Pedestrian Rights & Safety in Pasadena: Avoiding Accidents

Pedestrian safety is a growing concern in Pasadena, where heavy traffic, distracted driving, and high foot traffic contribute to frequent accidents. Whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver, knowing the laws that govern pedestrian rights and responsibilities can help prevent collisions and keep everyone safe on the road.

In this article, we’ll explore Pasadena’s pedestrian laws, driver obligations, common causes of accidents, and legal steps to take if you’re injured. By understanding these rules, you can better protect yourself and navigate the city streets safely.

Pedestrian Rights and Laws in Pasadena

California has established clear laws that prioritize pedestrian safety. These regulations outline pedestrian right-of-way, jaywalking rules, and new parking laws that affect visibility at crosswalks.

Right-of-Way Rules at Crosswalks and Intersections

In Pasadena, pedestrians generally have the right-of-way at intersections and crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. California Vehicle Code (CVC) § 21950 states that:

  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
  • Pedestrians cannot suddenly step off the curb into the path of a moving vehicle that does not have time to stop.
  • Vehicles must slow down and exercise caution when approaching pedestrian-heavy areas.

Jaywalking and Crossing Outside Crosswalks

California partially decriminalized jaywalking with the Freedom to Walk Act, which took effect in 2023. Under this law:

  • Pedestrians cannot be cited for crossing outside a crosswalk unless they create a “hazard” to themselves or drivers.
  • Law enforcement can still issue fines if jaywalking causes a dangerous situation.

This law aims to reduce unnecessary citations while still promoting safe pedestrian practices.

Daylighting Law: New Parking Restrictions for Safer Crosswalks

To improve visibility at intersections, California’s new “daylighting” law prohibits vehicles from parking within 20 feet of crosswalks. This rule, effective January 1, 2025, reduces blind spots for both drivers and pedestrians.

  • Why this matters: Parked cars often block a driver’s view of people stepping into a crosswalk.
  • Penalty: Violators may face a $64 fine for parking too close to crosswalks.

By keeping these areas clear, pedestrians and drivers can see each other more easily, reducing the risk of accidents.

Driver Responsibilities to Protect Pedestrians

Drivers must follow specific rules to prevent pedestrian-related collisions. Pasadena enforces strict laws to hold drivers accountable for unsafe behavior.

Yielding at Crosswalks and Intersections

California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at all crosswalks. This applies to both marked crosswalks and unmarked ones at intersections.

  • Failure to yield can result in hefty fines and points on a driver’s record.
  • Drivers must not overtake vehicles stopped at a crosswalk, as the stopped vehicle may be yielding to a pedestrian.

Avoiding Distracted and Reckless Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Pasadena enforces strict penalties for texting, using a phone, or engaging in distractions while driving.

  • California’s hands-free law (CVC § 23123) bans handheld phone use while driving.
  • Penalties for distracted driving include fines and potential license suspension for repeat offenders.

Speed Limits in Pedestrian Zones

Speeding is especially dangerous in residential areas and school zones. Pasadena enforces reduced speed limits in high-foot-traffic areas to prevent severe accidents.

  • 25 mph or lower in residential neighborhoods and school zones.
  • 15 mph when passing stopped school buses with flashing red lights.
  • Slowing down near intersections and parking lots where pedestrians may be crossing unexpectedly.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Pasadena

Pedestrian accidents happen for various reasons. Understanding the most common causes can help drivers and pedestrians avoid dangerous situations.

  • Distracted Driving and Walking – Both drivers and pedestrians using mobile devices are at a higher risk of accidents.
  • Failure to Yield at Crosswalks – Many drivers do not stop for pedestrians, even in designated crossing areas.
  • Speeding and Reckless Driving – Higher speeds increase stopping distances, making it harder to avoid a collision.
  • Poor Visibility at Night – Many accidents occur due to low lighting and pedestrians wearing dark clothing.

What to Do If You’re Hit by a Car in Pasadena

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Pasadena, taking immediate action can help protect your health and legal rights.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if injuries aren’t visible, internal trauma or head injuries can develop later. Always get checked by a doctor after an accident.

2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement

Call 911 or Pasadena Police to file an official police report. This report serves as evidence in insurance claims or legal cases.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If possible, collect:

  • Photos of the accident scene, including crosswalks, signals, and vehicle damage.
  • Driver’s contact and insurance information.
  • Witness statements and their contact details.

4. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Pasadena

An experienced pedestrian injury attorney can help you:

  • Negotiate with insurance companies to get fair compensation.
  • File a personal injury lawsuit if the driver was negligent.
  • Recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Filing a Pedestrian Injury Claim in California

If you’ve been hit by a car, you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s how the legal process works.

Proving Driver Negligence

To win a pedestrian injury claim, you must prove the driver acted negligently. Common examples include:

  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Failing to yield at a crosswalk

Comparative Fault in Pedestrian Accidents

California follows comparative negligence laws, meaning:

  • If you were partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced.
  • For example, if you were jaywalking but the driver was speeding, your claim may be adjusted based on shared liability.

How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

An attorney can:

  • Assess your case and gather evidence
  • Handle insurance negotiations
  • Represent you in court if necessary

Preventative Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Drivers

Both pedestrians and drivers can take precautions to reduce accidents.

For Pedestrians:

  • Use designated crosswalks whenever possible
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing at night
  • Avoid distractions like texting while walking
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing

For Drivers:

  • Always yield to pedestrians at intersections
  • Slow down in pedestrian-heavy areas
  • Never use a phone while driving
  • Be extra cautious in bad weather or low visibility

Conclusion

Pedestrian safety in Pasadena requires a shared effort between pedestrians and drivers. By following the law, staying alert, and taking preventative measures, accidents can be significantly reduced.

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Pasadena, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Tedford & Associates, our dedicated team has over 30 years of experience advocating for accident victims. We offer personalized legal solutions and are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process.

 

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.

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