Seattle Car Accident Attorneys

If a negligent driver injured you in an accident, you might be unsure whether or not you were at fault and to what degree. While making a reliable determination as to who is at fault is impossible without knowing the details and circumstances of your accident, several types of accidents are often the fault of another motorist. 

Some of these include: 

• Rear-end collisions occur when a car behind you does not have enough time to stop or slow down because they were following your vehicle too closely. This type of accident is usually caused by someone tailgating or not paying attention to traffic flow. 
• Head-on collisions happen when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. These are often caused by someone drifting into the opposing travel lane due to distraction, drowsiness, intoxication, or simply failing to yield the right of way. 
• T-bone or side impact collisions occur when a vehicle hits another at an angle from one side. For example, if one car runs a red light and t-bones another vehicle that is legally going through the intersection. These accidents are often attributed to reckless driving behavior like running stop signs and red lights. Slamming on the breaks suddenly in adverse weather conditions can also lead to a t-bone.
• Sideswipes often occur when drivers fail to check their blind spots before merging or changing lanes properly. This type of crash can cause significant property damage and bodily injury.
•  Multi-vehicle accidents involve three or more vehicles and often occur on highways or during adverse weather conditions. One initial collision can set off a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles.
• Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without exchanging information or providing assistance to the injured parties. It is illegal in most jurisdictions.
• Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle overturns onto its roof or side. These accidents are more likely to occur with taller vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, during sharp turns or collisions.
• Pedestrian or bicycle accidents involve pedestrians or cyclists when a vehicle collides with someone walking or biking on or near the road.

Car accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, and they often result from a combination of factors. Some of the common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving, which involves activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or using navigation systems while driving. These distractions divert a driver's attention away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Speeding: Driving at speeds higher than the posted speed limits or too fast for road conditions reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in traffic or road situations. Speeding is a significant contributor to accidents and their severity.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver's judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making them more likely to be involved in accidents. This includes both illegal substances and certain prescription medications that can impair driving abilities.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving behaviors like aggressive tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and disregarding traffic signals and signs significantly increase the risk of accidents.
• Fatigue: Driving while fatigued or drowsy can impair a driver's focus and reaction time, leading to accidents. Fatigue-related accidents are especially common during late-night or long-distance driving.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals and signs can lead to intersection accidents, where vehicles collide because one driver failed to yield the right-of-way.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, fog, and heavy winds can reduce visibility and road traction, making it more challenging to control a vehicle and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Roads with potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, or inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. Lack of proper maintenance can create hazards for drivers.
• Mechanical Failures: Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or engine problems, can cause accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance is essential to prevent these issues.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Novice drivers, particularly teenagers, may lack the experience and skills to handle challenging driving situations, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Tailgating: Following the vehicle in front too closely reduces the reaction time in case of sudden stops, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors like road rage, excessive honking, and aggressive lane changes can escalate situations and lead to accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Inadequate visibility due to factors like fog, rain, or nighttime driving without proper lighting can hinder a driver's ability to see other vehicles and hazards.
• Wildlife and Obstacles: Collisions with animals or objects on the road, such as fallen debris or trees, can lead to accidents, particularly in rural areas.

If you were involved in any of these types of accidents, or another type that was caused by a driver's negligence, then you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages associated with your treatment. Contact the Seattle car accident lawyers at Carpenter & Zuckerman to discuss whether or not your case is eligible for compensation during your free initial consultation.