Setareh Law
November 29, 2024
In the past few years, California has taken significant strides to enhance pedestrian safety through the introduction of new laws aimed at reducing the risks faced by those who walk along our streets. The enactment of these pedestrian safety laws marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to create a culture of safety and awareness for all road users.
At Setareh Law, we believe that knowledge is power. As pedestrians, you may be more vulnerable on the road, and understanding how these new laws impact your rights and protections can be invaluable.
What Is California’s New Assembly Bill 413?
Assembly Bill 413 introduces new regulations regarding vehicle stopping, standing, and parking, specifically aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety. The bill prohibits vehicles from stopping, standing, or parking within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, and within 15 feet where a curb extension is present. This legislation is designed to improve visibility at crosswalks, thereby reducing the likelihood of pedestrian accidents. By restricting parking in these areas, the bill aims to create safer environments for pedestrians, potentially decreasing the number of personal injury cases related to pedestrian-vehicle collisions.
The impact of AB 413 on personal injury cases could be significant. With clearer regulations on where vehicles can park, there may be fewer instances of accidents caused by obstructed views at crosswalks. This could lead to a reduction in the number of personal injury claims filed by pedestrians injured in such scenarios. The law’s emphasis on marked and unmarked crosswalks highlights the importance of pedestrian rights and safety, which could influence the outcomes of personal injury cases by providing a clearer framework for determining liability.
The bill also includes provisions for state-mandated local programs, which may require local jurisdictions to implement these parking restrictions. This could lead to increased enforcement and awareness of pedestrian safety laws, potentially reducing the number of accidents and subsequent personal injury claims.
California’s New Assembly Bill 1909
Assembly Bill 1909, known as the OmniBike Bill, introduces significant changes to California’s vehicle code to enhance cyclist safety and rights. One of the key provisions allows cyclists to follow pedestrian “WALK“ signals at intersections, providing them with a head start before vehicular traffic moves. This change aims to reduce the risk of collisions at intersections, where a significant number of bicycle accidents occur.
The bill also mandates that drivers change lanes when passing cyclists, if feasible, rather than maintaining a three-foot distance. This provision addresses the difficulty of enforcing the previous rule and aims to create a safer passing environment for cyclists. By providing clearer guidelines for motorists, the law reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by close passes, which could lead to fewer personal injury claims involving cyclists.
Additionally, AB 1909 prohibits local jurisdictions from enforcing bicycle licensing laws, which were sometimes used to target cyclists unfairly. This change reduces unnecessary stops and potential conflicts between cyclists and law enforcement, fostering a more equitable environment for cyclists. By minimizing these interactions, the law may indirectly reduce personal injury claims arising from such encounters.
Contact Setareh Law for a Free Consultation Today
Being informed about these changes is essential for ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being. The new laws aim to hold drivers accountable for their actions, promote safer driving habits, and ultimately reduce the number of accidents involving pedestrians.
If you need guidance on how these laws may affect your situation or if you wish to discuss a specific incident, we encourage you to reach out to Setareh Law. Call Setareh Law at (310) 659-1826 or use our contact form today. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the support and expertise necessary to navigate the legal landscape surrounding personal injury cases.
