San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), close to 5,000 fatal pedestrian accidents occur each year, and more than 78,000 result in serious injuries. Pedestrian accidents almost always result in grave harm when a collision involves a car or truck.

Pedestrians, stripped of all protective devices and safeguards, are extremely vulnerable in collisions. Walking or jogging in urban areas or simply crossing the street can be quite dangerous. In fact, pedestrians are at greater risk than skateboarders or cyclists, and they face a higher risk of fatality in accidents. Pedestrian accidents account for about 14 percent of traffic accident-related deaths each year in the U.S. The significant weight discrepancy between motor vehicles and pedestrians often results in catastrophic damage, even when vehicles are traveling slowly. 

Types of Pedestrian Accidents

Some of the most common pedestrian accidents include:

• Crosswalk Accidents: Often involve motorist negligence, as pedestrians in crosswalks generally have the right of way.
• Intersection Accidents: Can occur even when pedestrians are on sidewalks, often due to driver negligence.
• Roadway Accidents: Fault can be more complicated to determine, especially if the pedestrian was jaywalking.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Motorists flee the scene after hitting pedestrians; about 1 in every 5 pedestrian accidents involves a hit-and-run.1
• Alcohol-Related Accidents: Can involve intoxication by motorists and/or pedestrians; nearly 48 percent of all deadly pedestrian accidents involve alcohol impairment.1
• Accidents Involving Children: More frequent around schools and bus stops; over 22% of children (ages 5-15) killed in traffic accidents are pedestrians.1

Although the negligence that can result in deadly pedestrian accidents can come in various forms, most commonly, it involves:

• Drunk Driving: Impairs judgment, perception, and reaction times, increasing accident risks, resulting in 14% of all fatal pedestrian accidents.¹
• Distracted Driving: Texting or other distractions impair driving similarly to intoxication.
• Fatigued Driving: Impairs driving similar to intoxication, particularly an issue for commercial drivers.
• Aggressive Driving: Includes tailgating, speeding, etc., increasing collision risks.
• Careless Driving: Failing to grant pedestrians’ rights-of-way, check blind spots, etc.

• Liability: Drivers are not the only liable parties; poor roadway conditions can make municipalities or maintenance parties responsible.
• Time Limits: There are strict time limits for filing pedestrian accident claims in California.
• Compensation: While no amount of money can replace a loved one, compensation can provide financial support for recovery and some sense of justice.