Pedestrian accident injuries in Seattle pose significant hazards, particularly in busy neighborhoods, such as Capitol Hill, South Lake Union, Rainier Valley, and the downtown core. Our experienced Seattle car accident attorney protects victims and their families, helping them hold drivers accountable for speeding, running red lights, being distracted, and other dangerous driving behaviors that put them at risk.
Unlike drivers, pedestrians have little protection in the event of a collision, and the injuries they sustain tend to be severe. In the aftermath, they often require long-term medical care, extensive time off work, and months or even years of recovery. Below, we break down the most common types of pedestrian injuries from car accidents, how they happen, and what to do if a careless driver strikes you or someone you love.
Seattle Pedestrian Accident Injuries That Can Happen Even in a Minor Crash
According to the Seattle Department of Transportation, more than 100 people suffer pedestrian injuries from car accidents in our area each year. Even in relatively minor crashes, where drivers were traveling at low speeds or may have only grazed the victim, the consequences can be severe.
When a car hits you, you may be thrown onto the pavement, into another vehicle, or into nearby objects. With little protection, your body absorbs the force, rather than a seatbelt or an airbag. Common types of pedestrian hit by car injuries that can occur as a result include:
- Cuts and lacerations can require stitches and may leave permanent scars.
- Broken bones and dislocated joints often impact the legs, knees, pelvis, arms, or ribs.
- Soft tissue injuries, which include torn ligaments, sprains, or strained muscles.
- Deep bruising and contusions caused by blunt force impact.
While these injuries may seem relatively minor, they can result in major medical debt while leaving you unable to work for weeks or even months afterward.
In some cases, pedestrians develop complications such as infections, nerve damage, or permanent loss of function. Reporting the crash and getting prompt medical care are essential steps in protecting your health and rights to compensation, regardless of the severity of the crash.
Seattle Pedestrian Accident Head, Back, and Neck Injuries
The same as with drivers, pedestrians are required to obey the rules of the road under Section 46.61 of the Washington Revised Code. However, even when they take precautions, such as walking on sidewalks and using crosswalks at busy intersections, pedestrian injuries from car accidents can still happen.
One of the most serious hazards pedestrians face is the secondary impact. This is the moment when the person hits the ground, a vehicle hood, a windshield, or nearby objects. When your body is struck or thrown, your spine and head take enormous stress.
These types of pedestrian hit by car injuries may not show up immediately, but they can end up causing chronic pain and long-term disabilities. Common pedestrian head, neck, and back injuries include:
- Whiplash, resulting in stiffness, headaches, reduced range of motion, and cognitive impairments.
- Herniated or bulging discs and other cervical or lumbar injuries can cause limited mobility and nerve issues.
- Fractured vertebrae can result in long-term impairments and often require surgery.
- Concussions and other head or facial injuries can impact victims for long months after a crash.
These injuries may not be immediately apparent, but symptoms often worsen over time, especially without prompt medical treatment. Even if you “just feel sore,” see a doctor. Head, back, and neck injuries can cause potentially debilitating impairments when downplayed or ignored.
Catastrophic Pedestrian Hit By Car Injuries in Seattle
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that one in five fatal car accidents involves pedestrians. Even in non-life-threatening crashes, pedestrian injuries from car accidents in Seattle can be severe.
Catastrophic pedestrian accident injuries typically require emergency medical care, surgery, extended hospital stays, and permanent lifestyle changes. They don’t just affect your body, either. They also impact your independence, career, and future.
Examples of severe and potentially catastrophic pedestrian accident injuries in Seattle include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause permanent physical, emotional, and cognitive impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries can leave you facing partial or total paralysis.
- Internal injuries may result in organ damage or internal bleeding.
- Amputations can happen either at the scene or surgically, due to severe lacerations or crushing injuries.
These types of pedestrian accident injuries are devastating, and they come with overwhelming financial and emotional consequences. Unfortunately, in some cases, they may eventually prove fatal. When a driver’s reckless behavior is responsible, you have the right to hold them accountable in a claim.
Your Rights To Compensation For Pedestrian Injuries Due to Car Accidents In Seattle
Due to the risk of severe, life-threatening injuries, the National Institutes of Health claims that pedestrian accidents are the most costly type of crash. Even when injuries aren’t catastrophic, total damages can easily equal six figures.
When reckless drivers are to blame, you have the right to hold them liable for your losses. Compensation available includes:
- Payment of all medical costs relating to your injuries, including any ongoing or future care.
- Reimbursement for lost earnings while you recover.
- Payment for future projected income losses due to permanent impairments or long-term disabilities.
- Additional amounts for your pain, suffering, scars, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment in life.
You have one chance to get the compensation you need to recover for pedestrian injuries caused by a car accident. To get the total amount you are entitled to, get professional legal representation from our Seattle car accident attorney.
Consult Our Experienced Seattle Car Accident Attorney Today
Pedestrian accident injuries in Seattle can prove life-changing. At Washington Injury Law, we protect the rights of injured victims across Seattle and King County, including neighborhoods like Downtown (98101), South Lake Union (98109), and Rainier Valley/Beacon Hill (98144).
Our experienced Seattle car accident attorney investigates what happened, handles communication with insurers, and fights to get you the maximum amount you need to recover. To schedule a consultation, call or contact our office online today.