Seattle Crosswalk Accident Lawyer

Crosswalks provide pedestrians, bicycle riders, and others with a safe location and way to cross busy streets and roads. However, even using crosswalks puts pedestrians at risk of being struck, especially at busy intersections.

When pedestrians are struck by vehicles in crosswalks, the result is often serious injuries and fatalities.

At Bernard Law Group, we understand how devastating crosswalk accidents can be. With Seattle’s busy streets and increasing pedestrian traffic, the risk of accidents rises daily. As your Seattle pedestrian accident lawyer, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured pedestrians and helping them secure the compensation they deserve.

Why Crosswalk Accidents Are Increasing in Seattle

Despite efforts under Seattle’s Vision Zero initiative to eliminate traffic deaths by 2030, pedestrian fatalities have been climbing. In 2022 alone, 26 pedestrians lost their lives, and this number continues to rise.

Factors contributing to these accidents include the following:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers engaging in activities like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting in-car systems can miss pedestrians at crosswalks, leading to distracted driving accidents.
• Speeding: Higher speeds drastically increase the severity of pedestrian injuries. For instance, the risk of pedestrian death rises from 5% at 20 mph to 85% at 40 mph​. ​Many pedestrian accidents in Seattle occur on arterial roads where vehicles travel faster.
• Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: Washington law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks (RCW 46.61.235), but many ignore this rule, contributing to accidents​.
• Poor Visibility and Nighttime Conditions: Accidents often occur when drivers cannot see pedestrians clearly due to darkness, weather, or insufficient street lighting. Seattle’s rainy weather adds to the challenge, reducing visibility for drivers and pedestrians alike.
• Alcohol and Drug Impairment: Both drivers and pedestrians under the influence are at a higher risk of causing or being involved in accidents. In Washington, impaired driving contributed to 400 traffic fatalities in 2023, a significant portion involving pedestrians​.
• Inadequate Crosswalk Infrastructure: Many major roads in Seattle lack sufficient pedestrian crossings, forcing people to cross at unsafe points. Areas like Aurora Avenue, known for its high-speed traffic and limited crossings, see frequent pedestrian accidents​.
• Large Vehicles on the Rise: The growing number of SUVs and trucks on the road increases the severity of pedestrian accidents. Due to their height and mass, these vehicles are more likely to cause chest or head injuries​.

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Understanding these common causes helps prevent future accidents and ensures victims have the evidence to pursue rightful compensation.

Studies show that being struck at 20 mph carries a 5% risk of death, which increases to 85% at 40 mph and 100% at 50 mph. With the growing popularity of larger vehicles, such as SUVs, pedestrian injuries are becoming more severe because of the increased impact force. Seattle faces a unique challenge with these risk factors, making legal support for victims critical.

The Most Dangerous Locations for Pedestrians in Seattle Crosswalks

Some areas in Seattle are notorious for pedestrian accidents, mainly due to traffic patterns, road design, and high vehicle speeds. Identifying these high-risk areas helps inform both safety initiatives and legal strategies for victims seeking compensation.

• Aurora Avenue North (State Route 99): Aurora Avenue is frequently cited as one of the deadliest roads for pedestrians. This arterial road has high-speed limits, limited pedestrian crossings, and minimal protections for foot traffic. With scattered crossings and heavy traffic flow, Aurora accounts for a significant portion of pedestrian fatalities in Seattle​.
• Rainier Avenue South: Rainier Avenue has long been identified as a high-risk pedestrian corridor, with multiple intersections experiencing frequent accidents. It’s a busy thoroughfare with vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and accidents often occur due to speeding and distracted driving​.
• Downtown Seattle – Pike/Pine Corridor: The downtown area, particularly near Pike and Pine Streets, experiences high daily pedestrian traffic. Congested streets, tourists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns, and delivery vehicles often contribute to accidents. Crosswalks in this area are particularly dangerous during peak hours when foot traffic is heavy.
• The University District: The University District sees many accidents due to its student population and proximity to the University of Washington. Crosswalk safety becomes a critical concern for young pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers who are in a rush to get to class.​
• Capitol Hill Neighborhood: Known for its nightlife and entertainment scene, Capitol Hill presents risks for pedestrians during evening and nighttime hours. Impaired driving and poor visibility further exacerbate the danger in this area.
• Westlake Avenue and South Lake Union: The South Lake Union area, a hub for tech workers, has seen rising pedestrian accidents as the neighborhood rapidly developed. Traffic congestion, construction zones, and heavy foot traffic make crosswalks in this area particularly hazardous​.

By understanding these dangerous zones, pedestrians can take extra precautions, and city planners can prioritize safety improvements. If you’ve been involved in an accident at one of these locations, our Seattle crosswalk accident lawyer team is ready to help you pursue compensation.

What Sets Us Apart as Your Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Seattle

At Bernard Law Group, we have years of experience representing victims of crosswalk and pedestrian accidents. We know that these cases require a deep understanding of both local laws and the physical and emotional toll accidents impose on victims. As your accident attorney in Seattle, we will:

• Thoroughly investigate your case: We gather evidence from accident scenes, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build a solid case.
• Negotiate with insurance companies: Our team ensures you aren’t short-changed by insurance providers and fight for full compensation for your injuries.
• Handle legal complexities: Seattle’s traffic laws, such as yielding requirements and crosswalk regulations, are intricate. We leverage our knowledge to present a compelling argument in your favor.

Pedestrian Laws in Washington State

Washington’s Revised Code (RCW 46.61.235) requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. However, many drivers ignore these rules, putting lives at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured, you have the right to hold negligent drivers accountable under Washington State law.

Additionally, if the accident involved driver impairment or distracted driving—a rising concern on Seattle’s roads—our Seattle injury lawyer team can pursue damages for negligence and pain and suffering.

The Role of Comparative Fault in Pedestrian Accidents

Washington follows the comparative negligence rule, meaning a victim’s compensation may be reduced based on their share of fault. Even if you were partially responsible, you could still recover damages.

As top-rated crosswalk accident lawyers in Seattle, we help clients navigate these legal nuances to maximize compensation.

What to Do After a Crosswalk Accident

If you are involved in a crosswalk accident, take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
2. Contact the police and file an accident report, ensuring accurate documentation.
3. Gather evidence, such as photos of the scene and the driver’s information.
4. Consult with an experienced attorney to understand your legal rights and options.

At Bernard Law Group, we provide free consultations to discuss your case and explore your options for financial recovery.

Why Choose Bernard Law Group?

We have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Our personalized approach and dedication to justice set us apart as a top-rated crosswalk accident lawyer in Seattle. We understand that every pedestrian accident case is unique and tailor our strategy to fit your specific needs.

With decades of experience in Washington State, we know how to navigate the local legal landscape to achieve the best results. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.

Contact Us Today

If you need a pedestrian accident attorney in Seattle, don’t wait. Time is critical in these cases to preserve evidence and build a strong claim. Call Bernard Law Group today for a free consultation, and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

By partnering with us, you choose a team committed to fighting for justice and ensuring your voice is heard. We take pride in being your trusted accident attorney in Seattle and are ready to stand by your side through every step of the legal process.