A pedestrian accident can disrupt your life in ways you couldn’t have expected. If a driver hit you while you walked, you might wonder how Arizona’s jaywalking laws apply to your case. Understanding these laws helps you evaluate your situation and take the right steps.
Jaywalking laws in Arizona
Arizona law requires pedestrians to use crosswalks when available. At intersections with traffic signals, you must follow the signals. That means waiting for the walk symbol and staying out of the road during a red light. If no traffic signal exists, you can cross after yielding to oncoming vehicles.
Crossing mid-block between two signal-controlled intersections breaks the law and qualifies as jaywalking. Police officers may issue a citation if they see this. These rules aim to prevent pedestrian injuries and keep roads safer.
How jaywalking affects a personal injury claim
If a vehicle hits you, the details of the crash matter. Did you walk inside a marked crosswalk? Did the walk signal give you the right to cross? If you broke jaywalking laws, the driver’s insurance company might argue you share responsibility. That argument could affect your claim.
Still, drivers must act with reasonable care. A driver who speeds, drives while distracted, or ignores the right-of-way can bear responsibility. Arizona uses a comparative fault system, which means you can still recover damages even if you share some fault.
Recommended actions following the accident
Gather details about the crash as soon as possible. Photograph the scene, your injuries, and any traffic signals. Get medical attention right away and follow your doctor’s advice. These actions help you build a stronger claim.
A pedestrian accident can lead to serious injuries and long recovery times. By learning how jaywalking laws relate to your case, you gain a clearer picture of your rights. This knowledge puts you in a better position to pursue fair treatment.
