UPDATE: Pedestrian hit by driver at California/Walker

Xana La Fuente November 29, 2016 (5:00 pm)

I was there, saw the whole thing and if someone finds out she is I have photso and video of from the time she landed on the ground till the time they loaded her in the ambulance. It was horrible, I hope she is okay and please people USE THE CROSSWALKS!

AMD November 29, 2016 (5:18 pm)

You can share that with SPD. They should be doing an investigation. It will get to any parties that need it that way.
- Xana November 29, 2016 (7:55 pm)
  
  good idea, I will call them.
elarem November 29, 2016 (5:18 pm)

I’m sorry you had to witness that and I hope the woman recovers completely.

That stretch of Admiral needs more well lit and well-marked crosswalks. IIRC there is only one north of the Admiral Junction.
Alki Resident November 29, 2016 (5:44 pm)

I witness something similar a few years ago. I found myself in shock the next two days. If you don’t feel right tomorrow, you may want to stay home from work etc. Such a terrible situation.
Anna November 29, 2016 (7:13 pm)

I am appalled the driver was not detained I passed the young woman on the corner and shortly encountered the car coming at a high speed with the engine reving speed was definitely faster than 30 mph , in my rear view mirror I saw the whole thing smoking brakes and fishtailing he hit her so hard she went flying in the air it looked like a cartwheel. The white van in front of me turned around and headed back to the scene I drove back and by then a crowd had gathered around her and the medics had stared to arrive. I pray for her and her family and friends.
- Xana November 29, 2016 (7:59 pm)
  
  Didnt stay long enough to see if they detained him, but my fiance said the same thing, he had to have been speeding.
- Mike November 30, 2016 (7:33 am)
  
  You didn’t stop for her when she was about to cross? If you saw that much of this in your rearview mirror, makes me wonder where you were when she was about to cross the street.
- Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:30 pm)
  
  Anna, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.
Elizabeth November 29, 2016 (8:45 pm)

Contact Harborview as well. They won’t confirm she’s a patient but you can ask to speak with an ER or inpatient social worker and offer to pass it along without asking for any info on her. All traumas go to Harborview. I actually did this when I saw a man hit by a car and gave my info to be a witness through hospital staff and the msg did get passed to him. When my friend was hit as a pedestrian in the Morgan Junction, SPD clammed up even though they had access to a video. I was actually at the hospital when a cop told me he’d already seen it but then they were silent. It took months and months and a lawsuit before her lawyer and she saw the tape.
- Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:39 pm)
  
  Elizabeth, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.
cate December 1, 2016 (12:31 pm)

Check out Mission on Facebook. They’ve set up a go fund me for her.

Alki Resident November 29, 2016 (5:12 pm)

Oh no. Prayers for this person. How terrible

zark00 November 29, 2016 (5:13 pm)

I hope the victim makes it – so sad – send good thoughts.

And I’ll bet you money the driver was texting – 30MPH that’s just horrible and terrifying.

There are lights on both Walker and Cali at that crossing yeah?

Even if the victim was completely jaywalking, the driver had to be either speeding, a lot, or completely distracted to hit someone going 30.

prayforrain November 29, 2016 (5:18 pm)

Please people slow down on that stretch of road, and don’t make u-turns in that intersection (I see it all the time).

Asher November 29, 2016 (5:52 pm)

The driver was going 30mph as reported. Reasonable speed. People need to use crosswalks.
- prayforrain November 29, 2016 (6:43 pm)
  
  I live near there and therefore drive that stretch of road multiple times a week. At dusk and rush hour there’s loads of activity and 30mph is unnecessary and unwise. Even if she should have used the crosswalk, slow the F down.
- Tedb310 November 29, 2016 (7:00 pm)
  
  I drive this stretch of California every day, &win the dark when it’s busy around there 30 is way too fast. I won’t go anywhere near that.
- Justme November 29, 2016 (7:25 pm)
  
  I also drive this stretch every day. In the evening when it’s dark and people are running errands 30mph is way too fast. It is especially hairy at the crosswalk in front of Admiral Pub because people park their cars so close to the crosswalk and block the sight lines from driver to pedestrian. I drive around 20mph through here in the evening and wouldn’t feel safe going any faster (even with 20/20 vision).
- Lynn December 1, 2016 (10:30 pm)
  
  I hate that street. I use that crosswalk ALL THE TIME and even then there has been several close calls where people zone out and almost hit me. I’ve also talked to other people who were almost hit using that crosswalk. One was a driver that clearly saw the pedestrian but kept driving anyway.
  
