BLOG

5 Pedestrian Safety Tips You Need to Know

Schedule a Free Consultation

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. 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. 

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 protect yourself when walking down the street. While not every pedestrian accident is preventable, you can reduce your risk of injury by taking the following steps:

Follow Traffic Laws

While many Californians assume pedestrians always have the right of way, this is not always true. Even if 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. 

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. 

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 personalizes every case to help clients get back on their feet after an accident. Just read our reviews from recent clientsTo 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