Pedestrians in the Seattle area must be careful to watch out for negligent drivers. There are many actions that are considered negligent, such as speeding, distracted driving or driving while intoxicated.
This was recently illustrated in a hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of a 22-year-old man. The Washington State Patrol reported that the man was walking westbound in Enumclaw sometime between the hours of 1 a.m. and 8 a.m. when he was hit by a black SUV.
SUV was later involved in another accident
The SUV reportedly fled the scene before police arrived. The victim later died in an open field. An initial investigation was able to determine certain details about the SUV that later helped locate the vehicle, after it was involved in another accident.
The Enumclaw Police Department impounded the SUV later that day after a second accident, in which the SUV driver allegedly struck two other vehicles. The SUV was later confirmed to be the same vehicle involved in the pedestrian accident, and the driver was arrested and believed to be impaired.
Many pedestrian accidents result in serious injuries or death, as was the case here. Pedestrians are vulnerable and usually have no chance of escaping a collision with a large, heavy vehicle with little to no injuries.
How pedestrians can protect themselves
There are many things you can do to stay safe and reduce your chance of an accident. Use crosswalks and only walk when it is your turn. Wear reflective clothing if you are walking at night and always be aware of your surroundings.
Recovering from a pedestrian accident can be a long, painful process. Your injuries may take a long time to heal, causing you to be out of work, while you watch your medical bills pile up. Your pain and suffering can also be severe.
Negligent drivers can be held accountable through a personal injury action.