According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are an average of 735,000 hit-and-run crashes in the United States each year.
These crashes result in over 2,000 deaths across the country, and over 300 fatalities in the State of California alone, which results in our state ranking 7th nationally for hit-and-run deaths per capita.
What Are The Most Common Causes of Hit & Run Accidents In California?
At their highest point in the past five years, hit-and-run crashes happened roughly every 43 seconds throughout the country, and nearly 65% of the people killed in those accidents were pedestrians or bicyclists.
Throughout the years, bicycle and pedestrian traffic have increased throughout Los Angeles County, which can be attributed to healthier lifestyles and environmentally conscious living.
While the rising numbers of pedestrians and bicyclists may contribute to the expanding number of personal injuries, drivers are also to blame for their roles in these debilitating and often deadly auto accidents.
Driver error crashes are expanding, and can include:
- Distracted driving, including smartphone and electronic device use behind the wheel
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medication or marijuana
- Drowsy driving
- Failing to obey traffic signs and signals
- Improper turns
- Overtaking bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and walkways
- Road rage
- Speeding, reckless, and aggressive driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Wrong-way driving
How Can I Protect Myself From Driver Error While Walking or Riding A Bicycle?
Cars, trucks, and SUVs are larger and faster than anyone on a bicycle or on foot, and drivers often operate their vehicles with that in mind. This means they will try to speed past riders and walkers to gain an advantage in traffic, which can lead to life-changing injuries or even the death of those nearby.
In order to protect yourself from these dangerous drivers, pedestrians, bike, and scooter riders should:
- Remain aware of surrounding traffic patterns and avoid electronic device use while walking or riding
- Cross streets at intersections or marked crosswalks
- Ride scooters or bicycles in reserved lanes/paths
Get The Legal Help You Need After A Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident In California
At Binder & Associates, our Encino bicycle and pedestrian accident attorneys focus on protecting personal injury victims from the life-changing harm these accidents can cause, including brain injuries that require expensive and long-term medical care.
And when these tragic accidents take the lives of innocent victims, our wrongful death attorneys in Encino provide the legal representation their family members need to pursue the person or people who caused their untimely loss.
Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys in, CA at Binder & Associates by calling (818) 659-8588 today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your accident with one of our accomplished lawyers. Our law firm does not charge any fees unless we win your case.
