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Matthew Albrecht | Founder & Attorney | Albrecht Law, PLLC
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Our Experienced Attorneys Help Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Spokane, Washington

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ranks Washington state as one of the 10 states with the highest pedestrian fatalities in the nation. Within Washington, Spokane has consistently ranked high for pedestrian accidents and fatalities over the past few years. The statistics are sobering, and they demonstrate the need for pedestrians and motor vehicles to exercise extreme caution to prevent more unnecessary pedestrian accidents and pedestrian fatalities. Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at Albrecht Law PLLC understand the devastating impact of pedestrian injuries on individuals and their families, and we seek legal recourse for pedestrian accident victims and their families in the state of Washington.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths reached a 40-year high in 2022, with 3,434 pedestrians killed on U.S. roadways in the first half of the year alone. As reported by The Spokesman-Review, the number of pedestrians hit by cars in Spokane increased more than 40% in 2023.

Whether walking in urban areas like downtown Spokane or in the surrounding areas, an individual has a reasonable expectation to arrive at their destination unharmed if they are following pedestrian safety guidelines. Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries remain a persistent problem. If you or someone you love has sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, our personal injury attorneys at Albrecht Law PLLC are ready to help — drawing upon our knowledge and experience to pursue fair compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, during which we will review your case details and plan a tailored case strategy.

Common Injuries Pedestrians Sustain in Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can inflict various levels of harm, ranging from minor injuries to serious injuries that may be catastrophic or deadly. Some of these potentially life-altering injuries include the following:

  • Serious cuts, scrapes, and bruises
  • Head and brain injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Compound fractures
  • Neck injuries
  • Injuries to internal organs
  • Road rash
  • Joint injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Pedestrian fatalities

Beyond the obvious physical harms, these common pedestrian accident injuries can cause additional dire consequences for the injured, such as sleep problems, mood swings, and an inability to work or perform daily tasks.

Factors Contributing to Accidents That Involve Pedestrians

Several factors contribute to the high number of pedestrian accidents in and around Spokane, including:

  • Distracted Driving: With the rise of smartphones and other electronic devices, distracted driving has become a significant issue on the roads — increasing the danger for pedestrians who may be crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk.
  • Drunk Driving / Impaired Driving: Pedestrians are often struck by drivers under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
  • Exceeding the Speed Limit: Drivers who do not maintain safe speeds may not have time to avoid pedestrians, leading to tragic consequences.
  • Failure to Yield at an Intersection: Crosswalk collisions occur when motor vehicles fail to yield to pedestrians.
  • Left-hand turns: Drivers making left-hand turns often take pedestrians by surprise if they are not expecting oncoming traffic.
  • Poor lighting and visibility: Many pedestrian accidents occur at night when visibility is low. In Spokane, several areas with poor lighting make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • High traffic volume: As Spokane continues to grow in population, so does its traffic volume. With more cars on the road, there is a higher chance of accidents involving pedestrians.
  • Lack of safe pedestrian infrastructure: According to Smart Growth America, Spokane ranks 28th out of 100 metropolitan areas in the country for its Pedestrian Danger Index, which measures how safe it is to walk in a particular area based on the number of fatal pedestrian accidents and the percentage of people who walk to work. This report indicates a lack of safe infrastructure for pedestrians in Spokane, making it more dangerous for them to navigate the streets.

What Kind of Compensation Can Pedestrians Pursue for Injuries in Spokane, Washington?

Pedestrians injured in accidents may be entitled to pursue various forms of compensation, including:

  • Medical Expenses: Injured pedestrians can pursue reimbursement for medical expenses related to the accident, such as hospital bills, medication, rehabilitation, and other necessary medical treatments for injuries that may include bone fractures, bone breaks, soft tissue damage, broken bone punctures, spinal cord injuries, head and brain injuries, and other injuries caused by the accident.
  • Lost Wages: Pedestrians who suffer injuries that prevent them from working may seek compensation for lost wages. This compensation can include reimbursement for income lost due to their injuries during their recovery, and potentially for other future loss of earning capacity if the injury severity impedes the individual’s ability to work over the long term.
  • Pain and Suffering: Victims of pedestrian accidents may seek compensation for pain and suffering, which encompasses the severe pain and physical and emotional distress caused by the injuries sustained in the accident.
  • Disability or Permanent Injuries: If the pedestrian is severely injured permanently or develops disabilities due to the accident, they may be eligible to pursue damages to compensate for the long-term impact on their quality of life and earning potential.

The specific compensation available to injured pedestrians can vary based on the circumstances of each case. Factors such as the severity of injuries, the impact on the individual’s ability to work, and the extent of medical treatment required can all influence the types and amounts of compensation that may be pursued.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in the State of Washington

After a pedestrian accident, take specific steps to protect yourself.

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Depending on the severity of your injuries, seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don’t have life-threatening injuries or feel you have been severely injured, visit an emergency room, primary care physician, or walk-in clinic. Often, serious damage to the body does not appear until later, and medical documentation can support your case, if you pursue one.
  2. Contact Law Enforcement: Whether the accident involves a pedestrian or other parties, report it to the police or the Washington State Patrol (WSP) immediately and request an official report, which will also support your claim.
  3. Gather Information: If possible, collect information from witnesses and exchange contact details with the involved parties. It can be valuable for potential legal proceedings.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any visible injuries and property damage. This documentation can serve as evidence during insurance claims or legal processes.
  5. Legal Assistance: Consider seeking help from a pedestrian accident lawyer to understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue fair compensation.

Wrongful Death Claims and Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities in Washington

Fatal pedestrian accidents can devastate families and loved ones. If a pedestrian fatality was caused by the negligence or misconduct of another party, the family of the deceased may have a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim is a civil cause of action distinct from a criminal case that focuses on seeking compensation for the losses suffered by the deceased person’s family. With the help of a wrongful death attorney, the claimant must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions or negligence directly caused the individual’s death.

