At Bernard Law Group, we are committed to representing victims of these accidents and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. As a top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, we take pride in protecting our clients’ rights and providing them with the legal support they need.
Understanding Backing Up Pedestrian Accidents in Seattle
Backing-up pedestrian accidents occur when a driver reverses their vehicle, often in a parking lot or driveway, without adequately checking for pedestrians. Unfortunately, these accidents are common in busy urban areas like Seattle.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), backover crashes account for approximately 15,000 injuries and 210 fatalities annually across the United States. Pedestrians, especially children and the elderly are the most vulnerable in these scenarios.
Seattle’s Laws Regarding Pedestrian Safety
In Seattle, pedestrian safety is governed by Washington State law, specifically RCW 46.61.235, which outlines the responsibility of drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
However, drivers are required to exercise extra caution when backing up. Washington State law RCW 46.61.605 stipulates that a driver must not back up their vehicle unless done safely and without interfering with traffic or endangering pedestrians.
Violating these laws can result in legal consequences for the driver, including fines and criminal charges. For victims, it’s essential to have an experienced Seattle backing-up pedestrian accident attorney to navigate these complexities and hold the responsible party accountable.
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Common Causes of Backing Up Pedestrian Accidents
Backing up pedestrian accidents can happen for several reasons, many of which are preventable:
- Driver Distraction: Drivers using their phones, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distracting behaviors often fail to check for pedestrians when backing up.
- Limited Visibility: Large vehicles, like SUVs and trucks, have substantial blind spots that can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially children.
- Failure to Use Backup Cameras: Modern vehicles come equipped with backup cameras, but some drivers neglect to use them or fail to check mirrors and blind spots.
- Speeding in Parking Lots: Although parking lots and residential areas require reduced speeds, some drivers fail to slow down, increasing the risk of accidents when backing up.
At Bernard Law Group, we understand these causes and investigate thoroughly to identify driver negligence. As a top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, we utilize our experience to build strong cases for our clients.
What to Do After a Backing Up Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a backing-up pedestrian accident, it’s essential to take immediate action:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation to rule out hidden trauma.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicle involved, visible injuries, and any skid marks or other evidence.
- Collect Information: Gather contact information from the driver, witnesses, and law enforcement officers. This information can be crucial when filing a claim.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: An experienced Seattle injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of receiving fair compensation.
At Bernard Law Group, we offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and provide you with the best legal options.
Compensation for Backing Up Pedestrian Accidents
Victims of backing-up pedestrian accidents in Seattle may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covering the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical needs.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for time off work due to injuries or the inability to work in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Acknowledging the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: If any personal belongings were damaged during the accident, you may be compensated for their repair or replacement.
Our role as your backup pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle is to ensure you receive full and fair compensation. We are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and fighting for pedestrians’ rights.
Why Choose Us as Your Seattle Backing-Up Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
At Bernard Law Group, we have decades of experience representing accident victims throughout Washington State. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of pedestrian accident cases, and we know how to build a compelling case to prove negligence. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Track Record: We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
- Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is unique. Our attorneys work closely with clients to tailor our strategies to their needs and circumstances.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without financial pressure.
- Top-Rated Reputation: Our firm has consistently been recognized as a top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, a testament to our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.
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How We Build Strong Cases
- Evidence Collection: We gather evidence such as surveillance footage, eyewitness statements, and police reports to establish fault.
- Accident Reconstruction: We work with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the events leading up to the accident, demonstrating how negligence played a role.
- Medical Testimony: We collaborate with medical professionals to document the extent of injuries and their long-term impact on your life.
- Negotiation and Litigation: We fight aggressively for maximum compensation, whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court.
Our experience as a Seattle backing-up pedestrian accident attorney means we know the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We are prepared to counter these strategies, ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a backing-up pedestrian accident, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact Bernard Law Group today for a free consultation. We are ready to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. As a leading pedestrian accident lawyer in Seattle, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Call us today or complete our online contact form to schedule your consultation. Let us be your trusted Seattle injury attorney and advocate for your rights.
