Los Angeles Pedestrian Accidents in Crosswalks: Justice & Compensation for Injured in Auto Accidents

In the bustling world of California traffic, the fight for pedestrian safety often takes a back seat to the love affair with cars. While many may associate San Francisco with a laid-back, hippie culture, it's surprising to note that this city is actively considering a law to protect pedestrians who use crosswalks on its busy streets. Meanwhile, Los Angeles, the epicenter of car culture, appears hesitant to follow suit. In this blog post, we'll dive into the pressing issue of pedestrian accidents, the potential legal changes, and the necessity for justice and compensation for those injured in auto accidents in the City of Angels.

The Concern in San Francisco:

San Francisco, known for its progressive outlook, is currently contemplating a new ordinance that would prohibit drivers from making right turns on red lights at intersections. This may seem like a small change, but it carries significant implications for pedestrian safety. The United States witnesses over 7,000 pedestrian deaths annually due to auto accidents, with Los Angeles seeing a disturbing 20% increase in this fatality rate year after year. Many of these accidents occur when drivers make right turns on red lights.

The Danger of Right Turns on Red Lights:

Right turns on red lights are hazardous because they divert a driver's attention from the crosswalks. Typically, when a driver is poised to make a right turn, they are looking to the right and to the left, with pedestrians approaching from their blind spots. This distraction has dire consequences, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities.

San Francisco's Inspiration:

San Francisco's push to prevent accidents caused by right turns on red lights has gained momentum following the tragic death of a baby in a stroller during such an incident. Unfortunately, it often takes a fatality to prompt essential changes in the interest of public safety. Currently, only one other U.S. city, New York City, prohibits right turns on red lights.

The Los Angeles Perspective:

Despite the alarming statistics, it's unlikely that Los Angeles will enact similar legislation. The car culture in the city is deeply ingrained, and restrictions on drivers are generally met with resistance. Nevertheless, it is crucial to address the pressing need for pedestrian safety.

Legal Implications:

When a pedestrian is injured by a driver making a right turn on a red light, the fault is often evident, regardless of the traffic light's color. Drivers are responsible for ensuring pedestrian safety, especially in California, where a law was passed giving pedestrians the right of way, even while crossing the street, as long as it's safe to do so.