Tacoma Bicycle & Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Maximizing Compensation for Cycling & Pedestrian Accident Victims

At Hester Law Group, our attorneys are all active cyclists and runners. We run for exercise, train for competition, and participate in triathlons, run races of all distances, and even travel occasionally for marathons. We personally understand the risks that many car and truck drivers create for cyclists and pedestrians, and each of us here has experienced close calls.

Because these issues are personal to us, we stay well-versed in the laws that protect bike riders, walkers, runners, and joggers throughout Washington State. We have a firm conviction to support victims of these types of accidents in pursuing the compensation they are entitled to and deserve. If you have been injured on a bicycle or as a pedestrian, contact our Tacoma bicycle accident attorneys or pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation about getting the compensation you need.

Get started today by calling (253) 300-3034 or contacting Hester Law Group online.

Understanding Pedestrian & Bicycle Accidents in Tacoma

In Tacoma, where the vibrant streets are frequented by pedestrians and cyclists alike, crosswalk accidents can be a significant concern. With the city's commitment to improving pedestrian safety through initiatives by the City of Tacoma and local traffic management, it's crucial for residents to be aware of the risks that still exist. 

Many crosswalks in the area may not have adequate signage or lighting, leading to dangerous situations for those on foot or on bicycles.

Local government resources, such as the Tacoma Police Department and the Washington State Department of Transportation, provide valuable information on traffic safety and accident prevention. However, despite these efforts, accidents still occur, often due to distracted driving or failure to yield at crosswalks. This can leave victims facing not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial burdens.

Residents of Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Lakewood, and Fife may find themselves grappling with the aftermath of a crosswalk accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies. Our Tacoma bicycle and pedestrian accident lawyers understand these pain points and are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your situation.

What are the Key Rights and Responsibilities on the Road?

• The Crosswalk Rule (RCW 46.61.235): Every intersection is a legal crosswalk, whether marked or unmarked. Drivers must stop for pedestrians (and cyclists riding in the crosswalk) in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. It is illegal to pass a vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian.
• Bicyclists' Rights (RCW 46.61.755): When riding on the roadway, a bicyclist has the same rights and responsibilities as a vehicle driver. Drivers must afford them the full width of the lane if conditions make riding near the curb unsafe.
• Safe Passing (RCW 46.61.110): Drivers passing a cyclist must move completely into the adjacent lane when safe to do so or leave at least three feet of clearance while passing.
• Pedestrian Sidewalks: Pedestrians must use sidewalks when available. If not available, they must walk on the left side of the roadway or shoulder, facing traffic (RCW 46.61.250).

As a dedicated bicycle and pedestrian accident attorney in Tacoma, we analyze police reports and the scene to establish precisely how the driver violated these specific safety statutes.

What are Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents?

When drivers strike bicyclists or pedestrians, unsafe driving often causes the accident. Your recovery depends on obtaining the full compensation you are entitled to, regardless of the driver's admission of fault. Our personal injury lawyers have earned a strong reputation for securing settlements that help clients rebuild after serious accidents.

We can provide representation for injury circumstances involving:

• Negligent Driving: This includes failure to yield right of way, speeding, or driving under the influence.
• Bicycle Equipment Failure: Defective parts can lead to devastating consequences, and we can help identify manufacturer liability.
• Unsafe Sidewalks: Poorly maintained pathways can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

Crosswalk accident cases frequently arise at busy intersections throughout Tacoma, such as along Pacific Avenue or near the University of Washington Tacoma campus. Knowing which intersections carry a higher risk allows clients to provide essential details about the scene and context of their accident. 

Many intersections in the city have high pedestrian and cycling activity, especially during community events or peak commuting times.

Preserving evidence is crucial for accident victims. Acting quickly allows you to gather witness statements and secure video footage from nearby surveillance cameras, when available. At Hester Law Group, we assist clients in collecting and safeguarding evidence to strengthen their position and move toward a positive resolution.

Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in pedestrian and bicycle accidents can be complex and involves examining various factors. Typically, liability falls on the party whose negligence caused the accident. This could be a motorist failing to yield at a crosswalk, a cyclist ignoring traffic signals, or even municipal bodies if road conditions contributed to the incident. 

Hester Law Group examines all aspects, including police reports and witness statements, to assess each party's responsibility. Our thorough understanding of Tacoma's traffic laws and pedestrian regulations helps us build a legal strategy tailored to your needs and the facts of your case.

What are the Key Elements We Must Prove to Win Your Claim?

To win a personal injury claim stemming from a bicycle and pedestrian accident in Tacoma, we must prove the driver was negligent, that this negligence caused your injury, and that you sustained measurable damages.

