Pedestrian accidents are a major concern in Washington state. With large population centers like Seattle and Spokane, there are many opportunities for collisions between pedestrians and vehicles. Understanding the laws regarding crosswalks and right-of-way can help reduce accidents and keep Washingtonians safe.
Crosswalk Laws in Washington
Washington has clear laws regarding pedestrian right-of-way in crosswalks. These are covered under RCW 46.61.235:
- Pedestrians have the right-of-way at intersections and crosswalks, both marked and unmarked.
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. They must slow down, stop, and remain stopped until the pedestrian has cleared the lane.
- Pedestrians cannot suddenly leave the curb and enter the path of a vehicle that is so close there is an immediate hazard.
- Once on a crosswalk, pedestrians must not unnecessarily stop or delay traffic.
- Pedestrians must yield to emergency response vehicles.
- Drivers cannot pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks.
- Pedestrians must obey pedestrian control signals at intersections.
Under Washington law, every intersection is technically considered to have a legal crosswalk, whether they are marked or unmarked. So, drivers must watch carefully for crossing pedestrians at all intersections.
Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are a few major causes of pedestrian collisions in Washington:
Driver Inattention
Driver distraction and inattention are major factors in pedestrian accidents. Drivers may be looking at cell phones, adjusting music, eating, or simply not paying attention to the road. This leads to drivers failing to notice pedestrians legally crossing at intersections or in crosswalks. Strict enforcement of Washington’s distracted driving laws can potentially help reduce these types of accidents.
Speeding
Driving over posted speed limits reduces a driver’s ability to see and react to pedestrians in time. High speeds lead to more severe injuries when collisions occur. The higher the speed at impact, the less likely it is a pedestrian will survive. Washington should consider more traffic calming measures and lower speed limits in pedestrian-heavy urban areas.
Red Light Running
Running red lights and stop signs is a frequent cause of serious pedestrian crashes. Drivers in a hurry may try to “beat the light” and end up hitting a pedestrian in the crosswalk. Increased police monitoring and stiffer penalties for red light violations could deter this dangerous behavior.
Nighttime Conditions
Pedestrian collisions are more likely to happen at night, when visibility is reduced. Crosswalks may not be well lit, and pedestrians may be less visible to drivers at night. Reflective clothing can help pedestrians be seen after dark. Cities should ensure adequate lighting at crosswalks in high pedestrian traffic areas.
Impairment
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs slows reaction times and reduces situational awareness. Impaired drivers are more likely to disregard right-of-way laws and fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Public education on the dangers of drunk and drugged driving is critical.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like speeding, tailgating, and improper passing increase the risks to pedestrians on crosswalks. Impatient and angry drivers are less likely to yield properly. Stricter speed limit enforcement can help curb aggressive driving. So can education on sharing the road safely with pedestrians.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, they are completely unprotected. This often leads to catastrophic injuries, including:
- Head trauma – Concussions, skull fractures, traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage – Paralysis, nerve damage
- Broken bones – Legs, arms, ribs, hips
- Internal organ damage – Bleeding, ruptured organs
- Road rash – Severe abrasions from impact with roadway
Pedestrian accidents frequently lead to permanent disabilities requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Sadly, many pedestrians are killed in collisions each year in Washington.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured as a pedestrian in an accident, here are some steps to take:
- Get medical help – Call 911 for emergency response. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries take time to manifest. Get checked out by paramedics or go to the ER.
- Document the scene – Take photos of the vehicles involved, skid marks, relevant signs or signals, and any property damage. Get witness contact info and any video evidence.
- Report the crash – File an official police report on the accident. Provide your account of what happened. Get a copy of the report.
- Contact an attorney – Speak with a personal injury attorney about your potential claim. They can help protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
- Keep records – Save all documents, medical bills, auto repair invoices, and other expenses related to the accident. These help support your injury claim.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Here are some tips for pedestrians to stay safe and avoid accidents:
- Use designated crosswalks and intersections when crossing. Avoid jaywalking or crossing mid-block.
- Look left, right, and left again before entering a crosswalk. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
- Cross with traffic signals when available. Do not cross against a red light.
- Watch for turning vehicles. Make sure drivers see and yield to you before crossing.
- Be visible. Wear bright clothing during the day. At night, use flashlights, reflectors, or lights.
- Avoid distractions. Don’t use phones or headphones while walking or crossing streets.
- Be alert near parked vehicles. Watch for drivers getting in/out who may not see you.
- Use sidewalks whenever possible. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
- Obey pedestrian signals. Cross quickly but safely within signal timing.
- Watch for vehicles backing up. Drivers may not see you behind them.
Staying alert and crossing safely is the best way for pedestrians to avoid becoming accident victims. Drivers should also be mindful of pedestrians and exercise extreme caution near crosswalks, schools, and high foot traffic areas.
Free Consultation for Pedestrian Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured as a pedestrian in a collision caused by a negligent driver, contact the pedestrian accident attorneys at Monge & Associates for a free consultation by calling (888) 477-0597. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Washington, Tennessee, and Virginia, we handle cases on contingency, so you pay no fees until we recover compensation for you. Let our experienced Washington personal injury lawyers review your case and help you obtain the full and fair settlement you deserve.