San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Fighting for the Injured

Every day in San Bernardino, pedestrians navigate busy streets and face significant risks. If you’ve been injured, a San Bernardino pedestrian lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Unfortunately, many of these areas lack the infrastructure needed to keep walkers safe. Whether you were struck while crossing Highland Avenue, walking near San Manuel Stadium, or using a marked crosswalk near the Carousel Mall, a pedestrian accident can have devastating consequences. Victims often suffer broken bones, head injuries, or even permanent disability, simply because a driver chose to speed, ignore signals, or look at their phone.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured across the state each year, and San Bernardino County consistently ranks among the highest for pedestrian fatalities. With traffic volume on the rise and urban sprawl continuing, the risk to pedestrians has never been higher.

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we’ve built a reputation for standing up to negligent drivers and powerful insurance companies. With over 50 years of experience and more than 100,000 clients served, we understand how to build strong legal claims and fight for maximum compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino, we’re ready to help.

Contact a San Bernardino pedestrian lawyer today at The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker for a free consultation.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s bustling streets and diverse traffic conditions contribute to various factors that increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. Understanding these causes is crucial for both prevention and legal recourse.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino. Drivers engaged in activities like texting, using GPS, or adjusting in-car systems may fail to notice pedestrians, leading to severe consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in the U.S. in 2021.

Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way

Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield at crosswalks or intersections. California law mandates that drivers must stop for pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Non-compliance with this law has led to numerous incidents, highlighting the need for increased driver awareness and enforcement. The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) emphasizes the importance of yielding to pedestrians to prevent accidents.

Speeding

Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. In urban areas like downtown San Bernardino, where pedestrian traffic is dense, speeding significantly elevates the risk of accidents. The OTS reports that speeding is a major factor in traffic fatalities and injuries across California.

Driving Under the Influence

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction times, posing a significant threat to pedestrian safety. In 2022, California recorded 1,158 pedestrian fatalities, with a notable percentage involving impaired drivers. The OTS continues to implement programs aimed at reducing DUI incidents statewide.

Poor Visibility and Inadequate Lighting

Accidents are more likely when drivers cannot see pedestrians clearly. Factors such as poor street lighting, adverse weather conditions, and pedestrians wearing dark clothing at night contribute to reduced visibility. Enhancing street lighting and encouraging pedestrians to wear reflective clothing can mitigate these risks. The OTS advocates for improved infrastructure to enhance pedestrian visibility.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in San Bernardino

San Bernardino continues to report high numbers of pedestrian accidents, raising concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike. This section highlights key statistics and trends that reveal the risks pedestrians face in San Bernardino.

Pedestrian Fatalities Remain High

San Bernardino County ranks among the highest in California for pedestrian fatalities. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the county reported 91 pedestrian deaths in 2022, which is one of the highest rates in the state. This figure underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and public awareness initiatives.

Contributing Factors to Fatalities

Several factors contribute to the high fatality rate in San Bernardino, including poor lighting, inadequate crosswalk infrastructure, and high traffic density. These issues often make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially during evening hours. The Berkeley SafeTREC team provides valuable insights into these contributing factors and advocates for improved infrastructure.

Dangerous Intersections and Roadways

Certain intersections in San Bernardino pose a significant risk for pedestrians. For example, the intersection at Waterman Avenue and Baseline Street has been identified as a high-risk area due to heavy traffic and complex traffic signal patterns.

Waterman Avenue and Baseline Street

The Waterman Avenue and Baseline Street intersection consistently reports high accident rates. According to the Inland Empire Workers’ Comp stats, this intersection is one of the most dangerous for pedestrians in the county.

Bear Valley Road Hotspots

Bear Valley Road is another area with a high frequency of pedestrian accidents. Factors like speeding, poor lighting, and inadequate crosswalks contribute to the danger.

Times and Demographics Linked to Pedestrian Accidents

Accidents involving pedestrians in San Bernardino most commonly occur during evening hours, particularly between 6 p.m. and midnight. During these hours, reduced visibility makes it more challenging for drivers to see pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the roadway. Factors such as poor street lighting, high traffic volumes, and driver fatigue can further elevate the risk of collisions.

According to the Berkeley SafeTREC Traffic Safety Center, nighttime pedestrian accidents often result in more severe injuries due to higher vehicle speeds and decreased reaction times. Pedestrians wearing dark clothing or crossing outside of marked crosswalks are especially vulnerable during these hours. Community efforts, including better lighting, driver education, and public awareness campaigns, are essential to mitigate these risks.

