San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Your Rights and Next Steps
Recent Update in San Francisco, California
News reports indicate a second deadly pedestrian crash in three days, including a morning fatality near Geary Blvd and Broderick St. Drivers reportedly remained at the scene. The guidance below explains your rights and practical steps that protect a claim after a pedestrian collision.
"I live in the City and do not own a car. I walk often and I’m frequently on Geary Boulevard. I just heard about the second pedestrian death in three days near Geary and it worries me. Can you talk about pedestrian law and safety? Even in the crosswalk with a green light, cyclists and scooter riders speed toward me. What are my rights? Don’t I have the right of way?"
- George
George, thank you for writing. You are right to feel concerned about pedestrian safety in San Francisco. In a dense city with busy corridors, drivers remain liable when injuries result from speeding, inattention or distraction, or other negligence.
A moving bicycle, scooter, or motor vehicle can cause catastrophic harm when it collides with a pedestrian. Serious crashes can also occur in low-light commute hours even when impairment is not suspected. Always assume a driver may not see you and give yourself space from moving traffic and riders.
Right of Way in California
- CVC § 21950 requires drivers to yield to pedestrians within any marked crosswalk or any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Drivers must slow down and use due care to keep pedestrians safe.
The same statute also says a pedestrian should not suddenly leave a curb or safe place and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to create an immediate hazard.
- CVC § 22350 (the basic speed law) requires drivers to travel at a reasonable and safe speed for conditions, which includes visibility, traffic, and pedestrian activity.
What About Bikes and Scooters?
Riders must yield in crosswalks and travel at safe speeds for conditions. A rider who fails to yield or travels too fast for conditions can be held liable for injuries caused to pedestrians.
Safety Tip for Walking in San Francisco
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Wear visible clothing at night; consider a small light or reflective item.
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Use crosswalks and do not rely solely on a green light. Look for turning vehicles, cyclists, and e-scooters.
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Avoid walking in bike lanes; use sidewalks when available.
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Stay alert. Skip noise-canceling earbuds and limit distractions.
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Watch for uneven sidewalks, holes, and other walk-surface hazards.
After a Collision, Act Fast to Protect Your Claim
Seek medical care. Keep your shoes and clothing unwashed. Note nearby cameras and ask businesses or transit agencies to preserve video. Get the incident or police report number and witness names. Speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement to any insurer.
If you are injured in San Francisco, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who understands pedestrian law and will fight to recover compensation for medical bills, wage loss, and pain and suffering.
Free Consultation | San Francisco Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Injured walking in the Western Addition, Cole Valley, or along Geary Boulevard or anywhere in San Francisco? Call us for a free case review or visit our Pedestrian Accident page: https://www.dolanlawfirm.com/services/pedestrian-accident-lawyer/