Residents of major cities will often travel by foot. Whether that is their main mode of transportation or are simply traveling to and from their vehicles, the sidewalks and crosswalks are consistently used by pedestrians in Seattle and other cities.
While this is a healthy way to get around, it does come with risks and dangers. Often, pedestrians are walking where vehicles are traveling. Thus, there is a potential for a vehicle to collide with a pedestrian while they are crossing the road, walking near the road or in a parking lot.
Pedestrian accident statistics
Each year, roughly 70,000 pedestrians are struck by motor vehicles. While some will result in the death of those struck, most often severe injuries are suffered. A vehicle does not need to be traveling fast to cause pedestrian death or injuries. When hit by a vehicle traveling 30 mph, 6.8% result in death while 37% suffer severe injuries.
As the above statistic illustrates, it does not take high speeds to harm or kill a pedestrian. Based on a recent study, 1 in 3 pedestrians hit by a vehicle traveling 25 mph suffer severe injuries, and 1 in 10 pedestrians die when hit by a vehicle going 35 mph.
Injuries, damages and recourses
The injuries suffered by a pedestrian can be severe and extensive. Common injuries include severe lacerations, significant blood loss, broken limbs, distorted arms or legs, compression of body parts, head or brain injuries, injuries to the chest or abdomen, second or third degree burns and paralysis.
Following a pedestrian accident, the victim may require medical care, surgery, time away from work, physical therapy, disabilities and even ongoing medical treatments. Thus, the damages could be extensive.
A civil suit, such as a personal injury claim, could help the injured party recover compensation for losses suffered. This could include damages like pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages and future medical costs.