Last updated on December 5, 2024
While pedestrians often worry about being hit by cars or other motor vehicles, how often do they think about being hit by bicycles? Likewise, bicyclists are always aware of the danger of being struck by cars, but do they ever worry about colliding with pedestrians? While accidents between them are not as common as other types of traffic accidents, bicycles and pedestrians do share many of the same paths and occasionally collide. When these types of collisions happen, both parties involved often sustain injuries. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, whether you were on a bike or were walking, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.
To secure a settlement worthy of your injuries, it is important to seek the representation of a top-rated Seattle personal injury lawyer. Pendergast Law attorneys have been serving injury victims in the Seattle area for over 30 years. Let us put our knowledge, experience and tenacity behind your claim so that we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 888-539-9211 today for a free consultation.
The Rising Problem Of Bicycle-Pedestrian Collisions
While bike and pedestrian accidents often go unreported, a 2011 study at New York City’s Hunter College suggests that they are more common than most people think they are. The study estimated that 1,000 pedestrians are hit by bicycles each year in New York state alone. In fact, Central Park has been the site of several fatalities caused by pedestrians being struck by cyclists. But New York isn’t the only place where pedestrians are hit by bicycles. Just a few years ago, a man was hit by a cyclist in the Madison Park area of Seattle and was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. The bike rider was also injured, but not as seriously. With bicycles becoming the preferred mode of transport for more Seattle residents, the problem of accidents with pedestrians is only going to increase.
It’s Not Always The Cyclist’s Fault
In the Seattle accident mentioned above, witnesses said the man who was struck was looking at his cellphone when he stepped out in front of a bicycle. It is important to note that both bicyclists and pedestrians have a duty to stay alert and follow traffic laws.
Compensation For Your Bicycle Accident Injuries In Seattle
While bicycles may not be as deadly as automobiles when they strike a pedestrian, they can still cause significant injuries. Likewise, a bike rider doesn’t have the protection that an automobile driver has and can suffer significant injuries if they hit a human being. If you have been injured in a bicycle-pedestrian accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, permanent injury and more. To help you determine fault, assign liability and secure the settlement that you need to cover all your losses, it is vital that you seek the guidance of a dedicated Seattle bike accident attorney.
Pendergast Law has been providing representation to Seattle-area injury victims and their families for over 30 years. Call us today for a free case evaluation by dialing 888-539-9211.