Evening Hours and Visibility Issues

Low visibility during evening hours significantly increases the likelihood of pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino. As daylight fades, drivers often struggle to see pedestrians crossing the street or navigating poorly lit sidewalks. Factors such as inadequate street lighting, dark clothing worn by pedestrians, and poor weather conditions can all exacerbate this risk.

According to data from the Berkeley SafeTREC Traffic Safety Center, the majority of pedestrian accidents in California occur after dark, when drivers’ reaction times and visibility are compromised. This risk is particularly concerning in high-traffic areas like San Bernardino, where busy intersections and congested roads create additional hazards for pedestrians. Drivers are often less vigilant during nighttime hours, increasing the potential for collisions. Implementing improvements in street lighting and encouraging the use of reflective clothing by pedestrians can play a key role in reducing these accidents.

Vulnerable Age Groups

Males aged 15 to 34 are particularly at risk in pedestrian accidents. This demographic consistently accounts for a significant share of pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries in the San Bernardino area.

Statewide Pedestrian Fatality Trends

California consistently ranks among the states with the highest pedestrian fatality rates, making it one of the most dangerous places for pedestrians in the country. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, pedestrian deaths accounted for nearly 25 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state in 2022. This troubling trend highlights the need for improved infrastructure, stronger enforcement of traffic laws, and community education programs to enhance pedestrian safety.

Factors such as high population density, heavy urban traffic, and a growing number of distracted drivers contribute to these fatalities. The Office of Traffic Safety offers comprehensive pedestrian safety resources, including statewide data, educational campaigns, and grant-funded initiatives to help cities and counties address this crisis.

Statewide Accident Data

In 2022, California reported a staggering 1,158 pedestrian deaths, highlighting the urgent need for statewide safety initiatives and public education. This alarming number represents a significant increase compared to previous years, signaling a growing threat to pedestrian safety across the state. The factors contributing to these fatalities include distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. The California Office of Traffic Safety outlines these statistics in detail and shares strategies for reducing pedestrian accidents through community outreach, enhanced crosswalk design, improved street lighting, and strict enforcement of traffic laws.

Legal Rights and Options for Pedestrian Accident Victims in San Bernardino

Victims of pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino have important legal rights and options to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. Understanding these rights is crucial for protecting your financial future and holding negligent parties accountable. Our San Bernardino pedestrian lawyer team is here to fight for your rights.

Right to Compensation for Medical Expenses

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses related to your injuries. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, rehabilitation costs, and prescription medications. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. 

Reimbursement for Hospital Bills

Hospitalization following a pedestrian accident can be financially devastating. Emergency room visits, surgeries, and ongoing care can quickly add up. Victims have the right to seek reimbursement for these expenses through a personal injury claim. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Injury Center emphasizes the importance of seeking timely medical care and understanding your legal rights after an accident.

Right to Compensation for Lost Income

Pedestrian accidents can leave victims unable to work for extended periods of time. If you are forced to miss work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to recover lost wages and future earning capacity through a personal injury claim.

Understanding Lost Wages and Future Earnings

Lost income is not limited to immediate paychecks; it can also include long-term earning potential. For example, a victim who suffers a permanent disability may experience diminished capacity to work in their chosen field. The NHTSA outlines the economic impact of pedestrian accidents, which can include significant wage losses and financial hardship.

Right to Pain and Suffering Damages

In addition to medical expenses and lost income, victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This can include physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish.

Emotional Impact of Pedestrian Accidents

Being hit by a vehicle can have long-lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The CDC highlights the importance of addressing both physical and mental health after an accident. For resources on mental health and injury recovery, visit the CDC’s mental health resources page.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in San Bernardino

Pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino often share common factors that put walkers at risk. Understanding these causes is key to both prevention and holding negligent parties accountable. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we investigate every case thoroughly to determine exactly what went wrong and who should be held responsible.

Distracted Driving by Motorists

One of the most frequent causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, using GPS, or adjusting other in-car devices are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the street. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving claimed over 3,500 lives nationwide in 2021, putting pedestrians at significant risk on busy San Bernardino streets.

Cell Phone Use and In-Vehicle Distractions

Cell phone use is a major distraction that diverts drivers’ attention from the road. Whether it’s checking messages, navigating, or adjusting the radio, any momentary lapse in focus can have devastating consequences. The CDC Injury Center highlights that distracted driving dramatically increases the likelihood of pedestrian accidents, particularly at intersections where drivers must remain vigilant.

Speeding in Pedestrian Zones

Speeding drivers present a serious threat to pedestrian safety. In urban areas like downtown San Bernardino, even a few miles over the speed limit can mean the difference between life and death for a pedestrian. The NHTSA notes that speeding was a contributing factor in nearly 29 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2021.

