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PEDESTRIAN CAR ACCIDENTS

  • POSTED: March 15, 2023
  • CATEGORY:
  • POSTED BY: TheChoyceLawFirm

ACCIDENT LAWYER IN SACRAMENTO

Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

According to the DMV, nearly a quarter (22%) of all traffic fatalities in California are pedestrians.

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:

  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing in a marked crosswalk.
  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing in unmarked crosswalks and intersections.
  • Pedestrians must exhibit due care for their safety, but drivers also must exhibit due care for the safety of pedestrians, such as by slowing down when approaching a pedestrian crossing the street in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
  • If there is a vehicle that is stopped at a marked or unmarked crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross, no other drivers may pass that stopped vehicle.

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:

  • Names
  • Driver’s license numbers
  • The vehicle’s identification number
  • The name and address of the car’s owner
  • The name and address of their insurance company
  • The insurance policy number or some such evidence of financial responsibility

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:

  • Ambulance and ER bills
  • Hospital and other medical costs
  • Lost wages due to missed work
  • Future medical costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Rehabilitation expenses
  • Permanent disabilities

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.

Why Choose The Choyce Law Firm?

At The Choyce Law Firm, we pride ourselves on our commitment to our clients. Our team is not only experienced but also compassionate and dedicated to providing personalized attention to each case. We understand that no two accidents are the same, and we tailor our strategy to meet your unique needs and circumstances.

Choosing us means opting for a law firm that values communication and transparency. We keep you informed at every step of the process, ensuring you understand your options and the progress of your case. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Moreover, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This policy reflects our confidence in our ability to help you achieve a favorable outcome and our commitment to making our services accessible to those in need.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Car Accident

If you find yourself involved in a pedestrian car accident, taking the following steps can be crucial for your health and your legal case:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional.
  • Report the Accident: Notify the police about the accident. A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence in your case.
  • Gather Information: If possible, collect contact and insurance information from the driver involved, as well as contact information for any witnesses.
  • Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages. Keep records of medical treatments and expenses related to the accident.
  • Consult with an Accident Lawyer in Sacramento: Before dealing with insurance companies, it’s wise to consult with a lawyer who can guide you on the best course of action and ensure your rights are protected.

Contact Sacramento Accident Attorney for Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian car accident in Sacramento, do not hesitate to seek the legal representation you deserve. At The Choyce Law Firm, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims and ensuring that they receive the justice and compensation they need to move forward with their lives. Contact us today at (916) 306-0636 to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your case with the compassion, expertise, and determination you need during this difficult time.

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