New Ranking Shows Seattle is “Less Walkable” in 2013

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on November 12, 2013

Seattle is “less walkable” this year than it was last year, according to a new study that ranks the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the country. According to a KOMO News report, the Seattle-based company Walk Score ranks the “most walkable” U.S. cities. In the newest ranking, Seattle dropped from number six to number eight. Walk Score says it uses a proprietary algorithm to evaluate walking routes and amenities. The study looked at 2,500 cities and 10,000 neighborhoods nationwide.

According to the company, a “walker’s paradise” would be a neighborhood where most everyday errands and activities do not require a car. Walk Score gives Seattle 71 out of 100, calling it a city that is quickly turning into “a world-class walkable city.” However, Miami and Chicago have both overtaken Seattle in the current rankings. Walk Score says the Emerald City’s most walkable neighborhoods are Downtown, Belltown, and Pioneer Square.

In addition to amenities, another important factor is pedestrian safety. Poorly designed roadways and intersections are death traps for those of us who enjoy walking. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Seattle include impaired drivers, failure to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, and distracted drivers. Pedestrians are also more likely than drivers to suffer major injuries in collisions. Some of the most commonly sustained injuries in pedestrian accidents include brain injuries, head and neck injuries, broken bones, spinal cord trauma, and internal injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important that you contact an experienced Seattle car accident lawyer to better understand your legal rights and options. Injured pedestrian accident victims can seek compensation from at-fault parties to collect damages for their significant losses.