Common Causes and Places for Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles

Pedestrian accidents often involve careless drivers who fail to heed local traffic ordinances and yield for pedestrians at right-of-ways. While Los Angeles has become an increasingly walkable city as more of its urban neighborhoods continue to grow, the influx of people walking on the streets and driving on the roads creates an increased risk of pedestrian accidents. When such an accident occurs,  you will want to make sure you have a Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney by your side. They can advise how you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to have your medical expenses and lost wages covered. Also, you may be able to recover damages for pain and suffering if your injuries were catastrophic and have caused substantial harm to your family, or punitive damages if the driver’s behavior was so reckless that they must be additionally punished.

Your best bet to avoid pedestrian accidents altogether is to know where they’re most likely to happen and what types of situations generally lead to them occurring. Below, we review some of the most likely places – and circumstances – in which you may be involved in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles.

Steer Clear of These L.A. Neighborhoods

Like in any metropolitan city, there are certain areas of Los Angeles where accidents are more likely to happen. According to research, communities like West Hollywood and Venice stand out as areas where pedestrian accidents happen more frequently. In fact, it’s been shown that more than 20 percent of all collisions involve pedestrians. They’re also more likely to occur there than they are in other L.A. neighborhoods, so if you spend a significant amount of time around these areas, consider proceeding with extra caution.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Unfortunately, reckless or distracted drivers are often behind many pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles. This is usually because drivers in L.A. are often in a hurry and eager to get to their destination and have little care for others on the road. What’s more, the hustle-and-bustle lifestyle of L.A. means many drivers are busier checking their cell phones than keeping their eyes on the road. L.A. is also known for its winding canyon roads that many drivers and motorcyclists like to take sharply and at top speed, which puts pedestrians at greater risk.

Drunk drivers and inclement weather also play a significant role in pedestrian crashes, as driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs or poor weather often causes drivers not to see pedestrians. If the weather isn’t ideal or it’s late at night, you should try to avoid walking altogether or, if possible, wear safety gear like a neon vest or light and bright clothing so that drivers will be able to spot you.

Contact a Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident Attorney If You’ve Been Injured

No matter how many precautions you might take, an accident can still happen. If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact a Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney at our firm to learn more about your options. Contact us today.