Driving in California can be a real hassle, especially in construction zones or on congested highways. Public transportation can be unpleasant and is not always reliable. Sometimes the best way to get from Point A to Point B in California is on foot. Unfortunately, being a pedestrian carries the risk that you will be seriously injured or even killed if you are struck by a negligent motorist.
The statistics on pedestrian accidents in California
Pedestrian accidents are a growing problem in California. In 2018, nearly 900 pedestrians in California lost their lives after being struck by a car. This represents a 26% uptick from the number of pedestrian fatalities four years earlier. Moreover in 2018 over 14,000 individuals were injured in pedestrian accidents. To put the situation in a broader scope, from 2009 to 2018 almost 7,500 individuals in California lost their lives in a pedestrian accident. Moreover, the pedestrian fatality rate in California is nearly 25% greater than the national average. Sadly, California is the number one state in the nation for pedestrian fatalities.
How can motorists avoid causing pedestrian accidents?
There are steps motorists in California can take to avoid causing pedestrian accidents. First, speeding should be avoided, and motorists should always be aware of their surroundings especially at night or in bad weather when visibility is reduced. Distracted driving, especially cell phone use, should also be avoided. Motorists should never make the risky decision to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Motorists should also respect a pedestrian’s right-of-way in a crosswalk and should be prepared to stop if necessary to let a pedestrian cross the street. Finally, motorists should make sure to look behind them when reversing as pedestrians, especially children, could be present and hard to see.
Learn more about pedestrian accidents in California
Being struck by a car while you are walking to work, the store or just for pleasure can lead to serious injuries. In the worst of circumstances, a pedestrian will be killed if they are hit by a car. It is important that those involved in pedestrian accidents in California understand their rights and options. Our firm’s webpage on pedestrian accidents may be a good resource for those who want to learn more about their rights and options.