Distracted driving is a significant issue in Olympia, particularly on busy streets like Capitol Way S and Harrison Avenue NW, where traffic is dense and pedestrian activity is high. Our pedestrian accident lawyers can gather evidence such as phone records and witness statements to demonstrate that the driver was not paying attention at the time of the accident, proving negligence and strengthening your case.
There are multiple Intersections in Olympia that are known for heavy traffic and insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, making them particularly dangerous. If your accident occurred at one of these intersections, the lawyers at our Olympia location can use accident history, traffic pattern data, and expert testimony to highlight the risks posed by these locations and establish liability.
Streets like Pacific Avenue SE and Martin Way E are examples of areas in Olympia with poor lighting, limited sidewalks, and inadequate pedestrian crossings. If these infrastructure issues contributed to your accident, our attorneys can utilize city planning documents and past accident reports to show how these conditions directly led to the incident, supporting your claim.
Impaired driving is a serious concern, especially in high-traffic areas such as downtown Olympia and near Capitol Way S. If impaired driving was a factor in your accident, the lawyers at our firm can use police reports and toxicology tests to establish the driver’s impairment, proving it as a direct cause of the accident and bolstering your case for compensation.
Speeding and failure to yield are frequent causes of pedestrian accidents, particularly on streets like Capitol Way S, where, as mentioned, speeding has been a noted issue. Our pedestrian accident attorneys can use traffic camera footage, accident reconstruction, and witness statements to demonstrate that the driver’s excessive speed or failure to yield caused the accident, thereby strengthening your case for full compensation.
Pedestrian accidents in Olympia have been a recurring problem, with at least one fatal accident occurring every year since 2016.
In 2023, Olympia reported 27 pedestrian accidents, including 1 fatality and 6 suspected serious injuries. Similar trends have been observed in previous years:
In 2018, the city saw an increase, with 43 pedestrian accidents, including 3 fatalities and 6 suspected serious injuries.
The consistent occurrence of at least one fatal pedestrian accident annually since 2016 highlights the ongoing risks for pedestrians in Olympia. Serious injuries remain common, indicating persistent dangers in the area. These statistics point to recurring issues, such as distracted driving, speeding, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, that contribute to these accidents.
The pedestrian accident attorneys in our Olympia office use this understanding of local conditions, including traffic patterns and infrastructure gaps, to assess the specifics of your case, identify fault, and build a compelling argument for the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian accidents frequently lead to severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection for those walking. Common injuries include:
Our pedestrian accident lawyers understand the impact of these injuries and ensure that every aspect of your medical care is included in your claim.
The consequences of these injuries can extend far beyond initial treatment. Spinal cord injuries, for example, can result in permanent disability, affecting your ability to work or perform daily tasks. Even less severe injuries like fractures can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. The lawyers at our Olympia location work to secure compensation that accounts for ongoing medical needs and long-term effects, helping you plan for the future.
Pedestrian accidents often leave victims dealing with more than just physical injuries. Emotional and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, can significantly impact your quality of life. Our attorneys collaborate with medical professionals to document these non-physical injuries and incorporate them into your claim, ensuring that your full range of suffering is recognized and compensated.
Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers understand the laws that form the basis for proving fault and can use them effectively to build your case.
Strong evidence is key to supporting your claim. Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers can help collect and preserve crucial evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and photos of the accident scene.
The actions you take immediately after a pedestrian accident can have a significant impact on the strength of your case. Here are essential steps and how they contribute to a successful claim:
Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers will guide you through these steps, helping to ensure that your rights are protected and that your case is as strong as possible.
Drivers are legally required to exercise caution around pedestrians, especially in high-traffic areas. In Olympia, this duty is particularly important given the city’s busy intersections and frequent pedestrian activity. Failing to yield, speeding, or not obeying traffic signals can result in a breach of this duty, which can make the driver liable for an accident.
Washington’s comparative fault law allows pedestrians to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. For example, if a pedestrian crossed against the light but the driver was speeding, the pedestrian might be found partially responsible. In this example, the compensation would be reduced by the pedestrian’s percentage of fault, but they can still recover damages.
Establishing fault in a pedestrian accident case involves proving four key elements:
Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers carefully gather and present evidence to prove each of these elements so that fault is clearly established.