  Hate that crosswalk.

marguerite November 29, 2016 (5:38 pm)

I live in this area, its a difficult stretch. Poor lighting and for some reason people don’t stop even if you cross at the corner. FYI : all cars are supposed to stop for pedestrians at ALL corners, not just crosswalks. Basic drivers ed. Sounds like this person crossed mid block. So sad

Rachel November 29, 2016 (5:42 pm)

I ran out to the scene as soon as I heard the car slamming on the brakes. I just want to give a big thank you to all those in the neighborhood or on their way home, who immediately helped the young woman. You stayed with her and protected her as a group in the street, directed traffic, got a 911 call out quickly, etc. With the fire station so close, it was a very fast response time, but you helped make it even faster and safe. I hope she is OK and wish her a speedy recovery.

sl November 29, 2016 (5:44 pm)

I, too, live in the area. People both speed AND jaywalk all the time. A terrible combination.

Dan November 29, 2016 (5:47 pm)

I just called the police about this incident. I was walking my dog and saw the speeding car at about Holgate and California. It was going so fast I got angry because of how unsafe it was. The car’s engine was revving in the way cars do when you put the pedal to the medal.

Then, less than 10 seconds seconds later I heard an incredible screech from braking tires. I didn’t hear a crash into a car so I thought, wrongfully, that there hadn’t been an accident. There is absolutely no way the car was only going 30 mph.

Let me also just say that the way the current coverage is written implies it was the pedestrian’s fault since they may not have been in a crosswalk. Please, please revise how this is written.

WSB November 29, 2016 (5:55 pm)

Dan, no, it is not written that way. We take EXTREME care to be sure that no victim of an incident is blamed (and please, commenters, don’t even try to blame the victim). You won’t see the word “accident” *ever* in a WSB story, as that is a subjective term. You also won’t see the word “jaywalking.” You also won’t see that someone was hit by a “car,” as if the car were unoccupied – they were hit by a driver.

But to not report where she was reported to be crossing would be to omit what the authorities said. We asked where – across Walker or across California – and this is what they said. The 30 mph is also what they said. And absent being there with a radar gun, we have no grounds to counter that, we can only quote. – TR
- Dan November 29, 2016 (6:24 pm)
  
  I don’t mean to attack WSB’s journalism standards. Honestly, I’m shaken by the incident and want to be sure it’s handled appropriately. One suggestion for the article would be to say the police said x. But eye witnesses said y. If you need me to go on the record to do so, I’m happy to be quoted by name.
  - WSB November 29, 2016 (6:36 pm)
    
    Dan – I will be updating pointing to comments. We are covering the big rezoning meeting right now so I am multitasking.
    - Dan November 29, 2016 (7:20 pm)
      
      Thank you. You are doing amazing work for the local community. Can you please help follow up on this incident with the police to understand what is happening. There are eye-witnesses who saw the car far exceeding the speed limit. The police should talk to them. I am such a witness and have reached out to the police. So far, they have not called me back to take a statement.
Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:31 pm)

Dan, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.

Alan November 29, 2016 (5:49 pm)

I’m assuming that the decision not to bring out the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad was not due to the victim crossing at mid-block. Wrong though it may be, it is not open season on jaywalkers.

I second Marguerite’s comment on unmarked crosswalks. The good thing about unmarked crosswalks is that pedestrians tend to be more cautious. Marked crosswalks can give a false sense of security, though they also make it more likely that you will be eventually able to cross on a busy street.

WSB November 29, 2016 (6:02 pm)

Alan – generally, not bringing out TCIS is because the victim(s) in an incident don’t have life-threatening injuries, and a circumstance such as DUI is not believed to be involved. As I wrote, the head injury was the most significant thing mentioned in the medical-info exchange, but that’s not necessarily life-threatening. I won’t be able to even try to ask Harborview for condition information until tomorrow, and since I don’t have a name (which we would not publish even if we had it, and even knowing the name is no guarantee the information would be made public, as a victim or their family can opt for privacy) I might not get it. The driver was not detained, nor was he treated for injuries; we don’t know his age but he appeared to be a teenager or young adult, and was picked up by a relative or friend just before police left the scene – TR
- Alan November 29, 2016 (11:38 pm)
  
  Thank you!

Riana November 29, 2016 (5:55 pm)

How do we go about putting a stop sign/light on the intersection? Cars fly and never respect pedestrians. Also, does anyone know her name? We saw the whole thing and would love updates on her.

Be safe xo

Megan November 29, 2016 (5:59 pm)

Maybe the car was going 30 mph when she was hit but he was going at least 60 mph+ before he hit her. She was crossing the street at the corner of walker/California and was flown to about mid block. Thanks to everyone who stopped and immediately helped her out. It was a scary sight. Should I call 911 to clarify what I saw or should I call a non emergency line.

