A hit and run pedestrian accident occurred during the Friday morning commute in Marysville. The driver fled the scene after striking a man with his vehicle. The Washington State Patrol says it happened before 7:30 am near the on-ramp to Interstate 5 and 4th Street.
Troopers said the man had been walking on the on-ramp when a full-sized, white Dodge pickup struck him. The driver left the scene of the accident. According to witnesses, the truck pulled over multiple times in southbound lanes. No license plate information was available.
The pedestrian has serious injuries, but they appear to be non-life-threatening. Anyone with more information on this hit-and-run is asked to call 911. View the original report here.
Hit and Run Pedestrian Accidents
These are the worst kind of pedestrian accidents because the human element of compassion and remorse is completely gone…just like the driver.
Studies done by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that about 11% of all traffic accidents reported to the police involve at least one of the drivers leaving the scene. Close to 1500 people die every year due to these types of traffic collisions. Most of the accidents occur at night or when there is poor lighting.
Leaving the scene of an accident or auto crash is against the law. As a responsible driver, it is essential that you provide any help or information needed regarding the incident. Fleeing the scene can result in having your driving privileges revoked or your driver’s license suspended.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident is NO Accident
Leaving the scene of a crash is classified as a Hit-and-Run. These accidents can carry penalties of either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on damages and if there were any fatalities. Either way, it’s a clear indication that the driver is trying to avoid responsibility. If you are involved in an auto accident, remember to pull over if safely able to. After that, exchange information with the other driver.
The state of Washington requires you and the other parties involved to exchange certain information when involved in an accident. Likewise, fellow motorists, passengers or pedestrians involved in the accident must share similar information with you. It’s also wise to ask for the information of witnesses to the accident just in case you need to have them testify at a later date. The key information to exchange in the aftermath of an accident includes:
- Name, address and contact details.
- Driver license number.
- Vehicle information and license plate number of the vehicles involved.
- Auto insurance information for all motorists involved.
It may also be useful to take photographs at the scene of the accident. If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make an effort to find the owner or driver, and follow the same procedures. If you are unable to locate the owner of an unattended vehicle, you are required to leave a note indicating your name and contact information, and a brief description of the accident. https://www.dmv.com/wa/washington/auto-accidents
You can read more about the Washington State laws regarding the duties of a responsible party for injuring, death of, or damage to life or property in an auto accident here: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.52.020
Taking Responsibility for Granted?
Washington state has one of the highest percentages of uninsured drivers in the country. The law requires drivers to carry a minimum of liability insurance. An estimated 16-20% of drivers, however, have no insurance whatsoever.
If you own or operate a vehicle, it is your responsibility and legal obligation to maintain proper insurance coverage on it. There are penalties and fines for those who risk driving without coverage, with a minimum fine of $450, if caught. Some may think insurance is too expensive or have records that prevent them from legally obtaining a driver’s license–but the financial risks or the likely costs of an auto wreck will supersede any failure to meet the requirements.
Our Pedestrian Accident, Auto Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers are Here to Help
If you are involved in an accident in Washington, you are required to provide certain information to the other parties involved. Pedestrians have the same rights as motorists on the road and many of these accidents are due to carelessness or even the recklessness of others. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, you need someone who is familiar with the law and who can ensure you receive the care and representation you are entitled to. Fielding Law Group knows the tactics some insurance companies use to quickly settle with victims of pedestrian accidents. Let them do the work so you can concentrate on getting back on your feet!
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto or pedestrian accident, call Fielding Law Group today for a free consultation with one of our legal professionals. Our team of attorneys will work hard to get you the compensation and settlement you deserve. Remember–Don’t let an accident wreck YOU!
FREE PERSONAL INJURY & AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY CONSULTATIONS • WE DON’T GET PAID UNLESS YOU WIN • WE’RE HERE TO HELP