Proving fault requires solid evidence. Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers focus on collecting key evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage. In cases where the accident occurred at known high-risk intersections, our attorneys can leverage previous accident data and local traffic patterns to build a compelling case for maximizing your compensation.
Pedestrian accidents often lead to significant medical expenses, from emergency room visits to long-term rehabilitation. A visit to Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, for example, can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of your injuries. Compensation should cover both immediate medical costs and future treatment needs, such as surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing care required. Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers ensure that all your medical expenses are factored into your claim, including specialized treatments that may be necessary due to the nature of your injuries.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes not only the income you missed while recovering but also any reduction in your earning capacity if your injuries result in a long-term disability. In cases where permanent disability occurs, such as severe spinal injuries or traumatic brain injuries, the impact on your future earning potential is significant. Our attorneys carefully calculate these losses to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Beyond the physical injuries, pedestrian accidents often cause significant emotional distress and ongoing pain. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical discomfort and the emotional toll of the accident. This may include anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from the incident. Our attorneys understand the importance of documenting these impacts fully, ensuring that the non-economic damages reflect the true extent of your suffering.
Additional compensation may be available for losses that affect your quality of life. This includes damages for loss of enjoyment of life, where your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed. It also covers rehabilitation costs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and modifications to your home if needed. In Olympia, where outdoor activities are a major part of the lifestyle, the loss of these activities can be particularly impactful, and our attorneys ensure this is factored into your claim.
In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim is three years from the date of the accident. This deadline is critical because missing it could result in losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how severe your injuries are.
The timeline for resolving a pedestrian accident case varies based on factors like the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether the case proceeds to trial. Generally, the process involves:
Our Olympia accident lawyers will provide an estimated timeline based on your specific circumstances, keeping you informed at each step.
After a pedestrian accident, you should contact an attorney quickly to build a strong foundation for your case. Acting fast allows your attorney to gather evidence while it’s still fresh, secure witness statements, and strengthen your case from the start. Doing this early gives your case the best chance for success.
The Freeman Law Firm, Inc. brings extensive experience in handling pedestrian accident cases specific to Olympia. Our attorneys have a comprehensive understanding of the local roadways, traffic patterns, and common hazards that contribute to accidents. Whether it’s working on a case involving a busy intersection or addressing the challenges of inadequate crosswalks, our familiarity with the area and these types of issues gives us a strategic advantage in building a strong case.
At The Freeman Law Firm, Inc., we recognize that no two pedestrian accidents are the same. Our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers customize their approach to fit your unique situation, focusing on your specific needs and goals. From the moment you engage our services, we prioritize personalized attention and empathy. We take the time to understand the full impact of your injuries on your life, ensuring that our legal strategy reflects your personal and financial needs.
Our attorneys are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. We meticulously evaluate every aspect of your case, from medical expenses and lost wages to emotional suffering and future rehabilitation needs. Our goal is to secure full and fair compensation that addresses both immediate costs and long-term impacts. With our dedicated support, you can focus on your recovery, confident that your legal matters are in capable hands.
What sets The Freeman Law Firm, Inc. apart is our unwavering commitment to putting you first. We believe that every client deserves to be heard, understood, and supported throughout their journey. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, we work tirelessly to ensure that your concerns are addressed and your interests are protected. Our attorneys are not just legal advocates but partners in your recovery, helping you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Before your consultation, gather these key items:
Having these documents ready helps our Olympia pedestrian accident lawyers evaluate your case thoroughly, especially given the unique traffic patterns and pedestrian safety concerns common in our community.
During the consultation, we’ll review your case details, discuss potential legal strategies, and outline possible compensation. We’ll also address any questions you have about the legal process and explain how Washington State laws apply to your situation. Our familiarity with local roadways and accident hotspots, like those near downtown Olympia, allows us to offer insights specific to your case.
Your first consultation is free and comes with no obligation. This meeting allows you to get a clear sense of the next steps and how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Choosing the right attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your pedestrian accident case. The experienced lawyers at Freeman Law Firm, Inc. understand the challenges you face and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. With a deep knowledge of local laws and a personalized approach, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and support your recovery.
Time is critical after a pedestrian accident. Contact Freeman Law Firm, Inc. today to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin building a strong case on your behalf.
Call us at (360) 338-6886 or use our contact form on the website to get started. Your first consultation is free, and there’s no obligation. Let Freeman Law Firm, Inc. guide you toward the best possible outcome for your case.
