Precautions for drivers of motor vehicles approaching pedestrian who is using a white cane, dog guide, or service animal
RCW 70.84.040 outlines how drivers of vehicles are required to yield right-of-way to visually-impaired pedestrians:
The driver of a vehicle approaching a legally blind pedestrian who is carrying a cane predominantly white in color (with or without a red tip), a totally or partially blind or hearing impaired pedestrian using a dog guide, or an otherwise physically disabled person using a service animal shall take all necessary precautions to avoid injury to such pedestrian.
Any driver who fails to take such precaution shall be liable in damages for any injury caused such pedestrian. It shall be unlawful for the operator of any vehicle to drive into or upon any crosswalk while there is on such crosswalk, such pedestrian, crossing or attempting to cross the roadway, if such pedestrian is using a white cane, using a dog guide, or using a service animal.
The failure of any such pedestrian to signal shall not deprive him of the right of way accorded him by other laws.
In the event that a visually-impaired person were to be injured in a pedestrian accident, RCW 70.84.040 could be cited in the victim's attempt to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
