Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Introduction: California Pedestrian Dangers

Walking is a way of life in California, whether you’re crossing busy intersections in Los Angeles or taking a stroll in your neighborhood. But pedestrian accidents remain a serious concern statewide. Knowing the most common causes can help you stay alert and protect your rights if you’re ever injured. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, Attain Law is ready to guide you. For comprehensive support, our team also helps with car accidents and bicycle accident claims throughout the state.

Distracted Driving Risks

Many pedestrian accidents in California happen because drivers are distracted behind the wheel. Using a phone, adjusting a GPS, or talking with passengers can lead to missed stop signs or crosswalks. State law prohibits texting while driving, yet distracted driving remains a top cause of injuries at intersections.

• Common distractions include texting, eating, or adjusting the radio
• Drivers may fail to see pedestrians in crosswalks
• Young drivers are at higher risk for distraction-related crashes

If you’re worried about distracted drivers, our article on how to avoid common bicycle accidents offers helpful safety tips for all road users.

Failure to Yield Right-of-Way

California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Unfortunately, many accidents occur when drivers ignore these rules, especially when making left-hand or right-hand turns. This is a frequent issue in congested city areas.

• High-risk areas: intersections, school zones, and parking lots
• Drivers may rush through yellow lights, endangering walkers
• Pedestrians are often injured in crosswalks despite having the right-of-way

For more about traffic law, see common causes of car accidents.

Speeding in Urban Areas

Excess speed is a major factor in pedestrian accidents. In busy areas, a speeding vehicle has less time to react and is more likely to cause severe injury or death. California law sets lower speed limits near schools and residential zones, but not all drivers comply.

• Faster speeds increase both crash risk and injury severity
• Speeding reduces a driver’s field of vision and stopping distance
• Accidents often occur at night or during rush hour

If you've been injured by a speeding driver, you may also want to learn about compensation for traffic accident injuries.

Drunk and Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times and impair judgment. Approximately one in six pedestrian fatalities in California involves an impaired driver. Both prescription and illegal substances can increase the risk of a crash.

• Impaired drivers are less likely to yield or spot pedestrians
• Nighttime and weekend accidents are more common
• Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability

Our team represents victims of traffic accidents involving impaired drivers.

Poor Visibility and Weather Conditions

Reduced visibility due to rain, fog, or darkness puts pedestrians at higher risk. Accidents often happen when it’s hard for drivers to see someone crossing the road.

• Early morning and evening are peak times for low visibility
• Dark clothing can make pedestrians harder to spot
• Poorly lit intersections increase accident risk

For more on safety in hazardous conditions, visit our slip and fall resource.

Jaywalking and Mid-Block Crossings

While drivers are often at fault, pedestrians sometimes contribute to accidents by crossing outside designated areas. Jaywalking is illegal in many parts of California and can be dangerous, especially on busy roads.

• Mid-block crossings reduce driver anticipation
• Pedestrians may misjudge vehicle speed or distance
• Accidents are more likely in urban centers

If you’re unsure about liability, see our guide on proving fault in pedestrian accidents.

Left-Hand Turns at Intersections

Drivers making left-hand turns may focus on oncoming traffic and miss pedestrians crossing the street. This scenario is a frequent cause of serious injuries, particularly at multi-lane intersections.

• Wide intersections give pedestrians more distance to cross
• Drivers may be distracted by other vehicles or signals
• Left-turn accidents often involve high speeds

Backing-Up Accidents

Parking lots and driveways are hotspots for pedestrian accidents, especially when vehicles back up unexpectedly.

• Children are at high risk in residential areas
• Backup cameras help but don’t eliminate risk
• Drivers may not see pedestrians behind the vehicle

Failure to Obey Traffic Signals

Disregarding red lights, stop signs, or pedestrian signals leads to preventable crashes.

• Pedestrians may have a false sense of security from walk signals
• Drivers running lights put walkers at risk
• Accidents often occur at intersections with complicated signals

Inadequate Infrastructure

Some California streets lack safe crosswalks, sidewalks, or pedestrian signals. Poorly designed or maintained infrastructure can force people to walk in unsafe areas.

