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Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Vehicle accidents resulting in pedestrian injuries and death are a persistent problem in the United States. In fact, the problem is increasing according to a 2020 report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), which highlighted a 46% increase in pedestrian fatalities compared to a 5% increase in all other traffic-related fatalities between 2010 and 2019.

Unfortunately for residents and visitors of Los Angeles, crash statistics from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that California is the deadliest state in the nation for pedestrians, with 972 pedestrian fatalities out of the 6,205 national total in 2019.

Vehicle drivers are most often at fault in the case of pedestrian accidents, usually due to a failure to yield the right of way. However, pedestrians are sometimes the liable party when they fail to obey traffic laws while crossing streets or intersections.

The experienced pedestrian accident lawyers at the law firm of Carpenter & Zuckerman have been protecting the rights of pedestrian accident victims for over 25 years. Our compassionate team of legal professionals possess the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to successfully advocate on your behalf against powerful insurance companies. 

At CZ Law, you can trust that we will always fight to obtain the maximum compensation possible in your case. We understand the devastating effects a pedestrian accident can have on your life. It is our mission to secure justice and ensure you have the resources you need to recover from your injuries and get back to your usual routine. 

If you are suffering from injuries after a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to contact CZ Law! Call today to learn about your legal options and enlist the help of a skilled Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney.

You Can Help Lower the Risk of Pedestrian Accidents

In the case of preventing pedestrian accidents, it is helpful to be aware of specific intersections where these accidents commonly occur. A Los Angeles Times article identified downtown Los Angeles as having the highest concentration of dangerous intersections for pedestrians in the Los Angeles area. The intersections of Western Avenue and Slauson as well as Hollywood and Highland were the two most dangerous for pedestrians, with Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, and Santa Monica Boulevard also identified as deadly thoroughfares for pedestrians.

Follow these checklists of safety precautions for pedestrians and motorists to help lower the risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles: 

Pedestrian Safety Checklist:

  • Follow traffic laws and road signs, being careful to utilize crosswalks when crossing roads or intersections. 

  • Establish eye contact with drivers even if you are in a crosswalk with the right of way.

  • Always use available sidewalks when traveling on foot, or walk facing oncoming traffic. 

  • Avoid distracted walking such as using portable electronics when near or crossing a busy roadway. 

  • Avoid alcohol and drug use when walking near busy roadways. Alcohol is a documented risk factor in fatal pedestrian accidents. 

  • Use a flashlight at night to improve your visibility to drivers and your ability to navigate safely. 

Driver Safety Checklist:

  • Follow traffic rules and posted signage, always being cautious to check for pedestrians before near intersections and along roadways.

  • Allow ample space for pedestrians to cross before proceeding through a crosswalk in your car or other vehicle. 

  • Don’t drive while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Almost half of all fatal pedestrian accidents in 2019 involved alcohol.

  • Limit distractions while driving, such as the usage of portable electronics, eating, and distractions from passengers. 

  • Be extremely cautious at night, as most collisions occur after dark.

  • Give pedestrians the right of way, being cautious of cars and other vehicles close behind you.

  • Reduce your speed as you approach an intersection.

Our Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help! 

If you are a pedestrian accident victim who sustained an injury or multiple injuries due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer at the law firm of Carpenter & Zuckerman today. We understand that you have been through a terrifying ordeal with your accident. Our compassionate team is ready to shoulder the burden and fight on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.

CZ Law’s experienced personal injury lawyers are highly respected in the industry. Insurance companies know that our trial lawyers are not afraid to litigate a case when necessary. Our firm has a strong track record of delivering excellent results, having won more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients. .

With offices in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Orange County (Garden Grove), Irvine, San Diego, Bakersfield, and Las Vegas, our team of formidable  pedestrian accident attorneys serves clients throughout the state of California, as well as other states.

Fill out our online form to receive a FREE consultation. You will not pay any legal fees unless we win your case!

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney. If you require legal assistance, we highly recommend you speak to a qualified attorney. By reading this post, you agree this information is for informational use only and agree to hold Carpenter & Zuckerman harmless for any losses or damages as a result of this information. For more information, view our full disclaimer.

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