Pedestrian and Bicycle Fatalities on the Rise in Seattle

As Seattle becomes more densely populated, increasing numbers of people are abandoning their cars and bicycling or walking to get to their destinations. While this may be good for the environment, it also creates dangerous conditions that can sometimes lead to serious injuries or even deaths.

In fact, from 2013 to 2017 the number of pedestrians or bicyclists killed in motor vehicle crashes increased from 60 to 122. That’s more than a 100% increase in just 4 years.

One of the worst places in Seattle for bicyclists and pedestrians in Rainier Avenue South. A few others are Aurora Avenue North and Lake City Way.

Some people argue that increasing the number of dedicated bike lanes with concrete barriers will reduce the number of deaths, yet as new bike lanes have sprung up across the City, the number of fatalities has only increased.

There may be no easy solution to the problems that result from cars and pedestrians sharing the roads, but we can all be more careful. If you are a pedestrian or bicyclist, be aware of the traffic around you. Recognize that drivers might not be looking out for you, and they might not see you – especially at dusk or dawn. If you are a driver, be aware that you are sharing the road with bicyclists and pedestrians. Stay out of your phone and pay attention to the road and the people around you.

As long as we have motor vehicles there will always be crashes, but if each of us is a little more careful, we can reduce the frequency and severity of those crashes, and possibly even save lives.

For more information on bicycle or pedestrian versus motor vehicle crashes, please explore our website or give us a call. We’d love to hear from you.

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.

request free consultation call us at (206) 800-8000