Were You Injured Because Of Someone Else's Negligence? Browse Our FAQs

Washington State Pedestrian Accident Attorney Explains Potential Options for Injury Payment 

For pedestrians, even a minor collision with a vehicle may cause serious and significant injury, and require surgery to save your life, repair trauma, and restore function to your body. Without surgery, you could be left with chronic pain, limited movement, a lowered quality of life, deformities, or the inability to return to work.  

You need a Washington State pedestrian accident attorney who can be instrumental in helping you pursue compensation from the at-fault motorist to cover your medical costs. Max Meyers Law is where accident victims get help. 

Common Pedestrian Accident Surgeries 

Pedestrian accident surgeries can have astronomical financial costs—in many cases, more than a person’s annual salary and certainly more than they can pay back in a reasonable amount of time. In fact, Americans currently owe a staggering $220 billion in medical debt, and a significant amount of that is tied to surgeries. 

But you need thorough medical treatment after suffering such a horrendous accident. A car coming into contact with a human can result in catastrophic blunt-force trauma, including injuries to soft tissue, organs, and bones. Because pedestrians rarely have any sort of head protection, traumatic brain injuries are also common. 

The most prevalent types of surgery following pedestrian accidents include: 

• Back and neck 
• Brain 
• Soft tissue 
• Surgery for setting broken or fractured bones 
• Surgery for internal injuries and internal bleeding 
• Plastic surgery

It’s important to note that surgical costs basically never happen independently of other medical expenses related to your injuries. Pedestrian accident survivors will also face: 

• Emergency room bills 
• Ambulance bills 
• Doctor’s visits before and after surgery 
• Prescription medication costs 
• Medical supply expenses 
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs 
• Lost wages 

Paying for Surgery Following Pedestrian Accidents

There are many options to help you cover medical expenses depending on the circumstances of the accident, your income, and your available insurance coverage. Most patients pay for surgery in one or more of the following ways. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP is a type of insurance coverage that typically covers medical expenses, including surgeries, regardless of who’s at fault in the accident. If you have PIP coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance provider to cover bills, including surgery costs. PIP coverage is required in some states, but not in Washington, where you have the option to decline the coverage in writing. Be aware that the standard minimum amount of coverage is $2,500—and in many cases, your surgery will be more than that amount. 

Health Insurance

If you have a health insurance plan, it may be your primary source of coverage for surgical expenses. Health insurance plans vary wildly, though, so it’s vital to review your policy to understand the extent of coverage. Co-payments, deductibles, and co-insurance may still apply, but health insurance can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Again, even with health insurance, you may be facing thousands of dollars of medical costs, especially if you have a high-deductible plan. 

Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)

Similar to PIP, MedPay is an optional coverage that can be part of an auto insurance policy. It covers medical expenses, including surgery, for the insured and passengers, regardless of fault. Again, the amount of MedPay coverage you have may vary. 

Medical Liens

In some cases, individuals may not have immediate access to insurance coverage or funds to pay for surgery. Medical liens are agreements between the injured party and medical providers, where the provider agrees to postpone billing until a legal settlement is reached. This option allows the injured party to receive necessary medical treatment without upfront costs, with the understanding that the medical provider will be reimbursed from any settlement or court award.

Medicaid or Medicare

If you qualify, government-sponsored health programs like Medicaid or Medicare may cover medical expenses, including surgery.

Liability Insurance

If you’re not at fault in the accident, the at-fault driver's liability insurance may cover your accident-related medical expenses, including surgery. The process involves filing a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. 

However, these claims are often complicated because they require you to provide evidence to prove the motorist’s negligence, determine a valuation for your claim to cover surgery costs and other economic and non-economic damages, and negotiate with insurers that may reduce or even deny compensation. Hit and run pedestrian accidents are even more complex, especially if the police investigation is ongoing as you’re trying to physically, emotionally, and financially recover. 

At Max Meyers Law, we understand how devastating it is to experience such a tragedy, and we work hard for our clients’ best outcomes in these cases.

Washington Personal Injury Attorney Max Meyers Discusses What to Do After a Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident 

Many safety features are installed in and around public roads to keep pedestrians safe, including traffic lights, crosswalks, streetlights, and sidewalks. However, private entities often own parking lots and don’t necessarily have all those safety measures in place. Add dozens of cars navigating the area, with adults, kids, and shopping carts in the mix, and it’s no surprise that pedestrian parking lot accidents are common in Washington. 

If you or a loved one is involved in one of these incidents and unsure what to do, schedule a free, confidential consultation in person or over the phone so we can learn more about your individual case and determine how we can help. 

How Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents Happen 

No one ever intends to hit someone. Most motorists do their best to keep pedestrians safe. However, there’s often a lot going on in a parking lot that puts people on foot at risk. Here are some of the more common reasons for parking lot accidents. 

Distracted Driving 

Motorists are often more focused on finding a parking spot or checking their phones than on their surroundings. They might also be on headphones or preoccupied with errands, picking up other people, and checking off their to-do lists and don’t consider parking lots to be high-risk areas. 

Back-up Accidents 

Most of us have walked through a parking lot when suddenly, a parked car begins backing up in our direction. Sometimes the driver sees you and stops—other times, a collision occurs. While a motorist might claim a pedestrian was in their blind spot, it’s important to know whoever is behind the wheel is responsible for checking their mirrors and backup cameras, and doing a physical look behind time to make sure the way is clear. If they didn’t do these things, they’ll likely be found at fault for a back-over accident. 

Speeding 

Drivers should go less than 15 mph when in a parking lot. Greater speeds create dangerous conditions for both car accidents and pedestrian accidents. If a driver is acting recklessly, they may be responsible for the accident and its related damages. 

Wrong Pedal Accidents 

Pedestrian parking lot accidents often happen when a car is just starting to move out of its spot. Unfortunately, a distracted or unaware driver can sometimes tap the gas instead of the brake, or forget to put their car in reverse instead of drive. These two mistakes can be deadly for pedestrians. 

Who’s at Fault For Your Seattle Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident? 

It’s not uncommon for injured victims to blame themselves, especially in the moments after a collision. But sometimes it can be difficult to tell who’s liable and who deserves compensation. Pedestrian accident laws indicate that usually, there are three possible at-fault parties.

Motorist 

If the driver was reckless, distracted behind the wheel, under the influence, or careless, they could be at fault for the accident and any related injuries. This means they’re responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages outlined in your claim. 

Parking Lot Owner

Most lots are privately owned by individuals or businesses, and they’re obligated to keep all areas reasonably safe for both people and vehicles. It’s possible that your pedestrian accident could have been prevented if the owner had properly maintained the area, responded to past complaints, or put reasonable safety measures in place. 

Pedestrian 

People can also be held liable for their injuries. For example, a distracted pedestrian on their phone could walk out in front of a car without warning. Or if someone is under the influence, they might fail to look before stepping off a sidewalk and into the lot. 

Additionally, other parties might be responsible for a pedestrian accident—or even multiple parties. When the Max Meyers Law legal team assesses the facts of your case, we’ll investigate all aspects of potential liability.

What to Do After a Washington Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident 

Even if you’re able to get up and brush yourself off, it’s imperative to treat the situation seriously. Injuries still happen when a vehicle makes contact with a person, even at very slow speeds. Here’s what to do in the minutes, hours, and days after your accident. 

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Care

First, call 911 and if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so arrange for a thorough medical exam.

Report the Accident 

Unlike traffic accidents on roads, law enforcement may not necessarily come to the scene of a parking lot collision and file an accident report. You may need to call them to report an injury and request an officer. Their report will also be essential evidence to support your case. 

Exchange Information

If you’re medically able, collect contact information from the involved parties, including names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, try to obtain their contact information as well.

Document the Scene

Again, if you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Note the incident's time, date, and other relevant details.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Be cautious about admitting fault or making statements that could be perceived as an admission of guilt. Even saying “I’m sorry” to be polite might be misinterpreted. Be aware that there’s often more to these accidents than meets the eye—and you might not have all of the facts. 

Follow Medical Advice and Keep Records 

Keep track of all treatments, assistive devices, physical therapy, and other related expenses. Maintain a record of communication with insurance companies and other parties involved.

Get Legal Assistance

If there are claim disputes or concerns about liability, or if you want to make certain you’re making the right legal choices and getting the compensation you deserve, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional skilled in handling the complexities of Washington pedestrian accident cases. Our team is happy to consult with you and answer any questions you have—and if we can help you obtain a rightful settlement.

Backover car accidents are so common that most automobile manufacturers consider rear-facing cameras a practical necessity. However, our Washington semi truck accident even advances in modern technology have failed to drastically reduce the annual death and injury toll of these tragic and often preventable accidents.

How Do Backover Car Accidents Happen?

A backover car accident happens when a motorist who is reversing their vehicle causes a collision. A backover car accident could occur when:

• An inattentive or distracted motorist reverses out of their driveway into oncoming traffic.
• A driver who missed a turn attempts to back up from a stop sign or traffic control signal without realizing there is a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcycle rider behind them.
• An apartment resident or shopper pulls out of a parking spot without checking behind them.

Who Is Most Likely to Get Injured in a Backover Automobile Collision?

Backover car crashes are most likely to affect:

• Children
• Pedestrians
• Cyclists
• Motorcycle riders

Where Do Backover Car Accidents Most Often Occur?

Perhaps not surprisingly, backovers most often occur in non-traffic conditions. These accidents are frequently reported in:

• Driveways
• Residential areas
• City streets
• Nonresidential parking lots

How Common Are Backover Car Accidents?

Unfortunately, while backover accidents are almost always preventable, they happen with alarming regularity. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• An estimated 292 people are killed in backover car accidents each and every year.
• An additional 13,000 to 14,000 people are injured in backover collisions annually.

While semi-trucks and other heavy, commercial vehicles are responsible for a disproportionate number of backover-related facilities, these accidents are most often caused by ordinary passenger vehicles.

