Crosswalk Accidents: When California Drivers Fail to Yield and Pedestrians Pay the Price

Crosswalks are meant to be safe zones where pedestrians can cross the street without fear. Unfortunately, far too often, California drivers fail to yield as required by law, putting pedestrians in danger. These failures can result in devastating injuries and even fatalities, especially in cities like San Diego, where pedestrian traffic is a daily reality.

At National Injury Help, our San Diego County personal injury lawyers have seen firsthand how crosswalk accidents change lives. We represent pedestrians who negligent drivers have hit, and we work tirelessly to hold those drivers accountable. If you or someone you love was hurt in a crosswalk, you deserve to know your rights and understand the legal options available to you.

California Laws Protecting Pedestrians in Crosswalks

California law is clear regarding pedestrian rights. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or at an intersection, whether or not the crosswalk is marked. This legal duty exists to prevent exactly the harm that occurs when drivers speed, get distracted, or fail to observe traffic signals.

In addition to yielding, California drivers are also prohibited from:

• Passing another vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.
• Overtaking a pedestrian who is crossing lawfully.
• Driving through a crosswalk while pedestrians are present.

Despite these laws, thousands of pedestrians are injured each year across the state due to drivers failing to observe their responsibilities. Many of these accidents occur at intersections or turning maneuvers, when drivers focus on traffic flow rather than those on foot.

Common Injuries in San Diego Crosswalk Accidents

Because pedestrians have no protection in a collision, crosswalk accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. The severity of injuries depends on the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and the pedestrian’s age or health.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis.
• Broken bones and fractures.
• Internal organ damage.
• Severe lacerations and disfigurement.
• Fatal injuries in high-speed or large-vehicle collisions.

Pedestrians are especially vulnerable in urban areas like San Diego, where vehicle congestion, distracted driving, and high foot traffic combine to create dangerous conditions.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Crosswalk Accident

In most crosswalk accidents, the vehicle’s driver is the responsible party.

However, there may be additional factors that contribute to liability, including:

• Poorly designed intersections or a lack of signage.
• Malfunctioning traffic signals.
• Obstructed views due to construction or parked cars.
• City or county negligence in maintaining safe road conditions.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys can investigate the circumstances of your case, identify all liable parties, and pursue compensation from the appropriate sources.

Let National Injury Help Fight for You After a Crosswalk Injury

At National Injury Help, we understand that the aftermath of a pedestrian injury is overwhelming. Medical bills, time away from work, and emotional trauma take a toll not just on the victim but on the entire family. That is why we focus exclusively on helping injured people. Our San Diego personal injury lawyers will listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and take on the burden of fighting for justice on your behalf.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We will help you understand your options and take the next steps to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.