Karen Miely Injured in Hit-And-Run Crash on 52nd Ave South [Seattle, WA]

73-year-old Karen Miely Severely Injured After Hit-And-Run Crash on 52nd Ave South in Seattle

Seattle, WA (January 3, 2025) – A 73-year-old professional dog walker and pet-sitter, Karen Miely, is recovering in the hospital after a hit-and-run driver struck her on Christmas Day near 52nd Ave South and Orcas Street in Seward Park. 

The driver fled the scene, leaving Miely with severe injuries, including broken legs and a shattered pelvis.

Miely, who was out walking her cat, Maximus Rex, around 7 p.m., says the evening took a devastating turn. “It’s been hard. I’m wearing a neck brace and have trauma to my neck,” she shared from her hospital bed. Despite the traumatic event, Max survived uninjured and is now back home being cared for by others.

Neighbors, including Maura Wahlen, witnessed the aftermath of the crash. Wahlen’s family heard the impact while sitting down for Christmas dinner and rushed to help. “We heard a loud crash. My husband and I ran out, and he was the first to get to her,” Wahlen said. The family stayed with Miely until first responders arrived, and praised the quick and professional response of the paramedics and police.

Miely’s injuries have left her unable to work through her pet care business, Seattle Tails, during what would have been her busiest week of the year. 

Friends have launched an online fundraiser to help her cover unexpected medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.

The crash remains under investigation by Seattle Police’s Traffic Collision Investigation Squad. 

No suspects have been identified, and officers are urging anyone with security footage from the area at the time of the incident to come forward.

Despite the trauma, Miely remains hopeful for answers. “I guess it’s a blessing you don’t remember that kind of trauma,” she said. 

Neighbors noted the intersection’s poor visibility and history of crashes, which they believe contributed to the incident.

Friends and loved ones have created an online fundraiser for Miely to help with her unexpected expenses and rehabilitation.  

---

Hold Negligent Drivers Accountable – Trust Sweet Lawyers to Fight for Your Justice

When a hit-and-run driver leaves you or a loved one seriously injured, the path to recovery can feel overwhelming. As Karen Miely’s story reminds us, the physical, emotional, and financial toll of such accidents can be devastating, robbing victims of their livelihood and sense of security.

At Sweet Lawyers, we are committed to ensuring that no victim faces these challenges alone.

Hit-and-run accidents demand immediate and experienced legal action to uncover the truth and hold responsible parties accountable. Sweet Lawyers’ seasoned personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of these cases.

We act swiftly to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and collaborate with investigators, ensuring every detail is pursued to strengthen your case.

Karen’s story also highlights the financial impact such accidents can have. Mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the inability to work can strain even the most resilient individuals.

At Sweet Lawyers, we work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation costs—allowing you to focus on healing.

Our team is known for its compassionate approach, providing not just legal expertise but also genuine care and support during your most difficult times.

We understand how traumatic these situations can be, and we are here to advocate for your rights with empathy and professionalism.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a negligent or reckless driver, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Sweet Lawyers today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Call us at (800) 674-7852 for a free consultation or visit Sweet Lawyers to learn how we can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Let Sweet Lawyers guide you toward recovery and justice—because you shouldn’t have to face this journey alone.