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Pedestrian Accidents in Arizona: What to Do if You’ve Been Hit in a Crosswalk

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Pedestrian accidents have always been a concern across Arizona, especially in cities such as Tempe, Scottsdale, and downtown Phoenix, where many people regularly walk or ride bikes to get around. Despite being marked as safe zones, crosswalks are often the site of collisions caused by driver negligence, distractions, or impaired judgment. For pedestrians, these accidents can lead to devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences, emphasizing the importance of knowing your rights and options after being struck by a vehicle.

Arizona law, such as ARS § 28-792, provides pedestrians with the right-of-way in crosswalks, but accidents still happen when drivers fail to yield or act recklessly.

If you’ve been hit in a crosswalk, knowing how to respond is critical to protecting your health and legal claims. From seeking immediate medical attention to gathering evidence and consulting with a personal injury attorney, taking the proper steps can make a significant difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

This guide will address the common causes of crosswalk accidents, the legal protections available for pedestrians, and the types of compensation you may recover after an incident. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, piling up medical bills, or uncertainty about your legal options, understanding the laws surrounding pedestrian accidents in Arizona is an essential first step toward achieving the compensation you need.

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Pedestrian Accidents in Arizona: What to Do if You’ve Been Hit in a Crosswalk

Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents

Crosswalks are designated safe areas for pedestrians, but negligence by drivers often leads to dangerous accidents. These are some common causes of crosswalk accidents:

Negligent or Reckless Driving

  • Speeding or failing to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
  • Drivers distracted by texting, eating, or using GPS devices.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs reaction times and judgment, increasing the likelihood of a pedestrian accident.

Low Visibility

Poor lighting, bad weather, and oncoming glare can make it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians in crosswalks.

Jaywalking or Unmarked Crosswalks

While pedestrians have the right to use designated safe areas, crossing outside a crosswalk or against traffic signals can lead to shared liability under Arizona’s contributory negligence rules.

Steps to Take Following an Accident

If you’ve been injured in a crosswalk accident, taking the right steps immediately is crucial to your health and your legal rights.

1. Call 911 Immediately

  • Reporting the accident ensures an official report is created.
  • Police will document the scene, gather evidence, and assign liability in a police report that could be used in your injury claim.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical care as soon as possible. Adrenaline after an accident may mask symptoms, and injuries may become apparent later. A medical examination is critical for your health and for documenting your injury claim.

3. Get the Names and Contact Information

  • Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.
  • Get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details. This information is vital for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.

4. Gather Evidence

Take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicle that hit you, and any injuries you sustained. Evidence could be used to support your personal injury claim.

5. Avoid Statements That Could Be Used Against You Later

  • Do not admit fault or apologize to the driver of the vehicle.
  • Anything you say could be used against you later by the driver’s insurance company.

6. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury attorney from CHM Law can help you understand your legal options, deal with insurance companies, and recover the compensation you deserve.

Arizona Laws Protecting Pedestrians

Arizona has traffic laws designed to protect pedestrians, especially in crosswalks. Understanding these laws is crucial for determining liability in an accident case.

ARS § 28-792: Right-of-Way in Crosswalks

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks. Pedestrians have legal rights to cross safely when using designated safe areas for pedestrians.

Comparative Negligence Rules

Arizona follows the comparative negligence rule, meaning a pedestrian can recover compensation even if partially at fault. For example, if you’re injured while jaywalking, the damages you recover may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Contributory Negligence

Pedestrians must also follow traffic laws, such as crossing at marked crosswalks and obeying traffic signals.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Being hit in a crosswalk often leads to financial and emotional hardships. A personal injury claim can help you recover compensation for the damage done, including:

  • Medical ExpensesCovers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and other medical care needed after the accident occurred.
  • Lost WagesIf you’re injured and unable to work, you can seek compensation for lost income and future earning potential.
  • Pain and SufferingCompensation for the emotional distress, physical pain, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident injury.
  • Property DamageReimbursement for damaged personal items, such as phones or glasses, during the accident.
  • Punitive DamagesIn cases involving a negligent driver under the influence, courts may award additional damages to punish reckless behavior.

Common Injuries Sustained in Crosswalk Accidents

Pedestrian accidents frequently result in severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection. Common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head trauma from being hit by a car can result in concussions, memory loss, or more severe conditions.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring ongoing medical attention.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Arms, legs, ribs, and hips are particularly vulnerable in crosswalk accidents.

Internal Injuries

Blunt-force trauma can result in internal bleeding or damage to organs.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains, torn ligaments, and other injuries that may require physical therapy to recover.

FAQs About Pedestrian Accidents in Arizona

1. What should I do if I’ve been hit in a crosswalk?

Call 911 immediately, seek medical attention, and gather evidence. Take pictures, get the names and contact information of witnesses, and contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

2. Can I recover compensation if I was jaywalking?

Yes, but Arizona’s comparative negligence rule may reduce your settlement by your percentage of fault.

3. How soon should I contact a lawyer?

You should consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following an accident. An attorney can help preserve evidence and ensure your injury claim is filed within Arizona’s statute of limitations, typically two years.

4. What if the driver’s insurance denies my claim?

An attorney can help challenge the denial by negotiating with the driver’s insurance company or filing a lawsuit.

5. What damages can I recover in a pedestrian accident claim?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages if the driver was reckless.

6. Is the driver always liable in crosswalk accidents?

Not always. Contributory negligence rules mean a pedestrian could share liability if traffic laws were violated, such as crossing against the light.

Contact CHM Law Today

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between dealing with insurance companies, managing medical bills, and recovering from your injuries, it’s easy to feel lost. The personal injury lawyers at Colburn Hintze Maletta (CHM) are here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is handled with care. With extensive experience in Arizona personal injury law, CHM attorneys understand what it takes to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.

One of the key advantages of working with CHM is their personalized approach to every case. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your accident, gather evidence, and work with medical and insurance companies to build a strong claim on your behalf. 

At CHM, your recovery is their priority. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Schedule a free consultation with the CHM team today to discuss your options and take the first step toward justice. Let their expertise and support guide you toward rebuilding your life and holding those responsible accountable.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your legal rights and focus on your recovery.

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