Seattle Accident Statistics

Snow, Ice Contributed to Fatal I-90 Wreck

Spokane (January 2, 2020) – A 57-year-old man was killed last Friday after his vehicle struck a guardrail on I-90 and tumbled down an embankment separating both directions of traffic. The man, who was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected and died at the scene.

Washington State Patrol troopers believe that the accident was likely caused by inclement weather. In addition to below-freezing temperatures, light snow fell in the Spokane area that morning and led to slick road conditions.

Bad weather has caused multiple accidents since November on I-90, including the largest pile-up in Spokane’s history. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys urges Washington residents to drive with caution in winter weather and to always buckle up. Source: KREM

Hit-and-Run Driver High on Meth Kills Two Pedestrians

Seattle, WA (December 3, 2019) – Methamphetamine likely played a pivotal role in a fatal pedestrian accident that killed two people and injured two more last Friday. A 23-year-old woman under the influence of meth allegedly closed her eyes while behind the wheel before intentionally hitting four pedestrians in Seattle near Aurora Bridge, according to authorities.

An eyewitness said the driver struck a pole after ramming into the pedestrians, climbed out of the wreckage of her vehicle, and fled the scene. The same eyewitness then chased down the suspect and detained her until police arrived. Once in custody, the woman behaved erratically and reportedly stated that she ran down the victims on purpose.

The driver now faces charges of vehicular homicide, which is a class A felony and carries a potential life sentence. Drugged driving accidents have killed or seriously injured 70 people in Washington this year, according to the Department of Transportation (WSDOT). 

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds drivers to drive sober and safely, and to report suspected impaired drivers to police. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a drug-impaired driver, contact us today. You may be eligible for compensation. Source: The News Tribune

Nearly 500 Crashes Caused by Cell Phone Use in WA

Statewide (November 12, 2019) — According to the most recent crash data from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), 471 car crashes have been caused by drivers distracted by their cell phones in 2019. Of these crashes, 4 have resulted in fatalities. While most of this year’s cell phone-involved crashes did not have any reported injuries, texting and driving remains a grave threat to motorists across the country. 

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds drivers that it is illegal to hold a cell phone or mobile device while driving in the state of Washington. Stay safe, and avoid being ticketed by leaving your phone alone when behind the wheel. Source: WSDOT

More Teen Driver Accidents than Drunk Driver Accidents in WA

Statewide (October 21, 2019) — Teenage drivers have been involved in just over 13% of all reported car crashes in Washington in 2019, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation’s current year crash data summary. There have been 9,529 accidents involving a teen driver as of October 21. Total drinking driver involved accidents came in at just under 7% of this year’s accidents.

Data collected by the state revealed that year to date, 514 of those crashes were fatal or were suspected serious injury crashes. 26% of these crashes involved a young driver who had been drinking. 

Involved in a drunk driver or teenage driver-involved car accident? Contact Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys to learn about your options. Source: WSDOT

Police Crack Down on Negligent Drivers

Everett, WA (October 2, 2019): The Everett Police Department is cracking down on drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians. Whether because of negligence or something else, a failure to yield can create the potential for a fatal accident. For instance, some drivers don’t give pedestrians enough time to cross the street/crosswalk and begin driving before the pedestrian is safe. This is precisely the reason, says Officer Aaron Snell, why the Everett Police Department is practicing more strict protocols.

“[In] most cases, drivers are just a little too aggressive or they’re just too impatient[,] and so they’re not providing the pedestrians the appropriate amount of time so they can cross safely,” said Snell. Last week, the Everett Traffic Safety Unit issued 18 citations and had 22 total traffic stops for drivers not yielding to pedestrians.

