Top Reasons Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Los Angeles

Pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles result in very high rates of injury and fatality. In recent years, LA has averaged about 2,865 pedestrian deaths or injuries annually, more than any other county in California.

1. Speeding

Vehicles moving too fast are less able to stop or avoid collisions, especially in busy areas or around intersections. In residential zones, high speeds dramatically increase the risk that a pedestrian struck will suffer serious injury.

2. Driving While Intoxicated

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs often have impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and difficulty maintaining focus. Alcohol or drug related crashes frequently involve vulnerable road users like pedestrians.

3. Distracted Driving

When drivers are distracted by their phones, navigation devices, other passengers, or anything else, they may fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks, on sidewalks, or stepping off curbs. The momentary lapse in attention can turn deadly.

4. Wrong Way or Improper Direction Driving

Drivers unfamiliar with an area, or those who ignore road signs, sometimes drive the wrong way down one way streets or make unsafe turns. When this happens, pedestrians are at high risk because they do not anticipate vehicles coming from unexpected directions.

Staying Safer as a Pedestrian

Here are tips to reduce your risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident:

• Always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals. Even if jaywalking is technically allowed under new laws in certain situations, following signals increases safety.
• Stay on sidewalks or paths whenever possible. Avoid walking in the street or other non designated areas.
• If possible, avoid walking alone at night. Traveling in pairs or groups, wearing reflective clothing, and staying in well lit areas can help you be seen.
• Minimize distractions while walking. Avoid using your phone, wearing loud headphones, or engaging in anything that reduces your awareness of traffic and surroundings.

What to Do If You Are Injured in a Pedestrian Accident

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, these steps can help protect your rights:

1. Call 911 and get medical attention. Even injuries that seem minor can develop serious complications.
2. File a police report on the scene and be as accurate as possible.
3. Collect information from the driver involved, including license, insurance, and vehicle details.
4. Document what happened. Take photos of the scene, any damage, your injuries, the time of day, lighting, street signs or signals.
5. Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as you can. A lawyer can help assess your case, deal with insurance, and pursue the compensation you deserve.