San Francisco Pedestrian Accidents: Prevention and Recovery
Written by AskTheLawyers.com™
Written by AskTheLawyers.com™
AskTheLawyers™
San Francisco may be one of the most dangerous cities in the country for pedestrians. Since 2019, 164 people have died while walking in San Francisco, according to SFGov.org. Some estimates say that 800 pedestrians are hit each year in San Francisco.
It’s important to remember that pedestrian accidents are preventable if everyone obeys the traffic laws.
How to Prevent San Francisco Pedestrian Accidents
As a driver:
- Remember that pedestrians have the right of way. Always look in all directions when making a turn, especially if you are leaving a parking lot or turning right at a red light
- Stay focused on the road, not your phone
- Keep an extra eye out at night for pedestrians
As a pedestrian:
- Be extra careful between 3 - 6pm. This is the most dangerous time for pedestrians, according to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency
- Use crosswalks and obey the signals
- Don’t assume that all vehicles will respect your right-of-way. Only cross when the road is clear
- Keep your eyes on the road (and not your phone) when you’re crossing the street
What Should You Do if Hit As a Pedestrian
If you are the victim of a pedestrian accident in San Francisco, here’s what you should do:
- Get to safety as quickly as possible.
- Call the police, or flag down a witness who can call for you.
- Get the contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Document all that you can. This includes photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and the drivers’ insurance information (if possible).
- Document your injuries, and continue doing so for the next few weeks. Also record written descriptions of your injuries and symptoms.
- If you are able, provide a statement to the police and note the officer’s name and badge number.
- If offered by the police, accept a ride on the ambulance to treat your injuries. Make sure you keep all your medical records.
- Speak to a lawyer who has handled pedestrian accidents in San Francisco. Do not provide a statement to the insurance company until you’ve met with an attorney.
Your health and recovery is the most important thing to take care of after a pedestrian accident. A personal injury attorney can help you deal with insurance companies and seek compensation for your medical bills and any lost wages from not being able to work.