Examining Higher-than-Average Pedestrian Injuries and Deaths in San Francisco
What Makes San Francisco so Dangerous for Pedestrians?
According to an article in the San Francisco Chronicle, an estimated 7,250 injuries and 250 pedestrian deaths occurred in San Francisco in the last ten years. A study by UCSF showed that more pedestrians died in San Francisco over the last ten years than motor vehicle occupants. Seniors are the most likely to get hurt in these accidents, making up over 40% of all cases. The UCSF report states California has a higher rate of pedestrian injuries in part due to our high number of cities, including San Francisco.
On March 25, 2012. two pedestrians were killed while crossing the street in San Francisco. One man, age 45 was struck by a car and the other was hit by a Muni bus after emerging between two cars. The driver of the bus has been placed on non-driving status pending an investigation as a result of the man’s death. Sadly, Our San Francisco pedestrian accident lawyers know that pedestrian injuries are common occurrences in San Francisco and throughout the state.
In 2002, San Francisco was chosen for a PedSafe Study because of the high rate of pedestrian fatalities. The study tested various traffic signs and street markings to identify the most effective methods to promote pedestrian safety. The results concluded that the most useful tools to help prevent these accidents were flashing beacons, automatic video detection with signal extension, in-street pedestrian signs, pedestrian head start, portable changeable message speed limit signs, and “Turning Traffic Must Yield to Pedestrian” signs.
Lowering California’s High Rate of Pedestrian Deaths
Despite this research and implementation of some of the findings, these accidents still occur far too often on area roadways. California has a significantly higher rate of pedestrian deaths (17.2%) than the national average (12%). Pedestrians and motorist alike need to be aware of traffic and right-away laws to ensure their safety. Remember, although San Francisco pedestrians have the right-of-way, it is still necessary to look both ways before crossing the street, ensure you are giving yourself adequate time to cross an intersection, and if riding a bicycle, to always wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a collision.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a pedestrian injury or death as a result of a negligent driver, you need an experienced San Francisco pedestrian accident attorney to represent you during this difficult time. Drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care while operating their vehicles and that includes respecting the rights of pedestrians, whether they be walkers, bikers or joggers. In addition, if your injury was a result of inadequate city planning or traffic signal malfunctions the experienced Bay area accident attorneys at our firm have decades of experience to help resolve even complex legal issues.
Questions about Wrongful Death Cases in San Francisco? Get Help.
San Francisco is a beautiful place for us to call home, but it can also be a dangerous place for the pedestrian. Always remember to follow all traffic rules and if you’ve been injured, contact Callaway & Wolf today to see how our experienced San Francisco personal injury attorneys can help you today. Call 415-541-0300 for a free consultation.
Boone Callaway is a personal injury & medical malpractice lawyer in San Francisco who has been working with clients in the Bay Area for over 25 years. Mr. Callaway is one of only a few personal injury litigators in San Francisco who is a Super Lawyer, AV Rated and is also a member of ABOTA – American Board of Trial Advocates.
