Seattle Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Being hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian can turn your life upside down in an instant. You may be facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next. During this difficult time, having an experienced attorney on your side can make a meaningful difference in protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you need to move forward.

I am a Seattle, WA pedestrian accident lawyer who will fight for the full recovery you're entitled to. Serving clients across Western Washington, including the Puget Sound Area, Bellevue, Tacoma, and Everett, I can help you pursue the justice that you deserve. Reach out to me at Lake Union Law Group PLLC to schedule a free case evaluation.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you have been in an accident, the first step is to make sure you call 911 and get the appropriate personnel — both medical and non-medical — on the scene. Be sure to collect information from the other parties involved, as well as any witnesses on the scene. Afterward, contact an attorney to discuss your next steps moving forward.

If you are representing a loved one who was incapacitated or lost their life in a pedestrian accident, be sure to get information such as police reports that will be necessary to give to your attorney. Collect all of the necessary information and speak to an attorney to determine what you need to do next to move forward with a wrongful death claim.

Understanding Liability in Pedestrian Accidents

Determining who is at fault in a pedestrian accident requires careful evaluation of the circumstances. Both drivers and pedestrians have responsibilities under Washington law, and several factors may influence liability.

• Right-of-Way. Pedestrians typically have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks and at intersections with traffic signals. However, each situation must be reviewed based on the specific traffic controls and conditions present at the time of the accident.

• Pedestrian Responsibilities. Pedestrians are expected to use sidewalks when available. If no sidewalk is present, they should walk facing traffic on the left side of the roadway or shoulder. Pedestrians must also obey traffic signals and avoid suddenly entering traffic in a way that makes it difficult for drivers to stop safely.

• Driver Responsibilities. Drivers have a duty to remain alert and exercise reasonable care to avoid striking pedestrians. This includes yielding at crosswalks, maintaining safe speeds, and using caution in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.

• Additional Circumstances. Other conditions—such as poor visibility, weather, road design, or distracted driving—may also play a role in determining fault.

Compensation Available in Pedestrian Accident Claims

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages may include:

• Medical expenses

• Rehabilitation costs

• Lost income

• Property damage

• Future medical care or lost earning capacity

Non-economic damages may include:

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Loss of enjoyment of life

Washington law does not permit punitive damages in most personal injury cases.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In Washington, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Acting sooner rather than later can help preserve evidence and strengthen your case.