A pedestrian was seriously injured Monday afternoon when a silver GMC SUV left a post office parking lot and struck her while she was walking on the sidewalk near Watt Avenue and Larry Way in North Highlands. The pedestrian accident, reported at approximately 2:03 p.m., highlights the ongoing dangers pedestrians face even when using designated walkways in Sacramento County.
According to California Highway Patrol dispatch logs, the collision occurred as the SUV was exiting the post office facility. The female pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for treatment, though the full extent of her injuries has not been publicly disclosed. The incident remains under investigation by authorities.
Details of the North Highlands Sidewalk Collision
The collision took place in a busy commercial area of North Highlands, where the post office on Watt Avenue serves numerous customers throughout the day. Witnesses reported seeing emergency responders arrive quickly at the scene to provide medical assistance to the injured woman.
California Highway Patrol officers documented the scene and gathered evidence to determine precisely how the SUV came to strike the pedestrian on the sidewalk. Investigators will likely examine factors including the driver’s visibility when exiting the parking lot, the speed at which the vehicle was traveling, potential distractions, and whether the driver failed to yield to pedestrian traffic as required by California law.
Parking lot exits that open onto busy thoroughfares, such as Watt Avenue, can present particular hazards for pedestrians. Drivers leaving commercial properties must cross sidewalks where pedestrians have the right of way, creating potential conflict zones where serious accidents can occur if motorists fail to exercise appropriate caution.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
Sacramento Metro Fire Department personnel responded to the scene along with California Highway Patrol officers. Emergency medical technicians assessed the woman’s injuries on-site before transporting her to a nearby trauma center. The proximity of several hospitals in the greater Sacramento area, including Mercy San Juan Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, ensures rapid access to emergency care for accident victims in North Highlands.
The immediate medical response following a pedestrian accident is critical to preventing complications and improving outcomes. Pedestrians struck by vehicles, even at relatively low speeds, can suffer severe injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal organ damage, and soft tissue injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Medical professionals will conduct comprehensive evaluations, including CT scans, X-rays, and other diagnostic imaging, to identify all injuries sustained in the collision. Some pedestrian accident injuries, particularly internal bleeding and concussions, may not manifest symptoms immediately but can become life-threatening if left untreated.
California Laws Protecting Pedestrians on Sidewalks
California Vehicle Code Section 21950 establishes that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Additionally, California Vehicle Code Section 21954 requires vehicles entering or crossing a sidewalk to yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian approaching on the sidewalk.
When a driver is exiting a parking lot or driveway and must cross a sidewalk to enter the roadway, that driver has an absolute duty to stop and yield to pedestrians using the sidewalk. The law recognizes that sidewalks are designated pedestrian spaces where walkers should be able to move safely without fear of being struck by vehicles.
Violations of these pedestrian right-of-way laws can result in traffic citations, fines, and points on a driver’s license. More importantly, when such violations cause injury to a pedestrian, the driver may be held liable for all resulting damages in a civil personal injury claim.
California also follows a “pure comparative negligence” system, meaning that even if a pedestrian bears some responsibility for an accident, they can still recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault. However, when a pedestrian is struck while simply walking on a sidewalk, liability typically falls entirely on the driver who failed to yield.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Exit Accidents
Pedestrian accidents at parking lot exits occur for several preventable reasons:
Driver Inattention and Distraction: Motorists leaving parking lots may be distracted by navigation systems, mobile phones, passengers, or simply thinking about their next destination rather than focusing on the immediate surroundings. Even a momentary lapse in attention can result in striking a pedestrian on the sidewalk.
Failure to Stop Before the Sidewalk: California law requires drivers to come to a complete stop before crossing a sidewalk when exiting a driveway or parking lot. Some drivers roll through without stopping, denying themselves adequate time to scan for pedestrians.
Obstructed Sight Lines: Landscaping, parked vehicles, building features, or signs can obstruct a driver’s view of the sidewalk, making it difficult to see approaching pedestrians. However, limited visibility does not excuse a driver from the duty to proceed with extreme caution and ensure the path is clear.
