Know Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian in Fresno, CA
Walking in Fresno can be risky—especially when drivers ignore crosswalks or speed through busy areas. That’s why understanding your rights as a pedestrian is so important. If you’re ever hit or injured while walking, a Fresno pedestrian accident attorney can help you protect your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply crossing the street, knowing your rights empowers you to stay safe and take legal action when necessary.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, pedestrian accidents remain a serious issue throughout the state. As Fresno continues to grow, so does the need for awareness of pedestrian laws in Fresno.
What Are the Legal Rights of Pedestrians in Fresno?
To begin with, California law strongly protects pedestrians. In Fresno, you have the legal right-of-way at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers are required to yield and remain alert for pedestrians at all times.
Specifically, your pedestrian rights include:
- The right to cross the street safely in marked or unmarked crosswalks
- Protection from negligent, distracted, or reckless drivers
- The right to seek compensation if a driver injures you
- The ability to file a wrongful death claim for a loved one killed due to driver negligence
At the same time, pedestrians must also follow traffic signals and avoid crossing unsafely. This balance of responsibilities helps reduce preventable accidents.
Common Violations Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorneys See Every Day
Despite clear laws, many drivers still put pedestrians in danger. For example, drivers may ignore crosswalks or speed through school zones. These actions frequently result in serious or even fatal injuries.
At Torem & Associates, our experienced Fresno pedestrian accident attorneys often handle cases involving:
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Speeding in residential or school areas
- Distracted driving, especially texting behind the wheel
- Running red lights or rolling through stop signs
In fact, the City of Fresno’s Pedestrian Master Plan highlights several dangerous intersections where pedestrians face high risks. Therefore, if you live or walk in these areas, knowing your rights becomes even more important.
What a Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorney Advises After an Incident
If a vehicle hits you—or even narrowly misses—you should act quickly. Immediate steps can protect both your health and your legal case.
Here’s what our legal team recommends:
- First, seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor
- Next, document the scene with photos or video
- Collect names and contact information from witnesses
- File a police report to create an official record
- Then, contact a Fresno pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible
The sooner you take action, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Why It’s Essential to Understand Your Pedestrian Rights
Knowing the legal rights of pedestrians in Fresno benefits you in many ways. Not only does it make you more confident and alert while walking, but it also prepares you to handle the aftermath of an accident.
Here are just a few advantages:
- You’ll walk more safely and with greater awareness
- You can recognize when a driver has broken the law
- You’ll know how to support a legal or insurance claim
- You can advocate for safer crosswalks and pedestrian zones in your community
Ultimately, being informed helps you protect yourself and others.
Speak with a Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
If a driver has injured you or a loved one, don’t wait to get help. Our team at Torem & Associates is ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We handle all types of pedestrian injury cases in Fresno and beyond.
Call us 24/7 at (800) 500-5000, or contact us online for your free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
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