Pedestrian safety is important. In Utah, about 15% of all traffic deaths every year involve people walking (Utah Department of Public Safety). That’s a big number for a place with so many crosswalks, traffic lights, and safety rules. Whether you walk every day, go for runs, or just cross busy streets sometimes, knowing the rules can help you stay safe.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about your rights as a pedestrian—or if you’ve ever been hit by a car—you need to know how Utah’s crosswalk laws protect you. This guide will explain Utah’s pedestrian safety laws, who has the right of way, and what to do if you or someone you love is injured in a pedestrian accident.
Utah’s Pedestrian Laws: Who Has the Right of Way?
Like most other states, Utah’s laws generally give pedestrians the right of way, but there are some exceptions. Understanding these laws and their exceptions can help you avoid accidents and stay safe while crossing streets. Here are some key rules:
1. Crosswalks: Marked vs. Unmarked
A crosswalk is the part of the road where pedestrians can legally cross. Some are marked with white lines, while others exist at intersections without markings. If you are crossing at an intersection, drivers must stop for you, even if there are no painted lines. However, as a pedestrian, you also have responsibilities:
- Use designated crossing areas: If a crosswalk is available, you must use it instead of crossing in the middle of the road. Jaywalking (crossing where there is no crosswalk) is illegal and could make you partially responsible if you get hit.
- Obey traffic signals: If there is a “walk” or “don’t walk” sign, you must follow it. Walking when the sign says “don’t walk” can make you legally responsible for an accident.
- No sudden movements: You cannot suddenly step off the curb into traffic if cars do not have enough time to stop. Even in a crosswalk, you need to let drivers have time to slow down.
While pedestrians usually have the right of way, they must also follow these rules to avoid accidents.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Utah
Pedestrian accidents can happen quickly, and the results can be serious. Knowing the most common causes can help both drivers and pedestrians be more careful. Here are some reasons why pedestrian accidents happen in Utah:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or using in-car technology may not see pedestrians in time.
- Failure to yield: Some drivers don’t stop for pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections.
- Speeding: The faster a car is going, the harder it is to stop in time to avoid hitting someone.
- Poor visibility: Walking at night, in bad weather, or in areas with poor lighting makes it harder for drivers to see you.
- Jaywalking: Crossing outside of designated areas puts pedestrians at a higher risk.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs slow down a driver’s reaction time, making accidents more likely.
If drivers and pedestrians pay attention and follow safety rules, the number of accidents can go down.
What to Do If You Are Hit by a Car in Utah
Getting hit by a car can be scary and dangerous. Injuries from pedestrian accidents can be serious, such as broken bones, head injuries, and spinal damage. In 2022, Utah reported 53 pedestrian deaths and many more injuries from car crashes (Utah Highway Safety Office). If you ever get hit, follow these steps:
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident:
- Call 911 Immediately
- Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, call the police. A report will help if you need to make a legal or insurance claim.
- Medical professionals can also check for injuries that might not be obvious at first.
- Gather Evidence
- Take photos of the accident scene, the car, license plate, and your injuries.
- Get the driver’s contact and insurance information.
- Talk to any witnesses and ask for their contact details.
- Do Not Admit Fault
- Avoid saying things like “I didn’t see the car.” Even small comments can be used against you later.
- Stick to the facts when talking to police and insurance companies.
- Get Medical Attention
- Some serious injuries, even seemingly minor ones, take time to show up, but they can get worse if untreated.
- Medical records are important if you decide to file an injury claim.
- Speak to a Lawyer
- Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible and may try to get a statement that could be used against you. Call an attorney before talking to insurance. A lawyer can help you in your recovery and get you fair compensation.
How Utah’s Comparative Negligence Law Affects Your Case
Utah uses a comparative negligence rule, which means that fault can be shared between the pedestrian and the driver. Here’s how it works:
- If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot get any money for your injuries.
- If you are less than 50% at fault, the amount you get will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Example: If a driver was speeding and hit you while you were jaywalking, a court might say you were 30% responsible. If your total verdict amount awarded was $100,000, you would only get $70,000 after the 30% reduction.
Since insurance companies try to put more blame on pedestrians to avoid paying, having a lawyer can help protect your rights.
How Lowe Law Group Can Help
If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, Lowe Law Group can help you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation. Our experienced team of attorneys can help you recover money for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Other costs related to your injury
Insurance companies often try to offer small settlements, but we will fight to get you what you deserve.
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. By following Utah’s pedestrian laws and staying alert, you can help prevent accidents. If you ever get injured in a pedestrian accident, know that you have rights.
If you need legal help, contact Lowe Law Group for a free case review. We are here to help you take the next step toward recovery.