How Many Pedestrian Accidents Happen at DC Crosswalks?

Protecting the Rights of Crosswalk Accident Victims

Regan Zambri Long’s award-winning Washington, DC pedestrian accident lawyers have built their reputation on results, helping victims recover the compensation they need after crosswalk and roadway incidents. The board-certified Regan Zambri Long team has secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, including $3.9 million, $2.75 million, and another $2.75 million for pedestrians struck by vehicles. Backed by nearly 200 years of combined experience, our commitment to clients has earned over 100 5 star Google reviews, and all of our partners have been named to the Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers list.

Crosswalk accidents happen in seconds but can leave lifelong consequences. Our attorneys investigate each crash thoroughly, gather evidence, and build the strongest possible case for victims and families. We pursue negligent drivers, companies, and insurers to ensure accountability and full compensation.

Have you been injured in a crosswalk? Contact the pedestrian accident lawyers at Regan Zambri Long today to discuss your case with a dedicated member of our team. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there’s no fee unless we win your case.

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How Often Do Crosswalk Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 8,000 pedestrians were killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2021. That equals one in six people who died in a car crash in 2021 was a pedestrian. In addition, an estimated 104,000 pedestrians visited emergency rooms in 2021 to be treated for injuries after a car accident.

 

More recent figures from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) show that while pedestrian deaths declined 4.3% in 2024, they remain alarmingly high. 7,148 lives were lost nationwide, which is still nearly 20% higher than in 2016 and not far from the 40-year peak recorded in 2022.

 

 

Although the NHTSA stresses that staying in the crosswalk can protect pedestrians, this is not always true. Just recently, a woman walking in a crosswalk in Washington, DC, was hit by an Amazon van turning left at the light. Regan Zambri Long has since filed a $60 million lawsuit against Amazon on behalf of the victim, who suffered catastrophic injuries in the crash.

 

The case is being led by founding partner Patrick Regan, along with partner Christopher Regan and attorney Emily Lagan, reflecting the firm’s commitment to holding large corporations accountable for unsafe driving and negligence on DC’s streets. This case also highlights that pedestrians face many dangers on the roadways.

What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Washington, DC?

The common causes of pedestrian accidents in Washington, DC, include driver behavior, such as distracted driving or speeding, visibility issues, crosswalk design, and pedestrian behavior.

One of the primary factors contributing to crosswalk pedestrian accidents is driver behavior. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are common causes of such accidents. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, 9% of pedestrian deaths were attributed to drivers who failed to yield the right of way. The 2024 GHSA data shows that these patterns continue nationwide, with nearly one in four pedestrian deaths now involving a hit-and-run driver. The data also reveal that SUVs and pickup trucks were involved in more than half of all fatal pedestrian crashes in 2023, reflecting how larger vehicles and higher speeds amplify the risks for those on foot.

Pedestrians themselves can also contribute to accidents by not using crosswalks properly or engaging in risky behaviors such as jaywalking, entering the crosswalk against traffic signals, or using electronic devices while crossing.

Limited visibility due to poor lighting, weather conditions, or obstructions can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians on crosswalks. The NHTSA reports that 76% of pedestrian fatalities in 2019 occurred during dark conditions, and newer data from GHSA shows that nighttime crashes have nearly doubled since 2010, rising from 3,030 to 5,578 deaths in 2023.

Inadequate or poorly designed crosswalks can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Factors such as insufficient crossing time, poorly placed or faded crosswalk markings, and a lack of pedestrian signals can increase the risk of accidents. The 2024 GHSA report notes that nearly two-thirds of pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred where no sidewalk was present, highlighting how infrastructure design directly affects safety outcomes.

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Other Common Pedestrian Accidents

While crosswalks are often considered the most vulnerable locations for pedestrian accidents, several other types of accidents can occur outside of these designated safe zones. These incidents can have serious consequences for pedestrians, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.

  • Pedestrians may be struck while standing on a sidewalk, median, or traffic island when drivers make turns, fail to yield, or lose control of their vehicles.
  • Pedestrians may be struck by vehicles backing out of parking spaces or drivers failing to notice them while navigating the parking lot.
  • Backing-up accidents typically occur when drivers reverse their vehicles without noticing pedestrians behind them, often in driveways or parking spaces.
  • Although sidewalks are designed to separate pedestrians from traffic, accidents can still occur if a driver loses control of their vehicle and veers onto the sidewalk.
  • Off-road pedestrian accidents can occur in locations such as parks, hiking trails, or other recreational areas where vehicles and pedestrians share the same space.
  • Mid-block accidents happen when pedestrians attempt to cross the street away from designated crosswalks or intersections, putting them at greater risk of being struck by a vehicle.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Washington, DC

If you are involved in a crosswalk pedestrian accident, you need to call 911, gather information, seek medical help, and contact a pedestrian accident lawyer to begin the claims process.

