Author: Andy Gillin Mar 20, 2025

A male pedestrian in his 30s sustained major injuries after being struck by a compact SUV while using a crosswalk at the intersection of Churn Creek and Industrial in Redding. The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, and has raised concerns about pedestrian safety in the area.

Pedestrian Suffers Major Injuries in Redding Crosswalk Accident 1

Incident Details

According to the Redding Fire Department, emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the victim alert despite his serious injuries. The man informed first responders that he used the crosswalk properly when the collision occurred. Reports indicate he was wearing dark clothing at the time of the accident.

The Redding Police Department’s specialized traffic unit has taken charge of the investigation. Authorities have confirmed that the driver of the compact SUV is not being investigated for driving under the influence, suggesting that other factors may have contributed to this unfortunate incident.

Pedestrian Rights in Crosswalks

In California, pedestrians have the right of way when in marked crosswalks. Drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, even if the crosswalk is unmarked at an intersection. However, pedestrians are also responsible for exercising due care for their safety.

California Vehicle Code Section 21950 specifically addresses this issue, stating that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing roadways within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. 

This legal protection extends beyond simply allowing pedestrians to cross; drivers must exercise “all due care,” including reducing speed or taking other actions necessary to safeguard pedestrians’ safety. 

Additionally, courts have consistently upheld that even in cases where pedestrians may have contributed to an accident through their own actions, such as wearing dark clothing or crossing without properly checking for oncoming traffic, drivers still maintain a primary duty of care due to the significant disparity in potential harm between vehicles and pedestrians.

Safety Considerations for Pedestrians

This incident is an important reminder about pedestrian visibility, especially during early morning or evening hours. While the pedestrian, in this case, was using the crosswalk appropriately, wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight can significantly improve visibility to drivers.

Some safety tips for pedestrians include:

  • Wearing bright or reflective clothing when walking at night
  • Making eye contact with drivers before crossing
  • Avoiding distractions such as mobile phones while crossing streets
  • Using designated crosswalks and following traffic signals

Legal Options for Injured Pedestrians

Pedestrians in crosswalk accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Even in cases where a pedestrian may have contributed to an accident (such as by wearing dark clothing), California’s comparative negligence laws still allow for recovery of damages.

Injured pedestrians should know that California imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from traffic accidents. This means victims have a limited window to pursue legal action after a crosswalk collision. 

Documentation is crucial in these cases—obtaining the police report, gathering witness statements, preserving medical records, and photographing the accident scene can significantly strengthen a claim. 

Many crosswalk accident victims benefit from consulting with a personal injury attorney specializing in pedestrian accidents, as these cases often involve complex liability issues, insurance coverage disputes, and accurately calculating long-term damages, including future medical care and diminished earning capacity.

Ongoing Investigation

The intersection of Churn Creek and Industrial is a busy area with significant vehicle and foot traffic due to nearby businesses. This incident has prompted community discussions about potential safety improvements for this and similar intersections throughout Redding.

As the Redding Police Department continues its investigation, more details may emerge about the specific circumstances of this accident. These findings could potentially lead to infrastructure improvements, increased enforcement, or public awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents.

Pedestrian safety remains an important concern in urban and suburban areas alike. This unfortunate accident serves as a reminder for both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant and follow safety practices to prevent crosswalk collisions.

Catastrophic Injury Settlement Calculators

Catastrophic injury settlement calculators serve as critical tools in estimating appropriate compensation for victims who have suffered severe, life-altering injuries such as those sustained in pedestrian-vehicle accidents. 

These specialized calculators go beyond basic damage assessment by incorporating multiple complex factors including immediate medical expenses, projected lifetime medical and rehabilitation costs, diminished earning capacity, necessary home modifications, long-term care needs, and appropriate compensation for permanent disability, disfigurement, and diminished quality of life. 

Unlike simple injury calculators, these sophisticated tools help attorneys and insurance adjusters account for the extensive ripple effects catastrophic injuries have throughout a victim’s life, often spanning decades. 

However, it’s important to note that while these calculators provide valuable baseline estimates, they cannot fully capture the unique circumstances of each case, which is why experienced legal counsel remains essential in ensuring victims receive fair compensation that truly addresses the profound impact of catastrophic injuries on their lives and futures. Call us now at +1 415-986-4777 to talk to the legal experts.

Moving Forward

“As someone who has spent decades advocating for pedestrian accident victims, I understand the overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burden you’re facing right now. If you or a loved one were injured in this Redding crosswalk accident, it’s crucial to remember that California law strongly protects pedestrian rights, even in cases where visibility might have been a factor. Don’t let an insurance company minimize your suffering or pressure you into a quick settlement. You should focus on healing, while an experienced personal injury attorney focuses on securing the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Time is of the essence with these cases, so I encourage you to seek legal counsel promptly to protect your rights and future wellbeing.”- Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorney

If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and options for recovery. Consulting with an experienced accident attorney can help ensure your interests are protected and you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages sustained. 

GJEL offers free consultations and charges no fees unless we win your case. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to protect your rights and help you navigate the complex aftermath of an accident. At GJEL, we ensure all evidence is properly preserved, and all potential sources of compensation are thoroughly investigated while families focus on healing. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney for a free legal consultation. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Fairfield office for free legal advice.

Resources for Accident Victims in Shasta County

If you or a loved one were involved in this pedestrian accident or a similar incident in Shasta County, the following resources may provide assistance:

Local Law Enforcement Contacts

Traffic Safety Resources

Accident Reports

To obtain a copy of an accident report, which may be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings:

  • Visit the Redding Police Department Records Division in person
  • Call the Records Division: (530) 225-4564
  • Some reports may be available online through the Redding Police Department website

Additional Support Services

Remember to document everything related to the accident, including medical treatment, expenses, and any communication with insurance companies or other parties involved.

Author Photo

Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.