According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, nearly all Washingtonians walk on a daily basis and for about 25% – 30% of the state’s population who do not drive, walking is a necessary means of transportation. Bicycling is also not just a means of recreation but the way in which many Washingtonians commute to work and the way many of our children get to school.  Walkers and bicyclists accounted for 18.6 percent of traffic fatalities between 2013 and 2017, and 22.5 percent of serious injuries. The number of serious injuries and fatalities of walkers and bicyclists has also been increasing. There were 412 walkers and bicyclists killed in traffic crashes in the 2011-2015 period and 474 in the 2013-2017 period. During those same periods, serious injuries for walkers and bicyclists increased from 1,992 to 2,351.

In Washington, the leading action by motorists that results in them hitting someone is failure to yield to pedestrians.  While the law assigns pedestrians the right of way, it does not relieve pedestrians of using due care for their own safety.  If sidewalks are not available, walk on the edge of the road or on the left shoulder of the road, facing the traffic flow. Use pedestrian bridges when they are available.  Pedestrians are most often hit by drivers while crossing the road. Use marked crosswalks and signalized intersections when available. Every intersection is a legal crosswalk under Washington law unless it is marked as closed or where it’s located between two signalized intersections you could cross at. In addition to intersections, driveways are another place where you can expect to encounter drivers or bicyclists exiting or entering. Take an extra moment to confirm that you can cross safely.  Traffic fatalities involving pedestrians—including people in wheelchairs and those using small rideable devices such as skateboards and scooters—increased by 62.5 percent from 2010 to 2019. Crash data indicate that vehicle-travel speed is a critical factor and one of the key first steps to addressing deaths and serious injuries among pedestrians and bicyclists. Strategies to address vehicle speeds and other important safety issues for people who walk and bike are outlined in the Washington state Target Zero Statewide Traffic Safety Plan. 

Due to the physical exposure, a pedestrian involved in a collision with an automobile is at a much higher risk of serious injuries than a vehicle passenger. While there are several things that should be done quickly if you have been in a car accident, such as obtaining their insurance and driver’s license information, taking photos, and contacting your insurer, the most important thing is the health and wellbeing of all of those involved in the collision. If you are experiencing any physical or psychological symptoms following being struck by a motor vehicle, it is strongly encouraged that you present to a medical provider for evaluation and any recommended treatment.

If you have been in a pedestrian accident and have any legal related questions, please feel free to reach out to Charles McNeese and Adam Trotsky for a free phone, video, or in-person consultation. We look forward to answering any of your questions.