Whether you’re the pedestrian or the driver, it’s crucial to stay safe on the road. If you or someone you know suffered an injury because a reckless driver failed to yield, seek medical attention right away. After that, get in touch with Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We’ll give you a free consultation, and we will work with you in collecting your compensation. Source: K5 News

Train Collision Kills Truck Driver

Sandpoint, ID (September 20, 2019): An Amtrak train traveling to Seattle, WA crashed into a truck on Friday morning. The truck was parked on the train tracks, and the driver was killed as the train, going about 80 mph, collided with the vehicle. No people inside the train suffered injuries, although there was a delay of nearly two hours due to the accident.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys would like to remind you to stay vigilant on the road. Don’t park your vehicle in dangerous spots, and always keep an eye out for hazards in your immediate environment. To avoid injury, drive sober and alert, and avoid substances which could affect your driving ability. Source: K5 News

Stay Safe During Back-to-school Season

Statewide (September 4, 2019): Kids are going back to school now, and that means drivers on the road need to take extra safety precautions. Speeding and not being vigilant are two common causes of vehicular accident, and the devastating effects are only exacerbated when in school zones. So far, nearly 1,300 pedestrians have been hit by vehicles in Washington state, and over 100 of those pedestrians were 14 years of age or younger. Teach your children to look both ways before crossing the street, and when it comes to driving, avoid distractions, and obey Washington’s traffic laws. Source: TheSeattleTimes

Pedal Panic in Washington

Puyallup, WA (August 8, 2019): On Thursday afternoon, a 16-year-old boy crashed into the side of a McDonald’s restaurant after pressing on the gas pedal instead of the brakes. The teenager had spilled a drink in his lap at the drive-thru and got flustered. Panic ensued, and he accidentally pressed on the gas pedal, slamming his vehicle into the side of the building. One person suffered a minor foot injury, but no others were harmed in the aftermath.

It’s important to stay vigilant while on the road. Distractions come in many shapes and forms, and anything can go wrong—even at a drive-thru. Make sure you’re always in full control of your vehicle, and take the time to limit anything that would take your eyes (and your mind) off the road. Source: Q13 News

Fatal Accident Involves Impaired Driver

Redmond, Washington (July 9, 2019): At around 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning, a 72-year-old man, who is suspected of being impaired, drove east into westbound traffic on Highway 202. He then collided with a semi-truck driven by a 53-year-old, who was taken to the hospital for injuries caused by the crash. The 72-year-old Renton man died from his injuries. Remember, when you’re driving, never drive impaired. Avoid alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and other things that can interfere with your ability to drive. Drive only with a clear head and no distractions. These safe driving practices can help prevent unwanted accidents. Source: The Seattle Times

What Causes Bike Accidents?

Seattle (July 8, 2019) – The numbers don’t lie. Seattle roads have seen too many bicycle accidents in the first half of 2019. Though there has only been one fatality, twelve serious injuries have occurred. With 58 minor injuries and eight accidents without injury, bikes were involved in 137 crashes so far this year.

Bike accidents can be avoided. Drivers must stay vigilant while driving and assume that smaller, faster vehicles may be around at all times. Brush up on proper driving techniques when sharing the road with bikes. If you are one of the sufferers of bike accident injury in Seattle, call Lerner and Rowe to seek compensation for your injury. Source: WSDOT

Cell Phone Use

Seattle (June 6, 2019) – Cell phones have been the direct cause of 14 car accidents in the city of Seattle this year so far. King county as a whole has had 53, and the entire state has had 166. Two of these car accidents have resulted in fatalities.

When headed out your door, set your phone aside. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents in Washington. If you suspect your accident was caused by another’s distraction, call Lerner and Rowe. Source: WSDOT

King County’s Teens

King County (May 10, 2018) – It’s no secret that new drivers tend to get into the most accidents. In King County, it’s no different. So far in 2019, teen drivers (aged 16-19 years old) were involved in 35 crashes to date. Thankfully, only 15 of these resulted in any kind of injury. One of these was fatal. As your teen prepares for their new license or first summer of driving freedom, remind them of best driving practices, like leaving a space cushion between other vehicles, avoiding distractions, and constantly checking mirrors. Above all, practice makes perfect! Source: WSDOT

2019 Seattle Drunk Driving Accidents

Seattle (January 9, 2020) – There were 532 alcohol-involved crashes in Seattle in 2019, Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reports—down 25.6% from 2018. A large number of these accidents occurred on freeways, particularly the I-5, and most commonly on weekends after 10:00 p.m.

