Davis Law Group, P.S.

Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing at an Alarming Rate, WSP Reports

Washington State Patrol reports an increase in pedestrian accidents and fatalities in the state. Troopers say this is an alarming increase.

WSP’s Distric 7 covers four counties in the state. Last year there was two fatal pedestrian accidents at this time, this year – Eight.

"Every time we respond to one or get a call for one, we shake our head and say what is going on," said WSP Trooper Keith Leary.

A news reporter rode with a trooper, and it didn’t take long to see a teenager illegally crossing the busy Highway 99 in Lynwood.

"You can't be going across the road like that. I don't want to see you getting hit," WSP Trooper Keith Leary told the teen.

Leary gave the 16-year-old cyclist a warning. The cyclist said he was in a hurry.

On the same Highway in the last six week, there have been two pedestrian fatalities. In June, an elderly man was hit and killed in the afternoon. On July 4, a 57-year-old woman was killed late at night.

District 7 Trooper are making pedestrian safety a major priority, emphasizing people who cross busy roads illegally. Leary says that pedestrians need to use the crosswalks and drivers need to be more cautious.

Davis Law Group reminds pedestrians to very safe on the roadways during the summer months, especially in construction zones. Drivers can be very distracted by the construction and it may be more difficult for them to see pedestrians. Take your time, be cautious and always be aware of your surroundings. And as always, use crosswalks!