We understand how life-changing a pedestrian accident can be, and we’re here to make sure you don’t have to carry the burden alone. Let our experienced legal team stand up for you and demand the accountability and compensation you deserve.
Walking through Phoenix, whether along Central Avenue, across Roosevelt Street, or near hotspots like Desert Ridge Marketplace and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, shouldn’t be a life-threatening activity. Yet far too often, pedestrians are struck by careless, distracted, or aggressive drivers.
When you’ve been hit by a car in Phoenix, the consequences can be devastating. From serious injuries to overwhelming medical bills and long-term disability, the fallout of a pedestrian accident can impact every aspect of your life.
If you or a loved one was injured while walking, you may be entitled to compensation. A trusted Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, hold the at-fault party accountable, and pursue the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Phoenix Is Becoming More Walkable But Also More Dangerous
Phoenix has made strides in creating walkable areas through downtown revitalization, mixed-use developments, and increased access to public transportation. Areas around Tempe Town Lake, Encanto Park, and ASU Downtown Phoenix Campus see high foot traffic daily. However, with growing pedestrian activity has come a troubling rise in crashes involving walkers and joggers.
Arizona ranks among the worst states for pedestrian fatalities, and Phoenix consistently reports hundreds of pedestrian accidents each year. Many of these incidents occur in marked crosswalks, school zones, and neighborhood intersections, places where pedestrians should feel safe.
Top Risk Factors for Pedestrians in Phoenix
Pedestrian accidents often happen due to driver negligence or unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Speeding through intersections or school zones
- Failing to yield at crosswalks or traffic signals
- Poor lighting or lack of pedestrian infrastructure
These crashes can occur in an instant, leaving victims with catastrophic injuries and a long road to recovery.
Why You Need Legal Help After a Pedestrian Accident
Being hit by a car in Phoenix isn’t just physically traumatic; it also triggers a complicated legal and insurance battle. A qualified crosswalk crash attorney can step in immediately to protect your rights, collect critical evidence, and pursue full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Whether you were struck near Camelback Road, Baseline Road, or while walking in a residential neighborhood, don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics and Trends in Phoenix
Phoenix has witnessed a concerning rise in pedestrian accidents over recent years. Despite efforts to enhance road safety, the city remains one of the most hazardous for pedestrians in the United States.
Alarming Statistics
- Statewide Increase: In 2022, Arizona reported 1,888 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 302 fatalities and 1,669 injuries. These figures represent the highest totals since 2013.
- City-Specific Data: Phoenix accounted for a significant portion of these incidents, with 770 pedestrian collisions reported in 2022.
Contributing Factors
Several elements contribute to the high rate of pedestrian accidents in Phoenix:
- Urban Sprawl: The city’s expansive layout encourages higher vehicle speeds, increasing the risk for pedestrians.
- Infrastructure Challenges: Many areas lack adequate sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals, making it difficult for pedestrians to navigate safely.
- Driver Behavior: Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are common factors in pedestrian accidents.
High-Risk Areas
Certain intersections and roads in Phoenix are particularly dangerous for pedestrians:
- 7th Avenue & Indian School Road: Known for heavy traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure.
- 19th Avenue & Camelback Road: A hotspot for accidents due to high vehicle and foot traffic.
- 35th Avenue & McDowell Road: Frequent accidents reported, often involving pedestrians.
Demographic Insights
- Age Groups: Pedestrians aged 55-64 accounted for the highest number of fatalities, while those aged 25-34 experienced the most injuries.
- Time of Day: Most accidents occur during evening hours when visibility is reduced.
Efforts to Improve Safety
In response to the growing number of pedestrian accidents, Phoenix has implemented several measures:
- Vision Zero Initiative: Aiming to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, the city has adopted this comprehensive safety plan.
- Infrastructure Enhancements: Installation of High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk beacons and improved street lighting in high-risk areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educational programs targeting both drivers and pedestrians to promote safe practices.
Understanding these statistics and trends is crucial for both policymakers and residents. By recognizing the factors contributing to pedestrian accidents, Phoenix can continue to implement effective strategies to enhance safety for all road users.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, especially in high-traffic areas like Central Avenue and Camelback Road, and near venues such as Footprint Center and Phoenix Convention Center. Despite increased awareness and safety campaigns, careless or reckless behavior by drivers continues to put pedestrians at serious risk.
Understanding the most frequent causes of these incidents can help you stay alert, and it also plays a key role in determining liability in a personal injury claim.
Driver Inattention and Distracted Driving
One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Phoenix is distracted driving. When motorists divert their attention from the road, even for a few seconds, they put everyone in their path at risk, especially pedestrians who are less visible than other vehicles.
