A Seattle driver who is under the influence of alcohol is much less likely to spot a pedestrian in time to avoid an accident. He or she is also much less likely to yield to a pedestrian, and may find it challenging to slow down quickly enough to avoid hitting a pedestrian. That makes intoxicated driving a major safety threat for pedestrians in Seattle.
In 2010, according to statistics from the Department Of Transportation (DOT), drunk driving was involved in approximately 47.2 percent of pedestrian fatalities. That works out to approximately 2,020 pedestrian fatalities caused by intoxicated motorists.
Pedestrians injured in an accident can suffer from severe injuries. They or their families usually have legal grounds if in a drunk driving pedestrian accident. To recover damages, claimants must establish that the motorist was negligent and caused his injuries and related damages.
Does drunk driving constitute negligence in a pedestrian accident claim?
Drunk driving typically does constitute negligence and can leave a driver liable for damages he causes. Getting behind the wheel while impaired is among the most negligent activities that a driver can do. It places the driver and all others who share the road in danger. If you can establish that the motorist was impaired – such as through blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests, eyewitness testimony, accident reports, etc. – you may recover damages.
Your claim can seek compensation for damages resulting from your pedestrian accident, including the following.
- Medical costs
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
- Disability
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
Damages like medical cost and lost income are relatively straightforward. However, future medical bills and lost earnings can be more difficult to estimate, and may require expert testimony. Further, it’s more difficult to quantify compensation for disability, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
Talk to an attorney about the accident and its impact on your life and ability to perform normal activities. Your lawyer can help you estimate the full value of your damages, as well as assist you with other aspects of your case.
Were you in an accident in Seattle? Call Max Meyers!
A driver who causes a drunk driving accident involving pedestrians is liable for damages caused to the pedestrians. Speak to accident attorney Max Meyers today for help estimating your damages, collecting evidence of negligence and liability, and filing your claim. Call 425-399-7000 to set up a consultation or use our online contact form.
