Seattle Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian Crashes Can Cause Terrible Injuries

Pedestrians are vulnerable. Unfortunately, when collisions happen, pedestrians may suffer catastrophic or even life-threatening trauma. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission reports that 157 people were killed in pedestrian accidents in the state in 2023 alone. Many more pedestrians suffer severe injuries. Some of the most common pedestrian injuries in Seattle include: 

• Whiplash; 
• Torn ligaments; 
• Broken bones; 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs); and
• Spinal cord trauma.

The Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Seattle

Pedestrian crashes happen for many different reasons. With that being said, they tend to share one very notable common characteristic: Pedestrian accidents are avoidable. Proper precautions by all parties can prevent virtually all pedestrian crashes. Here are some of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Seattle: 

• Speeding: Speeding is dangerous—especially so in urban areas like Seattle that have a lot of pedestrian foot traffic. Speeding both reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of pedestrian injuries in a crash happens.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a major cause of pedestrian accidents in Seattle. Texting while driving is one of the most common (and dangerous) forms of distracted driving. Distracted drivers should be held accountable. 
• Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents in Seattle occur when drivers fail to yield at crosswalks or stop signs—particularly in busy urban areas. 
• Intoxicated Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and motor skills, leading to a higher risk of hitting pedestrians. An intoxicated driver must be held accountable—but civilly and criminally. 
• Pedestrian Error: Finally, some pedestrian accidents happen, at least in part, because of unsafe conduct by the pedestrian. Negligent acts such as jaywalking could contribute to a pedestrian collision in Seattle.

Understanding Liability in Pedestrian Accidents in Washington

Washington is a fault-based pedestrian accident state. A driver who collides with a pedestrian in Seattle is not automatically liable for a crash. Instead, legal fault for an accident depends on proving negligence. To hold a motorist responsible for a crash, an injured pedestrian must prove that the driver’s carelessness or recklessness contributed to the collision.

Washington is a comparative negligence state for pedestrian accidents (RCW § 4.22.005). Each party to a crash will be held liable for their “share” of the blame for a crash. For example, if a pedestrian is found at fault for 25 percent of their own accident in Seattle—perhaps because they crossed against a traffic signal—they will bear liability for 25 percent of their own damages.

Know the Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Injury Claims

Every legal claim is subject to a strict deadline. Under Washington law (RCW 4.16.080), there is a three year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including pedestrian injuries. Very limited exceptions to the rule apply. Be proactive: Consult with a Seattle pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after being hit by a motor vehicle.

We Fight for the Maximum Compensation for Injured Victims

In Washington, injured pedestrians have the right to seek compensation for the full scope of their damages, including non-economic ones. Our Seattle pedestrian accident lawyers fight hard to help injured victims secure the full settlement or trial verdict that they deserve. Depending on the specific circumstances of your pedestrian crash, you may be able to recover for: 

• Ambulance costs; 
• Emergency room care; 
• Hospital bills; 
• Other health costs expenses; 
• Loss of income; 
• Loss of future earning power; 
• Pain and suffering; 
• Disability or physical impairment; and
• Wrongful death of a family member.

How Our Seattle Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help

Managing the aftermath of a serious pedestrian crash is never easy. Most people have a ton of questions about their rights, their options, and what steps need to be taken next. Do not trust any insurance company for guidance. While insurers want a quick statement from a pedestrian after a crash, they are looking to build their defense—not to do right by the victim. At The Walthew Law Firm, we put the rights of injured victims first. Our firm has a proven record of success in complex cases. Among other things, our Seattle pedestrian accident attorney is prepared to: 

• Hear what happened in your pedestrian collision and answer your legal questions; 
• Investigate your pedestrian injury claim—gathering evidence to prove fault; 
• Connect with the right doctors and help you document your injuries; 
• Handle the settlement negotiations with the big insurance companies; and
• Develop a proactive strategy to help you secure the maximum financial support.

Pedestrian Accident Cases in Seattle: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Pedestrian Accident in Seattle?

As soon as possible. You should contact a lawyer right away after a pedestrian accident in Seattle. By doing so, you are taking one of the most important steps to ensure your rights are protected. A Seattle, WA pedestrian accident attorney can offer immediate advice on how to proceed and help you avoid common pitfalls that could undermine your claim. 

Do I Need a Copy of the Police Report for My Pedestrian Accident Case?

Yes. All pedestrian collisions in Seattle should be reported to law enforcement. As a pedestrian who was struck by a car, you should take action to obtain a copy of the police report. The report will usually contain critical information about the crash, including time, date, and officer observations. It can serve as a key piece of evidence in a pedestrian accident injury claim in Washington. 

How Much Compensation Can I Expect to Recover through My Claim?

There is no one “answer” to this question. Every pedestrian accident injury claim is unique. The amount of compensation you can expect to recover through your pedestrian injury claim in Seattle depends on several factors, including your ability to prove fault and the severity of your injuries. Do not let an insurer undervalue your claim. Work with a top Seattle pedestrian accident lawyer. 

What is the Typical Timeline for a Pedestrian Injury Case in Washington?

The timeline for a pedestrian injury case in Washington can vary widely. On the short end of the spectrum, your pedestrian accident claim in Seattle may be settled within a month or two. On the other hand, if there is a serious accident or a deep dispute over liability, it could take well over a year to reach a resolution in a pedestrian injury claim. 

Contact Our Seattle Pedestrian Injury Attorney Today

At The Walthew Law Firm, our Seattle pedestrian injury lawyers are always ready to go above and beyond to fight for justice. If you or your family member was hit by a vehicle, we have the experience that you can trust. Contact us today for a free, no obligation review and assessment of your case. With a law office in Seattle, we fight for the rights of injured pedestrians in King County and throughout Washington, including in Bellevue, Tacoma, and Everett.