California is known for its temperate weather and beautiful scenery, so residents and visitors alike enjoy walking outside for exercise, stress relief, or just to get from point A to point B. Unfortunately, California’s roadways are full of dangers, making pedestrian accidents all too frequent – and often resulting in severe and catastrophic life-changing injuries.
The alarming statistics related to pedestrian fatalities, including the high number of pedestrian deaths and injuries in 2022, highlight the need for increased awareness and safety measures. Because pedestrians are left entirely exposed in the event of a collision, it is essential to take safety precautions to prevent an accident.
At Jassim Law, our pedestrian accident attorneys have over two decades of experience helping pedestrian accident victims pursue the compensation they deserve for their injuries and other losses. Our lead attorney, Pajman Jassim, is dedicated to helping make our communities safer by helping pedestrian accident victims and achieving favorable outcomes for their cases. He gives his clients 100% of his personal attention as he guides them through every step of California’s complex claims process. When you partner with Jassim Law, you can rest assured that a knowledgeable and trustworthy attorney is fighting tooth and nail for justice on your behalf.
Understanding Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian safety is a critical concern for individuals, communities, and governments alike. It involves taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and injuries to pedestrians, who are among the most vulnerable road users. Understanding pedestrian safety means recognizing the risks and hazards associated with walking and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers must remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and be mindful of pedestrians at all times. Pedestrians, on the other hand, need to follow traffic signals, stay visible, and avoid distractions to protect themselves. Governments play a crucial role by designing and maintaining safe infrastructure, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting public awareness campaigns to enhance pedestrian safety. By working together, we can create safer environments for everyone on the road.
Everyone Is a Pedestrian
As a pedestrian, you have the right to use public roads and sidewalks safely. Whether you’re walking to work, school, or just running errands, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and follow pedestrian safety tips. Here are some key facts to keep in mind:
- Pedestrians are vulnerable road users who are at risk of being injured or killed in traffic crashes.
- In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians.
- Simple steps can be taken to prioritize pedestrian safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
By understanding these facts and taking proactive measures, we can all contribute to safer roads and communities.
5 Steps Pedestrians Can Take to Avoid an Accident in California
Because pedestrians are vulnerable to devastating injuries in the event of an accident, it is essential to take precautions to keep pedestrians safe when walking down the street. While not every pedestrian accident is preventable, you can reduce your risk of injury by taking the following steps and avoiding jaywalk.
Follow Traffic Laws
While many Californians assume pedestrians always have the right of way, this is not always true. Even with the right of way, we do not want pedestrians being injured! Pedestrians only have the right of way when crossing a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Drivers often do not expect pedestrians to step into the street to jaywalk, and when they do, accidents can be challenging to avoid. Pedestrians do not have a right to “dart” into traffic. Acting predictably and following traffic laws will help you prevent a collision. Additionally, following safety tips for drivers is crucial to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians while sharing the roadway.
Avoid Distractions While Walking
When traveling along California’s roadways, you must be fully aware of your surroundings, whether you are a driver or a pedestrian. Refrain from texting and playing loud music in your headphones while walking, jogging, running, or riding a bike to ensure you can notice and avoid any potential dangers.
Additionally, pedestrians should assume that cars and other vehicles, such as trucks and large pickups cannot see you very well. If you are distracted, you will not be able to notice vehicles that could pose a hazard to you.
Make Eye Contact With Drivers and Do NOT Assume They See You
It is dangerous to assume other drivers can see you. Even if the vehicle is stopped and you are crossing the street in plain sight, there is no guarantee the driver will notice you. To help ensure you are seen, make eye contact with drivers as you pass.
Vehicles (especially larger trucks and pickups) making turns have a hard time seeing pedestrians in crosswalks. One of the main reasons is because the A-pillar of a vehicle (the area between the windshield and driver/passenger window), especially in trucks with large side mirrors, have an obstructed view of the crosswalks while turning. DO NOT assume vehicles see you, instead you should assume they do not see you. While you may not be legally at fault, we do not want pedestrians getting seriously injured. So just as we advise everyone to “drive defensively” we also advise everyone to “walk defensively” and “bike defensively.”
