California’s streets and sidewalks are bustling with pedestrians, but accidents can happen when drivers and pedestrians don’t understand their rights and responsibilities. Knowing your legal rights as a pedestrian in California is essential for your safety and to ensure you can seek justice if an accident occurs.
This guide explores key pedestrian laws, your rights in crosswalks, and how to protect yourself legally after an incident.
Pedestrian Laws in California
California law prioritizes pedestrian safety, with clear rules for both pedestrians and drivers. Here are some of the most critical laws you should know:
- Right-of-Way in Crosswalks
- Pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
- Drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the street at these locations.
- Jaywalking Laws
- Pedestrians are required to use designated crosswalks when available.
- Crossing outside a crosswalk (jaywalking) is illegal and can result in a citation.
- Sidewalk Safety
- Pedestrians should walk on sidewalks whenever possible.
- If no sidewalk is available, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
- Traffic Signals
- Pedestrians must obey traffic signals, including pedestrian-specific walk and don’t walk signs.
- Prohibitions Against Pedestrian Negligence
- Pedestrians should not suddenly step into the path of a moving vehicle when it is impossible for the driver to stop in time.
Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident in California, you have legal rights to seek compensation for your losses. Here’s what you need to know:
- Right to File a Claim
- You can file a personal injury claim against the driver or party responsible for the accident.
- Compensation You May Be Entitled To
- Medical expenses (current and future).
- Lost wages due to time off work.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage (e.g., broken electronics or personal items).
- Comparative Fault in California
- California follows a “pure comparative fault” system, meaning you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How to Protect Your Rights
To protect your rights after a pedestrian accident, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Prioritize your health by getting checked for injuries, even if you feel fine.
- Call the Authorities
- File a police report to document the accident.
- Collect Evidence
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damages.
- Gather witness contact information and driver details.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
- Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Consult with a lawyer before providing statements.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
- An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, handle legal paperwork, and negotiate for maximum compensation.
How Pedestrian Life Law Firm Can Help
At Pedestrian Life Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of pedestrians across California. Our experienced attorneys specialize in pedestrian accident cases, providing personalized legal support to help you secure justice and fair compensation.
We’ll investigate your case, identify liable parties, and fight tirelessly to hold them accountable. With our no-win, no-fee policy, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Take Action Today
Understanding your rights as a pedestrian is the first step toward protecting yourself and seeking justice if you’re injured in an accident. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to take action.
Contact Pedestrian Life Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you on your path to recovery and justice.