Dan November 29, 2016 (6:13 pm)

Megan – I also saw the car. This is a crime. The car was going far above the speed limit. I called 911 and they put me through to a non-emergency number. I told the operator what I saw. So far they haven’t called me for information. I also left a message with City Councilor Lisa Herbold’s office to ask for help to follow up on this. I want to make sure it is handled as the crime that it is. And it sounds like from what the police told the WSB, that is currently not the case.
- Megan November 29, 2016 (6:39 pm)
  
  Thank you Dan. I called 911 when it happened and told them what I saw but I was not able to stay to give some a statement. The operator took my information and no one has called me either. Let me know if you need help with anything or if you have any updates.
  - Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:33 pm)
    
    Megan, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.
- KM November 29, 2016 (6:49 pm)
  
  You two are really great neighbors making sure all this information is taken care of and seriously. Traffic violence is no joke. Thank you both!
  - AJP November 29, 2016 (7:24 pm)
    
    Adding my thanks. Thank you for trying to get the info to the authorities. I hope they hear you.

A Driver November 29, 2016 (6:55 pm)

Sounds like Seattle Scofflaws needs to set up their video camera in this area. Too many yahoos, not enough common sense or police enforcement.

Al November 29, 2016 (7:06 pm)

Drivers in west seattle need to slow down period. Even if we use flash lights I almost always have to jump.out of the way of a car. They never clear there left side when turn left slowdown!!!

A Driver November 29, 2016 (7:09 pm)

It’s really great to see everyone help people in need. There seems to be a lot of bad things that we hear about which seems strange when there appear to be so many great people around. Not sure how to phrase it. Maybe a dichotomy.

JRR November 29, 2016 (7:12 pm)

You all acted so quickly and I hope that means good things for the person who was hit. Thank you.

Mark November 29, 2016 (7:33 pm)

With darkness earlier and earlier all street users need to be vigilant. Peds and bicyclist need to be visible via light covered clothes and bikes with lights. Motorist need to be focussed and not on their cell phone that is illegal.

The adage see and be seen is appropriate. Be safe

22blades November 29, 2016 (7:37 pm)

First of all, I hope the woman is safe & is in her way to a speedy recovery.

Second; Even if the car was travelling at the alleged 30 mph, the city has seen fit to reduce these arterial speeds to 25 mph soon.

Ladies & gentlemen, it’s not just about stopping distance, it’s about reaction time for you & others.

Please slow down & put your head into driving, not phoning, texting or getting there maybe a couple of minutes earlier tops.

prayforrain November 29, 2016 (8:09 pm)

Is that street even an arterial?
- JanS November 30, 2016 (12:07 am)
  
  are you talking about California Ave., questioning if it’s an arterial? I would surmise yes, as it’s the main street of West Seattle.
  - WSB November 30, 2016 (12:14 am)
    
    To be precise …it’s a collector arterial north of Admiral and south of Morgan, a minor arterial between those two points. City’s arterial map:
    
    https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/streetclassmaps/planweb.pdf
Bike Commuter November 29, 2016 (8:46 pm)

My husband was a witness, called in to 911, and waited for our wonderful local responders to arrive. He just received a call from the SPD detective for additional information. The detective stated that they started investigating immediately and are continuing to do so.

The Cautious Walker November 29, 2016 (7:52 pm)

This was a very tragic event. I was there. I think the car was speeding but I did not have a radar gun. The young lady was crossing mid street, not at the crosswalk. I believe she had just exited the Water Taxi Bus, walked in front of the bus mid street to cross the street. I am very sad for the young lady and also for the driver of the car that hit the young lady. This is a very sad time for all involved; the young lady that was hit as well as her family and friends, the driver of the car that struck her as well as his family and friends, and all the locals that were all witness to the accident. This incident will be forever in my thoughts. I pray that the young lady is okay and has a full recovery and I pray that the driver can forgive himself and that all involved can learn from this terrible accident: Slow Down and Please use the Cross Walks and Let’s get some lights at these crosswalks and some better lighting along California Avenue! The stretch of California Avenue between College and Walker is very dangerous for pedestrians. Last night as I was coming home from work, I went to turn off of California Avenue to College street and a woman and child were on the corner waiting to cross in the cross walk. I stopped to let them cross ( it was dusk – hard to see) BUT the car speeding down California Ave beside me did NOT stop. Had the woman not paused in front of my vehicle before continuing to cross the street, they would have been hit. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE put in a traffic light at that intersection or at the VERY LEAST a flashing pedestrian light like we now have on California and Dakota (I believe).

Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:38 pm)

The Cautious Walker, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.

Kate November 29, 2016 (8:53 pm)

There are SO many areas in West Seattle, especially around the 3 junctions, where drivers often go too fast. With the influx of people moving in to these new apartment buildings, there are also so many more pedestrians in our neighborhood. We live in Seaview and we so often see cars going well over 30+ on very narrow residential streets. Whether or not drivers are technically “speeding”, just be a good neighbor and SLOW DOWN. Be 5 minutes late to wherever you’re going, it’s more important we keep each other safe. My thoughts are with the young woman this evening.

Safe Driver November 29, 2016 (11:07 pm)

I couldn’t agree more. There are thousands of people moving into West Seattle, some of which are new to the state and are unfamiliar pedestrian safety laws. All of the new condos and apartments have made the area much more congested and many of our intersections now need stop lights and cross walks. These changes should be made at busy intersections while new projects are under construction instead of waiting until pedestrians are hit.