Establishing Driver Negligence

We gather evidence to prove the driver breached their duty of care by:

• Failure to Yield: Disregarding the right-of-way in a crosswalk or when turning.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, using a cell phone, or engaging in other distracting behavior.
• Speeding or Recklessness: Operating the vehicle at an excessive or unsafe speed, particularly near crosswalks.
• Improper Passing: Violating the three-foot rule when passing a cyclist.

The Critical Role of Evidence

The success of your claim hinges on the evidence gathered immediately after the accident. Our bicycle and pedestrian accident attorneys in Tacoma act quickly to:

• Secure and analyze traffic camera and business surveillance footage.
• Preserve the damaged bicycle and clothing as physical evidence.
• Obtain witness statements while memories are fresh.
• Gather comprehensive medical records and expert testimony regarding the severity and future impact of your injuries.

What is the Compensation for Damages?

A successful personal injury claim can provide financial support for victims. Compensation may include:

• Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.
• Future Earning Potential – If the injury limits your ability to work, you may be eligible for compensation for lost earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, physical pain, and a reduced quality of life may be factored into a settlement.
• Property Damage – Reimbursement for damaged bicycles or other personal belongings.

Tacoma bicycle accident attorneys and pedestrian accident lawyers advocate for fair compensation and will take cases to trial if negotiation does not yield a just result.

What are the Legal Deadlines for Filing a Claim in Washington?

Washington state imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Generally, victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to compensation.

However, some circumstances may alter this timeframe, such as cases involving minors or claims against government entities. Consulting a Tacoma cycling and pedestrian accident lawyer early ensures compliance with all legal deadlines and preserves vital evidence.

What is The Washington Comparative Negligence Rule?

Insurance companies in Tacoma will aggressively try to shift blame onto the victim—claiming the pedestrian "darted out" or the cyclist "failed to signal"—to reduce their financial liability. Washington follows a system of pure comparative negligence.

This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your total compensation award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your damages are valued at $500,000 but you are found 20% at fault (e.g., crossing outside a crosswalk), you would recover $400,000.

As your dedicated Tacoma bicycle and pedestrian accident lawyer, we fight aggressively to minimize or entirely eliminate any finding of comparative fault against you, ensuring you recover the maximum compensation possible.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident?

After a bicycle or pedestrian accident, your safety and health must come first. Once you are safe, taking a few key steps can help protect your rights and preserve vital evidence for any future claim.

• Call 911: Report the incident and request medical assistance immediately.
• Get Medical Evaluation: Allow first responders or a doctor to assess your injuries, even for seemingly minor pain.
• Move to Safety: If possible, move out of the roadway or away from moving traffic to avoid further harm.
• Gather Witness Information: Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident occur.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signals, and your injuries.
• Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit blame or make statements about the accident before speaking with an attorney.
• Contact an Accident Lawyer: Reach out to a firm like Hester Law Group as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure important evidence is preserved.

How Can a Lawyer Assist With My Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident?

Hiring a lawyer provides critical support throughout the post-accident process, from legal representation to insurance negotiation. At Hester Law Group, we aid in collecting and organizing evidence, interpret complex legal terms for your clarity, and manage communication with insurance companies to prevent low-ball settlement offers. 

We focus on achieving compensation that reflects your full range of losses, including medical expenses and lost earnings. Importantly, our services go beyond paperwork; we offer emotional support and guidance, helping navigate the stress following an accident while you focus on recovery.

Why Choose Local Representation for Bicycle & Pedestrian Accidents?

Opting for local legal representation offers the advantage of a lawyer with deep knowledge of Tacoma's community and legal landscape. Hester Law Group brings over 130 years of combined experience, providing insights into local nuances that influence pedestrian and bicycle accident cases. 

Our history and ties to the region allow for more personalized and effective service. Familiarity with local roads, habitual traffic patterns, and court expectations equips us to better anticipate challenges and opportunities within the local legal system. Choosing a local representative like us means having an advocate who is not only committed to your case but deeply connected to the Tacoma community.

While our experience certainly includes representing cyclists in Pierce and King Counties, you don’t have to have been injured in Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Lakewood, or Fife to benefit from our services. We are licensed to practice anywhere in Washington and Idaho. During your free consultation, we will give you helpful information about how to proceed with your case. Most importantly, we can help you deal with insurance companies as they try to negotiate your settlement. If your case needs to go to trial, we are prepared to do so.

Get started today by calling (253) 300-3034 or filling out this online form to schedule a free consultation with our Tacoma bicycle and pedestrian accident lawyer.