Tacoma offers plenty of opportunities for pedestrians to pound the pavement or hit the urban hiking trail. From the amazing views of Narrows Bridge suspended over the Puget Sound to the sidewalks lining the charming streets winding around the waterfront, getting around by foot can be a great recreational activity and fabulous exercise. However, things can turn sour in a heartbeat when a pedestrian accident occurs. Sharing space with rapidly moving vehicles is always dangerous. Factor in driver inattention, poor road conditions and other perils and a morning commute to work or leisurely stroll through the city can turn into a nightmare. If you have been involved in an accident on foot, our Tacoma pedestrian accident attorney can help you recoup your damages and get the compensation you deserve.
More than 75,000 pedestrian accidents occur in the United States each year, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, resulting in both injuries and deaths. The most-cited causes of pedestrian accidents are:
Tacoma’s Mobility Master Plan offers marked “shared use” and pedestrian paths that are separated from traffic by conventional vehicular traffic. Shared Use paths are for people on foot or bicycles, while pedestrian paths are for pedestrian traffic only. Despite sticking to these paths, pedestrians still face danger when pathways are not maintained appropriately. For example, debris in the pathway, broken pavement, and uneven sidewalks can lead to trips and falls and a myriad of possible injuries.
Drivers of motor vehicles and their insurers are almost always on the hook for pedestrian accident claims. However, there may be more than one litigant to hold to account for your injuries. For instance, if the driver who caused your accident was driving a company vehicle, the owner of the company and its insurer may be held accountable. If your accident occurred due to poor walkway maintenance, then the entity responsible for upkeep of that particular walkway may find themselves facing a liability action in court.
Pedestrian accidents can be quite severe, leaving behind a trail of injuries ranging from broken limbs and open fractures to concussions and crushing injuries. As an injured party, you may be able to collect a range of different damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, future costs of medical care, and diminished capacity to earn a living. In the case of permanent total or partial disability, your award may be significantly higher. In some instances, punitive damages may also be on the table.
Consult with Russell and Hill right away following your accident to determine what your legal options are moving forward. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and case review with our Tacoma pedestrian accident attorney now.
