If you or someone you care about has been injured in a pedestrian accident, our Bellevue accident lawyer at Bernard Law Group is prepared to assist. Our team is dedicated to helping victims seek justice and secure the compensation they are entitled to for their injuries and losses.
Unique Risks Pedestrians Face in Urban Areas
Urban areas like Bellevue come with their own set of challenges for pedestrians:
Heavy Traffic and Distracted Driving
Bellevue’s streets are often crowded with vehicles, and distracted driving is a growing problem. Drivers who focus on their phones or other distractions are less likely to see pedestrians in time to stop.
High-Risk Zones Like Crosswalks and Intersections
Crosswalks and intersections are meant to provide safe passage, but they can be some of the most dangerous places for pedestrians. Drivers rushing to make a light or ignoring crosswalk signals can cause devastating accidents.
Vulnerability of Pedestrians
Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are exposed to the full impact of a collision. This makes injuries not only more likely but also more severe.
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Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian
As a pedestrian, you have specific legal protections under Washington law:
- Legal Protections: Washington state law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. If drivers fail to follow these laws and cause harm, they may be liable for damages.
- What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated: Documenting what happened and seeking legal guidance is crucial after an accident. A pedestrian accident attorney in Bellevue, WA, can help you understand your rights and options.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Bellevue
Walking through Bellevue should be safe, but pedestrian accidents happen too often. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
Distracted Driving and Smartphone Use
One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who text, check social media, or use their phones while driving often fail to notice people crossing the street.
Even a moment of inattention can result in devastating consequences for pedestrians. Staying alert and focused on the road is essential to keeping everyone safe.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving play a huge role in many pedestrian accidents. When drivers go too fast, they have less time to react and may be unable to stop to avoid hitting someone.
Reckless driving behaviors, like running red lights or weaving through traffic, increase the risk even further. Slowing down and driving responsibly can make a significant difference in reducing these incidents.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Crosswalks are meant to provide pedestrians with a safe space to cross, but some drivers fail to yield as they should. This is a common cause of accidents, especially when pedestrians have the right of way.
Drivers must remain vigilant and respect crosswalk rules to ensure everyone’s safety. As pedestrians, it’s also important to stay aware of oncoming traffic, even when you have the right of way.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to drivers in vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Fractures: Broken bones are common in pedestrian accidents due to the force of impact.
- Spinal Injuries: Injuries to the spine can cause lifelong pain or even paralysis.
- Brain Trauma: Head injuries can lead to long-term physical and cognitive challenges, impacting every aspect of a victim’s life.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
When a pedestrian accident occurs, identifying who is responsible is critical in seeking justice and compensation. Liability often depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the accident. Multiple parties may share responsibility, making it essential to investigate the incident thoroughly.
Drivers
When drivers act recklessly or ignore traffic laws, they put pedestrians at significant risk. Holding a negligent driver accountable can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages for the injured pedestrian.
Government Entities
Poorly maintained roads or missing safety features sometimes contribute to pedestrian accidents. Government entities responsible for road design and maintenance may be liable if they fail to address hazards like broken sidewalks, missing crosswalks, or malfunctioning traffic signals.
Filing a claim against a government agency can be complicated, as it often involves strict deadlines and specific legal procedures, but it can provide the compensation needed to recover.
Third Parties
Third parties, such as construction companies or businesses, sometimes create road hazards that lead to accidents. For example, a construction zone with inadequate signage or debris on the road can endanger pedestrians.
If these hazards caused the accident, the responsible party may be held liable. Ensuring all possible parties are identified and held accountable is crucial for building a strong case and securing fair compensation.
The Role of Comparative Negligence in Washington
Washington follows comparative negligence laws, which means both parties’ actions are considered. If a pedestrian shares some fault, their compensation may be reduced. A Bellevue personal injury lawyer can help minimize any unfair blame placed on you.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Medical Expenses
Medical costs are often the largest expense after a pedestrian accident. Compensation can cover hospital bills, medications, surgeries, and physical therapy.
If your injuries require ongoing treatment or future care, these expenses can also be included in your claim. Recovering from serious injuries shouldn’t leave you buried in debt, and seeking fair compensation can ease the burden of these costs.
Lost Wages
When injuries prevent you from working, the financial impact can be overwhelming. You can seek compensation for the income you’ve lost while recovering, as well as any future earnings if your ability to work has been permanently affected. This helps ensure your financial stability during a challenging time and allows you to focus on healing.
Pain and Suffering
The emotional and physical toll of an accident can be just as impactful as the financial burden. Compensation for pain and suffering covers the non-economic damages you’ve experienced, such as emotional distress, chronic pain, or a reduced quality of life. These damages acknowledge the personal hardships caused by the accident and aim to provide some measure of justice for what you’ve endured.
Our top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Bellevue knows how to counter these tactics and fight for fair compensation.
Special Considerations for Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents
If the driver flees the scene, it’s essential to file a police report immediately. Compensation might still be available through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues. Our no-win, no-fee pedestrian accident lawyer in Bellevue can guide you through this challenging process.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?
With decades of experience, we have a proven track record of helping clients recover the compensation they deserve. Our personalized approach ensures every case receives the attention it needs, making us the best pedestrian accident lawyer in Bellevue for your case.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Call Our Bellevue Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, do not wait to get the help you need. Contact our Bellevue pedestrian accident lawyer at Bernard Law Group for a free consultation.
Let us help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
