Have you ever felt a rush of anxiety crossing a busy street in California, especially at an intersection? We understand. Marami ang nakakaramdam ng ganito. Intersections, where roads meet, can be surprisingly dangerous places for those on foot. Sadly, pedestrian accidents are a common occurrence, often leading to severe injuries.
This blog highlights this serious issue, specifically for our Filipino-American community here in California. We will discuss the risks of intersection accidents, particularly those involving motor vehicles, and inform you of your legal rights should you or a loved one become one of the injured pedestrians.
Understanding these dangers and your rights is crucial for protecting yourself and your family. Keep reading to learn more.
The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents at Intersections
California’s bustling streets and busy intersections, while a part of daily life, present a serious risk to pedestrians. Our state sees a disproportionately high number of fatal pedestrian accidents compared to the national average.
In 2022, nationwide, 24 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities that involved pedestrians occurred at intersections. Here in California, that number rises to 27 percent. This means that intersections are hazardous places for those on foot.
Between 2019 and 2022, Los Angeles County alone saw 1,333 pedestrian-involved traffic collisions, resulting in 153 deaths. These statistics paint a stark picture, reminding us that anyone can become an accident victim and that extra caution is always necessary.
Why Are Intersections So Dangerous?
Several factors contribute to these intersection accidents:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers focused on their phones, GPS, or other distractions aren’t paying attention to the road or the people around them.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks. Many drivers ignore this law, putting pedestrians at risk.
- Excessive Speed: Drivers exceeding the speed limit or running red lights create dangerous situations. Speed increases the severity of injuries in any collision.
- Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time, making intersection accidents far more likely.
- Poor Visibility: At night or during bad weather, it can be difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. This is particularly true at busy intersections.
Children and seniors are vulnerable to intersection accidents. Children may not fully understand traffic laws, while seniors may react more slowly.
How Filipino-Americans in California Are Affected
Filipino-Americans in California often rely on walking and public transportation, which can increase their exposure to intersection accidents. A 2017 incident in San Diego, where a Filipina pedestrian was tragically killed while crossing the street with her husband, highlights the real dangers our community faces.
Language barriers can make navigating the aftermath of an accident difficult. Financial concerns may prevent some from seeking necessary medical care or legal professionals.
Immigration status can also be a factor, potentially discouraging individuals from pursuing an insurance claim or seeking a fair financial settlement. These challenges can hinder access to justice and needed support after pedestrian injuries.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians at Intersections
Protecting yourself and your family at intersections is vital. Here are some key safety tips to remember:
- Use Crosswalks: Always cross at marked crosswalks. These are the safest places to cross the street.
- Be Aware: Pay attention to your surroundings. Don’t assume drivers see you. Tumingin sa kaliwa, kanan, at kaliwa ulit bago tumawid.
- Make Eye Contact: Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. This helps ensure they see you.
- Visibility Matters: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night, so drivers can easily spot you.
- Teach Children: Educate your children about pedestrian safety. Teach them to look both ways and never run into the street.
- Be Extra Cautious: Be careful at busy intersections, during rush hour, and in areas with poor visibility. Intersection crashes can happen quickly.
- Obey Traffic Lights: Don’t cross against a red light. Wait for the walk signal.
- Check for Oncoming Vehicles: Even with the right of way, always check for vehicles before stepping into the street. A fatal accident can happen in a split second.
The First Steps After an Accident
Being in an accident can be a disorienting experience. Your well-being is paramount, so the first step is to call 911 and seek medical attention, even if you think you’re unhurt. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and some problems may not appear immediately.
If possible, gather information at the scene, including the driver’s name, insurance company details, and license plate number. Photos and videos of the scene and witness statements can be invaluable later.
Filing a police report is also essential; ensure you get a copy. Thorough documentation of your injuries and medical treatment is also vital for future claims. Remember, even minor injuries can have long-term consequences.
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can be your advocate, helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. They can fight for fair compensation to cover medical expenses, lost income, and the emotional distress that often accompanies such incidents, especially when the accident was caused by driver negligence.
Protecting Pedestrians, One Step at a Time
Intersections can be dangerous places for pedestrians. Knowing what to do after an intersection car accident is crucial. Prioritize your health, gather information, and report the incident. Don’t underestimate the value of legal counsel.
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of dealing with the insurance company and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Protecting your rights is essential. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate. Contact us today for a free consultation.
