Got Hit by a Car While Crossing the Street. What Do I Do?

The moments after being hit by a car can be disorienting and frightening. Adrenaline may mask pain, making it difficult to assess your injuries immediately. However, even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to prioritize your health. Internal injuries and concussions might not present symptoms right away, so seeking medical attention should be your first step.

Once you’ve ensured your immediate safety, gather information. This includes the driver’s contact details, license plate number, and insurance information. If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage. These steps can be vital later if you decide to pursue legal action. Additionally, contacting a personal injury attorney early can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Navigating Washington Streets: Pedestrian Safety Essentials

Pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common. In 2022, a pedestrian was killed every 70 minutes in traffic crashes across the U.S., a statistic that underscores the risks of walking in busy areas. Washington State, with its dense urban environments, is no exception. Knowing how to navigate these risks is essential for staying safe.

Pedestrian crossing signs play a critical role in road safety, but they’re not foolproof. Drivers may be distracted or simply ignore these signs, putting pedestrians at risk. Always assume that drivers might not see you, even if you have the right of way. Taking proactive steps, like making eye contact with drivers and waiting for clear gaps in traffic, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Why Pedestrian Crossing Signs Aren’t Enough to Keep You Safe

While pedestrian crossing signs are designed to protect you, they aren’t a guarantee of safety. These signs can be overlooked or ignored by drivers, especially during busy times or in high-traffic areas. Relying solely on them can be a mistake that leads to dangerous situations.

To stay safe, it’s important to be vigilant. Always look both ways before crossing, even if you have the signal. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you, and never assume you have the right of way just because a sign says so. Your safety is paramount, and taking these extra precautions can help you avoid accidents.

8 Walking Safety Tips

Walking is a healthy form of transportation, but it comes with its risks. Here are eight tips to keep you safe while walking:

Follow the rules of the road: Always obey traffic signs and signals.
Walk on sidewalks: Whenever possible, use sidewalks to stay out of the path of vehicles.
Face traffic when necessary: If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and stay as far from vehicles as possible.
Cross streets safely: Use crosswalks or intersections, and look in all directions, including behind you, for turning vehicles.
Choose safe crossing spots: If a crosswalk isn’t available, find a well-lit area with a good view of traffic and wait for a gap before crossing.
Be cautious of driveways and parking lots: Watch for vehicles entering or exiting driveways or backing up.
Avoid impairments: Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time, even when walking.
Stay active and alert: Embrace walking, but always be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.

Pedestrians Have the Right of Way—But There’s a Catch

In Washington, pedestrians generally have the right of way at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. This means drivers are legally obligated to stop for pedestrians crossing the road. However, the reality on the streets is often more complex. Distracted or impatient drivers can put you in danger, even when you’re following the law.

Understanding your rights as a pedestrian is crucial, but so is staying vigilant. Even if you have the right of way, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the behavior of drivers around you. A moment of caution can prevent a potentially life-threatening accident.

Crossing Outside of a Crosswalk? You Still Have Legal Rights

Not all pedestrian accidents happen at crosswalks. In fact, many occur when pedestrians cross outside of these designated areas. Washington State’s comparative negligence law allows pedestrians to seek compensation even if they weren’t in a crosswalk at the time of the accident. However, the amount of compensation may be reduced based on the pedestrian’s level of fault.

This is where having a knowledgeable attorney becomes invaluable. An experienced lawyer can help navigate the complexities of comparative negligence and ensure you receive fair compensation, regardless of the circumstances of the accident.

Client Story: How Washington Auto Law Secured Justice for a Pedestrian Accident Victim

Let’s look at a real case handled by Washington Auto Law. Our client, whom we’ll call John Doe to protect his privacy, was walking home late one night after having a few drinks with friends. As he crossed the street, he was struck by a car. The accident left him with severe injuries, and he was unsure of his legal options, especially since he wasn’t in a designated crosswalk at the time.

Despite the initial challenges, Washington Auto Law took on the case, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for John’s rights. The firm’s expertise in pedestrian accident cases played a crucial role in securing a substantial settlement for John. This compensation covered his medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, allowing him to focus on his recovery.

The Crucial Role of a Specialized Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian accident cases are often more complicated than they appear. Proving negligence isn’t always straightforward, especially in situations where the accident occurred outside of a crosswalk or where both parties share some level of fault. This complexity makes it essential to have a lawyer who is deeply familiar with Washington’s pedestrian laws and has a track record of success in similar cases.

At Washington Auto Law, we understand the nuances of pedestrian accident cases. Our team has extensive experience in this area, and we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us help you secure the justice you deserve.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed, and Know Your Rights

Pedestrian safety is about more than just following the rules of the road; it’s about staying alert, being proactive, and knowing your rights. In Washington State, pedestrians have significant legal protections, but it’s up to each individual to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to avoid accidents.

If you’re ever involved in a pedestrian accident, remember that you have options, even if you weren’t in a crosswalk at the time. Legal representation can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. Washington Auto Law is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.

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