Understanding Your Rights and Legal Options

Pedestrian accidents are tragic events that can leave victims with life-altering injuries. Whether caused by distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield at a crosswalk, the consequences of these accidents can be severe. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Puyallup, it is essential to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. At Accident Injury Law Group, we are here to provide the legal support you need during this challenging time. Our experienced attorney, Kurt Strovink, is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

Injury claims involving pedestrians are often more complicated than typical car accidents. Pedestrians, by nature, have little to no protection in the event of a collision, which can result in catastrophic injuries. Whether it is a broken bone, a traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord damage, the injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can be life-changing. A pedestrian injury lawyer is critical in securing the compensation that can help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for many reasons, but some causes are more prevalent than others. Below are a few of the most common contributing factors:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to miss seeing pedestrians in crosswalks or on sidewalks.
• Speeding: When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to pedestrians who may be crossing the street. Higher speeds also increase the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Pedestrians often have the right of way in crosswalks. However, drivers may fail to yield, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and respond to hazards, including pedestrians.

Understanding Pedestrian Injury Laws in Washington State

In Washington State, pedestrians have legal protections to ensure their safety. The law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, regardless of whether the crosswalk is marked. Additionally, pedestrians must exercise caution while crossing the road, ensuring that they are visible to drivers and crossing at designated areas.

Washington follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that both drivers and pedestrians can share responsibility in an accident. For example, if a pedestrian jaywalks and is struck by a driver who is also speeding, both parties may share fault for the accident. However, as long as the pedestrian is not found to be more than 50% at fault, they can still recover compensation for their injuries.

How a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer Can Help You

Having a dedicated pedestrian injury lawyer by your side ensures that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Here’s how a lawyer can assist you:

• Investigating the Accident: Lawyers can thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reports.
• Establishing Liability: Proving fault is crucial in pedestrian injury cases. Your lawyer will work to establish the other party’s negligence, whether it’s a distracted driver, a speeding driver, or someone failing to follow traffic laws.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may try to offer you a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. A lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court, fighting for your rights and seeking the compensation you deserve.

Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

The types of injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the accident. However, some injuries are more common in these types of accidents:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A blow to the head during a pedestrian accident can result in a traumatic brain injury, which can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and coordination.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Pedestrians who are hit by vehicles can suffer damage to their spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a collision can cause broken bones, which may require extensive treatment and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: In some cases, pedestrians may suffer internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or rib fractures.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:

Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Call the Police: Report the accident to the authorities. A police report can provide valuable evidence in your case.

Gather Evidence: If you are able to, collect any evidence that may be useful in your case, such as photographs of the scene, the driver’s information, and contact information for any witnesses.

Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies: Do not make statements to the driver’s insurance company without consulting with your lawyer first. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts.

Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Injury Lawyer: A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.

How Accident Injury Law Group Can Help

At Accident Injury Law Group, we understand the devastating impact that a pedestrian injury can have on your life. Led by attorney Kurt Strovink, our legal team is committed to fighting for the compensation that you deserve. We offer personalized legal representation and work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.

Why Choose Us?

• Experience: With years of experience handling pedestrian injury cases, we have the knowledge and skills to tackle even the most complex claims.
• Dedicated Team: Our team is passionate about fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians. We provide compassionate, hands-on support every step of the way.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Puyallup, contact Accident Injury Law Group today. Let us help you get the justice you deserve.

Contact Us Today

For a free consultation, call 253-200-5656 to speak with attorney Kurt Strovink. We’re here to help you get the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.