California Injury Blog
A man and woman were critically injured in a Santa Ana pedestrian accident after getting struck by a car while crossing a street. According to a report in The Orange County Register, the pedestrian accident happened the night of March 23 at the intersection of Flower and First streets. After the collision, the driver’s airbags had been activated. At least one of the victims was on a bicycle, police said.
Both victims sustained life-threatening injuries and were transported to a hospital. The driver of the car remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. Officials performed a field sobriety test but said it did not appear that drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured victims of this pedestrian accident. We wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws Involving Pedestrians
Based on this news report, it appears that the pedestrians were crossing the street when the vehicle struck them. California Vehicle Code Section 21950 (a) requires motorists to yield the right of way to pedestrians who are walking in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Drivers are required to slow down, come to a full stop and proceed only when it is safe to do so.
The same section also states: “This section does not relieve a pedestrian from the duty of using due care for his or her safety. No pedestrian may suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard. No pedestrian may unnecessarily stop or delay traffic while in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.”
Liability Issues
In such cases, the at-fault motorist can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused even if he or she has not faced any criminal charges. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, permanent injuries, disabilities and emotional distress. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Santa Ana pedestrian accident lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2020/03/24/2-critically-injured-by-vehicle-while-crossing-santa-ana-street/