School Zone Crosswalk Accidents: Who Has the Right-of-way in California?

By Yosi Yahoudai Founder and Managing Partner

August 25, 2025

Car Accidents, Personal Injury

Recently, a woman walking through a marked school zone crosswalk was struck by a right-turning vehicle. She suffered a fractured shoulder and a broken tooth. This incident raises important questions about fault in pedestrian crashes when they’re in protected areas like school zones. 

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right-of-Way in a Crosswalk?

Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks. California law requires drivers to yield to foot traffic in these areas. However, pedestrians must also use reasonable care. When speed, visibility, or signal issues are involved, fault may be shared based on the situation. 

“We’ve handled cases where the pedestrian assumed a car would stop, but the driver was distracted or speeding,” says Arthur Dermendjian, Pre-Litigation Manager Attorney at J&Y Law. “The law expects drivers to yield, yes. It also requires pedestrians to stay alert. That shared duty is critical, especially when injuries are involved.” 

What Extra Protections Do School Zones Offer Under California Law?

School zones come with reduced speed limits and elevated responsibility for drivers. A driver who fails to slow down or scan for crossing pedestrians – even outside a marked crosswalk – may be found negligent. These enhanced rules are in place to protect vulnerable pedestrians. 

“The presence of children heightens the duty of care,” continues Dermendjian. Legally, a driver in a school zone is not only expected to obey reduced speed limits but also to anticipate sudden pedestrian movements. Failure to do so can amount to a breach of duty, even if the pedestrian stepped outside the lines.” 

How Is Liability Determined in a Turning Accident?

Right-turn collisions frequently fall under the driver’s liability. Still, investigations will examine speed, distraction, signage, visibility, and pedestrian behavior. Even a seemingly minor turn can carry legal consequences if safety standards weren’t met. 

What Compensation Can Pedestrian Injury Victims Seek? 

Victims may be entitled to: 

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, imaging, and therapy 

• Lost income during recovery 

• Dental treatment for injuries like broken teeth 

• Long-term rehabilitation or prosthetics, if needed 

The turning maneuver does not minimize the severity of the injuries, or the legal responsibility involved. 

Why This Case Matters 

School zones are designed to be sanctuaries for pedestrians, but even slight lapses in driver attention can lead to devastating consequences. When the law shifts more responsibility onto drivers in these zones, they must uphold that responsibility. 

“No case is too small when it involves pedestrian safety in school zones,” says Dermendjian. “A broken tooth or shoulder may not make headlines, but to the person harmed, it can be life-disrupting. Don’t trivialize anything.” 

At J&Y Law, we help families explore every option and pursue accountability when serious harm occurs in protected areas. Legal pathways exist even in cases that seem minor at first. 

Thinking Your Case Might Apply?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a school zone crosswalk accident: 

1. Report the incident and ensure a record is made with the authorities. 
2. Seek medical attention promptly, even for injuries that seem minor. 
3. Collect evidence if possible: photos, witness names, and details about signals or signage. 
4. Consult an attorney early to protect your rights and review potential compensation. 

Talk to J&Y Law About Your School Zone Accident

If you’ve been hurt in a school zone crosswalk crash, you’re not on your own. Our experienced team specializes in pedestrian injury cases and understands the unique legal protections school zones afford. 

Contact us for a free consultation. We focus on your recovery, your rights, and helping you move forward.