• Missing crosswalks increase mid-street crossings
• Damaged sidewalks push walkers into the street
• Lack of signals can confuse both drivers and pedestrians

For property-related injuries, see our premises liability section.

Aggressive or Reckless Driving

Speeding, weaving through traffic, or ignoring stop signs are forms of reckless driving that lead to pedestrian injuries.

• Aggressive behavior often spikes during heavy traffic
• Pedestrians are vulnerable to sudden lane changes or red-light running
• Reckless drivers may be held liable for resulting injuries

Children at Play and School Zones

Children are especially at risk near schools and parks. Drivers not paying attention in these areas may cause tragic accidents.

• School zones require lower speed limits and extra caution
• Children may dart into the street unexpectedly
• Crossing guards and flashing lights help but don’t eliminate risks

Elderly Pedestrian Risks

Older adults may walk more slowly or have difficulty judging traffic. This increases their risk, especially at busy intersections.

• Longer crossing times may frustrate impatient drivers
• Vision or mobility impairments heighten danger
• California has programs to improve safety for older walkers

Multiple Vehicle Accidents

Sometimes, a pedestrian is struck in a multi-car collision or after being knocked into another lane. These complex crashes require thorough investigation.

• Chain reaction crashes can involve several parties
• Determining fault may require expert analysis
• Victims may face complicated insurance claims

For more information on liability and compensation, review your legal rights as an injured pedestrian.

Bullet List: Top Causes at a Glance

• Distracted driving (phone, passengers)
• Speeding in urban areas
• Failure to yield at crosswalks
• Drunk or drug-impaired driving
• Poor visibility or bad weather
• Jaywalking or mid-block crossing
• Left-hand turns at intersections
• Backing up in driveways or lots
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Inadequate pedestrian infrastructure
• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Children at play in school zones
• Elderly pedestrians crossing slowly
• Multi-vehicle or chain-reaction crashes

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or someone you care about is struck by a vehicle:

• Move to a safe area if possible
• Call 911 and request medical help
• Document the scene with photos or videos
• Get witness names and contact information
• Do not discuss fault at the scene
• Report the accident to police
• Seek medical care, even if injuries seem mild

For more steps, see our guide to protecting your claim after an accident.

Your Legal Options in California

California law protects pedestrians, but proving fault can be complex. You may be able to recover for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages or income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (like torn clothing or broken devices)

Our attorneys handle a range of traffic accident cases, including those involving pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

When to File a Claim

California gives you two years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury claim. If a government agency (like a city bus or school vehicle) is involved, you may have only six months to act.

• Act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights
• Delays can limit your options
• Insurance companies may try to settle for less than you deserve

How Attain Law Can Help

Our team understands the unique challenges of pedestrian accident claims in California. We can:

• Investigate and gather critical evidence
• Handle communications with insurers and at-fault parties
• Advise you about your rights and legal options
• Pursue fair compensation for your losses
• Guide you through every step, from filing paperwork to negotiating settlements

Related Topics and Resources

• Car Accidents in California
• Steps to Take After a Car Accident
• Bicycle Accident Claims
• Legal Rights of Injured Pedestrians
• Premises Liability
• Slip and Fall Accidents

Closing: Reach Out for Help

If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, your next steps matter. The experienced attorneys at Attain Law are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you move forward. Call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in California? The most common causes include distracted driving, failure to yield at crosswalks, speeding, impaired driving, and low visibility due to weather or lighting. Jaywalking and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure also contribute.

How does California law protect pedestrians? California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and follow posted speed limits. The state also enforces strict penalties for impaired or distracted driving.

What should I do if I’m hit by a car while walking? Move to safety if possible, call 911, seek medical help, document the scene, get witness information, and report the accident to police. Contact an attorney to discuss your rights.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault? Yes. California follows comparative fault rules, so you may recover damages even if you were partly responsible. Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in California? You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If a government agency is involved, you may have only six months. Acting quickly is important.