Common distractions include:
- Texting or using a smartphone
- Adjusting GPS or audio settings
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
- Talking to passengers or reaching for items
Distracted drivers may run red lights, ignore crosswalks, or fail to notice a pedestrian crossing the street until it’s too late.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Arizona law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. However, violations of this law are far too frequent in Phoenix, particularly during peak traffic hours. When drivers ignore stop signs or turn without checking for foot traffic, it leads to devastating injuries.
This behavior is especially dangerous in:
- School zones
- Residential neighborhoods
- Bus stops and transit hubs
Failure to yield is a key factor in many wrongful death claims involving pedestrians.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding significantly increases both the likelihood and severity of pedestrian accidents. At higher speeds, drivers have less time to react and require longer distances to stop. Pedestrians hit at 40 mph are far more likely to suffer fatal injuries compared to those struck at 20 mph.
Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and failing to obey traffic signals often go hand-in-hand with speeding and raise the risk of hitting a pedestrian who has legally entered the roadway.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of severe pedestrian injuries and fatalities across Phoenix. Impaired drivers have delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, and reduced awareness of their surroundings, making it more likely that they’ll miss someone crossing the street or walking along the shoulder.
Many pedestrian DUI accidents occur late at night or near entertainment districts like Roosevelt Row, where people are walking after leaving bars, restaurants, or events.
Poor Visibility and Low-Light Conditions
Many pedestrian accidents occur in the evening or early morning when visibility is low. Even well-lit urban areas can present visibility challenges, especially when drivers fail to use headlights properly or when pedestrians wear dark clothing. These accidents are particularly common in areas with inadequate street lighting or at intersections lacking proper signage.
To reduce your risk as a pedestrian, consider:
- Wearing reflective or bright-colored clothing at night
- Using designated crosswalks whenever possible
- Avoiding distractions such as headphones or texting while walking
Still, even cautious pedestrians cannot always avoid being struck by a negligent or inattentive driver.
Unsafe Road Design and Lack of Infrastructure
Some areas of Phoenix still lack sufficient pedestrian infrastructure, including sidewalks, pedestrian islands, and crossing signals. Poorly designed intersections, faded crosswalk lines, or missing signage can all contribute to collisions. In these cases, government agencies or contractors responsible for road maintenance may share in the liability.
Left-Hand Turns at Intersections
Interestingly, left-hand turns are more dangerous than right-hand turns when it comes to pedestrian safety. Drivers tend to focus on oncoming traffic and often overlook a pedestrian stepping into the crosswalk. This is especially problematic at large intersections like Thomas Road and 7th Street, where multiple lanes and heavy traffic create confusion and blind spots.
Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents is crucial, not only for prevention but also for establishing fault when filing a personal injury claim. A knowledgeable Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your crash, identify liable parties, and build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Unlike drivers or passengers, pedestrians have no physical protection, no seatbelt, airbag, or vehicle frame to absorb the impact. In Phoenix, where busy roads like Van Buren Street, McDowell Road, and 19th Avenue see a high volume of foot traffic and speeding vehicles, these accidents can lead to devastating, life-altering injuries.
Even at low speeds, a vehicle can cause severe trauma to the human body. The extent and type of injury often depend on the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and the pedestrian’s age and physical condition.
Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries
One of the most serious consequences of being hit by a car in Phoenix is a head injury. These can range from minor concussions to severe brain trauma that causes long-term cognitive impairment.
Common head injuries include:
- Concussions
- Skull fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Intracranial bleeding
Head injuries can lead to symptoms like memory loss, dizziness, mood changes, and even permanent disability.
Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries
Pedestrians often suffer fractures when they are thrown to the pavement or crushed by a vehicle. Broken bones can take months to heal and may require multiple surgeries or physical therapy.
Common fractures in pedestrian accidents:
- Arms, wrists, and hands
- Legs, ankles, and feet
- Pelvis and hips
- Ribs and clavicle
Some fractures can result in long-term mobility issues or permanent deformity.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
The spine is highly vulnerable in pedestrian collisions. Injuries can range from herniated discs to full paralysis, depending on the severity of the trauma.
- Herniated or ruptured discs
- Spinal fractures
- Nerve damage
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia
Spinal cord injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and may permanently alter the victim’s independence.
Internal Injuries and Organ Damage
Blunt force trauma can cause bleeding or damage to vital organs, which may not be visible immediately after the crash. Common internal injuries include:
- Internal bleeding
- Punctured lungs
- Liver or kidney damage
- Abdominal trauma
These injuries require immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.
Pedestrian accident injuries are often severe, complex, and expensive to treat. Working with a knowledgeable Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer can help you seek full compensation for your physical and emotional recovery.
Arizona Laws Protecting Pedestrians
Pedestrians have specific rights under Arizona law, particularly in cities like Phoenix where high foot traffic intersects with congested roadways. These laws are designed to reduce the risk of injury and ensure that motorists share the road responsibly. Understanding your rights as a pedestrian and the legal duties of drivers can play a crucial role in filing a claim if you’ve been injured in a crosswalk or intersection.
