When malfunctioning signals or unlit crosswalks contribute to pedestrian injuries, a Washington pedestrian accident lawyer can help clarify where legal responsibility falls. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we frequently evaluate these claims, especially when victims are injured while crossing with a signal that failed to operate correctly.
When Signals Fail To Protect Pedestrians
Pedestrian signals are meant to provide a safe passage across intersections. But when these systems malfunction such as failing to change, displaying conflicting instructions, or cutting short walk cycles, pedestrians can be placed directly in harm’s way. We’ve seen cases where victims assumed it was safe to cross only to be struck by drivers who had no obligation to yield due to a signal error.
Faulty traffic controls raise different legal questions than traditional pedestrian collisions. Municipal liability may apply, but it must be proven that the city had notice of the issue and failed to act. These cases are more technical than others, and our team brings deep experience to evaluating claim timelines, city repair logs, and visibility reports.
How Fault Is Shared With Drivers
Even when a signal fails, a driver still has a duty to watch for people in a crosswalk. If a driver speeds through an intersection or fails to yield despite spotting a pedestrian, they may share liability. In fact, many collisions involve a combination of issues through signal malfunctions paired with distracted or aggressive driving.
Proving negligence in pedestrian cases can be tricky, but a lawyer can help. Signal timing may be part of the analysis, but evidence like dashcam video or eyewitness accounts often proves decisive.
Documentation Makes A Difference
Because signal-related injury claims can involve multiple parties including local government agencies evidence must be gathered quickly. Photos of the faulty light, 911 call records, and even nearby business camera footage can all help establish the timeline. Without this documentation, it’s harder to show that a defective signal was the primary cause of the accident. If you notice that a signal is not working properly, reach out to city officials as you just might save a life.
Types Of Damages Victims May Recover
Injured pedestrians may be entitled to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. In severe cases, claims for permanent disability or future care needs may be pursued. As discussed in our overview of pedestrian accident causes and injuries, even minor intersections can produce life-changing injuries when signals fail.
Our firm’s 9.9 rating on Avvo reflects our commitment to building strong cases, even when government agencies and insurance carriers push back on liability. Each case demands careful attention to both the environment and the driver’s behavior. If you document that there has been an issue and later someone is involved in an accident, you can help their claim by leaving a paper trail.
Experience Matters In Signal Malfunction Cases
Signal failure claims are rarely straightforward. Cities may deny prior knowledge of the issue, and insurers often argue that pedestrians should have noticed the malfunction. These tactics are familiar to our legal team, and we’ve been honored as part of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers because we don’t shy away from difficult cases.
If you've been injured while crossing at a malfunctioning intersection, a lawyer at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC can help investigate the cause and pursue fair compensation.