Reduced Reaction Time and Severity of Impact

When a driver is speeding, they have less time to react to a pedestrian stepping into the street. The higher the speed, the longer it takes to stop, and the more severe the injuries in a collision. Pedestrians hit by speeding drivers often suffer catastrophic injuries, including head trauma, broken bones, and internal injuries. Proper enforcement of speed limits and driver education can help reduce these tragic incidents.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalks

California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Sadly, many drivers ignore this rule, leading to serious injuries and fatalities. The California Office of Traffic Safety emphasizes that driver inattention and failure to yield remain major factors in pedestrian accidents.

Understanding California’s Right-of-Way Laws

Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, but drivers frequently fail to respect this legal obligation. Accidents often happen when drivers turn without checking for pedestrians or fail to stop at marked crossings. Educating drivers about the importance of yielding can play a critical role in preventing these accidents. Our legal team also works to ensure that drivers who violate these laws are held accountable.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another leading cause of pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino. Impaired drivers often have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making it more likely that they will fail to see or properly react to pedestrians. According to the NHTSA, driving under the influence continues to be a major factor in pedestrian fatalities nationwide.

The Impact of Impaired Driving on Pedestrian Safety

Impaired drivers pose a serious danger to pedestrians, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is low. Alcohol and drugs affect a driver’s ability to judge distances, obey traffic signals, and respond to unexpected situations. This combination of factors makes accidents involving impaired drivers particularly deadly for pedestrians. Stronger enforcement of DUI laws and public awareness campaigns can help reduce these risks.

Poor Roadway Lighting and Infrastructure

Low visibility due to poor street lighting, missing crosswalks, and inadequate signage can significantly increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. The Berkeley SafeTREC Traffic Safety Center reports that many pedestrian crashes occur at night, when drivers are already less likely to see walkers.

Enhancing Visibility and Safety

Properly lit streets, clearly marked crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure can go a long way in reducing accidents. In areas where lighting is poor, drivers may not see pedestrians until it is too late. Municipalities that invest in better lighting and safer crosswalks help create a safer environment for everyone. Our firm advocates for improved infrastructure and holds negligent parties accountable when unsafe conditions contribute to accidents.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in San Bernardino

Being struck by a vehicle can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. Taking the right actions immediately after the accident can protect your health, preserve critical evidence, and strengthen your legal claim. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we guide accident victims through this challenging process to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority after a pedestrian accident. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prompt medical evaluation can help identify hidden injuries and provide a record of your condition. This medical documentation is essential for linking your injuries to the accident and supporting your legal claim.

Importance of Follow-Up Care

Following up with your healthcare provider ensures that your injuries are properly treated and documented. This step can also prevent complications and provide evidence of ongoing pain or disability, which may be crucial in proving your case.

Report the Accident to Authorities

Contacting local law enforcement is critical after a pedestrian accident. A police report provides an official record of the crash and includes details that can support your claim, such as witness statements and the responding officer’s observations. The California Office of Traffic Safety emphasizes that reporting the accident helps ensure that all parties comply with traffic laws and that necessary investigations are conducted.

What Information to Share with the Police

When speaking with the police, provide clear and accurate information about what happened. Avoid speculating or admitting fault. Be sure to get a copy of the police report or obtain the report number so that you can access it later.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able, gather evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of your injuries, the vehicle involved, traffic signals, crosswalks, and any other relevant details. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends documenting the accident scene as soon as possible, as conditions can change quickly. This evidence can be vital in building a strong legal case.

Collecting Contact Information

Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Witness statements can provide crucial details about how the accident occurred and who was at fault. If you are too injured to collect this information, ask a bystander or a friend to help.

Contact a San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Consulting with an experienced attorney as soon as possible is one of the most important steps you can take after a pedestrian accident. The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker can handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary. With a proven track record of success in pedestrian accident cases, we fight for the maximum compensation available under California law.

How Legal Representation Can Help

An attorney can help you understand your rights, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure that all deadlines are met. Having a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact a San Bernardino Pedestrian Lawyer Today

Pedestrian accidents can have a devastating impact on your health, your finances, and your overall well-being. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we understand the challenges you face and are committed to fighting for the compensation you need to move forward. Our team has decades of experience handling pedestrian accident cases in San Bernardino and throughout California, and we know how to build a strong case that holds negligent drivers accountable.

Don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve. Contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today for a free consultation. We handle all pedestrian accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us focus on winning justice for you, so you can focus on your recovery.

Call us now at (310) 736-6869 or visit www.carcrashlawyercalifornia.com to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.