Seattle Motor Vehicle Accident Law Blog

Washington state roads have a tendency to get busy, much like other roadways across the nation. Motorists are constantly on their way to and from destinations, often in a rush. This can be a toxic symptom on the roadways, resulting in distracted and reckless driving. In some cases, drivers might be under the influence of alcohol. This can cause some of the biggest dangers on the road, resulting in serious and even fatal crashes.

A possible DUI accident occurred in Tacoma recently. Based on preliminary reports, the crash involved three vehicles and occurred during the early morning hours on the westbound state Route 16 off-ramp at union Avenue. Washington State Patrol believes that the crash occurred when two vehicles were stopped and a third vehicle rear-ended one of them. This resulted in the struck car colliding with the other vehicle.

While buses are convenient modes of transportation for individuals in Seattle and other cities across the nation, they are also a source of many risks and dangers on the roadways. These vehicles transport a large number of passengers at one time, putting many lives at risk in the event of a bus crash. A bus driver is required to meet a certain standard of care while operating a bus in the line of work. Failure to do so places liability on them in the event of an accident.

Through the theory of vicarious liability, liability for an accident can be shared. For example, when one party is responsible or has control for a third party, and that party is negligent in carrying out that responsibility and exercising control, it is possible for both parties to face liability. In cases of employer and employee relationship, an employer might be held liable if an employee operates equipment or machinery, operating in a negligent or inappropriate way that results in personal injury or property damage.

Nowadays, everyone seems to be in a rush. Maybe they have a busy day, have too much on their plate or are juggling their work and family. Whatever the reasons, residents in Washington and other states always seem to be going somewhere. The roads filled with motorists prove this. While some are not in a rush to get to their final destination, others might be on a time crunch. This can compel a driver to hit the gas pedal, going much faster than the speed limit.

Going a mile or two over the speed limit might seem minimal, and most cases it is. However, traveling 10, 15, 20 and even 25 over the posted speed limit is very dangerous. Vehicles could lose control, be unable to stop in time or drift off the roadway due to inclement weather. Whatever the case, speeding could result in a serious automobile collision.

We can't always predict what people are going to do. On roadways, we can anticipate what vehicles might do, but if a driver does not use a turn signal, does not stop, speeds or suddenly slams on the breaks, other motorists are not prepared for the actions. This also opens up the possibility that a crash will occur, as drivers are unable to evade the negligence of others. Much like motorists do not anticipate to be around a negligent driver, they do not expect to be amongst a vehicle evading law enforcement, weaving and colliding with other automobiles during the pursuit on the roadway.

This is what recently occurred in Seattle. According to reports, a two-car rollover crash occurred when police were attempting to stop a vehicle that was stolen. Reports indicate that the vehicle was evading law enforcement, causing them to hit multiple cars and eventually crash with one.