Cars and trucks are not the only things on Washington state roadways. Pedestrians and bicyclists also frequent the streets and roads of Seattle as they move from place to place. Drivers need to understand that pedestrians have just as much right to use the roads as cars. However, pedestrians are not blessed with the protection of the steel and glass that drivers are. Therefore, when an accident occurs pedestrians are much more likely than drivers to suffer serious injuries.
Recently, a 17-year-old Washington girl was injured in a pedestrian accident. According to reports, the girl was walking along the side of a roadway when a sedan drifted out of its lane. The car hit the girl and continued to drive for some time. The driver of the car eventually returned to the scene of the accident.
The girl was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Her injuries are severe.
Police are investigating the incident and questioning the driver. This investigation will hopefully determine why the pedestrian accident occurred including whether or not drugs, alcohol or other negligent behavior was a factor in the accident.
While pedestrians are smaller than cars — making them more difficult to see in some situations — driver still need to be aware of their presence. Even the slightest mistake can alter the course of a person’s life. Drivers need to give their entire attention to the roadway and avoid situations that could put pedestrians at risk.
When a person is injured in an auto-pedestrian accident, that person may have legal rights. A personal injury suit could help that person recover expenses that are created by the accident. This compensation could include money for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages and more. With the right help, people do not have to suffer from financial consequences in addition to the emotional and physical pain caused by the accident.
Source: KOMO News, “17-year-old girl clinging to life after being hit by car in Renton,” May 29, 2014