Tacoma Bicycle & Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Maximizing Compensation for Cycling & Pedestrian Accident Victims

At Hester Law Group, our attorneys are all active cyclists and runners. We run for exercise, train for competition, and participate in triathlons, run races of all distances, and even travel occasionally for marathons. We personally understand the risks that many car and truck drivers create for cyclists and pedestrians, and each of us here has experienced close calls.

Because these issues are personal to us, we are all well-trained in the laws that protect bike riders, walkers, runners, and joggers throughout Washington State. We have a personal conviction to help victims of these types of accidents get the compensation they are entitled to and deserve. If you were injured on a bicycle or as a pedestrian, call our Tacoma cycling and pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation about getting the compensation you need.

Get started today by calling (253) 300-3034 or contacting Hester Law Group online.

Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents

When drivers hit bicyclists or pedestrians, it is because they were not driving safely. Your recovery depends on obtaining the full compensation to which you are entitled, regardless of the driver’s admission of fault. Our personal injury lawyers have a strong reputation for obtaining the maximum settlements that help our clients get back up on their feet.

We can provide representation for injury circumstances involving:

• Negligent Driving: This includes failure to yield right of way, speeding, or driving under the influence.
• Bicycle Equipment Failure: Defective parts can lead to devastating consequences, and we can help identify manufacturer liability.
• Unsafe Sidewalks: Poorly maintained pathways can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

It is essential for accident victims to understand the importance of preserving evidence for their case. Acting swiftly can mean collecting vital witness statements and securing footage from nearby surveillance cameras if possible. At Hester Law Group, we assist our clients in compiling and safeguarding crucial evidence to bolster their position and drive toward a favorable resolution.

Understanding Pedestrian & Bicycle Accidents in Tacoma

In Tacoma, where the vibrant streets are frequented by pedestrians and cyclists alike, crosswalk accidents can be a significant concern. With the city's commitment to improving pedestrian safety through initiatives by the City of Tacoma and local traffic management, it's crucial for residents to be aware of the risks that still exist. Many crosswalks in the area may not have adequate signage or lighting, leading to dangerous situations for those on foot or on bicycles.

Local government resources, such as the Tacoma Police Department and the Washington State Department of Transportation, provide valuable information on traffic safety and accident prevention. However, despite these efforts, accidents still occur, often due to distracted driving or failure to yield at crosswalks. This can leave victims facing not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial burdens.

Residents of Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Lakewood, and Fife may find themselves grappling with the aftermath of a crosswalk accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies. Our team understands these pain points and is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your situation. We are here to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on recovery and getting back to your daily life.

Whether you were injured while crossing the street in downtown Tacoma or while biking through the scenic routes of Gig Harbor, we are ready to assist you. Our commitment to the local community means we are familiar with the specific challenges you face and are prepared to advocate for your rights. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in pedestrian and bicycle accidents can be complex and involves examining various factors. Typically, liability falls on the party whose negligence caused the accident. This could be a motorist failing to yield at a crosswalk, a cyclist ignoring traffic signals, or even municipal bodies if road conditions contributed to the incident. 

Hester Law Group examines all aspects, including police reports and witness statements, to assess each party's responsibility. Our comprehensive understanding of Tacoma's traffic laws and pedestrian regulations allows us to build a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific situation, aiming for fair compensation.

What is the Compensation for Damages?

A successful personal injury claim can provide financial relief for victims. Compensation may include:

• Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.
• Future Earning Potential – If the injury prevents returning to work, victims may receive compensation for lost earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, physical pain, and reduced quality of life may factor into the settlement.
• Property Damage – Reimbursement for damaged bicycles or personal belongings.

Tacoma cycling and pedestrian accident attorneys advocate aggressively to ensure victims receive fair compensation, taking cases to trial when necessary.

What are the Legal Deadlines for Filing a Claim in Washington?

Washington state imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Generally, victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to compensation.

However, some circumstances may alter this timeframe, such as cases involving minors or claims against government entities. Consulting a Tacoma cycling and pedestrian accident lawyer early ensures compliance with all legal deadlines and preserves vital evidence.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident?

Immediately after an accident, your primary focus should be on safety and health. If possible, move to a safe area out of traffic and call 911 to report the incident and obtain medical assistance. It's crucial to get a professional medical evaluation, even if injuries initially seem minor, as some symptoms may not be immediately apparent. Gather names and contact information from any witnesses while waiting for authorities to arrive. Additionally, document the scene with photographs, showing vehicle positions, road conditions, and any relevant signage. Once immediate concerns are handled, contacting a firm like Hester Law Group can provide guidance on next steps and help ensure critical evidence is preserved.

How Can a Lawyer Assist With My Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident?

Hiring a lawyer provides critical support throughout the post-accident process, from legal representation to insurance negotiation. At Hester Law Group, we aid in collecting and organizing evidence, interpret complex legal terms for your clarity, and manage communication with insurance companies to prevent low-ball settlement offers. We focus on achieving compensation that reflects your full range of losses, including medical expenses and lost earnings. Importantly, our services go beyond paperwork; we offer emotional support and guidance, helping navigate the stress following an accident while you focus on recovery.

Why Choose Local Representation for Bicycle & Pedestrian Accidents?

Opting for local legal representation offers the advantage of a lawyer with deep knowledge of Tacoma's community and legal landscape. Hester Law Group brings over 130 years of combined experience, providing insights into local nuances that influence pedestrian and bicycle accident cases. Our history and ties to the region allow for more personalized and effective service. Familiarity with local roads, habitual traffic patterns, and court expectations equips us to better anticipate challenges and opportunities within the local legal system. Choosing a local representative like us means having an advocate who is not only committed to your case but deeply connected to the Tacoma community.

While our experience certainly includes representing cyclists in Pierce and King Counties, you don’t have to have been injured in Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Lakewood, or Fife to benefit from our services. We are licensed to practice anywhere in Washington and Idaho. We also have a wide range of experience representing western Washington cycling and pedestrian victims, as well as significant experience handling injured victims’ cases in eastern Washington and in other states.

Our focus is on your needs and your goals. During your free consultation, we will give you helpful information about how to proceed with your case. Most importantly, we can help you deal with insurance companies as they try to negotiate your settlement. If your case needs to go to trial, we are prepared to do so.

Get started today by calling (253) 300-3034 or filling out this online form.