Sacramento Crosswalk Accident Results in Fatality
A January 10 Sacramento crosswalk accident involving two vehicles left one pedestrian dead and another with serious injuries. The collision occurred at the intersection of Date and Madison Avenues, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The accident happened at about 9:45 in the evening. Both the deceased man and injured woman were walking inside the crosswalk when they were struck by the two vehicles. My sympathy and prayers go to the family and friends of the deceased and injured in this tragedy.
Details of the Sacramento Crosswalk Accident
The man expired at the scene of the crash, while the woman was transported to a hospital for treatment and additional evaluation. Both of the drivers reported that the light was green, and the couple stepped out in front of them. The CHP said the drivers were cooperative as officers conducted an investigation into the Sacramento crosswalk accident.
Determining the Cause of a Pedestrian Accident
There are various methods that investigators can use to determine fault in a Sacramento crosswalk accident. By examining tire marks left by a vehicle, the police can tell whether or not the driver attempted to stop before striking the pedestrian. In addition, traffic light controls can be checked to determine what color the light was when the accident happened. Traffic cameras in the area of a Sacramento crosswalk accident may also be used to see whether the drivers attempted to stop, whether the pedestrians stepped in front of the oncoming vehicles and who was at fault.
Right of Way in a Pedestrian Accident
Under California Vehicle Code §21950, the driver of a motor vehicle is expected to yield to any pedestrian who is crossing a road, whether they are on a designated crosswalk or not. A motorist who sees a pedestrian ahead crossing the road is expected to slow down or change lanes to avoid striking the walker. However, pedestrians also have the duty to cross streets safely. This includes not stepping out onto the street or road when it would put them in imminent danger.
Things a Pedestrian Can Do to Stay Safe
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a Sacramento crosswalk accident. Knowing how to stay safe is important. Some of these ways are:
- Make sure you are visible to motorists: It is important to make sure motorists can see you, particularly when it is dark or in bad weather. Since 32 percent of all pedestrian deaths happen between 8:00 p.m. and midnight, carrying a flashlight or wearing reflective clothing is helpful. Make sure the area is well-lit before you cross. During the daytime, wearing bright clothes can make you noticeable.
- Be alert: Distractions while walking can lead to a pedestrian crosswalk accident. Just because you are in the crosswalk does not mean you are safe. If you are talking on the phone, texting or listening to music with headphones on, your eyes and ears will not detect danger.
- Always use crosswalks: If you cannot find a crosswalk, look for a well-lit area, and only cross if there is no traffic coming.
- Learn the rules: Make yourself aware of the rules of the road for motorists and pedestrians and obey them. However, don’t believe that all drivers will do the same, and be ready for anything while walking.
- Don’t drink: Thirty-four percent of all pedestrian accidents involve alcohol consumption by walkers.
Help From a Pedestrian Accident Attorney
A personal injury attorney who has experience in pedestrian accidents may offer invaluable help in determining the cause of a collision and placing fault. By using crash reconstruction, expert witnesses and reviewing police investigation data and eyewitness accounts, the lawyer can determine who was at fault. If the driver/drivers are found to be negligent in the death of the pedestrian, the family may wish to file a wrongful death claim.
Sacramento Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento wrongful death lawyer. Unfortunately, pedestrians in Sacramento County have a high risk of being involved in a traffic accident, and some of these have tragic consequences. If your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident or suffered injuries, I would like to offer free and friendly advice to you. Please give me a phone call at (916) 921-6400 in the Sacramento area, or you can contact me at (800) 404-5400 if you live elsewhere in Northern California. At my website, AutoAccident.com, I also offer an online contact form and will get in touch with you.
In my 37 years as a personal injury lawyer, I’ve helped many Sacramento residents and other Northern Californians to obtain fair compensation in many types of car accidents, traumatic injuries and motorcycle crashes.
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I am pleased to be a member of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel, established for the less than one percent of lawyers considered to hold the highest standard of legal excellence. In addition, I am a longtime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, which was set up to highlight the top trial lawyers around the country who have won more than $1 million for a client.
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_58970175_l-2015
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