Pedestrians often take to sidewalks, crosswalks, and other areas without thinking about the possibility of an accident. But in truth, pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in Phoenix and across the rest of Arizona as motorists and other drivers continue to pose a threat to those who walk. Across the nation, a pedestrian is hurt in a traffic accident every eight minutes.
Arizona laws are clear when it comes to pedestrian safety and pedestrian rights. All drivers, including those operating passenger cars, must yield to a pedestrian when that pedestrian has the right-of-way. But a driver must also take appropriate steps to avoid a collision when a pedestrian does not have the right-of-way. Failing to yield the right-of-way or otherwise being responsible for a pedestrian accident in Phoenix may lead to liability on the part of a driver involved. While the state of Arizona may issue a traffic citation, serious penalties can also be sought by a victim who may be entitled to financial compensation for his or her damages. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Phoenix may help you understand the implications of your crash if you have been hurt.
Shortly before 7:00 p.m. on Monday, a collision occurred in Glendale between a pedestrian and an elderly driver, sending authorities to the scene and launching an investigation. According to witnesses and local police, a 14-year-old had been skateboarding in the area of Grand Avenue. Reports indicate that the teen stopped riding the skateboard and began to cross Grand Avenue on foot when a sedan approached. The car, driven by a 76-year-old woman, collided with the teen and left him critically injured.
Emergency crews transported the teenage boy to an area hospital for treatment where the nature and the extent of his injuries remain unclear. Police spoke with the driver at the scene but they have not revealed why the collision may have occurred or whether anyone involved may face citations. Traffic was diverted from the area overnight while the investigation continued.
When an accident leaves a pedestrian injured, the laws can be complicated and it can be difficult to determine whether you are entitled to relief. At Abels & Annes, P.C., we make it our job to help victims understand the laws as they apply to their accident, including whether they may be entitled to relief.
The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. offer a free case consultation without any obligation to those victims who contact us toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191 and we provide it 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you have been injured or if your loved one has been hurt or killed in a pedestrian accident, call us today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Baby Killed, 3 Children, 2 Adults Injured in Maricopa County Car Accident, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 6, 2014.
Resource:
Pedestrian struck on Grand Avenue in Glendale, by Jennifer Soules, The Republic, published October 7, 2014.