed or injured on California roads than in any other state. Why are these accidents so common?
Factors such as urban design, driver behavior, and pedestrian habits all contribute to pedestrian accidents. Understanding the common causes can provide greater insight into how to prevent these incidents and ensure the safety of those traveling on foot.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we strive to offer skilled legal representation to those who have been injured in a pedestrian accident and help them understand the common causes of these accidents and how they can file a claim for compensation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in California
In California, pedestrian accidents can occur in a variety of locations, such as roadways, sidewalks, crosswalks, and parking lots. Many of these accidents occur due to some type of negligence, either by the driver, the pedestrian, or both. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include the following.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving continues to be one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in California. Many drivers fail to keep their full attention on the road, often texting, talking on the phone, adjusting navigation systems, or even eating behind the wheel.
Under Vehicle Code Section 23123.5 VC, California law prohibits the use of handheld cell phones or texting while driving. When drivers fail to notice pedestrians due to distraction, accidents can often occur, especially in areas with a high volume of pedestrians, such as crosswalks, school zones, and intersections.
Speeding
Driving above the posted speed limit reduces a driver's reaction time, making it harder to stop when a pedestrian unexpectedly enters the roadway. The severity of accidents involving speeding is significantly higher than accidents involving slower-traveling vehicles.
A vehicle traveling at higher speeds hits pedestrians with more force, increasing the likelihood of critical injuries or fatalities.
Under Vehicle Code Section 22350 VC, often referred to as the "Basic Speed Law," California law requires drivers to operate their vehicles at a reasonable and safe speed under given road conditions. However, speeding remains a widespread issue among California drivers that endangers everyone on or near the road.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
In California, crosswalks are designed to provide pedestrians with safe passage across streets by giving them right-of-way. However, when a driver fails to properly yield at a crosswalk, accidents are likely to occur.
California Vehicle Code Section 21950 VC requires vehicles to yield to pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Unfortunately, some drivers disregard this law, endangering pedestrians attempting to cross the street. Aggressive driving habits, impatience, or misunderstandings about pedestrian right-of-way can contribute to these incidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents in California. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and a higher likelihood of losing control of their vehicles, which puts pedestrians at extreme risk.
According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), alcohol-impaired driving leads to numerous traffic fatalities every year. California's strict DUI laws, outlined in Vehicle Code Sections 23152 VC and 23153 VC, aim to deter impaired driving with strict penalties and repercussions.
Poorly Designed Roadways
Poorly designed roadways, lack of proper signage, and inadequate crosswalk placement create hazardous conditions for pedestrians. Urban areas that lack pedestrian-friendly features, such as sidewalks or pedestrian bridges, force individuals to walk dangerously close to moving traffic.
Similarly, suburban and rural zones often lack sufficient lighting, making it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians during nighttime hours.
Jaywalking & Pedestrian Negligence
While drivers bear much of the responsibility in pedestrian accidents, pedestrians themselves can sometimes contribute to dangerous situations. Unsafe behaviors such as jaywalking, crossing outside designated areas, or disregarding traffic signals can put pedestrians at risk of being struck by a vehicle.
California Vehicle Code Section 21955 VC prohibits jaywalking, but some individuals may disregard this law, believing they can cross safely in areas without marked crosswalks. Therefore, pedestrians should prioritize their safety by using designated crosswalks and obeying traffic signals. Drivers should remain vigilant and aware of pedestrians, especially in areas with high foot traffic.
Weather Conditions
While California is known for its sunny weather, rainy conditions can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility, creating hazardous situations for both drivers and pedestrians. Wet roads may increase braking distances for vehicles, while fog or heavy rain can obscure a pedestrian's presence.
Although adverse weather conditions aren't under anyone's control, both drivers and pedestrians should exercise increased caution during inclement weather to reduce the risk of accidents.
Left-Turn Collisions
Intersections are notorious locations for pedestrian accidents, particularly when drivers are making left turns. Left-turn collisions commonly happen in busy, urban intersections where drivers must quickly assess multiple risks at once. These accidents often occur because drivers are focused on oncoming traffic and fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street.
Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as running red lights, tailgating, or ignoring stop signs, can often lead to pedestrian accidents. These behaviors often result from impatience, frustration in heavy traffic, or road rage. Reckless driving violates California traffic laws and endangers everyone on the road, including pedestrians who might be crossing the street legally.
Potential Compensation for a Pedestrian Accident
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation depending on the circumstances of the accident. Some common forms of compensation you may be able to recover include:
Medical expenses: Costs related to hospital visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other healthcare services required for recovery
Lost wages: Income lost due to missed work while recovering from an injury or illness
Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages that account for physical pain and emotional distress caused by an injury or traumatic experience
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we are dedicated to helping victims of pedestrian accidents pursue the justice and compensation they deserve. Our experienced legal team can investigate the details of your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Today
If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident in California, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our attorneys are dedicated to helping injured pedestrians seek the compensation they deserve.
We understand California traffic laws and know how to hold negligent parties accountable, whether they are distracted drivers, reckless motorists, or uninformed pedestrians.
Located in Mission Viejo, California, we serve clients throughout Orange County. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, contact us today for a free consultation.