Across the state, 2019 marked the lowest number of alcohol-involved motor vehicle accidents in at least a decade. Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds Seattle drivers to always drive unimpaired and arrange alternate transportation if you’ve been drinking.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation. Source: WSDOT

Nearly 26,000 Potential Injury Crashes in 2019

Statewide (December 18, 2019) – With less than two weeks left in the calendar year, the number of injury crashes throughout Washington state is expected to surpass 26,000. This is in addition to the 449 traffic fatalities that have occurred in 2019. 

Of the more than 86,000 crashes reported by WSDOT this year, 9.4% of these crashes have resulted in confirmed minor, serious, or fatal injuries to Washington motorists. Another 18,000 crashes were reported as “possible” injury crashes.

Target Zero, a program enacted by Washington’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan, aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate traffic fatalities related to impaired driving, excessive speeding, and distracted driving by 2030.

Injured in a car accident in Washington? You may be entitled to compensation. Contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys today to find out more about your legal rights. Source: WSDOT

Over 500 Injury & Fatal Crashes in King County This Year

King County, WA (November 26, 2019) — Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reports that there have been 552 fatal and suspected serious injury crashes in King County in 2019 to date. This data includes 77 deaths and 553 suspected serious injuries. 

Last year, King County reported a total of 117 fatalities and 570 suspected serious injuries spanning 600 crashes overall. With a little over a month left in 2019 and the winter holidays still before us, injury and fatal accidents in and around Seattle are expected to rise.  

Stay out of harm’s way this season by engaging in safe driving and planning ahead for any long road trips. If you have been injured in a car accident in King County or elsewhere in Washington, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free case evaluation today. Source: WSDOT

WSDOT: Pedestrians More Likely to Die in Accidents than Bicyclists

Statewide (November 5, 2019) — Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reported that 71 people have died this year due to pedestrian-involved crashes throughout Washington state. In contrast, just 7 bicyclists have died on our roads in 2019. The vast majority of pedestrian accidents occurred at intersections and involved only one vehicle.

Of the 329 pedestrian accidents this year, inattentive drivers and pedestrians were the number one cause. Drug or alcohol impairment has been responsible for a little under 13% of all pedestrian-involved crashes, while driver or pedestrian inattention was the culprit for more than 32% of crashes. Bicyclist-involved crashes, too, have been more likely to have been caused by inattentive drivers or cyclists than any other single factor.

Inattentive driving is an act of negligence. If you have been injured by one of these drivers as a pedestrian or bicyclist, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys today to learn about your rights to compensation. Source: WSDOT

Alcohol Involved Crashes Decline in 2019

Seattle, WA (October 15, 2019) – Data from WSDOT suggests that alcohol involved crashes in Seattle may be on the decline. In 2018, there were 715 crashes in which law enforcement officers reported alcohol to be a factor. As of October 15, there have been only 401 alcohol involved crashes this year. That’s an average of 18 fewer crashes per month in 2019.  

Alcohol and driving never mix, yet every year in the U.S. as many as 10,000 people die due to drunk driving accidents. Especially as we head into the holiday season filled with parties and family get togethers, it is more important than ever to make sure you and your loved ones make it home safe. If you’ve been injured in an accident because of a drunk driver in Seattle, Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys can help. Source: WSDOT

A Grim Trend for 2019

Statewide (August 1, 2019) – Traffic data reports that nearly 100 people were severely injured or killed in Seattle’s 98 collision’s in the first half of 2019. This is the highest amount of crashes in the first six months of any calendar year since 2010! Thankfully, only about 10% of those crashes were fatal. Another thing to point out: most accidents occurred around the busiest parts of the city. Bradley Topol, the interim Vision Zero coordinator at the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), hopes to install more sidewalks and pedestrian signs as the year goes on.