I walk this area very frequently with my small children. It’s becoming very dangerous. Oregon and Genesee are also increasingly congested and dangerous for pedestrians and cars. I was inches away from being hit by a car a few weeks ago in this area, while crossing at a corner. Drivers – please slow down and keep your eyes open for pedestrians and cyclists. We all need to share the road.
- CAM November 30, 2016 (12:32 am)
  
  Having lived near Oregon between Fauntleroy and California for a year and a half, it’s my experience that I would never cross Oregon unless it’s at a light. Even at the corner of Oregon and California, drivers will aggressively take a corner and almost end up on the sidewalk or nearly run you over in their rush to beat the light and turn left. A little more attention by drivers would be greatly appreciated by this pedestrian.

Admiral resident November 29, 2016 (8:57 pm)

I use the crosswalk at California and College. Even though I make eye contact with drivers, cars usually won’t yield to pedestrians waiting to cross.

wendyB November 29, 2016 (9:00 pm)

Well said, cautious walker. I hope that all can learn and heal from this, including the witnesses. The flashing pedestrian light at California and Dakota is better, but I refuse to walk across that way any more. Drivers are blatantly mystified and surprised by that light, so you’re taking a chance. I actually had someone beep at me when I was in the crosswalk one day.

Julia November 29, 2016 (9:26 pm)

I seldom stop for pedestrians at corners (not crosswalks) because I fear that others won’t stop and I’ll be putting them at risk. Seems safer for the peds to wait for a clear opening to cross.

Safe Driver November 29, 2016 (11:11 pm)

You are breaking the law and endangering lives by doing this Julia
- Julia November 29, 2016 (11:35 pm)
  
  Just to be clear, I always stop at crosswalks because it is more likely other drivers will realize why I’ve stopped. At unmarked crossings other drivers will often swerve around without seeing the person crossing. Very dangerous.
  - Julia November 29, 2016 (11:48 pm)
    
    When I am the pedestrian, it can be frightening when one car stops for me but the cars in other lanes don’t. That’s why I think it’s better to wait for a gap in traffic to cross.
    - Alan November 29, 2016 (11:54 pm)
      
      You are not doing me any favors when you do not stop. If you stop, I will watch for other cars. If you stop, other cars will be reminded that they also should. While I would prefer a wide open break, I have spent a lot of time stepping towards traffic and then back onto the curb while you and others “protected” me.
    - Julia November 30, 2016 (12:21 am)
      
      I guess I suffer from the trauma of having a person I stopped for be struck by the car that pulled left to go around me.
    - Alan November 30, 2016 (10:30 am)
      
      I am sorry that you witnessed that, but it was not your fault.
      
      We have a school crossing near our house, complete with warning signs and curb bulbs. I have witnessed people passing on the right, in spite of the curb bulbs, in order to get around the car stopped for the marked crosswalk. If someone were hit in that case, would it justify that driver never stopping at a school crossing again? How are you going to feel when someone thinks you are stopping for them and they step out in front of you?
- With Reservation November 30, 2016 (9:17 am)
  
  Washington: Vehicles must stop and remain stopped to allow a pedestrian or bicycle to cross the roadway within a marked or unmarked crosswalk when the pedestrian or bicycle is upon or within one lane of the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling or onto which it is turning. For purposes of this section “half of the roadway” means all traffic lanes carrying traffic in one direction of travel, and includes the entire width of a one-way roadway. Pedestrians may not suddenly leave the curb and enter a crosswalk into the path of a moving vehicle that is so close the vehicle is unable to stop. Pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to vehicles when crossing outside of a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Where traffic control devices are in operation, pedestrians may only cross between two adjacent intersections in a marked crosswalk and may only cross an intersection diagonally if authorized by a traffic control device. Pedestrians may not cross a roadway at an unmarked crosswalk when prohibited by an official sign.
- Ron Swanson November 30, 2016 (9:18 am)
  
  Nope, you’re doing the the right thing Julia. I never cross as a pedestrian when one car stops on a multiple lane road, and I never stop when driving in such situations: you see one person get hit because someone decided to be “a safe driver” and you’ll never do it again. Many drivers now assume that any regular old car stopped in the right lane is an Uber or Lyft looking for someone and blow right by. Better as a pedestrian to wait for clear sailing.
  - Safe Driver November 30, 2016 (9:48 pm)
    
    Stopping at corners for pedestrians is the law in Washington state. See above and do not break the law and endanger lives because of potential dangerous drivers behind you. It honestly sounds like an excuse to not stop your car for 5 seconds and slow down.
    
