Injured? You Deserve Compensation
Did you know you are more likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident with a moving vehicle than in a crash involving another car? According to information obtained in 2010 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is a 1.5 times greater possibility that you will be injured or killed as a pedestrian than as a vehicle occupant. Those most at risk include:
<ul><li>Children walking or playing in neighborhoods.</li>
<li>Elderly people with limited vision and mobility.</li>
<li>Pedestrians or drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or other substances.</li></ul>
<strong>Laws Governing Pedestrian Accidents in California</strong>
Pedestrian and moving vehicle operators both have responsibilities for their behavior leading up to an accident. California law is clear in this regard.
Pedestrians are expected to:
<ul><li>Cross streets at designated crosswalks or at signal lights.</li>
<li>Obey all traffic signs and signals.</li>
<li>Use sidewalks when available or in the absence of a sidewalk, walk on the far left edge of the roadway facing oncoming traffic.</li>
<li>Avoid distractions, such as listening to music, that limit visibility or auditory perceptions of traffic on the roadway.</li>
<li>Wear reflective clothing for early morning, evening, and night-time hours.</li></ul>
Operators of moving vehicles are expected to:
<ul><li>Pay attention to their speed, especially in residential areas.</li>
<li>Slow down on congested roadways.</li>
<li>Change path of direction or come to a complete stop.</li>
<li>Be aware of and obey all road and traffic signals.</li>
<li>Not drive when under the influence of substances that may impair judgment.</li>
<li>Avoid practices that lead to distracted driving, such as using cell phones while the vehicle is moving.</li></ul>
Failure to follow these laws can result in accidents where pedestrians receive serious or even fatal injuries.
<strong>Steps to Follow if You are Injured as a Pedestrian</strong>
When a pedestrian accident does occur, it is important to document the circumstances appropriately. First, follow all directions of law enforcement and medical personnel called to the scene. This will ensure your safety and preserve the chain of evidence that may help your case later. Next, make sure you have complied with the following:
<ul><li>Call for law enforcement so they can assess and document the scene.</li>
<li>Exchange your contact and insurance information with the moving vehicle’s operator.</li>
<li>If no medical care is provided at the scene, receive a medical evaluation within 24 hours to document your condition as injuries may not be readily apparent.</li>
<li>Follow all of your doctor’s orders, including attendance at follow-up appointments.</li>
<li>If employed, return to work as soon as your doctor approves.</li>
</ul>
<strong>Financial Compensation for Injured Pedestrians </strong>
You deserve to be compensated for injuries resulting from a pedestrian accident with an operator of a moving vehicle. The expert attorneys at Santa Barbara Accident Lawyers will guide you through the legal process to help you obtain a fair settlement for any physical or emotional injuries you suffer, medical expenses you owe, or loss of wages you incur. Consultation is free and our services are only reimbursed once your case is completed. Let Santa Barbara Accident Lawyers represent your accident claims so you can receive the full compensation you are entitled to under the law. To find out if we can help in your situation, call us today. We’ll work hard to pursue your legal rights.
