Decreasing Pedestrian Deaths
Pedestrian deaths are on the rise nationwide and have climbed to their highest level in three decades. Explanations of why this happens place the fault on the use of cell phones by both the driver and the pedestrian. This seems to be only part of the overall problem. The number of people who walk to work has increased, especially in urban areas. If more people are walking, it stands to reason that more deaths will occur. Even with increased numbers, one way to stay safer is by using crosswalks. However, new crosswalk laws were enacted in 2018, and many Californians are unaware of them. Let’s look at why more pedestrian deaths occur and review the state’s crosswalk laws.
Review the Numbers
In 2018, 6,277 walker deaths occurred, while 10 years earlier, that number was 4,114, according to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association. This represents a 52-percent increase. Five states have the highest pedestrian deaths, with California leading the way. However, in all fairness, population size affects the number of pedestrian deaths. California comes in 10th if population size is taken into consideration. The number of pedestrian deaths that happen during daylight hours has been consistent over the last 10 years. However, 1,000 more fatalities are happening at night. This means that a high percentage of all walker fatalities occur at night outside of crosswalks.
Why are pedestrian deaths increasing?
As mentioned, cell phones have led to distracted driving and walking. Using smartphones to talk or text lessens an individual’s focus on what is happening around them. For pedestrians, this means not being aware of a vehicle heading their way. For drivers, it means not being aware of a pedestrian until it is too late to avoid hitting them. Listening to music with dual earbuds can rob pedestrians of hearing a vehicle nearby. SUVs are often involved in pedestrian deaths.
Crosswalk Changes
Before 2018, pedestrians in California were banned from entering the road once the countdown timer had started. Today, it is legal to enter the road even when the countdown begins. The only caveat is that the pedestrian must reach the other side by the time it ends. The new countdown times are better than the old flashing hands since they alert pedestrians to the time they have left in seconds.
City Ordinances Need to Be Followed
Since local ordinances can differ in California, what is lawful in one locale might not be so in another. The flashing “Don’t Walk” signal bans walkers from entering the crosswalk in Roseville. However, pedestrians in the crosswalk must continue walking. Pedestrians should always be on alert when crossing, regardless of the signals.
Do Cyclists Ever Become Pedestrians?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. In California, cyclists must dismount and walk their bicycle across the crosswalk. However, many residents don’t know they should do this and pedal through. On the road, bicyclists follow the rules set forth for motor vehicles. In the crosswalk, they are considered pedestrians. Motorists must stop for a bicyclist, whether riding or walking their bicycle through the crosswalk. Pedestrians have the responsibility not to enter the roadway when traffic is present. They need to wait and not become a hazard to motorists. In this sense, safety depends on both pedestrians and drivers to obey the law.
Legal Assistance in an Accident
One of the most important aspects of any case is to establish fault. An experienced injury lawyer will use all the resources he or she has to investigate an accident. In the case of a pedestrian death, it is vital to examine the scene of the crash and use police reports and witness accounts to do just that. Many times, CCTV video cameras can provide further documentation. Once fault is established, a lawyer can work to build a strong case against the defendant. This will help the injured party to obtain the compensation they deserve.
Roseville Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Roseville. If you’ve been injured in an accident, a seasoned attorney can immensely assist you as you work to recover damages. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also reach me online.
I’ve worked with numerous Roseville residents in motorcycle crashes, all types of vehicular accidents, wrongful deaths, and traumatic injuries.
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Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/crossing-street-zebra-city-road-801713/
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