Drivers Urged To Use Caution After Hundreds Of Ice-Related Car Accidents In Washington State

Washington State faced severe winter weather during the recent holiday season. Winter storms swept the area, resulting in frigid temperatures that left local roads covered in ice. Unfortunately, this increased the risk of personal injuries, particularly among drivers. State police responded to hundreds of auto accidents and, as winter is far from over, are encouraging drivers to use extra caution in the months ahead. Our

Ice Storms Wreak Havoc Throughout The Washington State Area

The recent holiday season saw a dramatic increase in winter weather conditions, as freezing temperatures turned rain from recent storms into sheets of ice. Weather reports warned of treacherous conditions in Issaquah and throughout the entire Washington State area.

According to a late December 2022 NBC King 5 News report, state troopers responded to more than 200 auto accidents during this time, many of which occurred after drivers started skidding and lost control of their vehicles. As temperatures warmed up, wet roads and flooding created additional risks. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is warning motorists to be aware of potential hazards and encourage following some simple safety instructions during the months ahead:

• Check weather reports and road conditions before heading out;
• Avoid driving in severe winter weather;
• If you must go out, allow plenty of time to reach your destination; and
• Use extreme caution in areas prone to flooding.

Driving In Wet And Icy Conditions

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that of the on average nearly six million auto accidents that occur each year in the U.S., more than 20 percent are weather-related. Rain and ice make up some of the most treacherous conditions. In addition to increasing the risk of skidding and loss of control over your vehicle, they cause reduced visibility, poor tire traction, and require additional time for making stops. This can make auto accidents more likely to happen.

To reduce your risks, take the following precautions:

• Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained. Mechanical failures are more likely to happen during frigid weather.
• Let others know your itinerary: When heading out in adverse weather, let others know when you leave and when you intend to reach your destination.
• Give other motorists plenty of space: Avoid tailgating and other aggressive driving behaviors.
• Pay close attention: Be alert for icy patches, areas of flooding, and reckless driving on the part of others. Keep an ear out for screeching brakes, honking horns, any other signs that could mean a crash is imminent.

Contact Our Issaquah Auto Accident Attorneys

Auto accidents in Issaquah and Washington State occur frequently during the winter months, when icy conditions wreak havoc on local roads. If you or someone you love is injured, contact Injury Law Group NW. For trusted legal guidance in filing a claim, request a consultation with our Issaquah auto attorneys today.

Sources:

king5.com/article/traffic/200-crashes-three-counties-fridays-ice-storm/281-6e60bb7e-a7ee-4789-9865-8e11dd389e2e

ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm