In Rancho Cucamonga, CA, streets are filled with pedestrians going about their daily lives—walking to work, enjoying a stroll, or spending time with family and friends. Imagine a mother walking her child to school on a sunny morning. Suddenly, a distracted driver speeds around a corner, barely missing the pair as they cross the street. This near-miss serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety in our fast-paced world.
In the first nine months of 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 31,785 people died in traffic crashes, marking a 0.2% decrease compared to the 31,850 estimated fatalities during the same period in 2021. But while overall traffic deaths declined, pedestrian fatalities increased by an estimated 2% over the same period of the previous year.
As individuals, we all have a role to play in promoting safety and watching out for pedestrians on the roadways.
Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Rancho Cucamonga pedestrian crashes can result in some of the most serious and even catastrophic injuries, which include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: These can range from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries, which can lead to long-term cognitive impairment or even permanent disability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord may cause temporary or permanent paralysis, loss of sensation, and other mobility issues.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Pedestrians often suffer from broken limbs, ribs, and other fractures due to the impact of the collision.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can lead to significant pain and long recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, or spleen, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Severe cuts can cause significant blood loss, infections, or scarring, and may require stitches or surgery to repair.
The long-term impact of pedestrian accident injuries can include chronic pain, physical disabilities, and emotional trauma. These consequences may affect the victim’s quality of life and place a significant financial burden on them and their families due to medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost earnings.
Seniors and younger children are particularly vulnerable to severe and fatal injuries from pedestrian crashes. These groups may be less agile and resilient than other age groups, which puts them at greater risk of getting seriously hurt in an accident.
Pedestrian Accident Prevention: Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Stay visible. Wear bright, reflective clothing, especially when walking at night or in low-light conditions. This helps drivers see you more easily and reduces the risk of collisions.
- Use sidewalks and crosswalks. When crossing the street, walk on sidewalks and always use designated crosswalks. This helps you stay in designated pedestrian areas and makes it more likely that drivers will be aware of your presence.
- Obey traffic signals and signs. Follow all traffic signals and signs, including pedestrian crossing signals. Wait for the walk signal before crossing the street and always look both ways before stepping onto the road.
- Make eye contact with drivers. When crossing the street, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you and acknowledge your presence. This can help prevent accidents by ensuring drivers are aware of your intention to cross.
- Stay alert. Avoid using headphones, texting, or engaging in other activities that may distract you while walking. Being aware of your surroundings helps you react quickly to potential hazards.
- Walk defensively. Anticipate possible dangers and be prepared to react to them. This includes watching out for turning vehicles, backing up cars, and other potential hazards.
- Teach children pedestrian safety. Educate children on the importance of pedestrian safety, including the proper way to cross streets and the need to stay alert when walking near traffic.
By following these safety tips, pedestrians can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries while walking in busy environments.
Pedestrian Accident Prevention: Safety Tips for Drivers
- Stay alert and focused. Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or using your phone while driving. Being fully attentive to the road allows you to react quickly to pedestrians and other potential hazards.
- Follow speed limits. Obey posted speed limits, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic such as school zones and residential neighborhoods. Driving at appropriate speeds gives you more time to react to pedestrians and reduces the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, even if they are not at a traffic signal. This shows respect for pedestrians’ vulnerability and the need for them to stay safe.
- Be cautious when turning. Look out for pedestrians when making turns, especially at intersections. Pedestrians may cross the street or walk along the sidewalk, so be prepared to yield if necessary.
- Watch for children. Children can be unpredictable and may dart into the street unexpectedly. Be especially cautious when driving near schools, playgrounds, and residential areas where children are likely to be present.
- Never pass a stopped vehicle at a crosswalk. If a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, do not attempt to pass it. The stopped vehicle may be yielding to a pedestrian crossing the street, and passing could result in a serious accident.
- Use extra caution in low-visibility conditions. In inclement weather, during dusk, or at night, visibility may be reduced. Slow down, use your headlights, and be extra vigilant for pedestrians who may be more difficult to see.
- Be mindful of pedestrians when backing up. Always check your mirrors and blind spots when backing up, particularly in parking lots and driveways where pedestrians may be present.
By practicing these safety tips, Rancho Cucamonga drivers can help prevent pedestrian crashes and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Rancho Cucamonga Pedestrian Accident
- Call 911: Immediately call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it is crucial to have a professional assessment, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.
- Seek Medical Attention: Visit a local medical facility to receive proper care for any injuries sustained in the accident. Some nearby San Bernardino County medical facilities include San Antonio Regional Hospital, Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center, and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
- Gather Information: Collect the contact and insurance information of all parties involved in the accident. Take photos of the accident scene, any visible injuries, and damage to vehicles or property.
- Speak to Witnesses: If there were individuals who saw the accident, gather their contact information and statements about what they observed.
- File a Police Report: File a police report with the local authorities to document the accident. Obtain a copy of the report for your records as it may be necessary for any future legal proceedings.
- Keep Records: Maintain thorough records of medical treatments, expenses, and any correspondence related to the accident. These documents can be crucial in building a strong case for compensation.
- Consult with an Attorney: If you have been hurt in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Contact Our Seasoned Rancho Cucamonga Pedestrian Crash Attorneys
Suffering from a pedestrian accident can be a life-altering experience, leaving you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. The Muhareb Law Group understands the challenges you face and is dedicated to providing the legal support you deserve during this difficult time.
We will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Contact us today at (909) 519-5832 for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting your life back on track.