1. Assess the Situation and Call for Help

Immediately after the accident, assess the condition of the injured pedestrian, yourself, and any passengers. If the pedestrian is injured, call 911 to request medical assistance and report the accident to the police. Do not attempt to move the injured person unless they are in immediate danger, as doing so may exacerbate their injuries.

2. Secure the Scene

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location nearby without leaving the scene of the accident. Turn on your hazard lights and use cones or flares to alert other drivers to the accident site. If your vehicle cannot be moved, ensure that it is visible to approaching traffic.

3. Gather Information

Exchange information with the injured pedestrian or any witnesses present, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene by taking photos of the accident site, the vehicle, and any visible injuries sustained by the pedestrian. Note the location, time of day, weather conditions, and any relevant traffic signals or signs.

4. Obtain a Police Report

Cooperate with the responding officers and provide them with an accurate account of the accident. Request a copy of the police report, as it will serve as a crucial piece of evidence for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

5. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries may not manifest immediately and could develop over time. A medical evaluation will also help document any potential injuries resulting from the accident.

Inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the incident, including the fact that it involved a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and may need to coordinate with the pedestrian’s insurance provider.

6. Consult a Washington, DC Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Crosswalk pedestrian accidents can result in complex legal situations, mainly if disputes over liability or significant injuries are involved. It’s advisable to consult with a Washington, DC pedestrian accident attorney experienced in handling pedestrian accidents to receive guidance on your legal rights, potential liability, and any necessary steps to protect yourself.

Knowing what to do in the event of a crosswalk pedestrian accident is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved, as well as adequately addressing legal and insurance matters. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively navigate the aftermath of a crosswalk pedestrian accident and work towards a fair resolution. It’s important to remember that consulting with an experienced attorney can provide invaluable support and guidance during this challenging process.

Why Choose Regan Zambri Long as Your Washington, DC Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

After a serious crosswalk accident, choosing the right law firm can make all the difference. For decades, Regan Zambri Long has represented pedestrians and families across Washington, DC, securing justice from negligent drivers, corporations, and public agencies.

 

A Record of Results in DC Crosswalk Cases

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve secured multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for pedestrians throughout the DC Metro area, including:

  • $3.9 million for a pedestrian who sustained severe orthopedic injuries after being struck by a vehicle.
  • $2.75 million for a pedestrian injured while walking in a crosswalk.
  • $2.75 million for a pedestrian whose leg was seriously injured by a bus in a crosswalk.

These results reflect the skill of our legal team and our unwavering dedication to helping victims rebuild their lives after devastating collisions.

 

Leaders in Trial Advocacy

Founding partners Patrick Regan, Salvatore Zambri, and Victor Long are all board-certified in Civil Trial Law and Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA), a distinction achieved by only a small percentage of attorneys nationwide.

 

Patrick Regan is a Fellow of both the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, two of the most selective professional organizations in the United States. He also serves as a Master of the Bench in the Thurgood Marshall American Inn of Court, reflecting his dedication to advancing excellence in trial practice.

 

Victor Long is recognized for his leadership within the legal community, serving as Chair of the fund of the DC Client Security Fund and maintaining an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell for ethics and professional ability. Salvatore Zambri has been named among the Top 10 Super Lawyers in Washington, DC, and several of our attorneys have been honored as Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers for their outstanding work in personal injury litigation.

 

Comprehensive Resources and Personal Commitment

Our team works with leading accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and economic analysts to build strong, evidence-based cases. With the financial resources to take on even the largest defendants, we prepare every claim for trial to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

 

Every client we represent receives personal attention and clear communication from start to finish. We explain each step, keep you informed, and remain focused on achieving the best possible outcome. Our goal is to help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

What Can Pedestrians Do to Protect Themselves?

  • Improved crosswalk design: Enhancing crosswalk visibility through better signage, markings, and lighting can help reduce the risk of accidents. Installing pedestrian refuge islands, curb extensions, and raised crosswalks can also provide additional safety measures.
  • Traffic calming measures: Implementing traffic calming measures such as speed humps, roundabouts, and lower speed limits in areas with high pedestrian traffic can help decrease the likelihood of accidents.
  • Education and enforcement: Increasing public awareness about pedestrian safety and crosswalk laws, along with stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, can encourage both drivers and pedestrians to exercise greater caution in crosswalks.
  • Technological advancements: Innovations such as pedestrian detection systems in vehicles and smart traffic signals can help reduce the frequency of crosswalk accidents.

Crosswalk pedestrian accidents remain a pressing public safety concern. By examining the available statistics and understanding the contributing factors, we can work towards implementing effective solutions to enhance pedestrian safety. Improving crosswalk infrastructure, promoting safe driving and walking behaviors, and leveraging technology can all play a role in reducing the number of crosswalk accidents and creating safer streets for everyone.

If you were involved in a pedestrian accident in Washington, DC, Regan Zambri Long can help. Contact our DC pedestrian accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation.

Contact Our DC Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Today

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