If you recently suffered devastating injuries after being struck by a car while walking, you may be scouring the Internet, looking for answers. You know you will be out of work, unable to cover your monthly expenses, and potentially dealing with a permanent disability. If someone else is responsible for causing your accident, you may be interested in finding out what legal options are available to you.
It all starts with understanding California’s pedestrian laws. After being involved in a pedestrian accident, understanding when pedestrians have the right of way and when cars are required to yield to pedestrians can help you build your case against the liable party.
Essential California Pedestrian Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding California’s car accident and pedestrian rules can help you figure out who is responsible for causing the injuries you sustained. Here are some of the most notable pedestrian accident laws you need to know:
Pedestrians Have the Right of Way When Crossing at a Crosswalk
Pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the street at an intersection. This is true whether the pedestrian is in a marked crosswalk or the crosswalk is unmarked according to California Vehicle Code § 21950.
Pedestrians are Prohibited From Walking in Bike Lanes
Under California Vehicle Code § 21966, pedestrians are prohibited from walking in bike lanes if there is a designated sidewalk or walking path adjacent to the bike lane. Pedestrians are allowed to use bicycle lanes if the sidewalk is blocked.
Pedestrians Must Yield to the Right of Way to Vehicles Close Enough to Pose a Safety Risk
If a pedestrian is at an unmarked intersection or crosswalk, they are required to yield to the right of way per California Vehicle Code § 21954. Here, you must yield to the right of way of vehicles that are close enough to pose a threat to your safety.
Pedestrians Must Use Crosswalks at an Intersection
Pedestrians are required to cross in crosswalks when they are crossing at an intersection where there are police officers, traffic lights, or traffic signals as described by California Vehicle Code § 21955.
California Has Specific Laws for Blind Pedestrians
Pedestrians who have a field of vision less than 20° without contacts or glasses, or 20/200 vision in the stronger eye have special protections under the law. According to California Vehicle Code § 21964, blind pedestrians can have a white cane on a highway, or in a public place, such as a building or facility. Additionally, under California Vehicle Code § 21963, pedestrians using a guide dog or cane have the right of way at all intersections.
Consult a High-Powered Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Help
After suffering devastating injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may be anxious to hold the liable party accountable so you do not get stuck covering the costs. Understanding California pedestrian laws is crucial as you move through the claims process and seek maximum compensation for your damages and suffering.
With the support of a Santa Monica catastrophic injury lawyer from Borna Houman Law, you have an opportunity to recover the fair compensation you deserve and make the at-fault party pay. When you are ready to take action on your claim but are unsure of where to begin, look no further than our legal advocates. Call our office or fill out our secured contact form to schedule your no-cost, risk-free consultation as soon as today.