Another Life Lost on Our Streets — Why Pedestrian Accidents in San Francisco Are Rising

Pedestrian Accidents: What You Need to Know

• Pedestrian fatalities in San Francisco reached a 17-year high in 2024. This means walking around our city is more dangerous than ever.
• Knowing who’s responsible for an incident really matters. Victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for pedestrian accidents, including medical bills, lost income, and other losses.
• Acting quickly after an accident protects your legal rights. California law has strict deadlines for filing personal injury and wrongful death claims.

A fatal accident in Russian Hill last Wednesday highlights the dangers pedestrians face in busy areas of our city. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, a driver made a right turn on Broadway and then backed up, killing a 72-year-old man crossing the street. The police investigation is ongoing.

Sadly, tragedies like this are becoming far too common. In 2024, 24 people were killed by vehicles while out and about on San Francisco’s streets — the highest number since 2007. Among them was a family of four waiting for a bus in West Portal, who were struck by a car that veered off the road and onto the sidewalk.

All of this raises important questions:

• Who’s responsible when a driver’s actions result in injury or death?
• What steps can victims and their families take?
• How can those affected get the compensation they deserve?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in San Francisco or the wider Bay Area, finding the answers to these questions can help you get justice.

Who is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident in San Francisco?

When a pedestrian is hit by a car in San Francisco, determining liability (who’s at fault) can be tough. Usually, the following aspects of personal injury law come into play:

Negligence

Negligence occurs when someone fails to take reasonable care to prevent harm. For instance, a driver looking at their phone could be considered negligent. If that behavior results in an accident, they might be held responsible.

Comparative fault

California has a ‘comparative fault’ system. This means that an injured person may have their compensation reduced if they were partly to blame for an accident. Example: A pedestrian crosses the street outside of a crosswalk and then gets hit by a car.

Responsibility of third parties

Uneven sidewalks, broken traffic lights, poorly maintained roads, and other factors can contribute to accidents. In some cases, the city or a property owner might be responsible.

Criminal liability

If a driver’s actions were extremely reckless, they could face criminal charges. Important note: You can still file a compensation claim even if the driver is criminally responsible.

What You Can Be Compensated For

The law is crystal clear. If a pedestrian is injured in an accident, they have the right to be compensated.

The compensation someone may receive depends on the specifics of their case, including the severity of injuries and the type of losses. Common types of compensation can include:

• Medical expenses: Reimbursement for all medical costs related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy
• Lost income: Recovery of lost wages if an injury prevents someone from working, as well as any reduction in future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by a pedestrian accident
• Property damage: Compensation for personal property damaged during the accident, such as clothes and belongings

In cases where an accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim for loss of financial support, companionship, and other losses.

Pedestrian accidents and fatalities are confusing and overwhelming. Stoll & Haynes helps you understand who’s at fault and what compensation you could receive.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in San Francisco

Acting quickly and carefully after an accident can increase the chances of full and fair compensation. Next steps include:

• Seeking medical attention: Everyone involved in an accident should be checked out by a doctor, even if they feel perfectly fine. Some injuries might not be apparent immediately.
• Contacting law enforcement: An accident should always be reported to the police. Getting a copy of the police report can be helpful for a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
• Documenting everything: This includes taking photos at the scene (if it’s safe to do so), collecting contact information from any witnesses, and keeping records of medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. The more evidence, the better.
• Getting in touch with a pedestrian accident lawyer: An experienced personal injury attorney in San Francisco can offer legal guidance, making it easier to know your next steps.  

Why You Should Move Quickly

You’ll also want to keep California’s statutes of limitations in mind, which set strict time limits for taking legal action.

Here’s how long you typically have:

• Personal injury claims: Must be filed within 2 years of the date of the injury
• Wrongful death claims: Must be filed within 2 years of the person’s death

Missing these deadlines might prevent you from recovering compensation, no matter how strong your case is. Acting now can ensure your legal rights are protected.

How a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in San Francisco Can Help

Accidents like the one in Russian Hill remind us how quickly tragedy can strike, as well as the growing dangers pedestrians face in San Francisco. Common risks such as backing up, distracted driving, and unsafe street conditions make our city particularly dangerous, especially in neighborhoods with lots of traffic.

When an accident happens, having a personal injury attorney in your corner makes a real difference.

Stoll & Haynes can:

• Help you understand who is liable for a pedestrian accident
• Negotiate with the at-fault party and their insurer
• Fight for the compensation you truly deserve

Pedestrian Accidents FAQs

What should you do after a pedestrian accident in San Francisco?

First steps include seeking medical attention, filing a police report, and collecting evidence. Next, contact a personal injury lawyer in San Francisco who can protect your legal rights and fight for compensation.

Who can file a pedestrian accident claim?

Pedestrians injured in San Francisco can file a personal injury claim. In the event of a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Remember, California has statutes of limitations for both.

How much compensation can you get for pedestrian accident injuries?

It all depends on your case, but common recoverable losses include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The right pedestrian accident attorney can help you find out what you may be entitled to.

San Francisco pedestrian accident statistics

In 2024, pedestrian fatalities reached a 17-year high. Common causes include drivers backing up and traffic violations.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need advice about your specific situation, please contact Stoll & Haynes directly.