Right-of-Way at Crosswalks
One of the most important pedestrian protections in Arizona is the right-of-way law. Under A.R.S. § 28-792, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians crossing the street in a marked or unmarked crosswalk at intersections.
Drivers must:
- Stop when a pedestrian is on the same half of the roadway
- Yield even if the pedestrian is approaching from the other side, but is close enough to be in danger
- Not pass another vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk
Violating these laws can result in civil penalties and create strong evidence of negligence in a personal injury case.
Unmarked Crosswalks and Intersections
Not all crosswalks in Phoenix are clearly marked. However, Arizona law still protects pedestrians crossing at intersections, even if there are no painted lines. Motorists must treat these areas as pedestrian zones and proceed with caution.
Drivers often claim they didn’t see a crosswalk, but that doesn’t relieve them of their legal responsibility to watch for pedestrians. When a driver hits someone in an unmarked intersection, they may still be held liable under Arizona law.
Pedestrian Responsibilities Under Arizona Law
While Arizona offers strong protections for pedestrians, it also places responsibilities on foot travelers. Under A.R.S. § 28-793, pedestrians must:
- Use sidewalks when available
- Yield to vehicles when crossing outside of a crosswalk
- Obey traffic control signals
Failing to follow these rules may result in partial fault under Arizona’s comparative negligence law, potentially reducing the amount of compensation a pedestrian can recover after an accident.
School Zones and Special Protections
Arizona imposes strict speed limits and enforcement measures in school zones and areas near playgrounds or parks. Drivers must reduce speed and be extra cautious when children are present. Failure to obey school zone traffic laws can result in enhanced penalties and stronger civil liability if a child is struck.
These zones often include flashing lights, signs, and painted crosswalks, especially near Phoenix schools like Camelback High School or North High School, where morning and afternoon traffic can be hectic.
Local Ordinances in Phoenix
In addition to state statutes, Phoenix has adopted local ordinances aimed at improving pedestrian safety. The city’s Vision Zero initiative focuses on reducing pedestrian deaths by redesigning high-risk intersections, installing HAWK signals, and increasing driver awareness campaigns.
Understanding these laws can make a significant difference in both preventing accidents and protecting your rights after a crash. If you were hit by a car in Phoenix, our team of pedestrian accident lawyers can evaluate how these laws apply to your situation and help you build a strong legal claim.
Determining Liability in a Phoenix Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident in Phoenix, determining who is legally responsible, or liable, is one of the most important steps in pursuing compensation. Liability depends on the unique circumstances of the crash, the actions of both the driver and the pedestrian, and whether other parties played a role. A knowledgeable Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer can help uncover the truth and hold the at-fault parties accountable.
Driver Negligence Is Often the Root Cause
In many cases, the driver of the vehicle is the primary party at fault. Motorists in Phoenix have a legal duty to exercise caution and yield the right of way to pedestrians, especially at marked or unmarked crosswalks. When drivers fail to meet this obligation, they may be found negligent.
Common driver-related causes of pedestrian accidents:
- Failing to yield at intersections or crosswalks
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting behind the wheel)
- Speeding or running red lights
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Making illegal turns or rolling through stop signs
Any of these behaviors can establish driver liability if they contributed to the accident.
When Pedestrians May Share Responsibility
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. That means if a pedestrian is found to be partially at fault, such as by jaywalking or crossing against a signal, they can still recover compensation, but the amount is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a pedestrian is found 20% at fault for darting out into traffic, and their damages total $100,000, they may still recover $80,000.
Scenarios where pedestrians may share fault:
- Crossing outside a designated crosswalk
- Ignoring traffic control signals
- Walking while distracted by a phone or music device
Even if the pedestrian made a mistake, they may still have a strong claim if the driver’s actions were more reckless or unlawful.
Other Potentially Liable Parties
In some cases, liability may extend beyond just the driver and the pedestrian. Depending on the situation, third parties can also bear responsibility:
- Government Entities: If the accident occurred due to poor lighting, defective traffic signals, or unsafe crosswalk design, the city of Phoenix or another governmental agency may be liable.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a brake failure or steering defect contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be partially at fault.
- Employers: If a commercial driver hit a pedestrian while working, the employer could be held liable under vicarious liability laws.
Gathering Evidence to Prove Liability
Establishing liability requires strong evidence. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer will gather and analyze:
- Police accident reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
- Vehicle black box data
- Cell phone records (for distracted driving claims)
In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may be brought in to clarify how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
Determining liability in a Phoenix pedestrian accident can be complicated, but proving fault is essential to recovering fair compensation. With an experienced Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer advocating for you, you’ll have the legal support needed to pursue justice and hold the right parties accountable.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Phoenix
Being struck by a vehicle while walking is a traumatic experience. In the chaos that follows, it can be difficult to think clearly. However, the steps you take immediately after a pedestrian accident can significantly impact your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation. Whether the accident occurred near Downtown Phoenix, Grand Avenue, or a residential area in Ahwatukee, taking the right actions can help protect your future.
