Trucking Accidents in Washington State: How Spring Weather Increases The Risks
Spring weather is unpredictable in Washington State. Steady downpours, fog, and fluctuating temperatures create hazardous conditions for everyone on the road but are particularly dangerous for commercial truck drivers.
Truck accidents in Washington State are common at this time of year and can cause devastating injuries, impacting multiple other vehicles on the road. Our Issaquah truck accident attorney explains how spring weather contributes to these crashes and the steps motorists can take to stay safe.
How Spring Weather Contributes to Issaquah Trucking Accidents
Spring means increasingly variable weather conditions in Issaquah and motorists need to adjust their driving habits accordingly. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) warns that truck drivers are particularly at risk for weather-related hazards that increase the likelihood of truck accidents. These include:
- Rain and Slick Roads: Large trucks are particularly vulnerable to hydroplaning because of their weight and size.
- Fog and Reduced Visibility: Morning fog is common in spring, especially in rural areas and on highways such as Interstate 5 and Highway 2. It severely reduces visibility, which increases the chance of truck crashes.
- Road Damage: The freeze-thaw cycles of winter in Washington State can cause potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces in the road. For truckers, hitting a pothole can cause tire blowouts, damage to the vehicle’s suspension system, or a total loss of control.
- Changing Daylight Conditions: With daylight savings time, drivers may find themselves driving for longer stretches, making them more likely to be drowsy behind the wheel.
How To Reduce Washington State Truck Accident Risks This Spring
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) warns that roughly 2,000 truck accidents in Washington State happen annually. These crashes often end up impacting other motorists on the road and can leave you and your passengers suffering potentially life-threatening harm. To reduce the risks this spring, follow these tips:
- Slow Down in Poor Weather: Reduced visibility and slippery roads demand slower driving speeds and give truck drivers more time to react in case of an emergency.
- Increase Your Distance: Increase the distance between you and any truckers on the road. Be particularly wary of truck no zones, which are large blind spots in front of, behind, and on either side of commercial vehicles.
- Be Alert: Avoid distractions, such as texting or changing GPS settings. Stay alert and aware of what is going on around you, particularly in wet, rainy spring weather.
- Protect Your Rights: If you are involved in a truck accident in Issaquah, notify the police right away, seek medical attention, and get legal help before making statements to the trucking company or insurers.
Contact Our Issaquah Truck Accident Attorney To Request A Consultation
Truck accidents in Washington State are common in the spring and can leave other motorists involved suffering devastating injuries. Injury Law Group NW protects victims, providing the experienced, professional legal representation needed to get compensation in a truck accident claim.
To get the compensation you need to recover, contact our office. Request a consultation today to find out how our Issaquah truck accident attorney can help you.
Sources:
wsdot.wa.gov
ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/CrashStatistics
