At Bernard Law Group, we understand your challenges and are here to help you recover. Pedestrian accidents are more than just numbers—they represent lives disrupted and futures forever altered. As your trusted Bellingham accident lawyer, we are committed to securing justice and maximum compensation for your injuries.
Our decades of experience have taught us that every case is unique. We treat you like family, fighting for the compensation and peace of mind you deserve. Let us handle the legal battle so you can focus on healing and recovery.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Bellingham
Pedestrian accidents can happen in an instant, often caused by a driver’s negligence or a failure to follow traffic laws. Some of the most common causes we see in Bellingham include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting their GPS.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers ignoring crosswalks or pedestrian right-of-way signs.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Poor Visibility: Nighttime conditions, inclement weather, or obstructed views can lead to accidents.
If you’ve been injured for one of these reasons, a pedestrian accident attorney in Bellingham can help you hold the responsible party accountable.
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Understanding Washington’s Pedestrian Laws
Washington State has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians and establish clear guidelines for motorists:
- Right of Way in Crosswalks: Under RCW 46.61.235, vehicles must stop and yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
- Prohibition Against Passing Stopped Vehicles: RCW 46.61.245 prohibits drivers from overtaking vehicles at crosswalks to allow pedestrians to cross.
- Driver Responsibility: RCW 46.61.245 also requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, especially children or those who appear confused.
These laws form the foundation of many pedestrian accident cases. As your Bellingham pedestrian accident lawyer, we’ll use these statutes to build a compelling case for your compensation.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, with little protection against the force of a moving vehicle.
Common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Fractures and Broken Bones
- Internal Injuries
- Lacerations and Contusions
These injuries often extend beyond the physical, affecting your ability to work, enjoy life, and care for your family. Our pedestrian accident attorney in Bellingham will thoroughly evaluate your case to account for all damages, including pain and suffering.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can significantly impact your case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present symptoms immediately.
- Report the Accident: File a police report to document the incident and obtain an official record.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Let us handle communications to protect your claim.
- Contact a Bellingham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Early legal representation ensures critical evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
At Bernard Law Group, we’ll guide you through every step of this process, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
The financial impact of a pedestrian accident can be devastating. We work tirelessly to secure compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for personal property damaged in the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or recklessness.
Our goal as your accident lawyer in Bellingham is to maximize your compensation so you can focus on recovery without financial stress.
Why Choose Us as Your Bellingham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
At Bernard Law Group, our approach is simple: we fight for you like family. Our track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for pedestrian accident victims speaks for itself. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experience: Decades of legal expertise in pedestrian accident cases.
- Compassion: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of your injuries.
- Resources: Our team of investigators, medical experts, and legal professionals ensures no stone is left unturned.
- Results: We’ve recovered millions for injured clients across Washington State.
When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer near you; you’re gaining a dedicated advocate committed to your success.
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Our team ensures all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal details.
Contact Us Today
Your path to recovery starts with a single step. Contact Bernard Law Group today for a free consultation. As your top-rated accident attorney in Bellingham, we’ll review your case, answer your questions, and outline your options.
Let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t face this difficult time alone—our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way. Call us now or fill out our online contact form to get started.
At Bernard Law Group, your fight is our fight.