The road can be a dangerous place for drivers and pedestrians alike. Avoid distractions, and always obey traffic laws to avoid getting in an accident. Don’t become a statistic: play it safe. Source: The Seattle Times

Deadly and Serious Injury Accidents

Seattle (June 28, 2019) – To date, there have been 87 very serious crashes on Seattle roads. Of these, 10 were deadly. The other 77 caused serious injury. 130 vehicles were involved in these crashes. Of these vehicles, 15 were motorcycles, five were large trucks and one was a school bus. 

Serious injury can be life-altering to victims. If you believe that your injury, or a loved one’s death, were caused by another’s recklessness or negligence, call Lerner and Rowe. There’s no obligation, and the consultation is completely free. We will look into your case and work with you so that you can heal. Source: WSDOT

Intersections

Seattle (June 21, 2019)- Everyone knows that intersections are dangerous places. With that many cars entering the same space, all drivers must exercise utmost caution. However, accidents happen, and some are due to reckless and negligent driving. So far in 2019, Seattle has had 36 crashes in an intersection. That is 1.44 accidents per week. Of these accidents, two have been fatal.

To help avoid intersection accidents, look both ways before moving your vehicle. Slowly approach the intersection in case another driver approaches too quickly. Do not try to speed through yellow lights; slow down appropriately. Finally, if you are injured in a wreck, contact Lerner and Rowe. Source: WSDOT

Seattle Crashes

Seattle (May 10, 2018)- In Seattle, numbers for roadway crashes this year have been growing. While there have been 4 fatalities, 1,296 total crashes occurred in Seattle this year. Of these, 669 resulted in some kind of injury. King County as a whole has sustained 6,584 crashes this year so far, with 2,023 resulting in injury. 15 crashes proved fatal. To stay safe on Washington roads, be sure to follow general safe driving practices throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Source: WSDOT

Snowy, Windy Conditions Across Western WA

Seattle (January 15, 2020) – Unprecedented levels of snow and wind have been making their way across northwestern Washington, prompting snow days and winter weather advisories. 

Although Seattle received only flurries Wednesday afternoon, surrounding areas have been all but pummeled by snow and wind. Port Angeles reportedly received between 18 and 22 inches of snow last night, with some of the most notable snowfall across Skagit and Whatcom counties.

Meteorologists predict that more wind is on the way, with gusts of up to 60 mph expected tomorrow afternoon in North Bend, Enumclaw, and Monroe. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds Washington drivers to drive with caution in inclement weather and beware of icy road conditions in freezing temperatures. Source: Seattle Times

Flood Warning Issued for Grays Harbor County

Grays Harbor, WA (December 24, 2019) – The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Grays Harbor County this morning, effective until at least 3:25 p.m. The flood stage was reported at 47.1 feet at 5:45 a.m.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) cautioned Washington residents in the Grays Harbor area not to drive vehicles through flood waters, avoid the nearby Chehalis River, and to monitor developments closely via National Weather Service reporting.

Grays Harbor County’s Department of Emergency Management has also warned of an increased risk of landslides this week. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys encourages Washington residents to drive safely and avoid flooded areas. Source: Kiro7

4-Year-Old Twins Escape Deadly Car Crash in WA Wilderness

Langley, WA (December 11, 2019) – Authorities on Whidbey Island are still piecing together the events that led to a fatal single vehicle accident on a remote road last Friday. It is unclear what caused Corey Simmons, 47, to veer off Bob Galberath Road around 6:00 p.m on December 6.

The car traveled more than 100 feet down an embankment into a ravine, striking several trees before coming to a halt. Simmons, who was reportedly not wearing a seat belt, died instantly due to head trauma.