Prioritize Your Safety and Medical Needs
Your first priority after being hit by a car is your health and safety. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s critical to get checked out by a medical professional, as some conditions, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately obvious.
Steps to take at the scene:
- Move to a safe location, if possible, to avoid further harm
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance
- Accept medical evaluation, even if you don’t feel hurt
Prompt medical attention also helps document your injuries, which will be important for your personal injury claim.
Report the Accident and Gather Evidence
Make sure law enforcement responds to the scene. The police will create an official accident report, which can be a key piece of evidence in proving liability.
Try to collect the following information:
- Driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details
- Names and contact information for any witnesses
- Photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, crosswalks, and your injuries
If there are nearby businesses or traffic cameras, they may have footage of the accident that can support your case.
Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Companies
After the accident, you may be contacted by the driver’s insurance company. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting a quick settlement offer before speaking to an attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or shift the lame.
Contact a Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurers, and seek full compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. They’ll investigate your case, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights, so you can focus on healing.
Taking quick, informed action after a pedestrian accident can make all the difference in your recovery and legal outcome.
Compensation an Experienced Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Secure for Victims
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious, life-changing injuries. If you’ve been hit by a car in Phoenix, you may be entitled to compensation to help cover your losses. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for the financial recovery you deserve.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are intended to reimburse you for measurable financial losses caused by the accident. These damages are often supported by receipts, bills, and employment records.
Common economic damages include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Prescription medications and medical devices
- Transportation to medical appointments
These losses can quickly add up, especially if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or require ongoing treatment.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the emotional and personal toll the accident has taken on your life. While harder to quantify, these damages are just as important as financial ones.
Examples of non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
Punitive Damages (In Rare Cases)
If the driver’s behavior was especially reckless, such as driving drunk or fleeing the scene, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Whether your injuries are temporary or permanent, you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of someone else’s negligence. An experienced attorney can calculate the full extent of your damages and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
How a Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a serious pedestrian accident, the last thing you should have to worry about is fighting with insurance companies or proving someone else’s negligence. That’s where an experienced Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer steps in, handling the legal details while you focus on your recovery.
Investigating the Accident and Proving Fault
A pedestrian accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case to determine who is responsible. They will collect critical evidence and build a strong legal argument on your behalf.
This may include:
- Reviewing police and accident reports
- Interviewing eyewitnesses
- Securing surveillance footage
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
Establishing fault is essential to securing the compensation you need, especially if multiple parties share liability.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Your lawyer can step in to protect you from lowball offers or tactics aimed at reducing your claim’s value.
They will:
- Handle all communications with insurers
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Push for a fair settlement or prepare for trial if needed
Having an attorney on your side often results in significantly higher compensation than trying to manage the claim on your own.
Providing Support Throughout the Process
Beyond the legal work, your attorney offers peace of mind. They’ll guide you through every step, from filing paperwork and meeting deadlines to representing you in court if necessary.
With a knowledgeable Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer in your corner, you can feel confident that your rights are protected and your case is in good hands.
Why Choose Our Team of Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the law firm you select can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Our team is dedicated, experienced, and compassionate toward every client we represent. We understand what’s at stake and are committed to helping you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
Experience Handling Pedestrian Accident Claims
Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims who were injured while walking, jogging, or crossing the street throughout Phoenix. We understand the nuances of Arizona pedestrian laws and how to counter the defense strategies commonly used by insurers.
Our legal team brings:
- Deep knowledge of local laws and court procedures
- Proven success in handling pedestrian injury cases
- Strategic insight into insurance company tactics
We know how to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensure your side of the story is heard.
Client-Focused Representation
We treat every case with the attention it deserves. From your first consultation to the final resolution of your case, you’ll have direct access to your legal team, consistent updates, and support when you need it most.
What sets us apart:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- No fees unless we win your case
- Personalized strategies tailored to your needs
Choosing the right Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer is the first step toward recovery. Our firm is here to walk that road with you, protecting your rights and standing up to those responsible for your injuries. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing and moving forward.
Let Us Help You Move Forward After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been hit by a car in Phoenix, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A skilled Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate your legal options, pursue full compensation, and hold the negligent party accountable. Whether your injuries occurred in a crosswalk, at a busy downtown intersection, or near your neighborhood school zone, you deserve justice.
Contact National Injury Help today at 1 (800) 214-1010 for a free consultation with our team of trusted Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyers. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on recovery.