Are Backover Car Accident Injuries Serious?

While most backover car accidents happen at relatively low speeds, they can still have devastating consequences. Common backover car accident injuries include but are not limited to:

• Serious bruises and contusions
• Cuts, scrapes, and lacerations
• Road rash
• Broken or fractured bones
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ injuries
• Amputation

Children are at especially high risk for sustaining serious backover car accident injuries, since the at-fault motorist may not be immediately aware that they have caused an accident.

How Can I Demonstrate Fault After a Backover Car Accident?

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a Washington backover car accident that was not your fault, you could be entitled to significant compensation through an insurance settlement or personal injury claim. You could bolster your chances of making a successful legal recovery by:

• Seeking immediate medical attention. Even if you do not believe the backover accident caused any serious injuries, you should always seek medical attention after being involved in a backover collision.
• Collecting evidence. If you do not require emergency medical services, you could take photographs of the accident site, as well as any visible injuries or property damage caused by the at-fault motorist.
• Speaking to eyewitnesses. If you believe that another person may have witnessed the backover accident, ask them for their full name, phone number, and other contact information.
• Contacting an attorney. You likely stand your best chance of making a comprehensive recovery when you have a Washington personal injury attorney on your side. Even if you were not able to gather evidence after the incident, Max Meyers Law could immediately dispatch professional investigators to review the circumstances of your accident and begin creating a compelling case for recovery.

While these accidents can have long-lasting effects, Max Meyers Law believes that nobody should have to bear the financial burden of another person’s negligence. Our experienced attorneys could help you fight for fair compensation, hold a wrongdoer accountable for their misconduct, and secure the settlement you need to begin rebuilding your life after a tragic and preventable accident.

Abdominal trauma is a common injury in accidents involving force. Unfortunately, it's also a difficult condition to detect because there may be any of several internal organs involved and because symptoms don't always show up right away. But if abdominal trauma is not treated, it can become life-threatening.

If you're a pedestrian who is struck by a car, motorcycle, or even a bicycle, you could also suffer abdominal trauma, whether from the impact of the collision itself or being knocked to the pavement. If your accident occurred due to someone else's negligence, our Washington auto accident attorney explains, you might be able to recover damages to cover your treatment. 

What Is Abdominal Trauma?

Abdominal trauma refers to any injury to any of the organs in the abdominal cavity due to force—for example, the stomach, intestines, liver, spleen, and/or pancreas. The abdominal cavity also houses other important structures like the aorta (the main blood vessel leading from the heart) and the kidneys. Any sudden impact to the abdomen can compress one or more of these organs, pushing them out of place or causing direct bruising, tearing, or internal bleeding.

Because the abdominal cavity is relatively small, even a minor injury to one of these organs can have serious consequences. When an organ is damaged, it may leak blood or other fluids into the abdomen. This can cause inflammation and swelling (known as peritonitis), which can lead to sepsis—a potentially life-threatening condition caused by infection. The particular danger with abdominal trauma is that the symptoms may not appear for hours or even days after an accident. For that reason, it's important to be seen by a medical professional immediately following a pedestrian wreck—not just to check for immediate injuries but also to monitor you for signs of trouble after the fact.

Possible Indicators of Abdominal Trauma

Since abdominal trauma can damage any of a number of organs, the symptoms of trauma can be wide and varied, as well. That being said, there are some common indicators that abdominal trauma has occurred. If you experience any of the following after a pedestrian accident, seek medical attention immediately:

• Persistent or worsening pain in the abdomen
• Swelling or bloating in the abdomen
• Low blood pressure
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in the stool or urine
• Difficulty urinating or passing stool
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Loss of consciousness

Detection and Treatment of Abdominal Trauma

If your physician suspects the possibility of abdominal trauma, they will likely order a CT scan or other imaging tests to check for internal bleeding, bruising, or organ damage. They may also order these tests as a pre-emptive measure in cases where you suffered a direct, severe blow to the abdomen—for example, in a pedestrian accident with a car. If abdominal trauma is found, you will likely be admitted to the hospital for treatment or observation. Treatment options for these types of internal injuries are basically limited to the following:

• Monitoring you (to see if the wounds heal on their own or if you get worse)
• Administering antibiotics to treat or ward off infection
• Blood transfusions (if hemorrhaging is evident)
• Surgery to repair or remove damaged organs or vessels

Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries

If you were hit by a car, bicycle, or motorcycle while walking normally on the sidewalk or crossing at a marked or unmarked intersection, the driver of the vehicle is likely liable for your injuries. Even if you were not in a crosswalk and did not have the right-of-way, drivers have a reasonable duty of care to watch out for pedestrians. If a driver didn't see you because they were speeding, texting, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent, they may be held responsible for damages. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, other parties might also be held liable—for example, the municipality where the accident occurred (if the accident was caused by a pothole or other hazard in the roadway) or the vehicle manufacturer (if a malfunction caused the driver to lose control).