    I’ve seen police ticket for this, staging plane clothed officers at cross walks and cruisers waiting to pull over cars who don’t stop. Yielding for pedestrians is not an optional, nice thing to do. It is in fact an actual law that needs to be followed.
    - Judith December 1, 2016 (5:38 am)
      
      Actually, if you read the bit above, what it says is that cars must stop if someone has begun to cross at an unmarked corner, not that a car must stop for someone waiting to cross. I’m guessing Julia does this.
    - Alan December 1, 2016 (5:20 pm)
      
      Judith – Clearly she does not have to stop if the pedestrian has not indicated they are to cross and no I do not believe that she would run someone down that was crossing. The person does not have to actually be crossing for you to have to stop for them. I would never step in front of a car until I know they are stopping.
      
      From a detective in 2009:
      
      http://blog.seattlepi.com/seattle911/2009/01/24/do-i-have-to-stop-for-pedestrians-waiting-at-a-crosswalk/
      
      At an uncontrolled intersection (no signals, signs, or marked crosswalks), if a pedestrian is standing on the sidewalk or off of the roadway and has not stepped out onto the roadway so as to indicate an intention to cross the street, vehicular traffic is not required to stop.
      
      However, once the pedestrian steps or is in the act of stepping into the street, he/she has indicated an intention to cross the street and vehicular traffic must come to a complete stop and allow the pedestrian to cross.
      
      Once the pedestrian is half way across the street (half of the width of the entire roadway), the motorist may proceed with caution. Likewise, if making a turn, a motorist is legal to proceed once the pedestrian is half way across the street.
      
      The fine for failing to yield the right of way to a pedestrian is $124.00 if there is no collision. If there is an accident, the fine is $191.00.

Sad. November 29, 2016 (9:59 pm)

As of thirty minutes ago, she was still in critical condition, she’s in surgery for a broken pelvis.

Monica November 29, 2016 (10:44 pm)

Was the car involved a maroon Acura (older model)? I walk this stretch of California with my kids to school and I have seen this one particular car speeding as well as driving closely by my children and me as we cross the crosswalk to the library.

WSB November 29, 2016 (10:55 pm)

Green Acura, according to Christopher.

MsD November 29, 2016 (10:56 pm)

Even if you have a marked crosswalk with a walk/don’t walk signal, be careful. Me and my dog were nearly run over crossing Hanford and California a few months ago. Not sure if the driver was distracted or just a sociopath, but while we were in the middle of the crosswalk he sped up until I had to literally jump out of the way to keep from being run over.

Mariem November 29, 2016 (11:19 pm)

The city has a responsibility to do a better job of lighting such dark, high ped/ vehicle traffic areas.

Xana November 29, 2016 (11:35 pm)

in case I cant get through to SPD , if any family sees this and needs my photos and video, you can email me @ xanalandsite@gmail.com

Seattlite November 30, 2016 (7:26 am)

I hope the young lady recovers from injuries. I hope the driver has his license taken away forever! Driving and walking around West Seattle and other urban areas is dangerous. Drivers and pedestrians need to be 100% engaged with their surroundings to keep safe on the busy streets, especially during the Christmas rush. Even with clearly marked cross walks pedestrians need to be alert when crossing. Always cross from corner to corner. Drivers need to get rid of their distractions when behind the wheel and adhere to the posted speed limits and pay attention to their surroundings.

John November 30, 2016 (7:41 am)

Just last night I was on California and Findley. I woman was crossing stopped waiting to cross legally at the unmarked intersection (crosswalk or no crosswalk…she has the right of way). It was dark and around 6 pm. I saw her and stopped. I turned my lights on and off to let her know I see her. A Metro bus was coming the other way. He was about 250 feet from the intersection. She was already 1/3 of the way across, but was smart enough to not continue. All pedestrians know to not trust buses. I flashed my lights to get the bus drivers attention….nope…he just went right thru the intersection with her standing in front of my car. Of course I rolled down the window and gave him the bird….he just didn’t care.

William November 30, 2016 (8:09 am)

Setting aside wether the pedestrian crossed legally at a corner or not, or whether the driver was speeding, a main issue here is the lighting on Seattle city streets.

The city is still following old policies to minimize street lighting that are based on out-of-date economics for the costs of lighting and the need to maintain street lights. That is, in the old days, the lights used more electricity and cost more to operate and maintain. The lamps in the street light needed frequent replacement – meaning sending maintenance crews out with a bucket truck to replace burned out lamps.

Today, technology has changed both the amount of electricity consumed by street lights and the length of time the lamps last. The city can run 5 or 6 modern LED street lights for the cost running one of the old lights. The lamps can now last 10 – 20 years.

With the city’s emphasis to promote bike and pedestrians, it is past time for the city to review their street lighting practices. Seattle has passed two transportation bond measures in recent years and I see almost nothing done in West Seattle. At least give us some more street lights!

@Julia, I totally understand what you are talking about. I ride a bike year round in West Seattle and drivers are not doing me a favor when they stop at times I have a responsibility to yield the right of way. Those do-gooders don’t realize they can get me killed if I cross in front of them and another driver does not stop.

