Pedestrian Safety: How Drivers and Pedestrians Can Reduce Accident Rates
Southern California is known for its beautiful weather and wide variety of attractions. It should come as no surprise that this part of the country sees plenty of pedestrian activity. While California has done a lot to make its cities more walkable than most, that doesn’t change the fact that pedestrians are dying at alarming rates on California’s streets. In fact, Los Angeles is the second deadliest city in the entire country for pedestrians.
Keeping pedestrians safe is a task that will require the cooperation of both drivers and pedestrians themselves. What should your next step be if you are hurt in a pedestrian accident? It’s time to talk to a pedestrian accident lawyer in Southern California. DeWitt Algorri & Algorri has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients and family members of those who lost their lives in tragic accidents. Find out what we can do for you as you fight for justice—call us at 1-855-WINNING (946-6464) to schedule your consultation now.
The Risks Pedestrians Face
Every single time someone decides to go for a walk, whether for fun, exercise, or to get from A to B, they take a risk. They have no idea if they’re surrounded by conscientious, careful drivers who are well aware of the danger they pose to people on foot, or if they’re surrounded by reckless drivers who want to get to their destination as fast as possible at any cost. Careless drivers create an incredibly dangerous environment for everyone around them, including pedestrians.
While anyone can be harmed by a reckless driver, pedestrians are at greatest risk of serious or fatal injury. In California, the pedestrian fatality rate is close to 25% higher than the national average. Pedestrians have absolutely no protection against a vehicle in a crash. Even at low speeds, they can suffer severe injuries in a collision. To make matters worse, they are likely to be the victim of hit-and-run drivers. When a pedestrian is laying on the ground trying to catch their breath, how likely are they to catch the license plate of the person who just hit them? Drivers know they have a chance of getting away scot-free after this type of accident, and a shocking number of drivers are willing to take that chance.
The Responsibilities of Drivers
The California Office of Traffic Safety has a number of tips and recommendations for drivers. Although pedestrians must also be active participants in their own safety, drivers have a huge obligation to fulfill—they are the ones in charge of multi-ton vehicles capable of causing severe or fatal injuries. Drivers should:
- Drive at or below the speed limit, especially in inclement weather
- Avoid driving while impaired; impaired drivers are far more likely to strike a pedestrian
- Remember that pedestrians have right of way at crosswalks and intersections
- Pay careful attention at night and in bad weather, as pedestrians may be harder to see in these conditions
- When backing up, drive slowly and double-check for pedestrians
A Pedestrian’s Responsibilities
How can pedestrians do their part to prevent pedestrian accidents? They can protect themselves by:
- Wearing brightly-colored clothing at night and considering using flashlights or reflective strips that can improve visibility for drivers
- Avoiding jaywalking
- Staying sober while walking—impaired walking can be as dangerous as impaired driving
- Never assuming that drivers can see them; make eye contact with a driver before crossing in front of them
- Checking left and right twice before crossing at a crosswalk or intersection
- Obeying traffic signals and being extra cautious of turning vehicles
Public Safety and Education
The state of California has invested a lot of time and money into public education efforts that target pedestrians and drivers alike. However, the issue isn’t necessarily that drivers and pedestrians don’t know what they should be doing—the issue may be that they just aren’t doing it. Pedestrians can get a little too comfortable, especially in areas that see lots of foot traffic. Drivers may get agitated if pedestrians consistently walk in front of them regardless of what the traffic light says and intentionally drive a little too closely. Both sides of the equation must prioritize safety above convenience and speed.
Hurt in a Pedestrian Crash? Call An Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at DeWitt Algorri & Algorri
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian crash, don’t wait a second longer to talk to a pedestrian accident lawyer about your next steps. The team at DeWitt Algorri & Algorri is passionate about helping injured pedestrians get the compensation they deserve. Schedule your free consultation now by contacting us online or calling us at 1-855-WINNING (946-6464).
Mark Algorri has successfully represented individuals and their families in matters involving serious and catastrophic injuries, insurance claims denials, and wrongful deaths, achieving a success rate of 99 percent for our clients.
