Speak To Attorney Now
(707) 422-1202
SPEAK TO ATTORNEY NOW(707) 422-1202
Speak To Attorney Now
(707) 422-1202 SPEAK TO ATTORNEY NOW(707) 422-1202
This is much higher than the national average, which is 13-14%. Perhaps this is because the state of California has many cities in which there is a high number of individuals walking every day and also a high necessity for car ownership as public transit is notoriously unsatisfactory. Because pedestrians are in such a vulnerable position while walking on the roads, it’s important you speak with an experienced accident lawyer in Sacramento who can explain in depth what happens after an accident.
Unlike other drivers, pedestrians are very physically vulnerable when struck by a vehicle. They are not encased in a huge metal capsule and have neither airbags nor seat belts to protect them from physical damage in the case of a collision.
Pedestrians are also not as easily visible as a massive car. They have the ability to change direction and speed without much warning and don’t have convenient brake lights or turn signals to help others anticipate their behavior. Pedestrians also blend into a background and often walk in a way that goes against the flow of traffic in some way (such as crossing the street). This causes a lot of drivers not to be on the lookout or to not see a pedestrian when scanning the scene before them. Drivers have a responsibility to ensure safety for everyone on the road, including pedestrians. If you have been hit by a car and have suffered injuries because of it, speak with a accident lawyer in Sacramento who can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Cars are legally obligated to yield to pedestrians in the state of California. There are specific right of way laws that apply to pedestrians. This includes:
California law mandates anyone who has collided with another car, a pedestrian, or someone’s property to stop. The repercussions for not stopping, even if it wasn’t your fault, is serious. You could be charged with a hit and run and depending on the severity of damages, this could result in a fine, jail time, or both.
Furthermore, under California law, all parties are required to exchange pertinent information such as:
If possible, you should try to get as much information as possible that goes beyond the list mentioned above. Some other additional information that could help with your case is the name and badge number of the police officer(s) that arrived at the scene.
In the case of the collision of a vehicle with a pedestrian, the injuries can be very severe. If the driver was negligent, the victim is entitled to compensation. This can include:
It is important to collect and preserve whatever evidence is available after being hit by a car. Alway speak with a accident lawyer in Sacramento and provide all evidence available. Any evidence that shows the fault of the driver may help you get the compensation you deserve.
TAKE PICTURES. If you can’t take pictures, draw a diagram of the scene – don’t forget skid marks. Try to be as accurate as possible. Take note of the weather and any other conditions, such as the time of day and how well-lit the area is. Take pictures of the scene, the car and your injuries.
Precisely record the time, date, and place of the accident. Try to estimate any details such as the speed of the car, whether you looked before you changed speed or direction, whether there was a crosswalk light or stop sign, etc. The sooner you write down your own report, the more accurate it is likely to be.
Get the names and contact information of any nearby witnesses. Ask them to stay to make a statement to the police. If they must leave, ask them to describe the incident and leave a contact number. If there are witnesses that don’t want to get involved or tell you their names, don’t push them. Just ask if they have any information, especially if it was a hit and run and they saw the other car.
If you or a loved one has been a pedestrian harmed or killed by a car, seeking legal advice from an experienced accident lawyer in Sacramento as soon as possible is the best way to get the compensation you need and deserve.
Due to the physical surrounding, pedestrians are the most vulnerable on the road. Every driver has a responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone but when a driver is negligent, serious injuries can occur, leaving victims in severe pain and loss of hope. Our accident lawyer in Sacramento is here to help you during this difficult and painful time. Give us a call now for a free consultation.
One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from being taken advantage of is to get legal representation. A knowledgeable Sacramento auto accident lawyer at The Choyce Law Firm has years of legal experience handling personal injury claims with insurance companies. We understand the complex laws and procedures will fight on your behalf and can considerably help you get the compensation you deserve.
Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a auto accident lawyer in Sacramento who can handle your case and take the burden off your hands.
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636