Walking and running are not only treasured past times in Washington, but a way of life. Nevertheless, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission reports that the number of serious injuries and fatalities to walkers and bicyclists has been increasing. In fact, when the Washington State Department of Transportation (WDOT) released the numbers of pedestrian deaths in 2021, Roads & Bridges reported that they hit a 20-year high.
These concerning statistics demonstrate that prioritizing pedestrian safety is more important than ever. There are several precautions you can take to stay safe while walking or running, including:
- Obey traffic signals
- Walk on the sidewalk when possible
- Use pedestrian bridges when available
- Take care when crossing the street
- Carry a flashlight or headlight or wear reflective clothing when walking at night
- Supervise your children when near traffic
- Don’t drink alcohol and walk
What Laws Pertain to Pedestrians?
Whether you’re training for a marathon, walking your child to school, or just out and about enjoying the outdoors, it’s crucial that you understand the state laws pedestrians and drivers must follow. According to Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 46.61, pedestrians must:
- Obey traffic signals
- Use sidewalks when available
- When sidewalks are not available, they must walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic
- Not dart into traffic suddenly
- Yield to vehicles on the roadway, except at intersections
Of course, drivers too must follow the laws and exercise caution so that the roads are safe for pedestrians. When it comes to pedestrians, drivers in turn must:
- Exercise due care to avoid collisions with any pedestrian
- Honk their horn in warning when necessary
- Stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks
What Are Some of the Common Reasons for Pedestrian Accidents?
An accident can be an extremely traumatic experience, and every accident is unique. There are, however, some common factors that cause most pedestrian accidents, including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving, including the use of cell phones
- Quieter cars
- Failure to yield
- Wearing dark clothing at night
- Traffic signal violations
- Driving while intoxicated
- Failure to use caution in school zones
- Dangerous roadways and unmarked intersections
What Can You Do if You Are Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident due to a driver’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. While you might be tempted to deal with the insurance company on your own, it is important to keep in mind that the insurance company is looking to spend the least amount of money possible to settle your claim.
An experienced and reputable pedestrian accident lawyer can help you to fight for the compensation you deserve, including:
- Reimbursement for medical expenses
- Damages for disability or permanent injuries
- Reimbursement for loss of wages and loss of earning capacity
- Damages for pain and suffering
A knowledgeable attorney will know how to evaluate the unique circumstances of your accident and will be able to explain both how the law applies to your situation and how to attain fair compensation for your injuries.
At Hester Law Group, all of our attorneys are active runners and cyclists, and we are personally invested in advocating on behalf of victims of pedestrian accidents. Reach out to Hester Law Group today at (253) 300-3034 for a free consultation.