Determining who is at fault when a vehicle is involved in a chain-reaction collision that results in pedestrian injury is complex and will likely involve first responders, official police or transportation investigators, insurance adjusters, and legal representation for the individual motorists. Anyone—drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians—involved in a chain-reaction or multi-vehicle collision that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities is wise to retain legal representation to protect their interests during the investigation and any legal proceedings which may follow.

When Is the Driver at Fault?

If our theoretical driver was driving recklessly, exceeding the speed limit, driving under the influence, and ignoring traffic signals, they are likely to be assigned all of the liability for the accident and will be held responsible for the injuries sustained in the chain reaction that accident caused.

Common examples of grossly negligent traffic behavior include:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Excessive speeding
• Ignoring traffic laws and traffic signals

If the driver was intoxicated and driving 20 miles over the speed limit before losing control, striking a car, veering off course, and finally hitting a pedestrian in the crosswalk, it is clear that they are guilty of gross negligence. Even if that individual claims they were not responsible for the pedestrian’s injuries because they would not have hit the pedestrian had they not hit the car first, judges and juries would see that the driver’s negligence caused both the initial accident and the pedestrian’s injuries.

When Is Another Driver at Fault?

Even though the pedestrian’s injuries were directly caused by the impact with the hit vehicle, that driver may share only some of the blame—or none at all— if it can be argued that another driver’s negligence is what led to the initial collision.

Say our theoretical motorcycle, car or truck driver is traveling within their lane, obeying all traffic signals and laws, and moving just under the posted speed limit. As the cyclist or driver approaches an intersection, another car, hypothetically traveling on the same road in the opposite direction and 20 miles above the speed limit, makes a sudden left turn across traffic without signaling. They strike the law obeying driver as they move through the intersection and send the vehicle into the crosswalk where it strikes a pedestrian.

In this case, the hit vehicle may have hit the pedestrian but, legally, that driver did not cause the pedestrian’s injuries. Instead, the injured victim and their attorney must seek damages from the other driver whose grossly negligent behavior caused the accident which caused their injuries.

When Are Both Drivers at Fault?

Comparative negligence allows for the possibility that more than one driver may contribute, in varying degrees, to the same accident. Therefore, they may share some portion of the responsibility and restitution.

If, for example, a motorcyclist was exceeding the speed limit as they drove through the intersection before being hit by the car making the illegal turn, a judge or jury could decide that the actions of the motorcyclist “slightly contributed” to the accident, even though the driver of the car was mostly to blame. In this case, the pedestrian and their attorney must negotiate with both the driver and the cyclist to receive compensation for their injuries.

When Is the Pedestrian at Fault?

Contrary to popular belief, pedestrians do not always have the right of way. This is another complexity of comparative negligence: if the pedestrian behaved in a way that was negligent of their own safety, a judge or jury could determine they share a portion of the responsibility for their own injuries.

For instance, if the pedestrian was crossing the street in the middle of the block rather than the crosswalk, lawyers for the driver’s insurance company may argue that the pedestrian voluntarily put themselves at risk and is therefore partly responsible for their injuries. In that case, even if the jury determines the driver to be primarily at fault, they will decrease the compensation the at-fault driver must pay by an amount they determine is equivalent to the extent to which the pedestrian’s negligence contributed to the problem.

Get Help From an Experienced Attorney

As a pedestrian, your best hope for full and just compensation is to contact an established, experienced attorney to represent your interests during the investigation of the accident, the negotiation with insurance companies, and the argumentation in court. Contact our offices online or call 425-399-7000 to schedule a free consultation to learn how Max Meyers can work for your rights and well-being following an accident, no matter how complex.

Related Links: Pedestrian Hit by Motorcycle What Happens If a Pedestrian Is at Fault for a Car Accident? Suing for a Fatal Pedestrian Accident

 

There are millions of people injured every year in pedestrian accidents. One of the most common places that these accidents occur are at 4 way stops. It seems there is still a lot of confusion around who has the right of way when it comes to pedestrians and vehicles on the road. While pedestrian accidents commonly occur at 4 way stops, they also happen in other areas where people are trying to cross a road…or sometimes even a highway! 

It is important for both drivers and pedestrians to understand who has the right of way in any given situation.  By having this knowledge and understanding the rules of the road, we can help reduce the number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities here in Washington state. 

Generally, Pedestrians Have the Right of Way

In general, pedestrians have the right of way. Drivers owe pedestrians a duty of care when they are out on the roads. A driver must possess a valid driver’s license and follow all traffic laws.  The sad truth is that drivers often fail at meeting the duty of care for pedestrians…and other drivers for that matter.  Here are some common examples of failure to provide duty of care:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Speeding
• Driving while distracted
• Failing to signal while turning
• Failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks

Injuries and fatalities can result when a driver fails the duty of safe driving that is owed to other drivers and pedestrians. 

Pedestrians Do NOT Always Have the Right of Way

Even though pedestrians usually have the right of way, this is not always the case. A pedestrian cannot just run across the street in the middle of vehicle traffic just because they feel like it. Entering a roadway suddenly and unexpectedly so a vehicle has no time to react is not allowed in Washington. Doing this would not only put you in danger, but it also puts those operating vehicles in the flow of traffic at risk. 

