A 3,000-pound vehicle can cause significant harm to the human body, even at speeds as low as 5 mph. The reality is, pedestrians are vulnerable, and drivers must always be vigilant.
According to Phoenix Law Group, drivers are legally obligated to yield to pedestrians, even when the pedestrian may not be following the rules. This includes pedestrians using both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must yield before making left or right turns to ensure pedestrian safety.
Pedestrians, however, also have responsibilities. When crossing outside of a crosswalk, pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to vehicles. Additionally, when there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk facing traffic to remain visible to drivers.
Just as drivers should avoid distractions, pedestrians must also exercise caution. Walking distracted is dangerous—phones should be put away, and music should be played at a volume low enough to hear surrounding traffic and hazards.
It is also important to note that jaywalking is prohibited in Arizona. Pedestrians should always assume that drivers may not see them, and as such, must remain alert, actively watching and listening as they cross roads.
For more information on pedestrian laws in Arizona, please refer to the full list here.
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence law, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, time is critical. If you have been injured as a pedestrian and the impact has significantly altered your life, it is vital to seek the counsel of a personal injury attorney. If you’re unsure who to contact, we are more than happy to provide recommendations.
Remember, the statute of limitations for pedestrian injury claims in Arizona is two years. Don't wait until the deadline is near—reach out as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected. If you are in the state of Arizona, we do have a trusted attorney recommendation for you. If you are outside of the state of Arizona, we can help you find an attorney that will take care of you.