Arizona is taking significant steps to enhance pedestrian safety as the state's population continues to grow. Through a range of infrastructure projects aimed at improving conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, the state hopes to reduce serious and fatal pedestrian accidents.
Despite these efforts, accidents still occur, and injured pedestrians may need to explore their legal options to seek compensation for their injuries and other related expenses. That's when having an experienced Arizona pedestrian accident attorney in your corner to protect your rights and aggressively advocate for your best interests can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists
Here are key infrastructure projects focused on making streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists in Arizona:
- I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project. This $615 million project spans 11 miles between Loop 202 and I-17, adding new pedestrian and cyclist bridges to improve safety and reduce congestion for the 300,000 vehicles traveling the area daily.
- South Mountain Freeway. Completed in 2019, this 22-mile highway bypasses downtown Phoenix, improving traffic flow and reducing accidents. This project also helps reduce pedestrian risk by managing vehicle congestion more effectively.
- High-Intensity Activated Crosswalks (HAWKs). Phoenix and Tucson have installed more than 100 HAWK signals in high-traffic areas to enhance pedestrian safety at crosswalks, allowing safe passage across busy streets.
- Protected Bike Lanes in Tucson. Tucson is adding 15 miles of protected bike lanes under its Complete Streets initiative, providing cyclists and pedestrians with safer, dedicated pathways in urban areas.
- Phoenix's Complete Streets Policy. Phoenix is prioritizing pedestrian infrastructure with wider sidewalks, refuge islands, and enhanced crosswalks, including a $25 million renovation in the Roosevelt Row Arts District to improve walkability.
- Downtown Links Project in Tucson. This project connects key downtown areas with pedestrian and bicycle paths, reducing the risk of pedestrian accidents while fostering a more walkable community.
By implementing these projects, Arizona is working to create safer environments for pedestrians and cyclists, aiming to reduce fatalities and promote healthier, more accessible streets. However, pedestrians remain vulnerable, particularly in high-traffic areas where drivers may fail to yield or become distracted.
Legal options for injured pedestrians in Arizona
When a pedestrian is injured in an accident, understanding legal options is crucial, especially since drivers are often at fault. In many instances, pedestrians have the right of way, and drivers are expected to exercise caution, regardless of whether the pedestrian is in a crosswalk or not.
A driver's failure to yield, distracted driving, speeding, or other negligent actions can lead to serious injuries for pedestrians. In such cases, injured pedestrians may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Every case is different, but legal options for compensation may include:
- Filing an Insurance Claim. Injured pedestrians may file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance or their own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy.
- Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit. Pursue compensation through a civil court case if a driver's negligence caused the injury.
- Pursuing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit. If the accident resulted in a fatality, family members can file a wrongful death suit for damages.
- Seeking Compensation Through a Third-Party Claim. If another party, such as a municipality or vehicle manufacturer, contributed to the accident, file a claim against them.
Consulting with an Arizona pedestrian accident attorney can help ensure that the victim's rights are protected and they receive the full compensation they deserve. A skilled attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove the driver's liability, even in situations where the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk.
Get the Anti-Lawyer Lawyer on your side
If you were hit by a car and injured as a pedestrian in a traffic accident, don't let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Attorney Byron Browne and his dedicated legal team know their tactics and won't stand for their B.S. We'll investigate your case, build a strong claim, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Arizona law.
Our case results include $1 million settlements for injured accident victims. Whether you're in Gilbert or anywhere in Maricopa County, you can count on our law firm to take a tough stance in negotiations. To learn how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free consultation.
"Very professional. Made a difficult situation easy to understand. Got back with us the same day. Explained everything so thoroughly. We are very happy with this group. Thank you!" — Thomas V.