Visalia drivers must always yield to defenseless pedestrians on local streets. And they must show extra care when they encounter pedestrians with vision impairment. There are ways to tell if someone on foot is blind. Drivers should always look for the signs and slow down or stop their vehicles so there’s no chance for a collision while a blind pedestrian makes their way across the street.
Slowing Down for Blind Pedestrians in Tulare County
Intersections in Visalia can get dangerous, even for pedestrians who can rely on their full vision to cross safely. Imagine being a blind person and trying to cross a busy intersection such as Geer Road and Canal Drive.
The dangers are hard to ignore. It’s why state lawmakers ask for extra care for blind pedestrians and why they enforce harsher penalties for drivers who cause accidents.
California vehicle code already provides protection for all pedestrians. The law requires motorists to slow down anytime a pedestrian is in a crosswalk or ready to enter a crosswalk. They must slow down even if the person on foot is crossing at an illegal point in the road, or jaywalking. The driver must get their speed down so they can stop to avoid a collision if necessary.
Drivers should take extra care with their vehicles when a blind pedestrian has entered a crosswalk.
State law explains the two signs of a blind pedestrian.
“A totally or partially blind pedestrian who is carrying a predominantly white cane (with or without a red tip), or using a guide dog, shall have the right-of-way…”
A white cane or a guide dog may be a sure sign that a pedestrian may need extra time to get across an intersection. Drivers should slow down or stop, even if a light has turned green. Motorists must be ready to wait longer if necessary for a pedestrian to safely traverse an intersection.
The biggest difference when a driver strikes a pedestrian is the stiffer penalties. It’s hoped that a bigger punishment leads drivers to pay more attention at crosswalks and anywhere they may encounter a pedestrian with vision impairment.
California Vehicle Code explains that drivers striking blind pedestrians face:
- A misdemeanor, a criminal charge
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine between $500 and $1,000 plus court fees
- Additional charges related to harming or killing a pedestrian
Contact a Visalia Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you are seriously injured after being hit by a reckless driver, don’t wait to explore your options. Take action so your Visalia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer has time to collect fresh evidence and track down witnesses for testimony.
Contact Maison Law for a free consultation after any injury involving a pedestrian accident anywhere in Tulare County. Our case reviews are confidential and come with no obligation. If you decide we can help you earn more for your injury, you won’t need to have any money to hire us. We don’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement money you are awarded.
