Understanding Your Rights as a Pedestrian in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a bustling city with a large population and high levels of pedestrian traffic. As a pedestrian, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities to ensure your safety while walking in the city. This article will provide an overview of pedestrian rights in Los Angeles, including crosswalk laws, sidewalk use, and the legal responsibilities of drivers.

Crosswalk Laws

Crosswalks are designated areas for pedestrians to cross the street safely. In Los Angeles, pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, whether they are marked or unmarked. However, pedestrians must still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings when crossing the street.

When crossing the street, pedestrians should always use marked crosswalks if available. If there is no marked crosswalk, pedestrians should cross at a corner or other designated crossing area.

Duty to Reasonable care

It is important to note that while pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, they still have a duty to use reasonable care for their own safety. This means that pedestrians should not step out into traffic unexpectedly or cross against a red light or “Don’t Walk” signal.

Drivers also have a responsibility to exercise caution and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Drivers must come to a complete stop when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, and they may not pass another vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.

Sidewalk Use

Sidewalks are designated areas for pedestrians to walk safely and avoid the dangers of street traffic. In Los Angeles, pedestrians have the right to use sidewalks for travel and recreational purposes.

Pedestrians should always walk on the sidewalk when available, rather than in the street. If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the street, facing oncoming traffic.

It is important to keep sidewalks clear of any obstructions, such as parked vehicles, trash cans, or other obstacles that could impede pedestrian traffic. Property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks in front of their properties, including keeping them clear of debris and making necessary repairs.

Legal Responsibilities of Drivers

Drivers in Los Angeles have a legal responsibility to exercise caution and obey traffic laws to ensure the safety of pedestrians. Not to mention, California law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and to use reasonable care to avoid colliding with pedestrians on the roadway.

Drivers must also obey speed limits and traffic signals, such as stop signs and red lights. Additionally, they should be alert for pedestrians at all times and avoid distractions such as texting or using a cell phone while driving.

If a driver hits a pedestrian, they may be held liable for the pedestrian’s injuries and damages. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What to Do If You Are Injured as a Pedestrian

If you are injured as a pedestrian in Los Angeles, it is important to take immediate action to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. Here are some steps you should take if you are involved in a pedestrian accident.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should always be your top priority. If you are injured, seek medical attention right away. Even if you do not think your injuries are serious. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time if left untreated.

Contact the Police

Call the police to report the accident and provide details about what happened. The police will create an accident report that can be used as evidence in your case.

Gather Information

Obtain the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information. You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

Document the Scene

Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles or property, as well as any injuries you sustained.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries. They can also help you navigate the legal process and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident or you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.

Pedestrian Rights in Los Angeles

As a pedestrian in Los Angeles, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities to ensure your safety while walking in the city.

Remember to always

• Use marked crosswalks when available.
• Walk on the sidewalk when possible.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.

If you are injured as a pedestrian, take immediate action to seek medical attention and protect your legal rights. Contact a personal injury attorney for guidance and assistance in seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. By understanding your rights and taking appropriate action in the event of an accident, you can help ensure your safety and well-being as a pedestrian in Los Angeles.

Contact a Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been involved in a personal injury case you should contact a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. At B|B Law Group, we genuinely care about our clients and want to make sure they are taken care of following their accident. 

At B|B Law Group, our goal is simple: preserve and protect the legal rights of the people of Southern California. Our award winning team of attorneys are experienced in the fields of personal injury, employment and habitability law. It is our mission to provide our clients with the best legal representation.

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