Do I Need a Spokane Pedestrian Accident Attorney for My Case?

Consulting a personal injury attorney can help you pursue fair and just compensation in multiple ways. An experienced attorney can navigate the legal complexities related to Washington pedestrian accidents and guide you through specific laws and regulations to protect your rights. With a profound understanding of the nuances of insurance negotiations and settlement processes, a skilled advocate can help you secure the maximum compensation appropriate for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused due to the accident.

Attorneys have the resources and ability to gather crucial evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and medical records, which help to build a strong case in support of the pedestrian’s claim, and which strengthen the chances of a successful resolution.

In situations where a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, an attorney can provide effective representation in court, advocating for the pedestrian’s rights and presenting the case compellingly before a judge and jury if necessary.

By entrusting the legal aspects to a skilled and competent attorney, a pedestrian can focus on their recovery and well-being, knowing that a professional is handling their legal interests.

Pursue the Compensation You Need After a Pedestrian Accident with Albrecht Law PLLC, Where You Are Known

A significant number of plaintiff’s lawyers have never been to trial. Although nobody wants to go to the Washington State Court of Appeals, what if your case goes to court and your lawyer has no experience? They will dump you, leaving you with no recourse to seek compensation for your injuries. Choose a lawyer from the outset who can handle going to trial if it is needed for your case. At Albrecht Law PLLC, we have gone to the Washington State Supreme Court multiple times. If you stick with us, we’ll stick with you.

Furthermore, Matt Albrecht is also recognized by the state of Washington as an expert in insurance law, as he authored the book, Washington Insurance Law and Litigation, 2023-2024 ed. (Vol. 35, Washington Practice Series).

Whether pursuing a wrongful death claim for a fatal pedestrian accident or seeking compensation after another vehicle that hit you while walking, trust the knowledgeable and experienced attorneys at Albrecht Law PLLC.

During a free consultation, we will review the details of your case and devise a strategy for seeking compensation based on the unique factors of the incident and your injuries. We combine cutting-edge technology with loyal, personalized, and courteous attention.

Contact us at (509) 495-1246(509) 495-1246 or complete our online form today to schedule your free consultation. We are here to serve you.

Albrecht Law PLLC — Our Clients Are More Than Just Cases

Frequently-Asked Questions Regarding Pedestrian Accidents in the State of Washington

What are some common pedestrian accident injuries in Washington?

Pedestrian injuries include fractures, broken bones, concussions, cuts and lacerations, disfigurement, and even paralysis — in severe cases. These common pedestrian accident injuries all require medical attention. Cases of disfigurement or paralysis can cause life-altering changes for the affected individuals.

Are there any pedestrian safety programs in Spokane or Washington?

Spokane and Washington seek to keep pedestrians safe with several pedestrian safety programs for pedestrians and bicyclists, including:

These programs demonstrate a concerted effort to enhance pedestrian safety through various initiatives, education, and infrastructure improvements in Spokane and throughout Washington.

What constitutes negligence in a pedestrian accident in Washington?

Washington follows comparative negligence laws, meaning fault can be apportioned among all parties involved in the accident. In some cases, a pedestrian may be found to have contributory negligence, so it’s crucial for pedestrians to exercise caution and obey traffic laws, such as waiting at “Do Not Walk” signals and using proper crosswalks to cross a street. Under comparative negligence laws, Washington insurers can refuse an initial claim if the claimant is even 1% at fault. Generally, the party primarily at fault for the accident is crucial in determining liability and compensation.

Can I still pursue compensation in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident in the state of Washington if I do not have the driver’s information?

Hit-and-run accidents are frequently captured on surveillance cameras, increasing the likelihood of the existence of footage showing the incident. In certain cases, your insurance policy may cover injuries sustained from these accidents. Consider hiring a lawyer to explore all options for identifying the responsible party before seeking compensation from your insurance provider.

What is required by Washington law for road users and pedestrians?

Motor vehicle drivers have a significant responsibility to pedestrians; however, pedestrians must also follow the rules for everyone’s safety. It is very important to obey traffic signals, including waiting for the walk signal at intersections equipped with pedestrian traffic lights and crossing within the designated crosswalk lines.

Pedestrians must use sidewalks when available. Absent the availability of a sidewalk, they should stay on the left side of the road and walk facing traffic. This law is aimed at injury prevention since this positioning helps drivers see better and offers more reaction time for both pedestrians and drivers to avoid vehicle strikes.

If a motor vehicle is too close to stop safely and avoid a traffic crash, pedestrians should remain on a curb or other place of safety and avoid suddenly stepping into the road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

To substantiate your personal injury claim in Washington, you must establish the following elements: that the responsible party owed you a duty of care and failed to uphold it; that the breach of duty directly caused your injuries; and that you suffered losses or harm due to the other party’s negligence.

An experienced personal injury attorney can assist you in building your personal injury case. They can help gather evidence by collecting necessary documentation and witness statements, negotiate with insurance companies to seek fair compensation, and if necessary, prepare you for trial and provide representation in court.

You have the right to file a personal injury claim in Washington, even if you were partly responsible for the accident. However, the damages you could receive may be adjusted based on your percentage of fault.

Washington operates under a pure comparative negligence system. This means that the possible damages awarded to you may be reduced in proportion to your own fault in the accident. In fact, a plaintiff can be eligible for compensation even if they are 99% at fault, but their settlement can be reduced by the same percentage. The only scenario where a plaintiff would be denied compensation is if they are 100% at fault.

In Washington, you generally have a three-year window from the date of the accident to initiate a personal injury lawsuit.

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