Excessive Speed: Drivers exiting parking lots at inappropriate speeds have less time to react to pedestrians and a reduced ability to stop if someone suddenly appears in their path.
Backing Accidents: Some parking lot collisions occur when drivers back out of spaces without adequately checking for pedestrians behind them.
Assumption of Clear Path: Drivers may assume the sidewalk is clear without properly checking, particularly in areas where pedestrian traffic is intermittent rather than constant.
Injuries Commonly Suffered by Pedestrians Hit by Vehicles
Pedestrians have no protection when struck by a multi-ton vehicle, making even low-speed collisions potentially catastrophic. Common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries: When a pedestrian is struck, they often fall and hit their head on the pavement or the vehicle itself. Concussions, skull fractures, and more severe brain injuries can result in cognitive impairment, memory problems, personality changes, and permanent disability.
Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of impact can damage the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and permanent changes to bodily functions.
Broken Bones and Fractures: The pelvis, legs, arms, ribs, and collarbone are particularly vulnerable in pedestrian accidents. Compound fractures may require surgery, the implantation of metal hardware, and extensive rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and other life-threatening conditions that require emergency surgery.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and muscle damage can cause chronic pain and limited mobility even after other injuries heal.
Psychological Trauma: Many pedestrian accident survivors experience post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and fear of walking near traffic, which can significantly impact quality of life.
The full extent of injuries may not be immediately apparent. Some symptoms develop hours or days after the accident, which is why comprehensive medical evaluation and monitoring are essential following any pedestrian collision.
Legal Rights of Injured Pedestrians in California
Pedestrians injured by negligent drivers have the legal right to pursue compensation for all damages resulting from the accident. California law allows injury victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages encompass all financial losses with specific dollar values, including medical expenses (both past and future), lost wages, lost earning capacity if injuries prevent a return to previous employment, property damage, and rehabilitation costs. Medical expenses can include emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, prescription medications, physical therapy, assistive devices, home modifications for disabilities, and ongoing care needs.
Non-economic damages compensate for subjective losses that don’t have specific price tags: pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability or disfigurement, and loss of consortium for family members affected by the victim’s injuries.
In cases involving particularly egregious conduct—such as driving under the influence or deliberately reckless behavior—California law also permits punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
The Investigation Process in Pedestrian Accident Cases
California Highway Patrol investigators will conduct a thorough examination of the collision to determine liability and identify any potential traffic violations. The investigation typically includes:
Scene Documentation: Officers photograph the accident location, measure distances, document weather and lighting conditions, and note any physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, or debris.
Witness Statements: Investigators interview the driver, the injured pedestrian (when possible), and any bystanders who observed the collision.
Vehicle Examination: The SUV will be inspected for mechanical defects, proper functioning of brakes and lights, and any modifications that might have contributed to the accident.
Driver Records: Officers will review the driver’s license status, driving history, and check for any outstanding violations or restrictions.
Surveillance Footage: Investigators may obtain security camera footage from the post office or nearby businesses that captured the collision or the moments leading up to it.
Accident Reconstruction: In severe cases, specialists may recreate the accident using physics principles and computer modeling to determine speeds, sight lines, and the sequence of events.
This investigative process can take weeks or months to complete. The findings will be incorporated into an official traffic collision report, which will become a critical piece of evidence in any subsequent personal injury claim.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one is struck by a vehicle while walking, specific steps can protect both health and legal rights:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it is essential to get evaluated by a medical professional. Some serious injuries have delayed symptoms, and documentation of immediate medical care strengthens injury claims.
Report the Accident: Ensure law enforcement responds to the scene and files an official report. This documentation is crucial evidence for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
Gather Evidence: If physically able, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and surrounding conditions. Obtain contact information from witnesses who may provide statements supporting your account.
Preserve Evidence: Keep all clothing worn during the accident, as it may contain crucial evidence. Don’t repair or dispose of damaged personal property.
Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, time missed from work, and how injuries affect daily activities. Keep a journal documenting pain levels, symptoms, and recovery progress.
Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not apologize or make statements that could be construed as accepting blame. Provide factual information to the police but avoid speculation about what happened.
Be Cautious with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly seeking statements. Remember that insurers represent the driver’s interests, not yours. Consider consulting an attorney before providing recorded statements or accepting settlement offers.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can protect your rights, handle communications with insurance companies, gather evidence, and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
Challenges Pedestrians Face in North Highlands and Sacramento County
North Highlands, an unincorporated community in Sacramento County, faces particular pedestrian safety challenges common to suburban areas with heavy automobile traffic. Watt Avenue serves as a major north-south arterial road carrying significant daily traffic volumes through commercial districts where pedestrians frequently shop and conduct business.
Many suburban commercial areas were designed primarily for automobile access rather than pedestrian movement, creating inherent conflicts between vehicles and walkers. Expansive parking lots with multiple entry and exit points create numerous locations where vehicles must cross sidewalks, thereby increasing the opportunities for collisions.
Sacramento County has implemented various initiatives to improve pedestrian safety, including enhanced crosswalk markings, pedestrian countdown signals, traffic calming measures, and public awareness campaigns. However, pedestrian accidents continue to occur with disturbing regularity throughout the region.
According to California Office of Traffic Safety data, Sacramento County consistently ranks among California counties with the highest numbers of pedestrian injuries and fatalities. These statistics underscore the urgent need for continued infrastructure improvements, the enforcement of pedestrian right-of-way laws, and driver education that emphasizes the vulnerability of pedestrians.
Insurance Coverage in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Multiple insurance policies may provide coverage for pedestrian accident victims:
Driver’s Auto Liability Insurance: California requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $15,000 per person for bodily injury. However, serious pedestrian accidents often result in damages far exceeding these minimums. When available, higher policy limits or umbrella policies provide additional coverage.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage, the pedestrian’s own auto insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may compensate for damages. Many people don’t realize their auto insurance can cover them even when they’re not in a vehicle.
MedPay Coverage: Medical payments coverage, an optional component of auto insurance policies, can pay medical expenses regardless of fault, providing quick access to funds for treatment while liability is determined.
Health Insurance: The pedestrian’s health insurance will typically cover medical treatment, though the insurer may seek reimbursement from any settlement or judgment recovered from the at-fault party.
Property Owner’s Insurance: If property conditions contributed to the accident—such as a poorly designed parking lot exit or obstructed sight lines—the commercial property owner’s liability insurance might provide coverage.
Navigating these various insurance sources requires legal expertise to ensure all available coverage is identified and utilized to maximize compensation for the injured pedestrian.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Often Result in Serious Injuries
The physics of pedestrian-vehicle collisions explain why injuries in these collisions are typically severe. When a 4,000-pound SUV strikes a 150-pound pedestrian, the disparity in mass means the pedestrian absorbs almost all the collision energy. Unlike vehicle occupants protected by airbags, seat belts, and the vehicle’s structural framework, pedestrians have no protective barrier.
Even at speeds as low as 20 miles per hour, pedestrian collisions can cause life-threatening injuries. Research shows that pedestrians struck at 40 mph have an 85% fatality rate. In comparison, those hit at 20 mph have approximately a 5% fatality rate, demonstrating the dramatic impact of speed on survival and injury severity.
The typical sequence in a pedestrian-vehicle collision involves multiple impact points: the initial vehicle strike (often to the legs or torso), the secondary impact as the pedestrian strikes the hood or windshield, and the tertiary impact when the victim falls to the pavement. Each impact point can cause distinct injuries, and the cumulative effect often results in multiple traumas requiring specialized medical intervention.
The Role of Commercial Property Owners in Pedestrian Safety
Commercial property owners have legal duties to maintain reasonably safe conditions for pedestrians using public sidewalks adjacent to their properties. This includes ensuring that parking lot exits are designed with adequate sight lines, that landscaping doesn’t create blind spots, that signage warns drivers to watch for pedestrians, and that pavement markings clearly indicate pedestrian right-of-way areas.