Pedestrians also owe a duty of care to other pedestrians and drivers out on the road. These are some of the common breaches of care seen by pedestrians:

• Suddenly and unexpectedly entering the roadway
• Walking in traffic areas where pedestrians are prohibited
• Jaywalking
• Entering a road or highway while intoxicated (drugs and/or alcohol)
• Crossing in the middle of the street
• Crossing the street outside of a crosswalk
• Disobeying a traffic signal (crossing the street when there is a “do not cross” signal)

Pedestrians can be held accountable for prohibited behavior just like drivers are.  In some situations, a driver and pedestrian may both be at fault in an accident. If both the driver and pedestrian are at fault in an accident, it is important to figure out the percentage of fault for each party in order to determine liability and resolve any legal claims correctly. 

Washington state Pedestrian Laws

Every state has their own pedestrian laws. Below are laws specific to the state of Washington for pedestrians:

• Traffic signals - Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and traffic control devices unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer (RCW 46.61.050).
• Sidewalks - Drivers and bicyclists must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and in crosswalks (RCW 46.61.261).
• Pedestrians on roadways - Pedestrians must use sidewalks when they are available. If sidewalks are not available, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic (RCW 46.61.250).
• Moving into traffic - No pedestrian or bicycle shall suddenly leave a curb and move into traffic so that the driver cannot stop (RCW 46.61.235).
• Drivers exercise due care - Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian upon any roadway and shall give warning by sounding the horn when necessary (RCW 46.61.245).
• Stop for pedestrians at intersections - Drivers shall stop at intersections to allow pedestrians and bicycles to cross the road within a marked or unmarked crosswalk (RCW 46.61.235). See Washington's Crosswalk Law for more information.
• Yield to vehicles outside intersections - Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway (RCW 46.61.240).

How Do You Prove Responsibility in a Pedestrian Vehicle related Accident?

It is crucial to have as much evidence when proving negligence by the vehicle in a pedestrian accident case.  Calling the police to the scene of the accident is always recommended so that a police report can be filed, however, a police report will not always show or make a liability determination for an accident.  Be sure to take the following steps after your accident:

• Make sure that you are safe and address any injuries you have sustained immediately.
• Document the scene (take photos with the camera on your phone if you can or have someone else take photos for you).
• Get the contact information from any witnesses at the scene of the accident if you can do it safely.

Negligence a Common Reason for Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are the result of negligence in most cases. There may be a rare instance where a crazy driver is out there trying to intentionally hit people, but the odds of that happening are very low.  If you as a pedestrian have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, then you may have a legal claim against the party who is responsible. Filing a claim will allow you to recover compensation for the following:

• Cost of medical treatment (doctor visits, hospital visits, surgeries, etc.)
• Income lost due to missing work
• Pain and suffering
• Other losses (Wrongful death)

How to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents

Unfortunately, not everyone is going to follow the law when it comes to the rules of the road. No one wants to be involved, hurt, or at fault in a pedestrian accident. Here are some precautions both drivers and pedestrians can take to limit the chances of being injured or involved in a fatal accident:

• Everyone should slow down at a crosswalk.  Drivers should be scanning the area for pedestrians even if they have a green light. Pedestrians nearly always have the right of way at crosswalk whether the crosswalk is marked or not. There is a chance that someone may be a slow walker and still crossing the street as well, so be on the lookout! Pedestrians should also be on the lookout before crossing at an intersection. Be sure to look both ways even if you have a signal that is telling you it is ok to cross. Also, be sure to look for drivers who may be attempting to run a yellow light.
• Make yourself easy to see.  Wear bright clothes and reflective tape when you are out on walks.  This is especially important if you are walking around at night. A study shows that in 2016, 75 percent of pedestrian fatalities happened while it was dark out. Drivers need to make sure that their headlights are turned on.
• Avoid intoxication.  48 percent of all fatal pedestrian crashes in 2016 involved alcohol (the driver and/or pedestrian). Driving drunk impairs a driver’s ability to slam their breaks on more quickly, increases the likelihood of a driver leaving the roadway, and driving up on to a sidewalk.  Pedestrians who are impaired are more likely to stumble while walking and lose their ability to pay close attention. This could cause a person to stumble into the road or have poor judgement when it comes to how close an oncoming vehicle is in relation to where they stand. 
• Avoid distractions.  Both drivers and pedestrians should avoid electronics (phones) while on the roads. Everyone needs to be alert and pay attention to their surroundings. 

 

Drivers should always do the following to prevent hitting a pedestrian:

• Always be cautious where pedestrians cross.  Regardless if they are at an intersection or marked crosswalk, you should slow to a stop. 
• Always come to a complete stop at a crosswalk.  Never slow roll through a crosswalk as it presents an unnecessary risk.
• Make direct eye contact.  Let the pedestrian know that you see them by attempting to make eye contact with them as they cross the road. 
• Allow plenty of time for pedestrians to cross.  It may take more time for children, elderly, or disabled people to cross the street. Give them enough time to do so and do not enter the crosswalk with your vehicle until they have crossed safely to the other side. 
• Never pass stopped vehicles or vehicles breaking for a pedestrian.  Slow down and stop. The last thing you want to do is to hit a pedestrian that is in the road as you try to pass a stopped vehicle. 

