If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Bellevue, you might be wondering whether you need a lawyer. The short answer? Yes—especially if you’re facing medical bills, lost income, or complex interactions with insurance companies. Here’s what you need to know about your rights and legal options.
What Rights Do Pedestrians Have in Bellevue Accident Cases?
Washington law offers strong protections for pedestrians. Drivers have a legal duty to yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks and must exercise due care to avoid hitting them. Under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), pedestrians have the right of way in many situations, especially at intersections and crosswalks. If a driver fails to yield or drives distracted, they can be held liable for the injuries they cause.
Even when pedestrians are outside of crosswalks, drivers still owe a general duty of care and must operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner.
When Is the Driver Automatically at Fault in Bellevue Pedestrian Accidents?
There are situations where fault is presumed to lie with the driver. For example:
- Failing to yield at a crosswalk: If a driver hits a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, they are often found to be at fault.
- Speeding or running red lights: Traffic violations that result in pedestrian injuries significantly increase the driver’s liability.
- Distracted or impaired driving: Using a phone or driving under the influence can automatically tip the scales in the pedestrian’s favor in legal claims.
In many of these cases, fault is clear, but that doesn’t mean the insurance company will offer fair compensation without a fight.
Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Jaywalking in Bellevue?
Yes, you may still be able to file a claim. Washington follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that even if you were partially at fault—for example, by jaywalking—you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident, and your total damages are $100,000, you could still recover $70,000. Insurance companies often try to exaggerate a pedestrian’s fault to reduce payouts, which is why having a lawyer on your side is crucial.
How Can a Bellevue Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help With Evidence and Insurance?
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can significantly strengthen your case by:
- Gathering key evidence: This includes surveillance footage, eyewitness statements, police reports, and accident reconstructions.
- Handling insurance companies: Insurers may pressure you to accept lowball offers or make recorded statements that can hurt your claim. A lawyer protects your interests.
- Proving damages: Your attorney will document your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs to ensure full compensation.
- Filing on time: Washington has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. A lawyer ensures all paperwork is submitted correctly and on time.
What Compensation Can I Recover as an Injured Pedestrian in Bellevue?
If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, you may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical expenses (including future treatments)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In cases involving egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be pursued. Every case is unique, so it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney to understand the full value of your claim.
Contact Premier Law Group for a FREE Claim Review
If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. At Premier Law Group, we fight to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Our Washington pedestrian accident attorneys offer personalized, compassionate service—and we don’t get paid unless you win.
Contact Premier Law Group for a FREE claim review today and take the first step toward recovery.
Jason at premier law group is truly an outstanding individual. Our particular case was not something that their firm usually sees but they were more than willing to help us and give us all of the information they had available. I can't recommend them enough.