If a pedestrian is killed while jaywalking across a busy road or highway, is the driver at fault? In the United States, drivers are required by law in most states to “exercise due care.” That means a driver is to make every possible attempt to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
While it depends on the situation, if a pedestrian is killed while crossing a busy road in an unexpected area (or jaywalking), it is likely the driver will not face charges. However, if the pedestrian is in a designated crosswalk, the driver could face criminal charges for vehicular or negligent homicide as well as wrongful death charges from the surviving party of the pedestrian.
Unless the driver is obviously driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they probably would not be immediately arrested at the time of the accident. A police officer may detain the driver to obtain a blood or urine test to help determine if drugs or alcohol were involved. However, the driver may refuse and only face administrative penalties.
A jaywalker is anyone crossing the street outside of designated areas or crosswalks. If a jaywalker is hit while crossing the street, who is at fault? The pedestrian is partly at fault for breaking the law by jaywalking. However, the driver may also be partly at fault depending on the circumstances. The court system will use what is known as “comparative fault.”
Regardless of who is at fault, all parties are responsible to be aware of their surroundings. Avoid distracted driving or walking by putting away your cell phone and concentrating on the road.
If your loved one has been killed due to the negligence of a driver, contact the experienced Spokane wrongful death attorneys of Parke Gordon Law Firm to handle your case. Our law firm will fight for every penny you deserve. Call us now for a free consultation at (509) 482-7274.
Our Spokane, Washington law firm services clients in and surrounding Spokane, including for injuries and accidents in Spokane Valley and injuries and accidents in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Visit or call our Spokane law firm today. Parke Gordon LLC 421 W Riverside, Suite 515 Spokane, WA 99201 Phone:(509) 482-7274
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