KM November 30, 2016 (11:06 am)

It would be the people who didn’t yield, or went around the yielded vehicle, that would be responsible for getting you killed. Not the vehicles that are stopped.
Safe Driver November 30, 2016 (10:03 pm)

Interesting point about the cost of lighting our streets. Additional lights would definitely improve safety in our neighborhoods, both from traffic accidents and crime. The newer LED street lights have not been placed well in Admiral. They are too far apart, leaving stretches of dark areas. The lights themselves are piercingly bright, which reduces visibility. I would love to see the city improve the situation.

Neighbor November 30, 2016 (8:42 am)

I agree that this driver should never be allowed to driver again. Changes to speed and roadway design is what Vision Zero is all about here in Seattle and all over the world. People are trying to reduce death and injury by motorists. I was inches away from being hit from a city employee driving a city vehicle while he had a red light but was turning on red a few weeks ago. Speed limits have been reduced but the bad drivers have not altered their behavior. I wish the woman a speedy recovery and justice.

Alki Resident November 30, 2016 (9:07 am)

FOOD CHAIN- Please if anyone knows this lady and is ready for our community to come together and bring meals to her, let the blog know, so they can announce it. Or if she needs someone to grocery shop as well.

Riana November 30, 2016 (10:59 am)

I would love to help as well. Will you keep me posted if you hear anything?

thank you!
- Xana November 30, 2016 (11:54 am)
  
  she is stable , you can email me @ xanalandsite@gmail.com
Xana November 30, 2016 (11:52 am)

Her name is Britt, she is with friends and family and is still in Harborview but in stable condition :)
cate December 1, 2016 (12:39 pm)

There is a go fund me set up for her.

You can find it through Mission restaurant Facebook page.

Nancy R November 30, 2016 (9:11 am)

There seems to be a lot of anger directed to pedestrians and cyclists by car drivers currently. My husband and I went for a bike ride yesterday and experienced 6 different incidents (in 90 minutes!) where people either yelled at us, honked at us, pretended to hit us, almost hit us, etc. We were riding single file on and obeying all traffic laws. This is an off-traffic route that we’ve been riding for years and have never experienced any issues. People are being selfish and hateful right now. It needs to stop. Peds and cyclists- be extra careful out there.

LT November 30, 2016 (9:25 am)

I sent a request to SDOT in April 2014 to slow the speed limit at that intersection. SDOT said they would do a traffic analysis as a part of their 2015 Arterial Traffic Calming program. I am not sure of they actually completed the traffic analysis but regardless, they did nothing to implement a traffic calming program. My daughter’s daycare is at that location and parents are constantly having to cross California with little babies and toddlers in tow. Maybe now we can send in several requests to SDOT and they will take it more seriously this time. You can sends emails into neighborhood.traffic@seattle.gov

I’m very sorry to hear about the young lady who was hit and send good healing thoughts to her.

WSB November 30, 2016 (9:28 am)

LT and anyone else with a neighborhood-traffic issue – If you haven’t gotten involved with your neighborhood council to help amplify the request, please do. In this case, it’s the Admiral Neighborhood Association. They meet on second Tuesdays, though I don’t know if they are meeting in December – most neighborhood groups skip the month because of the holidays – you’ll see an announcement here on WSB when we have info.
- LT November 30, 2016 (10:57 am)
  
  I would be glad to attend an Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting to address this traffic issue. I will look into the details for the next scheduled gathering. Thank you!

David November 30, 2016 (9:27 am)

Yet another sad reason I can’t WAIT for the day humans aren’t allowed to drive cars. Self driving cars can’t come soon enough. Hopefully there will be super super hard tests and VERY high insurance to “manually” drive a car in the future. Granted we’re 10-20 years out from that seriously being mainstream, but it will happen. I know some people love the ‘thrill’ of driving (I do). But people will look back in 80 years and MARVEL or be disgusted by the idea that we let nearly ANYONE just get behind the wheel of a 2 ton vehicle and manually pilot it down the road and HOPE they were in control…just hoping they’re not distracted, drunk, stupid, unlucky, etc. Think of Saturday night (2am). You KNOW a LARGE number of those people are on the road have been drinking, but now they’re all driving. Yes, computer controlled cars will screw up and cause accidents, but in all likelihood a thousand times less than what we have now (with 10s of thousands of car related fatalities per year, and far more injuries). Nothing is worse than the easily distracted/bad drivers we have now.

TheKing November 30, 2016 (6:08 pm)

I bet you can’t wait for the day when you are told when and where we can walk or ride a bicycle too. Automated cars….what could possibly go wrong. Hackers are drooling to shut that system down.
Chuck November 30, 2016 (7:21 pm)

Your willingness to turn over freedoms is frightening to me. It’s just the sort of thinking our next president is salivating over. First amendment rights, social freedoms, it’s all fair game. I’m not anxious to live in a sci-fi existence. The day Amazon drops the first package by drone is the day I flee to the country. Hopefully driving my own car, if it doesn’t make me a criminal.

