While it may not always be apparent, most drivers in Seattle and elsewhere are also pedestrians at some point. Once parked, a motorist will need to walk from their vehicle to get to their destination. This subjects the pedestrian to new and different dangers, which are related to traveling by foot where automobiles are also traveling.
How common are pedestrian accidents? Based on current statistics, there were a total of 5,977 fatal pedestrian accidents in 2017 in the U.S. While this is a 1.7% decrease from the 6,080 recorded in 2016, this is still a concerning rate. This amounts to roughly one pedestrian fatality every 88 minutes. It should be noted that this does not account for pedestrian kills on private property, such as parking lots and driveways. It also does not include those struck by a vehicle while using skates, a skateboard, baby stroller, a motorized device, a wheelchair or other similar devices.
When taking all traffic fatalities into account, pedestrian deaths accounted for 16% of them. It was also found that nearly a fifth of fatal pedestrian accidents involved children age 14 and younger. It was also found that 91% of the pedestrians killed were involved in single vehicle crashes and 47% involved alcohol.
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be gruesome. This type of accident has some of the most severe injuries because there is nothing to protect the pedestrian. The force of the vehicle, even if it is slow moving, could cause injuries to the head, neck and back. It could also result in broken limbs, lacerations and internal injuries. Serious injuries often mean serious medical bills. As a means to address them, a personal injury suit might be necessary. This action could help with the recovery of compensation and hold a negligent party accountable.