Seattle’s mix of dense traffic, unpredictable weather, and complex intersections makes it one of the most challenging cities in Washington to drive. Reckless behavior on the part of other motorists only increases the potential risks.
At Washington Injury Law, our experienced Seattle car accident attorney represents people injured in collisions across King County, from major crashes on I-5 and I-90 to collisions on smaller roads in Ballard, Beacon Hill, and Rainier Valley. We know that car accidents don’t just happen but are often the result of reckless driving. Here’s a closer look at the leading causes of car accidents in Seattle and how you can protect your rights in a claim if you or someone you love is hurt.
Distracted Driving Among the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Seattle
Under the Washington Revised Code, using electronic devices behind the wheel is against the law. This includes making calls, texting, and looking at screens. However, despite state laws, distracted driving remains one of the most common causes of car accidents in Seattle. Turning your attention away from the road for even a few seconds increases the risk of potentially life-threatening injuries.
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission reports that roughly one in four serious crashes involves distracted driving. Common types of driver distraction include:
- Visual distractions, which include looking at a phone, GPS, or scenery instead of the road.
- Manual distractions, which include eating, grooming, or handling objects while driving.
- Cognitive distractions, which include daydreaming and thinking about anything other than driving.
- Technology distractions, such as GPS, smartwatches, and infotainment systems.
Driving is a complex skill that demands your full attention. Even talking to passengers or using hands-free devices can distract your attention from the road long enough to cause a major crash.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving: A Common Problem On Seattle Roads
Seattle drivers are often in a hurry to reach their destination. However, heavy traffic on I-5, congestion at intersections, and narrow city streets are common sources of frustration and can lead to reckless driving behaviors.
Aggressive driving is also among the leading causes of car accidents in Seattle. The Washington State Highway Patrol defines it as “committing two or more dangerous moving violations or any single action that requires other motorists to react defensively.”
Speeding is one of the most common and potentially hazardous types of aggressive driving. Not only does it increase the risk of a crash, but it also increases the odds of life-threatening injuries. Other aggressive driving behaviors that are among the leading causes of car accidents in Seattle include:
- Tailgating and following other drivers too closely, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
- Aggressive lane changes or cutting off other drivers.
- Running yellow or red lights and stop signs.
- Failing to yield at intersections or on highway entrances and exits.
Washington has strict traffic laws that prohibit aggressive driving behavior. If you were hit by someone speeding or otherwise driving aggressively, you can hold them liable for injuries you suffer as a result.
Impaired Driving Remains Among the Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Washington State
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that impaired driving is to blame for roughly 30 percent of all car accidents throughout the United States. While you can face criminal charges in Washington State for driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of over .08 percent, even having a few drinks could cause the following impairments, jeopardizing your safety and that of other motorists:
- Impaired judgment makes it harder to distinguish when you’ve had too much to drink.
- Reduced coordination makes it harder to steer and perform other driving tasks.
- Vision impairments make it more challenging to see the road, other vehicles, and traffic signs and signals.
- Delayed response times make it harder to respond to unexpected hazards or take the actions needed to avoid a crash.
It’s not just alcohol that increases your risk behind the wheel. Illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter products, such as cough medicine or sleep aids, can all increase your risk of car accidents in Seattle.
How Seattle Drivers Can Protect Themselves Against Common Causes of Car Accidents
The Seattle Department of Transportation reports that close to 14,000 crashes and collisions occur in our area each year. While wet, rainy weather and heavy traffic conditions increase the risk, the most common causes of car accidents in Seattle are distracted driving, aggressive driving, and driving while impaired.
As a motorist, you can protect yourself by driving defensively and being alert to the potential hazards posed by other motorists. However, even the best driver cannot always avoid a collision. To protect yourself in the event of a crash, follow these steps:
- Notify the police right away and request a copy of the accident report once completed.
- Get contact, vehicle, and insurance information for all drivers involved.
- Gather evidence, including contact info for witnesses and photos from the scene.
- Get medical care promptly and avoid downplaying your injuries.
- Report the accident to your insurer, but contact our experienced Seattle car accident lawyer before giving any recorded statements.
When car accidents in Seattle happen due to reckless behavior by other drivers, you have the right to hold them liable in a claim. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation under the Washington Revised Code, provided the other driver shares a greater portion of the blame.
For Trusted Legal Help, Contact Our Experienced Seattle Car Accident Attorney
Distracted driving, aggressive driving, and driving under the influence are among the most common causes of car accidents in Seattle. At Washington Injury Law, we represent car accident victims and fight for the compensation they need to recover in a claim.
We provide trusted legal help to clients throughout King County, including Downtown (98101), South Lake Union (98109), and Rainier Valley (98144). To request a consultation with our experienced Seattle car accident attorney, reach out and call or contact our office online today.