Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Never face a legal battle alone. We’re here to join forces with you. Hear what attorney Jeremy has to say.
Our Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer have extensive experience navigating California’s pedestrian accident laws. We’ll handle the legal complexities, so you can focus on healing. From dealing with insurance companies to advocating for your rights, we’ll be your champion every step of the way.
Table of Contents
Why do you need a Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer?
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care
- Rehabilitation
- Loss of wages
- Loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering
We stand behind the principle that financial cost should not hinder your ability to attain experienced legal advocacy. It is our promise that you will not pay anything unless we win your case for you.
California laws on pedestrian accidents
- Right of way at crosswalks: Vehicles must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
- No passing at crosswalks: Vehicles cannot overtake and pass another vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
- Pedestrians must obey traffic signals: Pedestrians must follow traffic signals and signs.
Duty of care to pedestrians
- Drivers’ duties: Drivers must be vigilant, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. They must yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and reduce speed in school zones.
- Pedestrians’ duties: Pedestrians must use crosswalks and pedestrian signals where available. They should avoid suddenly leaving a curb or other safe place and walking or running into the path of a vehicle.
- Shared responsibility: Both drivers and pedestrians should always avoid distractions and be aware of their surroundings.
Who is at fault in a pedestrian accident?
- The driver of the vehicle: In many cases, the driver of the vehicle that hit the pedestrian is at fault. It can be due to speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians.
- The pedestrian: Sometimes, the pedestrian might share some or all blame. It can happen if they are jaywalking, walking outside a crosswalk, or otherwise not following traffic rules.
- Local government or municipality: Fault can lie with the local government if poor road design, lack of proper signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident.
- Vehicle manufacturer: If a vehicle malfunction, such as brake failure, led to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer might be held liable.
- Property owners: Private property owners might be at fault if an obstruction or hazard on their property contributed to the accident, like a tree blocking a traffic sign.
What compensation am I entitled to after a pedestrian accident in Sacramento, CA?
- Medical bills: Compensation can cover past, present, and future medical care required due to the accident’s injuries.
- Lost wages and income: If the injuries caused you to miss work, you could recover these lost wages, including benefits like sick days and bonuses.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your ability to work or advance in your career is affected, compensation for this loss may be claimed.
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress: These damages aim to compensate for physical pain and mental suffering resulting from the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If the accident limits your ability to participate in activities you enjoyed before the incident, compensation for this loss is possible.
- Loss of consortium: If a spouse is injured, the non-injured spouse may file for loss of companionship and other aspects of the relationship affected by the accident.
Pedestrian accident causes
Distracted driving
One of the most prevalent causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. When drivers divert their attention from the road to text, adjust the radio, eat, or engage in other activities, they significantly increase the risk of hitting a pedestrian. As technology becomes more integrated into our daily lives, the temptation to multitask while driving grows, making roads more dangerous for pedestrians.
Speeding
Speeding is another major contributor to pedestrian accidents. Driving at high speeds reduces the driver’s reaction time to unexpected situations. Speeding can have catastrophic consequences in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as school zones or shopping districts. Moreover, the impact at higher speeds can cause more severe injuries or even fatalities.
Failure to yield
Crosswalks are designed to offer pedestrians a safe passage across roads. However, many accidents occur when drivers neglect to yield the right of way at these crossings. It can stem from a driver’s inattention or sheer impatience. Regardless of the reason, the consequences can be dire for unsuspecting pedestrians.
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Impaired drivers are likelier to overlook pedestrians or misjudge distances and speeds, leading to tragic accidents.
Poor road and infrastructure design
In some cases, the design of the road or lack of proper infrastructure can contribute to accidents. Areas without proper crosswalks, signage, or pedestrian signals can be hazardous. Similarly, poorly lit streets can make it difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians, especially during nighttime.
Pedestrian negligence
While drivers are often at fault, pedestrians can also contribute to accidents. Jaywalking, not using crosswalks, or walking while distracted (e.g., using a phone) can put pedestrians at risk.
Weather conditions
Adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. Both drivers and pedestrians should exercise extra caution during such conditions to prevent accidents.
Pedestrian accident injuries
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A sudden blow or jolt to the head can cause traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. TBI can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and permanent disability.
Spinal cord injuries
When the impact affects the spinal cord, it can result in partial or complete paralysis. Victims might experience loss of movement or sensation in certain body parts depending on the injury’s location.
Fractures and broken bones
The force of a vehicle hitting a pedestrian can easily break bones. Common fractures include those of the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis. Recovery might require surgeries, physical therapy, and extended rehabilitation.
Internal injuries
The impact can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which might not be immediately apparent. Such injuries can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention.
Lacerations and abrasions
Pedestrians might suffer from deep cuts or scrapes due to the accident. These can lead to significant blood loss, scarring, or infections if not treated properly.
Psychological trauma
Beyond physical injuries, many victims experience psychological trauma after an accident. This can manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or phobias related to roads or vehicles.
California pedestrian accident statistics
- In 2018, California witnessed 893 pedestrian deaths, marking a 26% rise since 2014. That same
- year, over 14,000 pedestrians were injured.
- The increase in pedestrian fatalities was 26% from 2014 to 2018.
- From 2009 to 2018, nearly 7,500 pedestrians lost their lives in the state.
- California’s rate of pedestrian fatalities is about 25% above the national average.
- California leads the nation in the number of pedestrian deaths on its roads.
What to do after pedestrian accident in Sacramento, CA?
How to stay safe as a pedestrian in Sacramento, CA?
Safety should always be a priority. While pedestrians don’t have control over drivers, they can take certain precautions to reduce their risk of accidents. Remember, your safety is in your hands.
Below are some essential tips to ensure your safety.
- Always cross streets at designated crosswalks or intersections.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during nighttime or in low-light conditions.
- Refrain from using phones or headphones while crossing. Stay alert to your surroundings.
- Before crossing, ensure that drivers see you. Making eye contact can prevent many accidents.
- Obey pedestrian signals and avoid jaywalking.
- Avoid walking while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Speak to a Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney today
Our Testimonials
Shyra Aranda
- Verified Client
I had the pleasure of working with Jeremy, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case. From the very beginning, Jeremy was compassionate and understanding of my situation. He took the time to listen to my concerns and explain the legal process in a way that was easy for me to understand.
Erik Oh
- Verified Client
Jeremy’s knowledge and expertise quickly resolved all stress and pressure and concluded with the result we were looking for. He knows the law and knew my rights - I felt extremely confident in every step because he forecasted every potential scenario and the desired outcome with the steps to get there. He was phenomenal!
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About Sacramento, California
Local courthouse – pedestrian accident lawyer near Sacramento, CA
At J.G. Winter Law, we’re here to help, and it won’t cost you anything to consult with us. If you have any questions or want to know how much you might be owed, contact us for a free consultation. In California, you have up to 2 years to file a claim and sue for compensation. If you decide to go to the court by yourself, you can find Sacramento County Courthouse at 720 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. But, if you want professional help, our pedestrian accident lawyer in Sacramento would gladly assist you.
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