 

Even if you are being responsible and following the rules of the road, accidents will still happen.  If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.  Give us a call at 425-399-7000 today to get your free consultation. 

Liability when a bus hits a pedestrian will depend on the cause of the bus accident and which party acted negligently. If for example, the pedestrian ran into the path of an oncoming bus that was not able to stop in time, the pedestrian might be at fault. If the bus driver, however, was speeding, texting, under the influence of alcohol or other drugs at the time of the accident, or negligent in some other manner, the driver can be liable. Further, the bus company that employs the driver could be liable.

If you were hit by a bus, speak with a lawyer at Max Meyers Law about who might be liable. Call us at 425-399-7000.

Bus Company Liability for Driver’s Actions

Bus companies are vicariously liable for the actions of their employees, including bus drivers who strike pedestrians. In such cases, the injured pedestrian may file a liability claim against the bus company.

Further, bus companies may be directly liable for their own negligence if their actions contributed to an accident. For example, if a bus company failed to ensure its drivers possessed the proper training, and an inexperienced driver caused an accident, the bus company may be liable for its negligence.

If you are unsure of liability for a bus accident in which you were injured, please call us at 425-399-7000. We will review your accident case and explore which parties may be liable for your damages.

Does it Matter What Kind of Bus Was Involved in the Accident?

Yes, because the claims process can be different depending on whether a private company or a government agency owns the bus. Common types of buses include:

• Public transportation bus run by a government agency
• Private tour bus
• Private charter bus
• School bus

Filing a claim against the government is more complicated than filing a claim against a private entity. While governments may enjoy some degree of “sovereign immunity,” people hit by a government-run bus may still be able to file a claim for damages against the government agency. Learn more about your rights after an accident with a government vehicle.

What if the Pedestrian was Partly at Fault?

In some cases, the pedestrian and the driver are partially at fault for the accident. Even if you and the driver were negligent, you could still recover compensation for your injuries because Washington follows the rule of comparative fault.

Comparative fault reduces the amount of your recovery based on the percentage of your negligence. For example, if you were 10 percent at fault for the accident, you can recover 90 percent of your damages.

How Can a Lawyer Help You with Your Pedestrian Bus Accident Claim?

At Max Meyers Law, we will evaluate your claim and determine the best approach for pursuing compensation for your damages.

We will collect the evidence needed to build your case. This evidence can include the police accident report and testimony of other pedestrians, passengers on the bus, and the bus driver. We will gather your medical records. We will use your employment records to document your lost wages. If necessary, we will work with an accident reconstruction expert to prove to the court what caused the collision.

Since we will negotiate directly with the insurance company, you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Just be sure you do not give a recorded or written statement, as the insurance company may twist your words. Speak with a lawyer before giving any statement.

Further, never sign anything or accept money from the insurance company before talking with your lawyer about it. Sometimes insurance companies trick people into signing away their right to additional compensation by offering them a quick check early on before they know the full extent of their injuries.

We will make sure you understand every step of the process. Call the team at Max Meyers Law PLLC for help with your claim. Reach out to us at 425-399-7000 today to set up your free consultation.

If a pedestrian is at-fault for a car accident, liability will depend on the specific facts of the accident.

When might a pedestrian be liable for an accident?

Per RCW § 46.61.261, people driving cars and bicycles must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but this does not mean pedestrians are allowed to just walk out into the path of oncoming traffic. It is illegal for pedestrians in Washington State to suddenly bolt out into the path of a vehicle when the vehicle is too close to be able to stop in time. Pedestrians must also obey all traffic control devices in Washington.

If they disobey any traffic laws, they could be liable for any accident and injuries that occur.

For example, Tom was walking on the sidewalk. He approached a crosswalk and walked into the intersection without looking both ways. He did not realize the pedestrian signal was a solid red hand and that the light was green for incoming traffic. A car proceeding through the intersection did not have time to stop and hit him. In this case, Tom will be liable for his own injuries and any injuries the driver or her passengers sustained.

Consider another example: John decided to cross the street outside of a crosswalk. He saw a car coming, but crossed anyway. The driver of the car did not have time to stop and hit John. John is liable for the accident because he was jaywalking and did not give the car enough time to stop.

These accidents can be complicated, especially when they occur in an intersection. If there is a question about liability in your accident, Max Meyers can investigate your accident to determine what party had the right of way when the accident occurred.

What if the pedestrian caused the accident but was not negligent?

It is possible to cause an accident without being negligent. Many accidents have multiple causes, not all of which necessarily involve someone being negligent.

If a pedestrian tripped over a hazard on the sidewalk and fell into traffic, both the pedestrian and the driver can hold the party that is responsible for sidewalk maintenance liable.

