It is estimated that 1,000 pedestrians are injured in crosswalk accidents every day in the United States. Since pedestrians lack even the most basic physical protection, the injuries suffered are often severe and require extensive medical treatment.
When you are walking, jogging, or otherwise enjoying our public roadways and are struck by a moving vehicle, the driver is usually found to be at-fault as the driver has an obligation to safely operate his or her vehicle and yield.
When medical bills and missed time at work begin to have a long-term effect on your life, it’s time to consult with a qualified pedestrian accident lawyer who has experience representing victims of serious accidents.
Steps to Protect Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is crucial you file a police report after the incident in order to prove that the motorist was at fault for the collision. If you are not entirely sure who was at fault for the accident, please review the following laws for pedestrians in Washington State.
Traffic signals (RCW 46.61.050)
Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and traffic control devices unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer.
Sidewalks (RCW 46.61.261)
Drivers and bicyclists must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and in crosswalks.
Pedestrians on roadways (RCW 46.61.250)
Pedestrians must use sidewalks when they are available. If sidewalks are not available, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic.
Yield to vehicles outside intersections (RCW 46.61.240)
Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
Drivers exercise due care (RCW 46.61.245)
Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian upon any roadway and shall give warning by sounding the horn when necessary.
Stop for pedestrians at intersections (RCW 46.61.235)
Vehicles shall stop at intersections to allow pedestrians and bicycles to cross the road within a marked or unmarked crosswalk. See Washington’s Crosswalk Law for more information.
Bolting into traffic (RCW 46.61.235)
No pedestrian or bicycle shall suddenly leave a curb and move into traffic so that the driver cannot stop.
Talk to us first!
Talk to us before you talk to representatives from the rideshare company. It is imperative that you speak to us as soon as possible after your accident. Insurance adjusters are looking for any excuse to limit your financial recovery, but we won’t let them. Our experienced team will help you get the compensation that’s rightfully yours by holding negligent parties accountable and helping you move on with your life.
We know you have lots of questions about bringing your claim and who is going to pay for your losses. Don’t wait to get the answers you need. Call us at (360) 255-5046 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Remember, we don’t get paid unless you get paid!
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