According to the most recent data from the National Safety Council (NSC), approximately 75 percent of pedestrian fatalities occur at night. Why are night pedestrian accidents so common, and what legal rights do survivors have? The experienced legal team at Demas Law Group compiled the following guide to help you understand the relevant trends and the potential steps you can take to secure compensation.
Why Are Pedestrian Night Accidents Increasing?
NSC statistics indicate that the number of pedestrian accident deaths increased significantly over a 10-year period. This disturbing trend underscores the need for motorists to pay close attention to their surroundings while driving. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the rights victims have after suffering injuries in pedestrian accidents in Sacramento.
Common causes of nighttime pedestrian accidents include:
- Poor visibility – Low light makes it difficult to spot people crossing the road or walking along the shoulder, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Driver fatigue – Driving at night can make people drowsy, slowing reaction times and reducing awareness. Fatigued drivers may not see pedestrians in time to stop.
- Alcohol impairment – Drunk driving accidents frequently occur at night. Intoxicated drivers have delayed reactions and impaired judgment, making them less likely to notice and yield to pedestrians.
- Lack of crosswalks – Fewer crosswalks and even fewer coordinating traffic signals increase the risk of pedestrian collisions.
- Distracted driving – Cell phones, audio systems, and passengers can divert a driver’s attention from the road at night, threatening the safety of anyone on foot.
Legal Rights for California Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrians injured by vehicles in California can pursue compensation for their losses. State law permits accident victims to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party. Usually, that means filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company or suing the driver directly if the insurer won’t pay.
Many people mistakenly believe the driver is always at fault for a pedestrian accident. Not so. Pedestrians must also follow right-of-way rules. If their actions contribute to a collision, they can be held partially responsible for any related injuries.
Compensation from a successful pedestrian accident claim can include money for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Lost quality of life
What Can a Sacramento Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Do for Me?
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident in Sacramento, an experienced attorney can help you by:
- Investigating the collision
- Identifying all liable parties
- Calculating the extent of your injury-related losses
- Negotiating with the at-fault driver’s insurance company for full and fair compensation
- Filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit if necessary
The experienced lawyers at Demas Law Group have more than 25 years of experience securing results for injured Californians. With our team on your side, you can maximize your chances of receiving just compensation.
Ready to learn how we can help? Contact us today for a free consultation.