When property design or maintenance contributes to pedestrian accidents, owners may share liability with negligent drivers. An experienced attorney will investigate whether the property conditions contributed to the collision and whether the property owner failed to meet safety standards.
California premises liability law holds property owners responsible for dangerous conditions they knew about or should have known about through reasonable inspection. Regular safety audits of parking lot exits and pedestrian crossing areas can identify and correct hazards before accidents occur.
Long-Term Impacts of Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Serious pedestrian accidents often result in injuries with permanent consequences. Victims may require ongoing medical treatment for years or even the remainder of their lives. Physical disabilities may prevent individuals from returning to their previous employment, necessitating career changes or early retirement. Chronic pain conditions can diminish quality of life and limit participation in previously enjoyed activities.
The psychological impact of being struck by a vehicle while simply walking can be profound. Many survivors develop anxiety around traffic, fear of walking near roads, and PTSD symptoms that require professional counseling and therapy. Some individuals become essentially homebound, afraid to venture into public spaces where they might encounter vehicles.
Family members also suffer when a loved one sustains serious pedestrian accident injuries. Spouses may become full-time caregivers, children may lose out on activities with an injured parent, and medical expenses and lost income may jeopardize the entire family’s financial security.
These long-term consequences must be carefully documented and valued when pursuing compensation. Accepting quick settlement offers without fully understanding the scope and duration of injuries can often leave victims without adequate resources to address their ongoing needs.
How GJEL Accident Attorneys Can Help
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we have represented pedestrian accident victims throughout Northern California for over 50 years. Our experienced legal team understands the unique challenges these cases present and the devastating impact pedestrian accidents have on victims and families.
We handle every aspect of your pedestrian accident claim while you focus on healing and recovery. Our services include:
Comprehensive Investigation: We thoroughly investigate your accident, gathering evidence including police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert analysis to build the strongest possible case.
Medical Documentation: We collaborate with your healthcare providers to ensure that all injuries are properly documented and linked to the accident. We also consult with medical experts who can testify about the extent of your injuries and future care needs.
Insurance Negotiations: Our attorneys handle all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics designed to minimize your compensation. We negotiate aggressively for fair settlements that fully compensate you for your damages.
Litigation Representation: When insurance companies refuse reasonable settlements, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Our proven courtroom success motivates insurers to make better settlement offers.
Damage Calculation: We carefully evaluate all your losses—current and future medical expenses, lost income and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages—to ensure you receive full compensation.
Access to Resources: We advance all case expenses, including expert witness fees and investigation costs, and you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Our no-win, no-fee guarantee means you face no financial risk in pursuing the justice you deserve.
Take Action Today – Get the Help You Deserve
“Being struck by a vehicle while simply walking on a sidewalk is a traumatic experience that no one should have to endure. You were doing everything right—using the sidewalk as intended—and a driver’s failure to yield properly has turned your life upside down. Right now, you may be dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future, but please know that California law is on your side. Drivers have an absolute duty to stop and check for pedestrians before crossing any sidewalk; when they fail in this duty, they must be held accountable for the harm they cause. Don’t let insurance companies minimize what you’ve been through or pressure you into accepting a quick settlement that won’t cover your long-term needs. Your focus should be on healing and recovery, not fighting with insurance adjusters. Our team has spent decades helping pedestrian accident victims secure the full compensation they deserve—not just for today’s medical bills, but for ongoing care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the impact these injuries will have on your life for years to come. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. You’ve already suffered enough—let us handle the legal battle while you concentrate on getting better. Reach out today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how we can help you move forward from this difficult time.” — Andy Gillin, Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
Don’t navigate the complex aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone. The legal team at GJEL Accident Attorneys offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your options. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for California injury victims, and we’re ready to fight for you.
Our contingency fee structure means we only get paid if you receive compensation—you’ll never receive a bill from us unless we win your case. This arrangement allows you to access top-tier legal representation regardless of your current financial situation.
Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation. Let our experience, resources, and commitment to client service work for you during this challenging time. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life after a devastating pedestrian accident.