What if the pedestrian and the driver were both at fault?

Washington follows the rule of pure comparative fault, which means that a person’s fault reduces his damages. This is true regardless of how much the person was at fault.

For example, Jack was walking down the sidewalk talking on the phone. Without waiting for the walk signal, he stepped into the intersection. At the same time, Ron turned right on red and hit Jack.

The investigation found both Jack and Ron to be 50 percent at fault. Jack had serious injuries, with damages of $50,000. Ron was uninjured. Jack’s fault will reduce his $50,000 in damages to $25,000 to account for his responsibility for the accidents.

How will the pedestrian cover the costs of any injuries?

A pedestrian can use his personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to pay any of his own medical bills and replace any lost wages from the accident. PIP covers policyholders regardless of fault.

If the driver suffered injuries in the accident, he might need to sue the pedestrian to recover compensation for his medical bills and other accident-related costs.

Because recovering compensation can be complicated in these cases, you need a Kirkland pedestrian accident attorney to help you get the compensation you need.

A pedestrian accident attorney will investigate the accident to determine exactly how it happened. Evidence your attorney might gather includes:

• Eyewitness testimony
• Surveillance video
• Red light camera footage
• Photos
• Accident reconstruction testimony

Call Max Meyers for help recovering compensation today.

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Washington State — either as a pedestrian or a driver — Max Meyers Law can help you recover the compensation you need and deserve. Call us today at 425-399-7000 to set up your free consultation.

Distracted walking is a bigger problem than most people think. Many would not think twice about walking while texting, reading, listening to music, or balancing a package; however, these behaviors can lead to devastating walking while texting accidents. While most people think the driver is at fault in a pedestrian accident, liability can be more complicated if the pedestrian was distracted.

Who is liable if a car hits a distracted pedestrian?

Liability will be different in every distracted pedestrian accident. The actions of each party will result in one of three liability situations.

A distracted pedestrian and a focused driver.

A focused driver who is driving within the limits of the law might not be liable for the accident if the pedestrian did not give the driver enough time to stop.

The driver must be able to prove s/he was not driving impaired, distracted, or dangerously.

A distracted pedestrian and a distracted driver.

When distractions affect the pedestrian and driver, both parties might share the liability. Sharing liability does not mean you cannot recover compensation. To recover the most damages in this situation, you must prove the driver was more distracted than you were.

A distracted pedestrian and a reckless, aggressive, or drunk driver.

Even though the pedestrian in this example was distracted, the insurance company could find the driver more at fault because s/he willingly engaged in dangerous behavior.

The pedestrian will need to prove the driver was aware of the danger s/he posed. To hold the driver completely liable, the pedestrian would have to prove the accident would have happened even if s/he were not distracted.

For example, if the driver ran a red light and hit a distracted pedestrian while crossing at an intersection (when the pedestrian had the right-of-way), the insurer or court might find the driver totally liable.

Why are distracted pedestrians a problem?

When we think about distractions on the road, most people tend to go directly to drivers. While driver distraction is a significant problem on our roads, distracted pedestrians are also a cause for concern.

When a pedestrian is distracted, s/he is unaware of their surroundings, which can lead to dangerous actions and decisions. For example, a pedestrian with loud music playing through his/her headphones might not be able to hear approaching traffic or sirens and step into the road without noticing a nearby vehicle.

Even though pedestrians can maneuver easier than vehicles, if they step too closely into the path of a vehicle, the vehicle might not have time to stop. The faster a vehicle goes, the longer it takes the vehicle to stop. Additionally, a fast-moving vehicle will hit a pedestrian with more force and cause more serious damages. 

How can I protect my right to recovery if I was injured while walking while distracted?

You are entitled to compensation for your injuries as long as you are not totally at-fault for the accident. Washington State's pure comparative negligence laws allow each driver to be majorly at fault and still recover compensation.

Therefore, even if your distraction was the main cause of the accident, as long as the insurance company finds you 99 percent at fault or less, you will still be able to collect the remaining percentage as a settlement.

For example, if the insurance company finds you to be 75 percent at fault and your insurance settlement is for $100,000 you would still be able to collect the remainder — 25 percent or $25,000 — as your compensation.

While $25,000 seems like a lot of money, pedestrian accident injuries can quickly top that. For this reason, you will want the insurer to find you played as little role in causing the accident as possible.

The insurance adjuster will assess your degree of fault based on the evidence you provide to support your claim for damages. In a pedestrian accident, your evidence might include:

• Police reports
• Photographs or video of the accident
• Eyewitness or expert witness statements
• Medical records

When you work with a Washington pedestrian accident lawyer, you have the advantage of working with a professional who knows the ins and outs of the injury claims process. Max Meyers Law provides free, no-obligation consultations to injured pedestrians seeking information about their rights to recovery.

Call us at 425-399-7000 to learn about how we can help your claim.

It depends. There is no one simple law that answers this question. It depends on multiple factors and multiple rules. The bottom line is that neither party has an absolute right of way at all times.

I crossed in a crosswalk. Did I have the right of way?

