Modesto Is Among the Top 5 Worst City for Pedestrian Accidents
During a recent pedestrian crosswalk operation in Stanislaus County, the Modesto Police Department found that the City of Modesto has the fourth highest number of pedestrian-related accidents in California.
Police said during the 6-hour operation, they issued citations to 70 motorists for failing to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk and not stopping when other cars yielded at a crosswalk to allow pedestrians to cross. Two drivers with suspended licenses were pulled over and had their vehicles towed.
Pedestrian Safety in California
Whether walking to exercise, work, or just to get around town, you’re more than likely walking near traffic. You must remain alert as a pedestrian, especially around moving vehicles. Many people suffer serious injuries and can die from negligent drivers, which are prevalent in California. Understanding statistics on pedestrian accidents in California is essential to know the risks you face and focus on pedestrian safety.
California Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to a 2020 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, over 980 pedestrians were killed on California roads.
Statistics from the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) showed more pedestrians are killed in traffic accidents in California than in any other state, and the pedestrian death rate in California is almost 25 percent higher when compared to the national average.
What to Do If You Were Hit by a Car
You must do several things if you are hit by a motor vehicle.
- If you are injured, try not to move and, if possible, call for help and seek medical treatment.
- Get the make, model, and plate number of the vehicle that struck you.
- You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Be sure to give the police your statement but do not accept the blame for the accident.
- See a doctor and get a thorough examination, even if you do not believe you are seriously injured. Some internal injuries may not show apparent symptoms.
- Consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who can help prove the driver’s liability to present a stronger case to the insurance company.
Why You Need a Modesto Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one was hit by a motor vehicle and suffered serious injuries, you need to contact an accident attorney immediately to discuss your legal options. You must overcome multiple hurdles to succeed in a pedestrian accident injury case.
When you are recovering from a debilitating injury, navigating the process of a personal injury claim can be challenging. You are more likely to settle for a lower settlement when you handle the claim process on your own. It is essential to have an experienced personal injury lawyer negotiate with the insurance company to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Time Limit for Filing an Injury Accident Claim
California laws limit the time an injured person must file a civil claim in court. This is called the statute of limitations. The time limit for filing a personal injury case in California is two years from the injury date.
If you do not file a lawsuit within this time frame, your case will likely get thrown out of court, and you will lose your right to pursue financial compensation from the negligent party.
Watch YouTube Video: How to Choose the Right Accident Attorney. The video below explains selecting the best injury lawyer for your case.
Call Our Modesto Personal Injury Lawyers Today
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury attorney in Modesto. If you have suffered serious injuries in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our experienced legal team is available to help guide you through the claims process for compensation. Call our law firm today at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. You can also reach us on our online form.
Our injury attorneys have assisted residents of Stanislaus County and throughout Northern California with personal injury and wrongful death cases since 1982.
See a list of our past cases on our verdicts and settlements page.
Photo by: Mircea – See my collections image on Pixabay
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