Car Accident Causes in Seattle

Colburn Law

Posted in Car Accidents on November 1, 2017

Car accidents catch everyone by surprise and happen more frequently than people realize. Drivers could prevent these accidents if they practiced safer driving tactics. Driver distraction, negligence, or recklessness leads to most accidents, a problem further complicated by Seattle’s notorious weather. If you have been recently involved in an accident, speak to a Seattle personal injury lawyer today.

Top Causes of Accidents in Seattle

Here are the most common types of accidents that take lives and cause traffic congestion in the greater Seattle area.

1. Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol holds the top spot for causes of fatal car accidents in Washington. Despite efforts by the state and police to combat this epidemic, Seattle drivers continue to make the wrong choice, leading to life-altering or ending accidents. Drivers convicted of a DUI may also face civil charges filed by the victim or their family.

2. Speeding

Reckless driving by Seattle residents leads to numerous avoidable accidents, speeding being the most notorious cause in the city. Drivers speed for a variety of reasons, often paying little heed to the traffic around them or the weather and driving faster than posted speed limits

3. Distracted Driving

Motorists face many distractions while driving in Seattle. These distractions can include interacting with a device, eating, drinking, looking at the radio, children in the rear seat, a passenger, and much more. Drivers convicted of distracted driving face heavy fines and could face civil charges for damages or injuries they cause in an accident.

Types of Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident

The kind of injuries that might happen vary depending on the accident. Some of these include damage to the head, injuries to the neck, spinal damage, broken bones, internal bleeding, concussion, and even death.

Steps to Take After an Accident in the City

Seek medical attention in the event of an accident. Assess your safety and that of others around you. Look to see if anyone is injured and in need of first aid. After doing taking these steps, examine the damages done to the vehicles or property involved in the accident. Make notes of what happened and take pictures of all of the damage and any evidence present at the scene. Write down the contact and insurance information for all drivers involved and make a report to the police when they arrive.

Proving Liability in Washington State

The state makes use of a comparative negligence system wherein the driver at fault must pay for all damages, but the courts may split these damages among multiple guilty parties. This can include anyone filing a liability suit. The state also allows insurance companies to offer no-fault coverage, meaning you must file your claim with your own insurance company, not the guilty party. Courts may skip this process entirely in deference to simply filing a lawsuit for damages against the guilty partner.

Drivers in Seattle should practice defensive driving to help keep our roads safe. However, in the event an accident does happen, be prepared and know what steps you must take in the immediate aftermath. Remember to consult with a Seattle car accident attorney before making any decisions to make certain you have all of the information you need to make an informed choice.