Seattle Running or Darting Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in Seattle, particularly those involving individuals who run or dart into the street. These incidents can occur suddenly, leaving drivers with little time to react and often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.

At Bernard Law Group, our Seattle running or darting pedestrian accident attorneys help victims and their families navigate these complex situations and seek the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Running or Darting Pedestrian Accidents

Running or darting pedestrian accidents typically occur when a person suddenly moves into the path of an oncoming vehicle. These accidents are common in busy urban areas like Seattle, where pedestrians and vehicles share the roads and intersections. Children are particularly at risk, as they may run into traffic without checking for vehicles.

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), pedestrian accidents account for approximately 17% of all traffic fatalities in the state. In Seattle specifically, these accidents are a serious concern, with the city’s Vision Zero initiative aiming to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

While this initiative has improved pedestrian safety, running or darting incidents remain a significant challenge.

Common Causes of Running or Darting Pedestrian Accidents

Several factors contribute to running or darting pedestrian accidents in Seattle:

1. Distracted Pedestrians: With the rise of smartphone usage, distracted walking is a common issue. Pedestrians may cross streets without checking for vehicles because they look at their phones.
2. Impaired Pedestrians: Alcohol and drug use can impair judgment and reaction time, leading individuals to run into the road unexpectedly.
3. Children Playing Near Traffic: Children may not fully understand the dangers of moving vehicles, making them more likely to dart into traffic while playing or chasing after something.
4. Poorly Marked Crosswalks or Intersections: In some areas, inadequate signage or crosswalk markings can confuse pedestrians, leading them to cross streets at unsafe points.

Washington State Laws on Pedestrian Accidents

Washington State law recognizes pedestrians’ vulnerability and places a duty of care on drivers and pedestrians to prevent accidents. According to RCW 46.61.235, drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.

However, pedestrians must also exercise caution and not suddenly leave a curb or place of safety in a way that creates an immediate hazard.

Determining liability in cases where a pedestrian darts or runs into traffic can be complicated. Courts often consider whether the driver was adhering to speed limits, paying attention, and taking reasonable steps to avoid the collision.

Our Seattle running or darting pedestrian accident attorneys have the experience to investigate these factors and determine the liable party, whether it’s the pedestrian, driver, or even a third party, such as a municipality responsible for road safety.

What to Do After a Running or Darting Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a running or darting pedestrian accident, acting quickly to protect your rights and gather critical evidence is crucial. Here are the steps we recommend:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Reporting the accident to the police is vital for creating an official record. The police report can be important evidence when building your case.
• Collect Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including skid marks, traffic signals, and the positioning of vehicles and pedestrians. Gather contact information from witnesses who can provide statements about what happened.
• Consult a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Seattle: Having a legal professional on your side is critical. Our top-rated pedestrian accident lawyers in Seattle can help you gather and preserve evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights.

How We Can Help You

At Bernard Law Group, we understand the complexities of running or darting pedestrian accidents. We have helped numerous victims and their families recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our experience as Seattle injury attorneys allows us to build a strong case through negotiation or litigation and seek the best possible outcome for you.

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection

We work closely with accident reconstruction experts and gather evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports to establish liability. In cases involving children or impaired individuals, we also evaluate potential negligence on the part of caregivers or establishments that may have overserved alcohol.

Navigating Insurance and Legal Complexities

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in pedestrian accidents where liability can be contested. Our Seattle running or darting pedestrian accident lawyers know the tactics insurers use and how to counter them. We negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, and if necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court.

The Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of running or darting pedestrian accidents in Seattle may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional trauma resulting from the accident can also be factored into your settlement or award.
• Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Seattle’s Vision Zero Initiative: A Step Toward Safer Streets

Seattle’s Vision Zero initiative aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2030. The initiative has led to numerous safety improvements, including installing more crosswalks, speed bumps, and signage to reduce accidents.

However, while these efforts progress, running or darting pedestrian accidents remain a concern, particularly in high-traffic areas like downtown Seattle and school zones.

Our team at Bernard Law Group supports these efforts but recognizes that accidents still occur even with safety measures. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and push for greater pedestrian safety measures throughout the city.

Why Choose Bernard Law Group?

As a top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, we pride ourselves on our track record of success and dedication to our clients. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures that our focus remains on achieving your best possible results.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a running or darting pedestrian accident in Seattle, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you consult with our pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for your rights.