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Walking is an environmentally friendly way to get around in Oceanside. It’s a physical activity that can help relieve stress, stay in shape, and see local sights.
Unfortunately, walking on the streets also puts you at risk of a pedestrian accident in Oceanside. With so many drivers driving distracted, they may not notice pedestrians like you crossing the street. And unlike drivers, pedestrians are not protected by the frame of their vehicles.
If you were injured in a pedestrian due to a driver’s negligence, you may be able to obtain compensation. Sargent Law Firm has skilled Oceanside pedestrian accident lawyers that will see to it that your damages are covered. Contact us if you’ve been injured as a pedestrian.
What Rules of the Road Apply to Pedestrians?
Pedestrians are defined as anyone walking on foot or using a conveyance such as roller skates or a skateboard. Bicyclists are not considered pedestrians.
Cars must stop for any pedestrian at a crosswalk regardless of where the crosswalk may be. Pedestrians have the right of way at marked crosswalks.
Drivers must follow all other traffic rules to keep pedestrians safe such as stopping at stop signs and red lights, maintaining the speed limit, and not driving distracted or intoxicated.
If drivers fail to obey any of these rules, they may be liable for a pedestrian accident.
Our Oceanside pedestrian accident attorneys are well-versed in the municipal rules of the road and will be to show in which ways a driver may be liable for your injuries.
What are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Oceanside?
Pedestrian accidents happen for a variety of reasons including the following:
Distracted driving
When drivers are distracted, they may not see pedestrians in a crosswalk and may hit into them.
Speeding
Many drivers drive above the speed limit and are unable to stop in time for a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Speeding not only increases the risk of an accident, but it also makes the impact worse and exacerbate injuries.
Failing to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks
Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks regardless of whether they are marked with signage or marked with only road markings. Unfortunately, many drivers speed through crosswalks without slowing or yielding.
Disobeying traffic signs and signals
Traffic signs and signals are typically located at crosswalks and intersections where pedestrians cross. Drivers may try to blow through these signs and signals because they are concerned with getting to their destinations. They may not see pedestrians looking to get across.
Failing to use turn signals
Pedestrians can protect themselves by paying attention to whether a vehicle is turning. This way they can check if the car turning onto the road they are crossing sees them. If the vehicle doesn’t turn on their signal, the pedestrian will little to no indication they are coming.
Disregarding adverse weather conditions
Drivers have a responsibility to drive slowly in inclement weather conditions such as rain and fog. Unfortunately, some drivers do not slow down. This, combined with the lack of visibility, makes a pedestrian accident more likely to occur.
Driving under the influence
Intoxicated drivers and their lack of judgement, diminished ability to detect objects in front of their vehicle, and slow response time contributes to an increased accident risk with pedestrians.
Pedestrians Also Have a Responsibility to Be Aware
Drivers are usually responsible for a pedestrian accident, but this isn’t always the case. Pedestrians may be partially or fully liable for an accident if they were jaywalking, or walking distracted.
An Oceanside pedestrian injury lawyer evaluate and establish liability in court so you can get the compensation you deserve.
What are Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
Unlike drivers, pedestrians don’t have the shell of a car to protect them. And they are no match for a vehicle that weighs several tons.
When an accident occurs, they can incur serious injuries including the following:
- Broken bones
- Serious cuts and lacerations
- Torn ligaments
- Internal bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Leg and knee injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Wrongful death
What Kind of Compensation Can I Get in a Pedestrian Accident Injury Lawsuit?
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you deserve compensation. Your Oceanside pedestrian accident attorney will let you know how much compensation you stand to collect but you are likely to be eligible for any or all of the following:
- Medical expenses: These damages will cover treatment at the time of the accident as well as ongoing care.
- Emotional pain and suffering: Many people experience PTSD after being involved in an accident.
- Lost wages: These damages will cover any income lost due to having to take off work to recover from their accident injuries.
- Reduced earning potential: Some people become so injured in an accident they are unable to return to their current job or they may be unable to work at all.
- Wrongful death: If a pedestrian accident results in death, the person responsible for the accident may have to pay out damages to cover the victim’s family’s emotional pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and more.
How an Oceanside Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, you need a reliable Oceanside pedestrian accident attorney on your side. Our team at Sargent Injury Law Firm will help you gather evidence so you can build a strong case. Our dedicated representation will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. As lawyers who work on contingency fees, you won’t pay a dime unless we help you win your case.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Oceanside, call the Sargent Injury Law Firm today. We will get you the closure you need and the compensation you deserve.