Spokane runners hurt by potholes in roadways, cracks in sidewalks, and damage on greenways can file injury claims. They are empowered to seek help with their medical bills and their lost income while they can’t work. Those in charge of maintaining roads and all pedestrian paths could be held liable. That might mean a lawsuit filed against the City of Spokane or the County Parks and Rec Department. But be warned that any litigation against a government entity can be complex.
CCD Law offers a free case consultation to any injured pedestrians in the Spokane area. We want you to get the support you need to recover and get back to the walks or runs that you love. Let’s talk over what happened to you and investigate the best way to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Who Is Liable If I’m Hurt By a Pothole While Jogging in Spokane?
The appearance of a pothole can represent negligence on the part of city, county, and state maintenance departments and the construction crews they contract for the work. A tree root growing through a sidewalk might be the responsibility of the city, a business, or even a homeowner.
These parties might all be liable for failing to monitor for these dangers for pedestrians. They can be liable for failing to take action and repair these hazards. They might even be liable for not posting warning signs, caution tape, or cones to prevent someone running by to step on an unstable surface and getting hurt.
These are just a few of the entities that might face a lawsuit after a runner gets hurt while exercising in the area:
- The City of Spokane
- Spokane County Traffic Department
- Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
- Road construction companies and building construction companies that block sidewalks
- Property Owners, Homeowners, Business Owners who may be responsible for sidewalk damage in some areas
Runners may not normally run on the street, but they may cross lanes at intersections. They can also be forced out into roadways where crews have blocked sidewalks with construction debris. Potholes may be waiting.
Another place where runners may hit pavement damage is on the Centennial Greenway and along Riverfront Park. The City of Spokane is also responsible for these public routes and must make sure paths are kept safe for walkers and joggers. When a fall occurs, Spokane should be covering ambulance fees, doctor bills, and physical therapy costs.
A skilled Spokane pedestrian accident lawyer would investigate the cause of damage that led to a serious accident for you or a loved one. Evidence would be collected, and then a claim would be filed with the insurance company for the at-fault party.
In many cases, our skilled lawyers can earn much more for victims than they could earn for themselves. Especially when having to go up against a government agency to secure support.
Check out our article on downtown Spokane construction dangers for all pedestrians.
Common Injuries Suffered by Runners Due to Damaged Road Surfaces
The level of settlement money awarded to injured runners is critical. It can mean the difference between victims having health issues and financial issues in the years ahead and being able to rebuild their lives with confidence.
Major injuries like broken bones and brain trauma can completely change the course of someone’s lifestyle and lead to a dependence on medical treatment.
These and other common injuries are treated for runners in emergency rooms like the one at Deaconess Hospital:
- Broken Ankle Bones. The joint that runners depend on greatly. UCLA Medicine explains that this injury may mean a break in the lower leg bones (fibula and tibia) or the talus bone in the foot. The ligaments that join these bones at the ankle can also be stretched or torn. Healing can take a few months or more, but victims may need more time to feel fully confident for a run. Permanent weakness or a loss of flexibility in the joint may be devastating for people who enjoy a jog around Spokane.
- Broken Foot Bones. Most often, runners break the bones in the toes, those in the midfoot, or the heel bone.
- Knee Injuries. The victim’s foot may get tripped up, sending the victim flying forward to land on a vulnerable knee. The knee cap may fracture, and ligaments can be damaged. The upper and lower leg bones that also form the knee joint can also be fractured.
- Head Injuries. Runners can fall backward or forward to hit their heads. They may suffer a Traumatic Brain Injury to experience trouble with balance, sensitivity to light, and even seizures.
- Wrist injuries. Victims at a full run can also throw out their hands instinctively as they fall. They might break their wrist bones, hand bones, and even the bones that make up the arm.
- Skin damage. Road burn may be a consequence of landing on the rough pavement. Skin wounds to the hands and even the face are possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I earn compensation for after an injury while running due to a pothole?
You should demand help with every medical bill you have in hand now and for the care you may require in the future. The time you lose at work and the income should be reimbursed. The pain you experience and the emotional trauma suffered during a difficult recovery should be compensated. This can include a loss of enjoyment of life, especially for runners who must give up physical activity.
How long do I have to file an accident injury claim in Washington?
For injury claims filed against individuals and business owners, victims are granted up to three years from the date of the accident to seek financial support for their injuries. WARNING: If your case involves the City of Spokane or another government entity, the statute of limitations on your case can be much shorter. These agencies enjoy special protections against legal action. You may only have a few months to file your claim before losing your chance to get help. Check with a Spokane attorney so you don’t miss sneaky deadlines for your case.
What if I can’t afford to pay a personal injury lawyer?
You can still afford skilled representation. CCD Law doesn’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement money an insurance company has to pay you and your family.
Contact a Skilled Spokane Runner Accident Lawyer
If your running accident involving a pothole results in only minor injuries, you may not need a lawyer’s help to file a claim. But if your injuries are more serious, like a broken bone or a head injury, and a pothole is to blame, you may be in line to secure much more with a lawyer handling your case.
Having a lawyer to take on the frustrating claims process also allows you to focus on getting better and getting back to the runs you love.