While all of us at Simon Law are huge advocates of seeing our cities and towns by foot, there is a dark reality to foot traffic: accidents. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents do occur, and many of them take place in cross walks. Luckily, at Simon Law, we are also supporters of compensating victims and their families to the fullest extent of the law. Below you will find advice from a respected pedestrian accident attorney in Arizona.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are more common than you think. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, in 2013, 1,596 pedestrians were involved in a crash, with 158 of those accidents resulting in death. Of these accidents, 870 occurred while the pedestrian was crossing a road.
What comes as a surprise are the following facts:

• 845 crashes occurred during daylight
• 1,397 crashes occurred during clear weather conditions
• 1,193 total pedestrian had shown no apparent influence of drinking

While 72% of these crashes occurred in urban locations, 44 crashes happened in rural areas, further proving that accidents can indeed happen anywhere.
Proving Negligence in Crosswalk Accidents
While some of these statistics can be troubling, luckily pedestrians have rights in Arizona. When an individual is involved in an Arizona crosswalk crash, they have legal options that can include filing a personal injury lawsuit against the motorist.
In Arizona, crosswalks are governed by basic traffic laws. Accordingly, pedestrians have the right to cross streets inside these crosswalks and when a traffic signal indicates that they can do so. Once a pedestrian has entered the crosswalk, they have the right-of-way relative to all other travelers, including motor vehicles.
The concept of right-of-way results is the most common confusion in these situations. Motorists often assume that they have the right-of-way, or may misjudge exactly whether their path of travel will put a crossing pedestrian in danger. Other situations arise when motorists are distracted, or simply ignore traffic laws. This type of behavior can often result in negligence and can be grounds for legal action.
Often, situations arise that find motorists to be negligent—which typically gives pedestrians the right to obtain compensation for injury, medical costs, and other damages such as suffering or lost income. These situations are often handled as personal injury cases and require the help of personal injury lawyers.
How we can help
At Simon Law, we’re here to remind you: accidents do happen. As statistics show, they can happen at any time, even in broad daylight. The legal action that follows can be complex and frustrating. Why put yourself through unnecessary stress when you can get help from the best pedestrian accident attorney in Arizona? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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