Pedestrian Killed in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer. A woman wheeling a cart used for shopping was killed in Sacramento on November 14. The area surrounding the accident from Ethan Way to I-80 remained closed until later that morning.
Details of the Accident
The pedestrian collision occurred around 6:30 in the morning, according to a police representative in Sacramento. A Nissan struck the woman while she pushed her cart along El Camino Avenue close to Connie Drive. The police representative said that the driver of the vehicle turned around after the collision and phoned in the accident. It was originally thought the driver was fleeing the accident scene.
The Accident Victim
The victim was described as potentially homeless. Although she was transported to a nearby hospital, she died from the injuries she had suffered. The windshield of the Nissan was severely damaged on one side.
Possible Contributory Factor for the Accident
The police officer stated that the sidewalk close to the accident site only measures four feet. A tower used for utilities on the sidewalk partially obstructs it. For this reason, the woman might have gone onto the street during the morning rush hour.
Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian safety is everyone’s responsibility. Sometimes there are circumstances that make it difficult for a pedestrian to use city sidewalks. In Sacramento, such as other cities in California, the homeowner carries the responsibility to maintain sidewalks under California Streets and Highway Code 5610. Accidents resulting in the injury or death of an individual on city or county property are the responsibility of that entity. Sacramento has a high rate of pedestrian injuries and fatalities. In 2014, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 194 pedestrians lost their lives or were injured. Sacramento County had 440 pedestrian injuries and fatalities that same year. When a pedestrian accident has occurred or a family member is lost due to negligence by another, an experienced injury lawyer can help.
Driver Responsibility for Pedestrian Safety
A pedestrian isn’t just an individual who is walking, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Pedestrians also ride skateboards, roller skates or scooters or might be a disabled person who uses a wheelchair or other appliance that helps them get around. Since 22 percent of California traffic fatalities are pedestrians, observing the following tips may help.
- Never stop a vehicle in a crosswalk.
- Obey signage placed for pedestrians.
- Yield to pedestrians when entering or leaving parking areas or driveways.
- If a vehicle is stopped in a crosswalk, do not pass it. A pedestrian may be crossing and out of view.
- Respect a pedestrian’s right of way.
- Be alert to crosswalks placed in the middle of a street, particularly near schools or hospitals.
Common Injuries to Pedestrians
Because of their vulnerability, pedestrians are particularly in danger of serious injuries in an accident with a motor vehicle. This may include head injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal injuries and broken bones. Such catastrophic injuries can result in extended hospital stays and long recuperative periods.
Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian Injury?
In most cases, the pedestrian has the right of way. However, a pedestrian who darts out into traffic, jaywalks, or crosses despite signals may be at fault. The extent of fault for both the driver and pedestrian is determined from police reports and witness accounts. If fault is shared, the injured person may collect only a portion of damages.
Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer. When you or someone in your family is hurt due to a pedestrian accident, call me. You can phone locally. Or reach out at (800) 404-5400 nationwide. I will provide friendly and free advice.
I have been privileged to serve the residents of Northern California since 1982. I’ve assisted them with wrongful death cases and catastrophic injuries.
If you would like to know about my practice, go to Google, Avvo and Yelp for reviews. To see what I’ve done for clients, go to the verdicts and settlements page on my website, AutoAccident.com.
I am a member of a group of lawyers that only allows attorneys who win $1 million or more. Check out Million Dollar Advocates.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/en/crossing-street-zebra-city-road-801713/
:cd [cs 718] cv