Louisiana roadways can be dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot, it’s imperative that you understand pedestrian right-of-way laws in Louisiana and how they pertain to your case after an accident.
Establishing who had the right-of-way is a key step in proving fault and recovering fair compensation in a pedestrian accident case. It’s important to know the rules of the road in order to make that happen.
Pedestrian Accidents in Louisiana
As a pedestrian, it’s up to you to know how to stay safe when you’re traveling on or near the road. Pedestrians have rules to follow under Louisiana law just like drivers do, even if their responsibilities are slightly different.
Pedestrians are not nearly as protected as drivers on the road. They can be at risk of serious injury at any time, especially on Louisiana roadways.
There are an average of 1,400 pedestrian accidents recorded across the state every year. In 2024 alone, there were 1,235 pedestrian injuries and 159 fatalities reported in Louisiana.
Understanding Pedestrian Right of Way Laws in Louisiana
Even though pedestrians are the more vulnerable parties on the road, they are not automatically absolved from being at fault for the accident. Pedestrians typically have the right of way on marked and unmarked crosswalks in Louisiana as long as they are following all rules of the road. This includes when vehicles are turning into their space with or without road signs present.
Pedestrians are responsible for their safety on and near the road. They can be held liable if they suddenly enter the path of a moving vehicle.
It’s important to understand these facts when determining fault for an accident. Establishing fault in a pedestrian accident largely depends on where the accident occurred and why.
Pedestrian accidents can be the result of any number of things, including:
- Distracted walkers
- Driver negligence
- Lack of proper lighting
- Poorly marked crosswalks
Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Louisiana to Help With Your Case
Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries, which is why it’s important to know how to protect yourself and recover the compensation you’re rightfully owed. Fortunately, you don’t have to do everything on your own if you hire a pedestrian accident lawyer.
Ron Austin Law has been navigating injury claims for over three decades, helping thousands of injured individuals and their families recover fair compensation for their losses after serious accidents. Since we opened our doors in 1995, we’ve successfully recovered more than $1 billion for our clients.*
Ron Austin is AV Preeminent® peer-rated through Martindale and is the Bellwether Co-Chair of the Plaintiff Steering Committee.** He’s a nationally recognized leader in personal injury and mass torts who leads a team with nearly nine decades of personal injury law experience.
Contact our team to learn more about how we can help with your case today. We’re located right off US-90 to reach our clients throughout southeast Louisiana. You can find us on the West Bank of the Mississippi River near the 24th Judicial District Courthouse. Call to set up an initial consultation today.
*Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.
**Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
