Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are not only getting more common in California, fatal pedestrian accidents are becoming more common. As a driver, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of causing a pedestrian accident. If you have been injured in this type of accident, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
Pedestrian Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries Even at Low Speeds
There is a misconception that if a car is traveling at a low speed, that pedestrian accidents are not generally very serious. This is false. The truth is that no matter how slow a vehicle is moving, it can kill a pedestrian. It can cause many other serious injuries, too: lacerations, bruises, broken bones, internal bleeding, brain injury, sprains, paralysis, and many others.
While it is true that the faster a car is driving, the higher the risk is to the pedestrian, this does not mean that the risk goes to zero if the driver is only traveling 15 miles per hour.
Summer Brings More Pedestrian Accidents
There is a reason that we are talking about this right now: it’s finally summer, and many people will be walking around outside. Schools are out, which means kids are out. As our parks, playgrounds, and restaurants start to reopen, there are going to be many more pedestrians, and many of these people will be so excited to finally get out amongst the world that they will not be paying as much attention as they should.
Always Give Pedestrians the Right of Way in Crosswalks
Any time you drive up on a crosswalk or intersection, do so with caution. If there are pedestrians, give them the right of way and allow them to cross safely to the other side of the road before you start going again. This is true even if there is no crosswalk – if it looks like a pedestrian is going to start crossing, let them do it.
Do Not Stop Your Vehicle in a Crosswalk
When you stop past the crosswalk lines and into the crosswalk, then pedestrians are forced to walk outside of it. This puts them at a higher risk of being hit by another vehicle. In most cities, you can get a ticket for stopping inside the crosswalk.
Be a Defensive Driver
As you drive, you should be anticipating potential hazards before they happen and have a plan to react to them. Pedestrians are unpredictable. They can cross the street unexpectedly, they might not be paying attention to what is going on around them, and as the driver, you will almost always be at fault if there is a collision with one.
If you are injured as a pedestrian, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