At GJEL, we ensure that all evidence is properly preserved and that all potential sources of compensation are thoroughly investigated, allowing families to focus on healing. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney for a free legal consultation. Contact us at +1-866-218-3776 or visit our Stockton office to secure your future and compensation.
Contact Information and Local Resources
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in North Highlands or anywhere in Sacramento County, immediate legal guidance can protect your rights and improve your outcome. The following agencies and organizations provide essential services for accident victims:
California Highway Patrol North Sacramento Office
3329 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 731-6300
Website: https://www.chp.ca.gov
Services: Traffic collision reports, accident investigations, highway safety information
Sacramento Metro Fire Department
10230 Systems Parkway
Sacramento, CA 95827
Phone: (916) 859-4100
Emergency: 911
Website: https://www.metrofiredistrict.com
Services: Emergency medical response, fire services, community education programs
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department
711 G Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Non-Emergency: (916) 874-5115
Emergency: 911
Website: https://www.sacsheriff.com
Services: Law enforcement for unincorporated areas, including North Highlands, accident reports,and victim services
Mercy San Juan Medical Center
6501 Coyle Avenue
Carmichael, CA 95608
Phone: (916) 537-5000
Emergency Department: (916) 537-5100
Website: https://www.dignityhealth.org/sacramento/locations/mercysanjuan
Services: 24/7 emergency care, trauma services, rehabilitation, surgery
Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center
6600 Bruceville Road
Sacramento, CA 95823
Phone: (916) 688-2000
Website: https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org
Services: Emergency care, urgent care, specialized injury treatment
UC Davis Medical Center
2315 Stockton Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 734-2011
Emergency: (916) 734-2011
Website: https://health.ucdavis.edu/medicalcenter
Services: Level I trauma center, specialized care for severe injuries, rehabilitation services
California Office of Traffic Safety
2208 Kausen Drive, Suite 300
Elk Grove, CA 95758
Phone: (916) 509-3030
Website: https://www.ots.ca.gov
Services: Traffic safety information, pedestrian safety programs, accident statistics, and resources
Sacramento County Department of Transportation
827 7th Street, Room 200
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 874-6291
Website: https://transportation.saccounty.gov
Services: Road safety concerns, infrastructure issues, pedestrian safety improvements
California Department of Motor Vehicles
4700 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95820
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Website: https://www.dmv.ca.gov
Services: Driver records, license verification, accident reporting requirements
Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG)
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 321-9000
Website: https://www.sacog.org
Services: Regional transportation planning, pedestrian and bicycle safety initiatives
Victims of Crime Resource Center
1900 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: (916) 498-0400
Toll-Free: (800) 842-8467
Website: https://www.vcgcb.ca.gov
Services: Crime victim compensation, counseling referrals, victim advocacy
California Victim Compensation Board
P.O. Box 350
Sacramento, CA 95812
Phone: (800) 777-9229
Website: https://victims.ca.gov
Services: Financial assistance for crime-related expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and mental health counseling
Legal Services of Northern California
515 12th Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 551-2150
Website: https://www.lsnc.net
Services: Free legal assistance for low-income individuals, civil legal aid
Walk Sacramento
909 12th Street, Suite 203
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 446-9255
Website: https://www.walksacramento.org
Services: Pedestrian safety advocacy, walkability improvements, community education
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District – Spare The Air
777 12th Street, 3rd Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 874-4800
Website: https://www.airquality.org
Services: Alternative transportation resources, trip planning assistance
211 Sacramento – Community Resource Directory
Phone: 2-1-1 (or 916-498-1000)
Website: https://www.211sacramento.org
Services: 24/7 information and referral for health and human services, crisis intervention, support resources
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Website: https://www.nhtsa.gov
Services: Vehicle safety information, recall notices, pedestrian safety resources, accident statistics
Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center
Website: https://www.pedbikeinfo.org
Services: Educational resources, safety guides, crash analysis tools, advocacy information
These resources can help you navigate the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, access medical care, obtain accident reports, understand your rights, and connect with support services as you recover from your injuries.
