Do pedestrians have a part in preventing pedestrian accidents?

Pedestrians are just one part of every vibrant city. Seattle residents fill the city streets as they casually move from place to place. This pedestrian traffic helps to support local businesses, helps to cut back on traffic congestion and helps people get out and exercise.

With all the positives of pedestrian traffic comes some big risks. Pedestrians are often more difficult to see than other vehicles and can easily become involved in an auto-pedestrian accident. When these accidents occur, pedestrians can suffer serious and life-threatening injuries. People do not have adequate protection from larger vehicles, and, simply, don’t stand a chance.

Drivers in Washington State have a responsibility to avoid pedestrians when driving. Drivers need to be especially careful around intersections and crosswalks where people are likely to be in the street. However, do pedestrians also have similar responsibilities?

According to the Washington Department of Transportation, pedestrians are required to follow many laws when near streets and roadways. First, pedestrians are not free to cross the street whenever they like. They must follow all traffic signals just like a car would. Additionally, pedestrians are not free to bolt into the street unexpectedly. They should yield to cars and avoid leaving a curb or sidewalk in front of a car.

When near a street, people are required by Washington laws to use a sidewalk and the crosswalks. Where there are no sidewalks, people need to walk on the left hand side of the street.

No matter how safe pedestrians are, there is still the possibility of a serious accident. When these accidents occur, an attorney can help people understand their legal rights.

Matthew D. Dubin

Matt Dubin has spent more than 20 years honing his skills as one of the top personal injury lawyers in the State of Washington. In his career, Matt has focused on protecting consumers from dangerous household products, medical mistakes, roadway accidents, and many other causes of injury. Matt has recovered nearly $20 million on behalf of his clients.

Education

• University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, Washington – J.D.
• Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut – B.A.

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