Road conditions are always changing on Washington highways, streets and roads. Drivers need to constantly pay attention to the changing conditions and adjust their behavior accordingly. With the right attention, drivers can safely navigate a variety of difficult driving conditions including rain, snow or fog. However, when negligent drivers fail to take into account road conditions, a serious car crash can result.
In a recent Washington crash, poor visibility was blamed for a 25 car pile-up. In this case, Interstate 90 was obscured by ash from a recent brush fire that was being blown around by high winds. With visibility significantly reduced, the car accident occurred. It involved nine semi-trucks and sixteen cars. While the exact details of how the accident occurred are unknown, eleven people were injured in the accident, which occurred before 11:00 a.m.
Following the accident, the highway remained closed until conditions improved and the accident was cleaned up. Investigators will continue to try and determine how the accident occurred.
All Washington drivers are under a duty to drive safely under specific conditions. Distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving or other negligent behavior can all contribute to car accidents in poor weather conditions. In these cases, the weather conditions are no excuse for the negligent driver.
Washington residents that are injured in car accidents, like the pile-up that occurred recently, should understand that negligent drivers are financially responsible for the accident. Through a personal injury suit, the victims can ensure that they receive compensation for medical costs, lost wages and other costs caused by the accident. This compensation can ensure that victims are not left to suffer as a result of someone else’s careless behavior.
Source: King5.com, “Wildfire ash blamed for I-90 closure, 25-car crash,” July 17, 2014