Phoenix consistently ranks among the most dangerous cities in America for pedestrians. Wide, high-speed roads, limited sidewalks in many areas, and extreme heat that discourages walking infrastructure investment all contribute to the problem. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the injuries are almost always severe.
Arizona Pedestrian Laws
Arizona law gives pedestrians the right of way in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Under A.R.S. § 28-792, drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians on any roadway. However, pedestrians also have duties — A.R.S. § 28-793 prohibits pedestrians from suddenly leaving a curb and walking into the path of a vehicle that is so close it’s an immediate hazard.
Under Arizona’s comparative fault system, even if you were jaywalking or crossing outside a crosswalk, you can still recover damages — your award is reduced by your percentage of fault, but not eliminated.
The Injuries Are Devastating
A pedestrian has zero protection from a vehicle impact. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, multiple broken bones, internal organ damage, severe road rash and lacerations, and death. Recovery is often long, painful, and expensive — involving surgeries, rehabilitation, and permanent disability.
Dangerous Phoenix Corridors
Our crash data identifies the most dangerous surface streets for all traffic accidents — and pedestrian accidents concentrate on these same corridors: Indian School Road, McDowell Road, 19th Avenue, 43rd Avenue, and Broadway Road. The West Phoenix grid between 43rd and 83rd Avenues is particularly dangerous.
If you were hit by a vehicle while walking in Phoenix, the Law Badgers will fight to hold the driver accountable and get you the compensation you need to recover.