Sacramento, CA – A pedestrian was hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle early Wednesday morning, October 23, 2024, along Watt Avenue near Longview Drive, according to ABC10.
The incident occurred around 5:30 AM when a man in his 50s, who was reportedly experiencing homelessness, was reportedly running across the intersection during a green traffic light.
The driver was unable to stop in time and struck the pedestrian. Emergency medical services arrived promptly, and the man was transported to the hospital for treatment of his injuries.
The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is held only partially liable in a pedestrian accident. If that is the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
