Washington State Traffic Accident Facts

In 2010 and 2011, the traffic accident fatality rate in the state of Washington fell to .80 per 100 million miles traveled which is the lowest it has ever been in state history. This fatality rate was below the national average which stood at 1.11 per 100 million miles traveled. Overall, the fatality rate in Washington has decreased in the last five years. This includes total collisions, fatal collisions, and injury collisions as well collisions resulting in property damage only. Traffic accident fatalities fell from 569 in 2007 to 454 in 2011. Total collisions in the state fell from 118,782 in 2007 to 98,820 in 2011.

In King County, home to Seattle, 2011 saw 74 fatalities, 549 serious injuries, and 14,612 minor injuries. Total alcohol-related collisions for that year numbered 2,056. Due to its dense population, King County led all counties in the state in traffic accidents with a total of 33,816. In the northwest region of the state, 29 percent of all fatal collisions were attributed to speeding in 2011. 20 percent were alcohol-related. Other contributing factors were failing to yield the right of way, driving over the centerline, inattention, improper passing, and driving under the influence of drugs. Rear-end collisions made up approximately half of all traffic collisions in the state that year in the northwest region.

Personal Injury Attorney in Seattle

Despite improving traffic accident statistics in the state, too many people are still injured or killed in collisions on Washington roads and highways. As you can see from the above data, many of these are caused by human error ranging from speeding and other unsafe or illegal driving maneuvers to driving while under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs. When this happens, those who are injured or who lose a loved one have grounds for legal action to pursue rightful compensation for their losses and damages. When the insurance company involved is not forthcoming with a fair offer to such a claim, a lawsuit may be necessary to resolve the matter.

Ward Smith PLLC is a personal injury law firm serving clients in the greater Seattle area. If you have been involved in a negligence-based car accident, your case should be carefully and professionally handled if you wish to recover compensation that is fair and just. Our firm offers a free consultation for prospective clients. Contact us to schedule yours today.