Pursuing Justice For Injured Cyclists And Pedestrians

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 6,000 pedestrians and almost 900 cyclists were killed in 2017, the most recent year for which statistics have been compiled. This amounts to one fatal pedestrian accident every 90 minutes and more than two fatal bicycle accidents per day.

When pedestrians and cyclists are involved in motor vehicle accidents, they suffer serious injuries and are often killed. If you were the victim of a pedestrian or bicycle accident, the attorneys at Durflinger Oliver & Associates PS of Tacoma can help.

Recklessness And Negligence Cause Injuries

In the state of Washington, if you are crossing in a crosswalk, you have the right of way. The law requires cars to stop for you and allow you to cross. It may not be officially marked as a crosswalk, but there is a legal crosswalk at every intersection. Even if you were not in a crosswalk when you were hit by a vehicle, chances are it was due to the negligence of the driver.

Drivers frequently hit pedestrians and cyclists if:

  • The driver is distracted. One common distraction is talking on a cellphone or texting.
  • The driver turns right on a red light without checking the intersection first.
  • The driver is going too fast and unable to stop in time.
  • The driver is crowding pedestrians or cyclists who are legally walking along the shoulder of the road.
  • The driver opens the car door and strikes a cyclist or pedestrian.

If you were injured as a pedestrian or bicyclist by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. You need to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. It may be that in addition to a negligent driver, the county or state is responsible if an unsafe road condition contributed to the accident.

Don’t Settle For Less Than You Deserve

Pedestrians and cyclists often suffer extreme and serious physical injuries as well as psychological and emotional trauma when struck by a car. After an accident, it is not uncommon for the driver’s insurer to make a settlement offer to the injured person. But almost 100 percent of the time, the offer is very low and does not consider present and future lost wages, as well as current and subsequent medical expenses and your pain and suffering.

With more than 30 years of collective experience holding negligent drivers responsible for their actions, we are well-equipped to handle your case. We will investigate all the facts, interview witnesses and arrange for the proper experts. Our lawyers know how to negotiate a settlement that is in your best interest or take the case to trial if necessary. We will work diligently to see that you receive all the compensation to which you are entitled. Email the firm or call 253-666-8927 today for your free consultation. If you are unable to travel to our offices in Downtown Tacoma, one of our attorneys can travel to you.