Pedestrians face substantial risk of incurring serious damage if they are involved in a car accident. Their complete lack of any kind of external protection means that they may suffer serious injuries even if the accident did not involve high speeds. Washington insurance laws require that drivers carry liability insurance, but the laws don’t require that everyone carry personal injury protection—the protection used when a walker is involved in an accident. Because this is not required, individuals may have difficulty managing the costs of recovery if they are involved injured as a pedestrian. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Spokane can help to make sure you receive any compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian Responsibility in Accidents
Even walker have some responsibilities on the road. Their responsibilities are largely in place to protect them, but they can also protect drivers as well. Those who break the laws set by the Washington State Department of Transportation put themselves and others at risk. This is because one event can cause a chain reaction that can lead to a full-scale catastrophe. At the same time, drivers also have a responsibility to give walker a right-of-way or warning honk rather than hitting them. Pedestrian laws mostly dictate that they should cross where it is safe and not in a manner that would disrupt traffic. However, no matter how safe you are, you can’t do anything about negligent drivers or people on the road who aren’t paying attention.
Driver Right of Way and Pedestrians
Spokane is a busy city like others of its size. People are always in a rush to get to work, get home, pick up their children, and go about their daily lives. When drivers are in a hurry or are not paying attention, they might not see a person on the road. Although the law makes the right-of-way clear for walkers as well as for drivers, a smart driver will always be on the lookout for walkers and yield the right of way as an ethical choice. In fact, drivers may be held liable even if walkers are not crossing at a crosswalk or intersection.
Driver Fault in Pedestrian Accidents
Some states rely on no-fault laws to determine when a victim might recover costs from the person at fault. Washington is not one of those states. Instead, the person at fault is responsible for the damages, including in pedestrian accidents. In fact, this law is the reason that drivers must carry liability insurance. They can also carry insurance to cover their own damages, but they are liable for the damages to other people and property when they are at fault. This does not, however, guarantee that you will receive the compensation you need to cover your damages. In fact, if you are in an accident, you should also consider the effects it will have on you long term. Because of the severity of the injuries involved in this type of accident, you could be dealing with physical and psychological damage for the rest of your life.
Who Gets Compensated in Pedestrian Accidents?
In accidents where pedestrians survive, they and their loved ones might receive compensation. It depends on the extent of their injuries and what limits those injuries cause. However, not all walkers survive accidents. In those cases, loved ones or those who would benefit from the victim’s estate may be able to receive compensation for pain and suffering and wrongful death. A Spokane pedestrian accident attorney can offer more details depending on the specific situation.
Call Our Firm After Your Accident
Craig Swapp & Associates is experienced and ready to help you manage the details of your case and make sure you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve. Pedestrian accidents can be serious and complicated cases that you don’t want to make the mistake of navigating alone. If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident in the Spokane area, we can help. Contact our office online immediately or call (800) 404-9000 for a free consultation.
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Client Reviews
“I was concerned with all the paperwork”
Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.
Amber W.,
Spokane, WA
"I would hire them in a second"
My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.
Robert N.,
Spokane, WA
"I was afraid of the fees"
I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.
Lacey B.,
Salt Lake City, UT
"I was afraid that my issue was too small"
I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.
J. Rohas,
Caldwell, ID
"I am very pleased with the results"
My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.
Dollie J.,
West Jordan, UT