Sorry for the hijack. Healing thoughts to the accident victim–and hope the driver is prosecuted!
another ave December 1, 2016 (9:20 pm)

you just need to stay on the trolley my friend.

that is your your automated transportation. stick with it. people do drive and people do walk, and sometimes people make mistakes….

Mon November 30, 2016 (9:47 am)

I didn’t see the accident, but I HEARD it, and it sounded like this driver was going faster than 30 mph! I cross the street on occasions, and the crosswalks need to be marked better, and drivers…PLEASE BE AWARE OF WHAT YOU ARE DOING! I have had a few close calls myself, even when using crosswalks during daylight hours!

I send my prayers to this woman, and hope she recovers completely!

sam-c November 30, 2016 (10:45 am)

I hope this woman recovers.

I always stop for pedestrians. It is harder now that it is darker earlier and I hate it. sometimes I stop for pedestrians, but they are so cautious that they jsut stand there looking at my car. I always try to make eye contact, but at dusk or later, the pedestrian can’t see my eyes with my headlights beaming in their face. So, I’ve taken to blinking my lights at them (like someone mentioned above), hoping the pedestrian gets the message.

Often times, I see a person standing on a corner staring at their phone, not ever looking up and not moving. If they are not looking at cars and traffic, making it look like they wish to cross, then there isn’t a reason to stop.

Xana November 30, 2016 (12:07 pm)

The womans friend contacted me, her name is Britt, she is in stable condition. I want to get her a hat ( if you were there you know why ) and Im letting her family know I would like to offer her a free house cleaning from my busisness, Alki Green Cleaners, If anyone else wants to offer up anything else, you can call me at 206-619-2159. I was thinking maybe West Seattle Nursery would maybe donate a little Christmas tree, or bonsai tree/ plant. I may make some soup to take to the hospital, once she wakes up :)

Xana November 30, 2016 (12:26 pm)

* Her condition is still critical, but stabilized * sorry for the mixed messages – I was under the impression she was out of the woods, I will let her family/ friends update here on any new information.

Tuco November 30, 2016 (8:34 pm)

That car left half a block of skid marks for all the world to see.

Waaaaaaay faster than 30mph!

Measure them, do the math, file the appropriate charges against the driver.

Is this not the very reason the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad exists? Where are they?

Dave November 30, 2016 (9:52 pm)

Incident was investigated. Witnesses interviewed. Please use a crosswalk. Skid marks, yes. Driver attempted to stop when pedestrian entered the road.
- Dave November 30, 2016 (10:34 pm)
  
  Can’t post as to the actual but if someone came out in front of my car, mid street at dusk, can’t say as how I’d react or how quickly. I’d say let’s not crucify the driver.
  - Mariem November 30, 2016 (11:36 pm)
    
    Agree. While this is clearly devastating for the young woman and her loved ones, the police will do their investigation and inform the families and the public. Does not help to lay blame on the pedestrian or the driver.
Kelly Madigan December 6, 2016 (2:44 pm)

Tuco, my company has been hired by the injured woman’s family to investigate the accident. Any information you could provide would be very helpful. I can be reached at 206-542-1640.

Rose November 30, 2016 (8:41 pm)

People need to slow down! I was parked, fixing my flat tire earlier this day and had so many cars speed past me going well over 30. One even honked at me as they sped past. I used to cross the street with a baby to get to our daycare and no-one would stop and let me across, even at the corner. I also asked SDOT to consider putting in a cross walk and speed bump and nothing came of it. It seems that people are acting selfish and not looking out for each other lately. I really hope this young lady is okay. It scares me that someone could be this reckless. Please slow down and pay attention!

another ave December 1, 2016 (9:10 pm)

“People need to slow down! I was parked, fixing my flat tire earlier this
day and had so many cars speed past me going well over 30.”

i
might advise that when you are crouched down trying to replace a tire on
the side of the road vehicles look like they are going much faster, it
is a vulnerable situation to be in, i understand that. but were they
speeding or just appeared to be speeding because you expected them to
slow down ?
- Neighbor December 1, 2016 (10:26 pm)
  
  If you see someone on or near the roadside, you as the driver must proceed cautiously as to not endanger or appear threatening to the pedestrian. Yes, it is unfortunate for you if you feel you are in a rush but a person’s life is at stake. Take care, one day you could be the vulnerable road user.

Chesney November 30, 2016 (9:31 pm)

Prayers for that young person and I hope the recovery is a quick one. I see it everyday as a homeowner who lives close to that intersection, it is a terriable intersection!!!! First and foremost, there is no crosswalk there, it’s a blinking fire single! There needs to be a crosswalk out there especially with the new restaurants and increased traffic in that area! Or speed bumps!!! I see it all to many times people speeding south bound on California Ave nearly missing people, cars or pets!! Please slow down people!!! And PLEASE install a damn sidewalk there or I’ll go paint one myself!!!

