San Diego Pedestrian Safety Laws and Your Right to Safety

By Eugene Bruno on October 10, 2023

San Diego, dubbed with the nickname “America’s Finest City,” is known for its beautiful weather and countless attractions, drawing visitors and residents alike to the area. However, this popularity also means that San Diego’s streets are busy with activity, making pedestrian safety a significant concern.

As you navigate the streets of San Diego, whether you’re a tourist exploring the Gaslamp Quarter, a commuter heading to work, or a resident enjoying the local scene, it’s essential to understand your rights as a pedestrian.

Overview of San Diego Pedestrian Safety Laws

To ensure the safety of pedestrians, California has enacted various laws and regulations. Here are some key points to remember:

• Crosswalks: Pedestrians have the right of way in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Traffic signals: Always obey traffic signals and pedestrian walk signals.
• Yielding: Drivers must yield to pedestrians when turning at intersections or driveways.
• School zones: Reduced speed limits in school zones are strictly enforced.
• Distracted driving: It’s illegal for drivers to use handheld devices while driving, enhancing pedestrian safety.

These laws play a vital role in protecting pedestrians and ensuring safe passage across the city’s streets.

Common Pedestrian Accidents and Their Causes

Pedestrian accidents can result for a variety of reasons, including:

• Crosswalk accidents: Crosswalk accidents often occur due to drivers failing to yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks, striking pedestrians who are legally crossing the road.
• Impaired and reckless driving: Accidents involving pedestrians are frequently the result of DUI or reckless driving. The driving conduct includes distracted driving, speeding, and drunk driving.
• Failure to obey traffic signals: Accidents involving pedestrians can occur as a result of drivers disregarding traffic signals or pedestrian walk signals. Pedestrians may assume it’s safe to cross when they have the walk signal, only to be struck by vehicles that ignore the signal.
• Jaywalking accidents: Jaywalking accidents happen when pedestrians cross the road outside of designated crosswalks or against traffic. These pedestrians may suddenly dart into traffic, catching drivers off guard.
• Backing vehicle accidents: Pedestrians may be hit when drivers back out of driveways or parking spaces without checking for pedestrians behind their vehicles.
• Failure to stop for school buses: Children and pedestrians near school buses are at risk when drivers do not stop for school buses when children are boarding or disembarking.

Rights and Duties as a Pedestrian in San Diego

California Vehicle Code Section 21950 outlines the rights and duties of pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks. Under this section, drivers must yield the right-of-way. This means that drivers must stop to let pedestrians cross safely. Drivers approaching pedestrians in crosswalks must slow down and take necessary actions to avoid harming pedestrians.

However, while pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks, they must also be responsible. They should not dart into traffic unexpectedly or needlessly block traffic in a crosswalk. Police officers can only stop pedestrians who violate these rules if there’s a real risk of them being hit by a moving vehicle or a human-powered device, like a bicycle. This ensures that pedestrians can use their rights without causing unnecessary disruptions while still taking care of their own safety.

Seeking Legal Assistance for Pedestrian Accidents

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in San Diego, consulting a personal injury attorney is essential. Here’s what to do:

• Medical attention: Seek medical help immediately.
• Document the scene: Gather evidence, including photos and witness statements.
• Legal consultation: Contact a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer experienced in pedestrian accidents.

Eugene Bruno & Associates Is Here for You

Your safety as a pedestrian in San Diego is of utmost importance. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, Eugene Bruno & Associates is here to help you navigate the legal process.

Don’t walk this path alone—let us be your legal guide. For a free consultation, call us at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688). Remember, when it comes to your rights and safety, we’ll be there every step of the way.