Seattle has some of the most congested highways in the state, particularly during commute hours, and the dangers of distracted driving aren’t just theoretical. With motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists all trying to navigate dense traffic, complicated intersections, and changing weather, taking your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off driving for even a few seconds can be catastrophic.
Distracted driving accidents happen regularly in Capitol Hill, Ballard, and other parts of Seattle, and can cause potentially life-threatening injuries. Washington Injury Law represents victims and their families in these cases, helping them get compensation. Our Seattle car accident attorney explains more about the consequences of distracted driving and how to protect your rights if injured in this type of crash.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving in Seattle
Most people are aware of the dangers of texting and driving, but distracted driving involves any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the road, even for just a few seconds. Distracted driving in Seattle includes not only texting, but also talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the stereo, and even daydreaming.
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC), more than 25 percent of all serious crashes in the state involve a distracted driver, and Seattle sees a significant share of those. They claim that drivers who divert their attention for even five seconds at highway speeds can travel the length of a football field without seeing what’s ahead.
Unlike impaired driving, distraction doesn’t always show up on a test or in obvious behavior, but it’s just as deadly. The WTSC reports that the most common types of driver distraction include:
- Visual distractions, such as looking at your phone or GPS instead of the road.
- Manual distractions, including eating, applying makeup, or reaching for something.
- Cognitive distractions, like zoning out or getting caught up in conversations.
The dangers of texting and driving are well known and thoroughly documented, which is why it is illegal under the Washington State Code. However, drivers often think they can get away with it, talk on their phones, or engage in other activities. And in Seattle’s complex traffic conditions, a moment’s inattention increases the risk of potentially devastating crashes, impacting other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists on the road.
Serious Consequences of Distracted Driving in Washington State
The consequences of distracted driving in Seattle extend far beyond traffic tickets or damaged bumpers. When a motorist is distracted and causes a crash, the victims often suffer serious, lasting injuries. In many cases, distracted drivers fail to brake or swerve, increasing the force of the impact and the severity of harm.
For victims, this can mean months of physical therapy, lost income, and long-term emotional trauma. The dangers of distracted driving in Seattle are even more severe for motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians, many of whom have no protection from the force of a crash.
Our Seattle car accident attorney represents victims and their families in these cases. Common injuries suffered in these cases often include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries, often from sudden stops;
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions;
- Spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs or paralysis;
- Multiple broken bones, lacerations, and soft tissue damage;
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD and anxiety disorders.
These and other injuries can have long-term effects on your quality of life. You may be unable to return to work, care for your family, or even perform daily tasks without pain. The financial burden, between medical bills, lost income, and property damage, can be staggering.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often downplay the dangers of distracted driving and its role in causing a crash. Without clear documentation or video footage, proving the driver was distracted can be difficult. That’s why getting professional legal help is critical to building a strong claim and pushing back against insurers that try to shift the blame.
Protecting Yourself and Your Rights After a Seattle Distracted Driving Accident
The dangers of distracted driving in Seattle can not be overstated. Unfortunately, these crashes are common, and the steps you take in the hours and days that follow can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation.
Insurance companies know that distracted driving cases are harder to prove than, say, a DUI. That’s why they may try to get you to settle quickly or admit partial fault. But the burden shouldn’t fall on you to fix what someone else’s inattention caused.
To protect yourself and your legal rights in a car accident claim, take the following steps after a Seattle distracted driving crash:
- Call 911 and report the crash to law enforcement.
- Collect contact information from all witnesses and the other driver.
- Take photos and video, including damage, injuries, debris, and street signs.
- Avoid admitting fault, even casually.
- Avoid downplaying your injuries and get medical attention immediately.
- Request copies of crash reports from the Washington State Patrol if you did not receive a copy at the scene.
- Consult an experienced attorney before speaking to the other driver’s insurance.
Even if you suspect the other driver was texting, proving it without help can be difficult. Our experienced Seattle car accident attorney can subpoena phone records, collect traffic camera footage, interview witnesses, and build a case that shows the driver wasn’t paying attention.
Contact Our Experienced Seattle Car Accident Attorney Today
The dangers of distracted driving in Seattle are clear, and far too many people suffer the consequences. If you or a loved one was injured due to this type of collision, you may be entitled to compensation in a claim for your medical costs, lost wages, property damages, and other losses.
Washington Injury Law holds distracted drivers accountable and helps injury victims get the support they need.
To schedule a consultation with our experienced Seattle car accident attorney, contact us today.
We’ll help you understand your rights, gather the evidence needed to support your case, and fight to hold the distracted driver accountable.