Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in California

How Dangerous Are California Roads for Pedestrians?

California roads are the third most dangerous in the country for pedestrians. Pedestrian fatalities have continually increased over the last decade according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. California mirrors a nationwide trend of increased pedestrian deaths. 

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Six California cities, San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose, Los Angeles, Glendale and Long Beach, are part of a pilot program to test the effectiveness of speed cameras in reducing pedestrian accidents. Additionally, a new law requires cities and counties to identify high-injury streets and intersections and prioritize safety improvements.

Source: ABC7

What are the Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

In California, 1,158 people were struck and killed by vehicles in 2022 alone, accounting for 26% of all traffic deaths. 

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With pedestrians far more likely to be killed than people in motor vehicles, it is important to examine the causes and seek to make our roads safer. 

• Distraction: This applies to both drivers and pedestrians. Not paying attention,talking on a cell phone or texting can lead to accidents.
• Impaired driving: operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or prescription medicine can impair judgment and reaction times.
• Speed: According to a California Traffic Safety Survey, 40.5% of survey respondents listed “cars going too fast” and “cars not stopping” as safety problems experienced while walking or biking.
• Unsafe crossings: There are too many instances of drivers ignoring crosswalks or failing to give sufficient room to pedestrians. Likewise, many people fail to use crosswalks, instead choosing the more dangerous option of crossing in the middle of the street. Additionally, as discussed below, crosswalks can be poorly designed contributing to accidents.

Source: California Office of Traffic Safety

How Can Crosswalks Be Made Safer?

As with most roadway accidents, the infrastructure will play an important role in safety. Crosswalks can be made more safe by having pedestrian activated flashing lights, clear signs, raised median, delayed lights so pedestrians have a head start, as well as overhead traffic lights. If a crosswalk is not designed effectively for an area, the crosswalk can give a false sense of security to pedestrians. 

Seeking Justice After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, the experienced attorneys at the Hulburt Law Firm are here to advocate for your rights. Visit the Hulburt Law Firm’s San Diego Pedestrian Accident Attorney webpage for more information. We understand the emotional and physical toll that serious injuries can take and are dedicated to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Remember: The Truth Demands Justice. If you’ve been in a pedestrian accident in San Diego, contact us for a consultation to discuss your rights and options. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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