San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

In cities that have a lot of congestion on their streets, such as San Francisco, crossing the street while traffic is present poses many dangers. Of all the people who use the road, pedestrians are by far the most vulnerable. People walking on foot do not have any safety protection, or a vehicle standing between them and motorists. When pedestrians are struck by a driver, they are always the ones to suffer the most serious injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver or government entity, you can file a claim for compensation. Our San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyer can help you through the process so you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to.

Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are 1.5 more times likely to be killed in a crash involving a vehicle than occupants of cars and trucks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even when pedestrians survive these collisions, they suffer some of the most severe injuries. Some of the most common of these are as follows:

• Injuries to the lower extremities, including the knees, legs, hips, and pelvis
• Injuries to the upper extremities, such as shoulders and arms
• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries such as concussions, and broken bones
• Internal injuries, such as damage to internal organs and internal bleeding

In the majority of cases, negligent drivers who ignore traffic and pedestrian laws are responsible for the serious injuries sustained by pedestrians.

Pedestrian Laws in San Francisco

Contrary to what many people think, motorists are not always at fault for a pedestrian accident. There are many laws that can help determine fault after a crash and it is important both motorists and pedestrians are aware of these laws.

Drivers have a legal duty to yield right of way to any pedestrian using a marked or unmarked crosswalk to cross the road. Whenever possible, pedestrians must use these crosswalks to cross a street. When using a crosswalk, pedestrians must proceed only on the appropriate signal and they must not unnecessarily delay traffic or stop while in a crosswalk. If there is a vehicle in the crosswalk when the signal indicates it is safe to cross, the pedestrian must wait until the vehicle has moved from the crosswalk.

Pedestrians must also sometimes yield the right-of-way to drivers. When crossing the street without a marked or unmarked intersection, pedestrians must ensure the path is clear to cross. Pedestrians must never enter a road if a vehicle is in a range close enough to prevent them from stopping in time. In these instances, pedestrians may not only be found liable for a crash, but they may also be charged with jaywalking. In California, police can issue pedestrians citations if they are creating a hazard.

Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in San Francisco Can Prove Your Case

You must prove more than you were using a crosswalk if you were hurt by a motor vehicle. At Venardi Zurada, our San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyer knows the elements to prove and will establish them so you obtain the full and fair settlement you rightfully deserve. Call us today at (833) 893-6763 or chat with us online to schedule an appointment with our attorney and to get the strong legal representation you need.

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