October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, a reminder for all of us to be extra vigilant on our streets. Crossing any street carries risks, especially in today’s era of distracted driving. Even though California law provides protections for pedestrians, drivers do not always follow safe practices.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation—but insurance companies often push back, offering less than you deserve. Knowing your safety tips and legal rights is key to protecting yourself.
How Can I Stay Safe as a Pedestrian?
While drivers are required to take precautions, you also play a critical role in avoiding accidents. Following pedestrian laws not only keeps you safe but also preserves your ability to recover full compensation if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence. Pedestrian safety tips include:
- Stay Visible: Wear bright clothing or reflective gear, especially at night, and avoid walking in drivers’ blind spots.
- Use Crosswalks: Only cross streets at marked or unmarked crosswalks; avoid jaywalking.
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as phones or headphones while crossing streets.
- Follow Traffic Rules: Obey pedestrian signals and street signs.
- Act Defensively: Assume that a driver may not see you and proceed cautiously.
Failing to follow these guidelines can complicate your legal claim. Insurance companies may argue that you were partially at fault, which could reduce your compensation.
What Protections Do You Have as a Pedestrian in Victorville?
California law requires drivers to take specific measures to protect pedestrians, including:
- Yielding to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections, even if unmarked.
- Exercising due care by slowing down or stopping when necessary.
- Yielding to blind pedestrians at all times.
- Avoiding parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk to ensure visibility.
What Are Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian?
If a motorist’s negligence causes your injury, California law entitles you to full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Proving negligence requires evidence that the driver acted unreasonably under the circumstances.
Insurance companies may challenge your claim, arguing that you were partially or fully at fault. Hiring an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate these disputes, gather evidence, and maximize your compensation.
Contact Our Victorville Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel
If you have been hit by a car while walking, contact our Victorville pedestrian accident lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel. Schedule a free consultation online or call us at 909-889-1131. We have offices in Ontario and Victorville, California.
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