Chesney November 30, 2016 (9:32 pm)

Crosswalk

Xana December 1, 2016 (11:16 am)

I just right now saw a beautiful lady run across the st at almost exact spot!!! I stopped and gave her a good scolding from me – as did the other lady that just did AS I WAS TYPING THIS! yes, there MUST be something done about the lack of crosswalks, but until there is for ChristSake use the ones that are there- were not in a dangerous area, its not snowing and freezing like it is in some cities, were in beautiful West Seattle, so slow down! Take your time, dont walk and text- your life may depend on it!

Neighbor December 1, 2016 (2:38 pm)

It doesn’t matter if you have traffic signals or a marked crosswalk if drivers aren’t complying with the speed limit.

Relaena December 1, 2016 (1:21 pm)

Here is her GoFundMe page:

https://www.gofundme.com/help-for-britt

WSB December 1, 2016 (2:54 pm)

Thank you. I have published a separate story with that info. Nothing new from police yet, though.

https://westseattleblog.com/2016/12/followup-online-fundraiser-for-admiral-district-crash-victim/

Mary December 1, 2016 (3:54 pm)

To the commenters that keep stating “CROSSWALK” it doesn’t matter…because there’s way too many drivers that are not paying full attention to their driving and their surroundings and it would happen in or out of a crosswalk.

Wes C. Addle December 1, 2016 (4:05 pm)

The only cars that stop at the only crosswalk there are the Busses. So good job Metro, terrible job most everyone else.

NW December 1, 2016 (5:31 pm)

USE A HAND HELD LIGHT OF SOME KIND OR OTHER HIGH VISIBILITY CLOTHING IN ORDER TO HELP BE SEEN AND STAY ALERT CONSCIOUSLY ALERT OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AT ALL TIMES IT WILL ONLY GET BUSIER ON OUR STREETS HERE IN SEATTLE.

Neighbor December 1, 2016 (10:30 pm)

High visibility clothing works only when drivers are attentive. If a driver is speeding or inattentive or just a plain asshat there is nothing the vulnerable road user can do. If you drive a car/truck, it is your responsibility to be vigilant and take care. If you can’t handle this responsibility, you should not be driving.
- NW December 2, 2016 (6:48 pm)
  
  I GUESS I HAVE FAITH THERE ARE STILL ATTENTIVE DRIVERS OUT THERE AND USING A LIGHT TO INCREASE PEOPLE SEEING ME A PEDESTRIAN ALONG WITH ME LOOKING OUT HELPS THINGS ALONG ITS A MATTER OF SELF PRESERVATION!

Lynn December 1, 2016 (10:51 pm)

I can’t help but feel a little irritated a little by some readers that keep saying “use the crosswalk”. All well intentions I’m sure but have you ever used that crosswalk on California and College St? It’s just south of where this happened and let me tell you I use that crosswalk every day on my way to pick up my son from daycare and some people do not even stop. They go flying right past me, in front of me or slam on their breaks when I’m smack in the middle of the crosswalk. My point is it almost doesn’t even matter. This could have happened to anyone regardless if they were on a crosswalk or not. That same driver that hit her, would he have stopped on time for someone at a crosswalk, going the speed he was going? I don’t think so.

We need to have flashing lights at that crosswalk or giant orange neon flags people can wave to get drivers attention before they cross. I know this sounds a little ridiculous, but I’d rather look silly then get hit by a car on the way to get my kid.

another ave December 1, 2016 (11:13 pm)

the woman got off of the bus on california ave, and tried to cross the street in front of the bus. again, i should say their were no citations issued and the drivers license was returned directly to the driver
- WSB December 1, 2016 (11:34 pm)
  
  No citations issued at the time does *not* mean no one will be cited. That was reiterated to me as I continued trying to get followup information from police today. I had found two incident numbers that seemed as if they were potentially involved but the media-relations folks at SPD who help look things up for us reporter types could not match them to the incident. Depending on evidence, analysis, etc., sometimes people are cited/charged months later. Or never.

Mick December 2, 2016 (4:04 am)

The girl who was hit is my niece I live in Australia and from the bottom of my heart want to thank the people who came to help her words can’t describe how grateful I am that she was surrounded by beautiful people in her time of need you did an amazing job. Thank you!

Elevael December 11, 2016 (8:34 pm)

The Washington state law about unmarked crosswalks should maybe be changed. It seems like a bad suggestion that a ped should step off the crosswalk before cars have stopped. It’s an accident waiting to happen. Maybe in the old days it was appropriate but drivers can’t be trusted to stop these days. It would be nice if they would but it’s not realistic or safe. Seems the state maybe shouldn’t suggest peds step in front of traffic. That seems like it’s just screaming for a lawsuit.