How an Everett Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Serious Collision

When a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle, the aftermath can be devastating. Injuries are often severe, recovery can take months or years, and the financial and emotional toll on victims and their families is immense. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Everett, Washington, or lost a loved one due to a driver’s negligence, you may benefit from legal support. An experienced Everett pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the legal process following a serious collision.

This guide explains what steps injured pedestrians should take, what challenges they might face with insurance companies, and how Brumley Law Firm can assist you every step of the way.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Everett and Snohomish County

Pedestrian accidents in Everett occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve negligent drivers. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while behind the wheel
• Speeding, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or near schools
• Failure to yield at crosswalks or intersections
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Running red lights or ignoring traffic laws

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries remain a pressing concern across the state, with Snohomish County reporting dozens of such incidents each year.

What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Crash

If you are struck by a motor vehicle, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights:

• Seek immediate medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not be obvious. Your medical evaluation and records from medical providers will be important in your personal injury case.
• Call the police and ensure a report is filed. This document will be vital in any pedestrian accident claim.
• Gather evidence, including photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicle involved, and any relevant road signage or conditions.
• Get contact information from witnesses and the at-fault party.
• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting a pedestrian accident lawyer.

Understanding Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Many pedestrian accident victims suffer serious, sometimes life-altering injuries. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Permanent disability

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows that pedestrians are more likely to suffer fatal injuries than vehicle occupants in similar crashes. Medical bills and long-term medical treatment such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or extensive medical care can quickly become overwhelming. A Washington personal injury attorney can help you evaluate your legal options and advocate for financial recovery based on the circumstances of your case.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?

Several parties may bear legal responsibility for your injuries:

• Negligent drivers who were speeding, distracted, or impaired drivers
• Government entities if poor road design or broken traffic signals contributed to the crash
• Property owners if unsafe premises played a role
• In rare cases, a driver’s employer may be responsible if the vehicle was being used for work purposes

An Everett pedestrian accident lawyer will perform a thorough investigation to determine all liable parties and strengthen your Everett personal injury case.

Insurance Challenges for Injured Pedestrians

Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident is rarely straightforward. Insurance adjusters may:

• Attempt to minimize your severe injuries
• Question your version of the accident scene
• Pressure you into accepting a low settlement
• Misrepresent your legal rights

Having experienced legal representation is critical. Brumley Law Firm’s legal team manages communication with insurers, advocating for compensation that reflects your injuries and losses. Whether your claim involves personal injury protection, auto insurance disputes, or coverage limitations, our injury lawyers will help you explore all legal options.

Types of Compensation Available in a Pedestrian Accident Claim

If you’re filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit or claim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning potential
• Property damage (e.g., torn clothing, broken glasses or phones)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of quality of life

In wrongful death cases, families may also pursue damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and the deceased’s lost future income. Our goal is to help you pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of your injuries and losses, as permitted under Washington law.

What if You Were Partially at Fault?

Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible, such as not using a crosswalk or crossing against traffic lights, but your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 4.22.005 outlines this principle.

An Everett pedestrian accident attorney can help ensure the at-fault party is held appropriately responsible and defend you against unfair blame.

How an Everett Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Helps

Your pedestrian accident attorney will manage every part of the legal process:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the crash
• Gather medical records, police reports, and witness statements
• Consult expert witnesses if needed
• Handle all insurance claim negotiations
• File a personal injury lawsuit if settlement efforts fail
• Represent you at trial, if necessary

At Brumley Law Firm, Our team has represented many injury victims in the Everett area and worked to recover compensation based on the specific facts of each case. We’re committed to guiding you through your legal options and helping you pursue recovery in accordance with Washington law.

When Pedestrian Accidents Result in Wrongful Death

Tragically, many pedestrian accidents result in fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities continue to rise nationwide, including in urban areas like Everett. When a loved one is lost due to someone else’s negligence, families may have grounds to file a wrongful death case.

Our team can help you:

• Understand your rights under RCW 4.20
• Determine which family members are eligible to file
• Pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional damages
• Hold negligent drivers and other parties accountable

Why Local Experience Matters in Everett Pedestrian Cases

Pedestrian accident claims require local insight. Brumley Law Firm understands:

• High-risk intersections and roadways in Everett and Snohomish County
• How local traffic control signals, speed zones, and signage factor into legal liability
• The local court system, judges, and jury expectations
• The needs of Everett’s diverse neighborhoods, from downtown to residential areas

This level of community knowledge gives our clients a stronger footing in their personal injury cases.

Client-Focused Support Every Step of the Way

At Brumley Law Firm, we know that pedestrian accident victims face more than just physical injuries. There’s emotional stress, financial strain, and uncertainty about the future. That’s why we provide:

• Free initial case reviews
• Contingency fee basis (no fees unless we recover compensation)
• Personal attention from experienced attorneys
• Clear communication and regular updates
• Real testimonials from clients who found relief in our services

Common Questions About Pedestrian Accident Claims (FAQs)

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Washington?
Under Washington law, most personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, must be filed within three years of the crash. This is defined in the RCW 4.16.080.

What if the driver left the scene?
You may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage or by identifying the driver through surveillance footage and police investigation.

Do I need to go to court?
Not always. Many pedestrian accident claims are settled outside of court, but we are prepared to litigate if a fair settlement isn’t offered.

Contact an Everett Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. You shouldn’t have to navigate recovery and legal action alone. If you or a loved one was hit by a distracted driver or an impaired driver in Everett, contact Brumley Law Firm for a free consultation and case evaluation.

We’re here to help you navigate the legal process and pursue appropriate recovery for your injuries and related losses. Let us help you explore your legal options and pursue the compensation to which you may be entitled.