You did everything right. You used the crosswalk. You looked both ways. Maybe you even had the “walk” signal. But in an instant, everything changed when a driver failed to yield and struck you while crossing the street.
Pedestrian accidents at crosswalks are not only frightening—they can be life-altering. At the Law Offices of Michael Clark, we’ve seen how these accidents can lead to serious injuries, substantial medical bills, lost income, and significant pain and suffering. If you’ve been hit at a crosswalk in Washington State, understanding your legal rights is crucial to getting the compensation you deserve.
Washington State Crosswalk Laws Protect Pedestrians
Washington State law is clear about protecting pedestrians at crosswalks. According to RCW 46.61.235, drivers must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians at marked or unmarked crosswalks. This means:
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks
- Drivers must remain stopped until pedestrians have cleared their lane and the adjacent lane
- Vehicles approaching from the rear cannot pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk
These laws exist because pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection against the impact of a vehicle weighing thousands of pounds.
Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents
Despite laws protecting pedestrians, crosswalk accidents remain all too common in Washington State. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone calls, adjusting GPS)
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poor visibility due to weather or lighting conditions
- Reckless driving behaviors
Who’s at Fault When You’re Hit at a Crosswalk?
In most crosswalk accidents, the driver bears primary responsibility. However, Washington State follows a “comparative negligence” system, meaning that fault can be shared. Even if you’re found partially responsible, you can still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Potential liable parties in a crosswalk accident might include:
- The driver who hit you (most common)
- The municipality responsible for maintaining the crosswalk, if poor design or maintenance contributed to the accident
- Multiple parties in cases involving complex circumstances
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Being hit by a vehicle while walking can result in severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and recovery time. If someone else caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
It’s crucial to understand that insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by offering quick settlements that may not cover your long-term needs. Before accepting any offer, contact us for a free consultation to ensure your rights are protected.
Steps to Take After Being Hit in a Crosswalk
If you’ve been hit by a car while using a crosswalk, taking the following steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report
- Gather evidence at the scene if possible (photos, witness contact information)
- Document your injuries and keep records of all medical treatments
- Avoid discussing the accident on social media
- Contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney before speaking with insurance companies
What If the Driver Fled the Scene?
Hit-and-run accidents at crosswalks happen more often than you might think. If the driver who hit you left the scene, you still have options:
- Your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) may provide compensation
- Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can help with immediate medical expenses
- Our attorneys can work with law enforcement to try to identify the driver
- We can explore all possible sources of compensation, even without identifying the driver
Learn more about UIM coverage through the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner .
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
In Washington State, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if your claim involves a government entity (such as for poorly maintained crosswalks), special notice requirements and shorter deadlines may apply.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact our pedestrian injury attorneys as soon as possible to protect your rights.
How the Law Offices of Michael Clark Can Help
For over 25 years, our talented attorneys have been helping pedestrian accident victims throughout the Puget Sound region. When you work with us, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident
- Gather and preserve critical evidence
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Consult with medical experts to understand the full extent of your injuries
- Calculate the true value of your claim, including future expenses
- Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
- Take your case to trial if necessary
Our team understands the devastating impact a crosswalk accident can have on your life. We’re committed to helping you pursue the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries while providing the compassionate support you need during this difficult time.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
If you or a loved one has been hit by a car while using a crosswalk in Washington State, don’t face this challenging situation alone. The Law Offices of Michael Clark is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or request a consultation online to discuss your case with our experienced pedestrian injury attorneys.