Driving dangerously in a school zone could result in a tragic accident. Motorists must slow down, watch for students, stop for buses, and drop off or pick up at designated carpool locations. Failure to follow traffic rules can have heartbreaking consequences and legal repercussions for the at-fault party.
Did your child suffer injuries in a school zone accident in Sacramento? You need skillful and sympathetic legal representation during this difficult time. Reach out to a personal injury attorney at Demas Law Group today. We will investigate the accident and help you hold the responsible party accountable for their recklessness.
Call or contact us now for a free consultation.
What Makes School Zones Dangerous?
There are many reasons why school zones can be hazardous for young pedestrians and cyclists going to and from school. A 2016 study by Safe Kids Worldwide observed more than 39,000 teens crossing streets in school zones in 15 states. Researchers found teens were commonly distracted by texting, talking on the phone, and listening to headphones. They also noted other dangerous behaviors, such as not looking before crossing the street, crossing outside designated crosswalks, and crossing without the traffic light. This data emphasizes how important it is for drivers to be extra vigilant when passing through school zones.
After approximately 56,000 observations of drivers in 14 states, researchers found that about one in 10 motorists were distracted by electronic devices in school pick-up and drop-off zones. Around three percent of drivers used multiple devices when picking up or dropping off students.
The Sacramento School Safety Study also made numerous observations about driver behavior when studying 20 school zones in the city. Teams including city workers, school administrators, volunteer parents, and other stakeholders conducted “walk audits” to consider the safety or “walkability” of the school areas.
During these audits, the surveyors noted speeding as a problem during nearly all observations. They also observed drivers failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks in around 75 percent of the audits. Parents parked or picked up/dropped off at incorrect locations, such as crosswalks. The participants also reported a lack of red curb markings at intersections, faded striping, and narrow or missing walkways. Whether it’s driver inattention, parent and student behavior, or crumbling infrastructure, it’s clear Sacramento school zones are a dangerous place to be.
How to Avoid School Zone Accidents
Here’s how you can protect yourself if you’re walking or biking in a school zone:
- Avoid distractions, such as cell phones.
- Don’t wear headphones. They can prevent you from hearing horns or brakes to warn you of danger.
- Always cross at designated crosswalks.
- Obey traffic lights and signs.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
Motorists can prevent school zone accidents by:
- Remaining alert. No texting or talking on the phone.
- Follow the school’s pick-up and drop-off instructions.
- Slow down and watch for students in and around school zones.
- Yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
Any motorist who causes a school zone accident through negligence can be held liable for damages incurred by the victims.
Personal Injury Claims for Minors in California
If a minor is injured in an accident in a school zone, they have a legal right to compensation from the at-fault party, just like adults do. A parent, guardian, or another representative will have to speak on behalf of the minor. An experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the claims process.
Damages awarded to minors will typically be placed into a trust fund that can be used for various expenses. It will often be used to cover medical costs like hospital bills, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, and prescription medications first.
As a parent or guardian, you want what is best for your child and to see them move forward from the school zone accident with the resources and support they deserve. Don’t leave your case up to chance. Hire an attorney with the right experience and skills to recover the full and fair compensation your child needs and deserves.
Contact a School Injury Lawyer in Sacramento
Nothing is more frightening than learning your child was injured in an accident at school. At Demas Law Group, we know the only thing on your mind is ensuring that your child gets the best medical treatment and care possible. Pursuing financial compensation can help make access to high-quality medical care and rehabilitation a reality for you.
Let us do the legal legwork so you can focus on your family. Our school injury lawyers can manage every aspect of your case so that you can focus on your child’s wellbeing. You can rely on us to work aggressively to hold the at-fault party accountable for their negligence.
We can get started immediately. Call or contact us for a free consultation.