Wear Highly-Visible Clothing
Because pedestrians are significantly smaller than most motor vehicles, they may be easy for drivers to miss. Wearing the appropriate clothing to ensure you are seen can help avoid serious or fatal accidents. If you are walking during the day, bright colors are best to catch the eye. For nighttime walking, reflective clothing can help you stand out.
We also advise pedestrians to clip a flashing light like those on bicycles to their backpack if walking at night time, or walk with a small flashlight that can alert motorists to your presence.
Avoid Walking Under the Influence
If you intend to walk down a public street and are under the influence, take special care to follow safety and traffic laws. Alcohol can significantly alter your judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making deadly collisions far more likely. If you know you will be drinking, arrange a ride to and from your destination, even if you believe it is a walkable distance.
Safety Considerations for Different Environments
Different environments often require varied best practices.
Urban Areas
Urban and rural areas each present unique challenges for pedestrian safety. In bustling urban environments, pedestrians must navigate through heavy traffic, construction zones, and crowded sidewalks. Conversely, rural areas often pose risks such as limited visibility, lack of sidewalks, and higher vehicle speeds.
To stay safe in urban areas, pedestrians should:
- Be constantly aware of their surroundings and watch for potential hazards.
- Follow traffic signals and signs diligently.
- Use crosswalks and pedestrian bridges whenever possible.
- Avoid distractions such as cell phones to stay alert.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure they see you.
If you need additional information about how to stay safe in urban environments, please feel free to retain support from a qualified attorney, such as one from Jassim Law.
Rural Areas
In rural areas, pedestrians should:
- Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility, especially at night.
- Use sidewalks or pedestrian paths when available to stay out of the roadway.
- Be cautious of vehicles traveling at higher speeds and give them ample space.
- Avoid walking on roads without sidewalks or pedestrian paths, as these can be particularly dangerous.
By understanding the specific challenges of different environments and taking appropriate precautions, pedestrians can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and injuries.
Nighttime Safety
Walking at night can be hazardous, especially if you’re not visible to drivers. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility to drivers.
- Use pedestrian signals and crosswalks to cross the street safely.
- Avoid distractions while walking, such as using your cell phone or listening to music.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure they see you.
- Use sidewalks and pedestrian paths whenever possible.
By following these tips, you can enhance your safety and reduce the risk of accidents when walking at night.
Inclement Weather
Inclement weather can make walking hazardous, especially if you’re not prepared. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Use umbrellas or raincoats to stay dry in rainy weather.
- Wear warm clothing and use handrails when walking on icy or snowy sidewalks.
- Avoid walking in flooded areas, as it can be difficult to see hazards.
- Use pedestrian signals and crosswalks to cross the street safely, even in bad weather.
- Slow down and use extra caution when walking in windy or stormy conditions.
By taking these precautions, you can stay safe and avoid accidents, even in challenging weather conditions.
When Walking With Children and Seniors
Children and seniors are particularly vulnerable to pedestrian accidents. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Children should always hold an adult’s hand when crossing the street, especially in school zones.
- Seniors should use pedestrian signals and crosswalks to cross the street safely.
- Children and seniors should avoid distractions while walking, such as using cell phones or listening to music.
- Children and seniors should make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure they see them.
- Children and seniors should use sidewalks and pedestrian paths whenever possible.
By following these tips, we can help protect our most vulnerable pedestrians and ensure they stay safe while navigating our roads and sidewalks.
Retain the Services of an Award-Winning Pedestrian Accident Attorney in California
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in California, do not hesitate to contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in San Diego, California. Attorney Pajman Jassim of Jassim Law is dedicated to helping his clients pursue justice for their injuries and other losses. He has a proven track record of success and has been recognized by Super Lawyers for several consecutive years for his continued excellence.
Our personal injury attorneys in San Diego personalize every case to help clients get back on their feet after an accident. Just read our reviews from recent clients. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you, call us today at (619) 630-2680 or complete our contact form.