Simmons’ 4-year-old daughters, Aurora and Rosaline Crider, had been secured in the back seat in their booster seats and suffered only minor injuries.

When the sisters found their father unresponsive, they climbed from the wreckage of the 2017 Nissan Sentra through a broken window and proceeded to climb up the steep embankment through the dark in search of help. 

Together, the twin sisters reached the roadside and flagged down a passing motorist, who called 911. Investigation into the accident is ongoing, with Washington State Patrol spokeswoman Trooper Heather Axtman speculating that the accident may have been caused by a medical episode, drowsy driving, or an animal running across the road.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds Washington drivers to always drive safely, buckle up, and pull over if you get sleepy. Source: New York Times

Interstate 5 Closed for 13 Hours Due to Semi-Truck Fire, Crash

Seattle, WA (November 19, 2019)—A strange scene unfolded near Lakewood this past Monday when a Cheesecake Factory semi-truck carrying shrimp and cheesecake caught fire on Interstate 5 around 1:00 a.m.

To make matters worse, a driver in an SUV who was fleeing from Seattle police later plowed into several emergency response vehicles and a civilian passenger car as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. Only the SUV driver and their passenger were reported to have sustained any injuries in the crash, which happened around 4:00 a.m. according to authorities.

Although the highway was partially reopened around 9:00 a.m., all lanes were not cleared until nearly 2:00 p.m. Monday afternoon. Area schools were forced to open two hours later than usual and traffic jams on the I-5 reportedly stretched for 13 miles before the highway was reopened. 

At Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, our personal injury lawyers have seen it all, from semi-truck accidents to hit and runs. Contact us today for a free review of your case. Source: seattletimes.com

Dump Truck Driver Flees Scene of 5-Car Accident

Vancouver, WA (October 29, 2019): A dump truck driver is under investigation by the Washington State Patrol after allegedly leaving the scene of a car crash involving four other vehicles yesterday. 

The accident occurred on Highway 503 north of Vancouver just before 1:00 p.m. Monday. The dump truck reportedly struck another vehicle while turning onto the highway, which sent the vehicle into oncoming traffic. Three additional vehicles were then involved in collisions with each other as a result. The dump truck driver continued northbound without stopping, according to the state patrol. 

One man was transported to a local hospital, treated for his injuries, and then discharged. Investigation of the accident is ongoing. Failure to stop after an accident which results in injury, also known as a hit and run, is a class C felony in Washington. If you or someone you know suffered from a hit and run injury, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys (Source: The Columbian).

Decay, Weather, and Beetles: The Causes of Power Pole Collapse

Tukwila, WA (October 9, 2019): Back in April of this year, 26 power lines toppled over, and a couple was even injured while driving on the road as a pole crashed on top of their car. Now, a new report cites that the causes for the collapse were the summer storms, “advanced internal decay,” and deterioration by beetles. That’s right. When investigated further, one of the two principal poles that caused the major collapse was measured at only 57% strength. The second was measured at only 33% strength.

The city is in the process of diverting money from other projects to replace approximately 6,000 poles, which will take a minimum of 18 months. Consumers don’t have to worry about their electric bills going up, though, and people can rest assured that they will be safer on the road with newer, more secure power poles standing strong.

If you or someone you know suffered an injury while on the road, contact Lerner and Rowe today. We’ll give you a free consultation and will work with you on your personal injury case. Source: KIRO7 News

Mind the Chilly Weather on the Roads

Statewide (September 25, 2019): Autumn is here, and with it comes the beginning of cold, wet weather for Seattle and its roads. Snow may be arriving a bit early this year, as parts of the cascade range will have their inaugural snowfall as early as this week. Additionally, temperatures are to reach a low of 20 degrees Fahrenheit, leaving locals chilled, even if there is no snow.

