“So I’m driving along under the speed limit, aware that I’m in a heavily populated shopping district, completely sober and alert, hands at 10 and 2 — the very model of a safe driver — when all of the sudden this guy walks out in front of me. I slammed on the brakes and swerved, hitting a parked car, and got rear-ended by the guy behind me. By the time I settled down from the initial shock and got my bearings, the pedestrian who walked out in front of me was gone, and the guy who rear-ended me was screaming like crazy at me. Somehow I got stuck with the bill!”
Events like this occur all across the country during the holiday season, especially in cities with warmer climates and lots of outdoor shopping areas, like San Diego. Most people believe that an accident involving a car and a pedestrian is obviously the fault of the driver of the car – you know, “the pedestrian always has the right of way”. Everyone, drivers and pedestrians both, should know that’s not always true, and each should know some facts about auto/pedestrian accidents.
DON’T JAYWALK
This is number one on the list of “don’ts” regarding pedestrians. People walking should always use a crosswalk and cross a street safely. Maybe the crosswalk is 100 feet or so away, go ahead, those extra steps aren’t going to hurt you. And how much time do you really think you’re saving by not waiting for the crosswalk signal? Let’s face it. It’s impatience on the part of pedestrians that can often lead to a quick decision that has devastating results. And also, pedestrians don’t win in an accident with a car or truck. As a general rule, never assume jaywalking is safe.
USE SIDEWALKS
The good ol’ sidewalk. The name says all you need to know: it’s on the side, and it’s where you walk. The City of San Diego spent a lot of time, money, and manpower to build those sidewalks and you, as a pedestrian, should use them at all times.
MAKE EYE CONTACT
It’s a good idea for pedestrians and drivers to make eye contact with one another when at a crosswalk. It’s not a challenge, it’s not a confrontation, it’s simply a safe and effective way of making sure that drivers and pedestrians are on the same page. Make eye contact, maybe even share a simple nod or wave, and you both may have saved each other from a great deal of unpleasantness.
PERSONAL INJURY
In the event that you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s imperative that you know your rights. Contact the Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers for a free consultation today. Call us (619) 233-5020 or Toll Free (888) 233-5020, and we may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.