Not necessarily. Pedestrians must follow certain rules of the road, just as the vehicles do [RCW § 46.61.235].

This means that pedestrians do not have the right to step out into traffic and expect vehicles to come to a screeching halt. Consider this: a driver is halfway through making a right turn on red when you see that you have a walk signal. Do you have the right of way? Likely no, because you must still wait for the driver to finish his turn before entering the roadway. If you step in front of his car simply because you have the walk sign, you are violating R.C.W. § 46.61.235.

You also do not have the right of way if you crossed against a crossing signal.

You do have the right of way if you had the walk signal and began crossing before a driver started his turn.

I was already walking across the street when the car began turning. Did I have the right of way?

Whether you have the right of way in this situation depends on whether you had the walk signal and whether the driver was turning on red or green.

In either case, a driver must stop when a pedestrian is in the crosswalk that is in the lane in which the driver is driving, and any other lane of traffic on that half of the roadway [RCW § 46.61.235]. The driver must remain stopped until you have left the roadway.

This is true even if you were crossing against a walk signal. However, if you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you will likely share liability as you were disobeying traffic signals.

I crossed outside of a crosswalk. Did I have right of way?

Not likely. When a pedestrian is crossing a road at any place other than in a crosswalk, the pedestrian must yield right of way to all vehicles that are on the roadway, according to RCW § 46.61.240.

If a pedestrian jumps out into traffic in the middle of a block, the driver is not likely to be liable if he could not stop in time to avoid hitting the jaywalking pedestrian. However, under RCW § 46.61.245, drivers must “exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian upon any roadway.”

The statute also gives right of way to drivers turning right when:

• A pedestrian crosses an intersection diagonally unless specifically authorized
• A pedestrian crosses in violation of a sign or signal prohibiting crossing at a particular location

I crossed in an unmarked crosswalk. Did I have the right of way?

In many cases, there are four crosswalks at an intersection. This is true regardless of whether the crosswalk has painted lines or nothing at all.

Determining whether you had the right of way in an unmarked crosswalk is more complicated because there may not be walk signals. Pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk; to determine whether you had the right of way, you need to consider whether he turned on red or green and whether he had enough time to stop after you entered the roadway.

Do pedestrians or drivers of emergency vehicles have the right of way?

Pedestrians must yield right of way to emergency vehicles per RCW § 46.61.264.

A pedestrian can be liable for failure to yield right of way to a right turning emergency vehicle. However, if the pedestrian was already in the crosswalk when the emergency vehicle began its approach, the emergency vehicle must wait for the pedestrian to finish crossing.

Where can I get help after a pedestrian accident?

As you can see, right of way laws concerning right turns and pedestrians in crosswalks are complex. If you have been injured in an accident involving a pedestrian in a crosswalk, seek the advice of an auto accident attorney. These accidents often involve serious, even catastrophic injuries. At Max Meyers Law PLLC, we will evaluate your claim and explain your legal rights.

Call us today at 425-399-7000 to schedule your free consultation.

Many people know that pedestrians must follow certain rules when walking along roadways, but what is the definition of pedestrian?

Section 47.04.010 (23) Revised Code of Washington defines a pedestrian as, “Any person afoot or who is using a wheelchair, power wheelchair … or a means of conveyance propelled by human power other than a bicycle.”

It is important to note that cyclist are not treated as pedestrians and are subject to a different set of regulations while on the roadways. However, individuals on skateboards and roller skates are treated as pedestrians.

Why the Definition of a Pedestrian Is So Important

Why is it important to distinguish between pedestrians, bicyclists, and motor vehicle drivers? Each class of individual using the roadways and walkways (driver, pedestrian, bicyclist) must follow certain rules applicable to them. These laws dictate who can cross the street when, who was right-of-way, etc., so everybody stays safe.

And in the event of an accident, knowing who handled following which rules can help establish which party was negligent and liable for the pedestrian crash.

The Washington Administrative Code Section 504-14-940 details rules applicable to pedestrians while on the roadways. Among these, pedestrians must follow traffic control signals, vehicles must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and more. Pedestrians should be familiar with jaywalking rules, right-of-way, and other laws applicable to them as well as vehicles.

If a pedestrian violated a rule of the road – such as suddenly leaving the curb – then the pedestrian may be liable for an accident that this causes. But if a pedestrian was in a crosswalk when a vehicle overtook another car that was stopped for the pedestrian, and in doing so struck the pedestrian, then that driver may be liable.

Know the Pedestrian Laws and Call an Attorney if You're in an Accident

We are all pedestrians at some point throughout the day. Know the laws. Whether you are walking down the street, in a wheelchair, on a skateboard or roller skates, you are subject to traffic controls signals if they are in place.  And if you cross the street you must do so in the designated crosswalk. If you are crossing the street in a crosswalk that does not contain a traffic signal, you have the right-of-way, as long as you enter the street/intersection with enough time for an approaching vehicle to see you and safely stop.

If another party caused an accident that injured you in Seattle, call Max Meyers Law at 425-399-7000 to set up a consultation about your case.