While snow isn’t scheduled to reach the Seattle area for a while, still be mindful of seasonal hazards. Black ice is a real concern and can cause catastrophic accidents. Cloudy weather leads to low visibility, and cold air can affect vehicle maintenance. Inspect your vehicle often, and always drive with care and attention. Source: KOMO News

School Zone Speed Cameras to Monitor Drivers

Kirkland, WA (September 12, 2019): Kirkland City Manager Kurt Triplett and other leaders are taking measures to make kids’ journeys to school safer. “We did see a definite increase in speed and volume,” said Triplett, “and so we were concerned that it was just a matter of time before some child got hit.” 

To curtail dangerous driving habits, the city is implementing a pilot program of school zone speed-monitoring cameras in high-traffic, high-speed areas. Areas of choice are near Rose Hill Elementary School, John Muir Elementary, and Kamiakin Middle School. The pilot program will last until the school year ends, at which point the city will determine if the cameras have a beneficial enough of an impact to remain for an additional period of time.

When you’re driving on the road, stay vigilant, and keep an eye out for pedestrians. Driving with caution can help you avoid a traffic accident and injuries. Obey all traffic laws (including the speed limit), and be aware that people on motorcycles, bikes, and scooters will be more difficult to spot. Source: K5 News

Washington Adapts to New Scooter Programs

Statewide (August 14, 2019): Various cities within Washington are adapting to new scooter pilot programs. Seattle has opted to take a slower and more cautious approach, while other cities such as Tacoma and Bothell are more eager to accept scooters. Washington has already had problems with some of its bike programs, though, and similar concerns could arise with scooter programs. Reckless riding and careless parking are things to worry about, which could explain Seattle’s patient reflection on the matter. Regardless, Seattle is not opposed to a scooter program, but they want to “do it right,” as Mayor Jenny Durkin stated.

Bikes and scooters are not toys: they are modes of transportation that come with their own risks. If you or someone you know suffered an injury in a bike or scooter crash because of negligence, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Source: MyNorthwest

New Parking Permit Law Sweeps the State

Statewide (July 22, 2019): The King County Council recently passed into law, with a 5-3 majority, a plan to make approximately half of all Park and Ride parking lots permit-based. Pricing ranges on permits will vary; carpoolers will pay nothing, and single occupant vehicles will pay between $60 to $120 a month for their permit, and in some cases, only $20. Additionally, the goal here isn’t to generate revenue, but to provide competition and additional options. When the Park and Ride lots fill up in the early morning, others cannot get to where they need to be. This new law will hopefully allow everyone a fair opportunity to reach their destination. When you park and ride, make sure you’re aware of your surroundings; stay vigilant, and avoid distractions, during the day and night, to stay safe. Source: K5News

Seattle Earthquake Possibility?

Seattle (July 6, 2019)- Earthquakes have riddled the news lately as three major earthquakes and thousands of aftershocks unsettled the residents in Ridgecrest, California over the holiday weekend. Though no deaths or injuries were reported, scares like this naturally make those along coasts and faultlines wonder if we are ready for the big one to hit. Seattle’s major faultline, located off the coast, could trigger a 9 magnitude earthquake along with a tsunami. 

So, remember- if your house or workplace starts shaking, immediately take cover. Be mindful of falling objects. If you are outside, try to get to an area away from structures, trees, and telephone poles that may fall. Finally, check to make sure your current insurance policies include earthquakes. Source: Komo News

Crazy Heat Buckles Roads

Seattle (June 12, 2019) – Our Seattle heat wave continues, causing more problems than anticipated. Today, a South Seattle road buckled due to the immense heat during the middle of rush hour. Southbound traffic was reduced to one lane, and Northbound 4th Avenue was closed at S. Industrial Way.

Officials reopened the road just before midnight, though it is by no means a permanent fix. The road now has a sizeable bump, and speeds have been reduced to 10 mph in the area.

If this road is a part of your commute, plan extra travel time. Also, pay attention to those around you, as they may not notice the new speeds and drive too quickly. So far no injuries have been reported, but if you are injured in a wreck on Northbound 4th Avenue, call Lerner and Rowe.  Source: Q13 Fox