On average, a pedestrian is injured every eight minutes in the United States. More than 69,000 pedestrians are injured in the U.S. every year, and in 2012, more than 4,700 pedestrian accidents ended with a fatality. Not surprisingly, California leads the nation in pedestrian accidents and deaths. If you or someone you love has been injured as a pedestrian while walking anywhere in southern California, you may be able to file a personal injury claim and win compensation for your medical expenses and related losses, but you’ll need to speak at once with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney.
If you’re a jaywalker, you take a much bigger risk than those who cross at intersections; over 75 percent of pedestrian fatalities are not at intersections. While weather plays only a small role in pedestrian accidents (nearly 90 percent of pedestrian fatalities happen in normal weather), the time of day is a more important factor; over 70 percent of fatal pedestrian accidents occur after dark. Men accounted for about 70 percent of pedestrian fatalities, and the age groups most at risk for pedestrian injuries and deaths are children and teens. Weekends are the most dangerous time to be a pedestrian; nearly half of injurious and fatal pedestrian accidents happen between Friday at sunset and Sunday at sunset.
To avoid becoming a statistic, cross only at crosswalks after looking both ways. At night, wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. Stay on sidewalks where possible, and try to avoid areas where lighting is inadequate for good vision. If you’re injured as a pedestrian, and a bus, truck, motorcycle, or automobile driver – or even a bicyclist or skateboarder – was negligent and responsible for your injury, speak at once to a good personal injury lawyer. When someone else’s negligence causes you harm, you can be compensated for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses related to your injury. Pedestrian accident victims in southern California – now and in the future – should seek immediate legal help from an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney.