Bellevue has a relatively low rate of serious and fatal car accidents compared to other cities in Washington State. However, crashes still happen, and authorities report serious injuries and fatalities on the road each year in the Bellevue area.
Whether you live in Bellevue or are driving through, you are at risk of suffering injuries and having your life disrupted if a collision occurs. These accidents happen instantly, but the effects can be long-lasting and costly, leading victims to wonder about their legal rights.
The law allows car accident victims to seek compensation for their losses from liable parties, though the process requires several steps. Claimants must first identify and prove liability for the crash, and where the accident happened can often provide important clues regarding liability.
No matter where a crash occurred, if you suffered injuries, always consult a car accident lawyer in Bellevue.
Car Accidents Can Happen Anywhere in Bellevue
Bellevue, located in Washington state, is a generally safe place to live and drive. However, never let your guard down, as collisions can happen when you least expect them, even outside the usual accident hotspots.
While accidents can happen anywhere, certain areas in Bellevue have a higher frequency of car accidents. However, you never control other drivers’ conduct, so even in safer areas of the city, an accident can injure you. If a crash hurts you or a loved one, seek immediate medical attention and legal assistance.
High Injury Network of Roads Identified in Bellevue
City officials collected data regarding citywide collisions and locations over a recent decade in Bellevue to identify risks and improve safety. In doing so, the city identified a High Injury Network (HIN), which means more injury-causing accidents happen along this network of roads than in other areas of Bellevue.
In fact, a whopping 83 percent of serious injuries and fatal collisions happen on just 8 percent of the city’s total street network. This collection of roads making up the HIN regularly has a higher concentration of reported crashes and injuries. Knowing the roads involved in the High Injury Network can help drivers take extra caution, but many other factors still lead to continued crashes and injuries.
Dangerous Intersections
Intersections are common hotspots for car accidents, and Bellevue is no exception. Whether due to distracted driving, running red lights, or failure to yield, intersection accidents can result in serious injuries and property damage.
Use extra caution in these Bellevue intersections:
- NE 8th Street and Bellevue Way NE: This intersection in downtown Bellevue has seen a higher number of accidents. The heavy traffic flow and multiple turning lanes can increase the risk of collisions.
- 148th Avenue SE and Main Street: This intersection in East Bellevue sees a significant amount of traffic, which can lead to congestion and potential accidents.
- 148th Avenue NE and NE 20th Street: This is another intersection in East Bellevue that experiences a higher frequency of accidents due to heavy traffic and multiple lane changes.
These are just a few examples of intersections in Bellevue where accidents are more likely to occur. There are many causes of intersection accidents, and the following are some of the most common.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of car accidents nationwide, especially at intersections. In Bellevue, distracted driving is a common issue, as drivers often engage in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or using GPS while driving. The temptation to multitask behind the wheel can have serious consequences.
Running Red Lights
Running red lights is another common cause of intersection accidents in Bellevue. Whether due to impatience or inattention, some drivers choose to disregard traffic signals, putting themselves and others at risk. When approaching an intersection, drivers do not always obey traffic signals or come to a complete stop when the light turns red.
Failure to Yield
Failure to yield the right of way is a common contributing factor in car accidents. Yielding is an important part of getting safely through intersections, including being aware of turning cars, pedestrian crosswalks, and roundabouts. Drivers who ignore these rules can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
Interstates
Heavy commercial truck traffic and high-speed vehicles make interstate highways particularly challenging to navigate. In Bellevue, some interstates experience a higher frequency of accidents. Exercise caution when driving on these interstates to stay safe:
Commercial Truck Traffic
Interstate 90 and Interstate 405 are two major highways that pass through Bellevue and are often congested with commercial truck traffic. Due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, heavy commercial trucks can increase the risk of accidents.
Speeding
Excessive speeding is a dangerous behavior that can result in accidents with severe consequences. Some drivers on the interstates in Bellevue exceed the speed limits, putting themselves and others at risk.
Downtown Bellevue
Downtown Bellevue is a popular area with many residential and commercial establishments and plenty of entertainment options. However, it also poses its own set of challenges regarding road safety.
Drunk Driving
With numerous bars and restaurants, downtown Bellevue can see increased incidents of drunk driving. Intoxicated drivers pose a significant risk to everyone on the road. With rideshare and other alternative transportation options available in today’s society, no one should have any reason to ever drive after drinking.
Unfortunately, drivers still make this highly dangerous and costly decision every day in downtown Bellevue and throughout the city.
Foot Traffic
Downtown Bellevue is also a pedestrian-heavy area, with numerous crosswalks and intersections bustling with foot traffic. When drivers fail to pay attention and yield to pedestrians as required by law, they can hit people walking or cause other collisions if they must slam on their brakes.
Accidents in Bellevue Construction Zones
Construction zones pose a significant risk for car accidents in Bellevue. The constant construction projects and related activities can create confusion and hazardous conditions for drivers.
One of the main reasons accidents occur in construction zones is the changes in traffic patterns. Construction projects often require lane closures, detours, and temporary traffic signals, which can confuse drivers and increase the chances of collisions.
Moreover, construction zones can leave uneven road surfaces, which can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, especially at high speeds.
Another contributing factor to accidents in construction zones is construction vehicles on the road. These vehicles are often larger and slower-moving than regular passenger cars, making it challenging for drivers to navigate around them safely. Additionally, construction vehicles may need to make sudden stops or maneuvers, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Construction zones usually have lower speed limits and other precautionary traffic laws, but drivers do not always comply. Serious accidents with other motorists and construction crews can result.
Accidents in Residential Neighborhoods
High-speed interstates aren’t the only areas for collisions, as residential neighborhoods can also be hotspots for these unfortunate incidents. With their mix of smaller streets, school zones, and non-signalized intersections, residential areas can create a recipe for potential accidents.
School zones are particularly challenging, as they are often filled with young pedestrians and school buses. Children may not always follow traffic rules, and drivers may need to exercise extra caution during pick-up and drop-off times. Unfortunately, this combination can sometimes lead to accidents, putting children and drivers at risk.
Non-signalized intersections can also be a cause for concern. Without traffic lights or stop signs, drivers must rely on their judgment and awareness to get through these intersections safely. However, a momentary lapse in concentration or a failure to yield can easily result in a collision.
Driveway back-out accidents are another common occurrence in residential neighborhoods. With many homes having driveways directly connected to the street, drivers and pedestrians can unknowingly cross paths. Drivers aren’t always cautious when entering or exiting driveways and do not always check for pedestrians or oncoming traffic.
Parking Lot Crashes
Bellevue has plenty of shopping malls and commercial centers, making parking lots a common destination for residents and visitors alike. Unfortunately, these areas can also be common places for car accidents. With cars moving in and out, pedestrians crossing, and limited visibility, parking lots can quickly become chaotic, and accidents can occur.
One of the main reasons parking lot crashes happen is due to drivers being distracted. They may be busy looking for a parking spot, talking on their phones, or even texting while behind the wheel. This lack of attention can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Another factor that contributes to parking lot accidents is the tight spaces. This often results in sideswipes as drivers try to squeeze into tight spots or make sharp turns.
Drivers are often impatient when looking for a parking spot or exiting the lot. Rushing can increase the chances of making a careless mistake. They do not always remember to share parking lots with others and fail to respect each other, causing collisions, injuries, and damage.
While parking lot crashes may seem minor compared to accidents on the road, they can still result in surprisingly significant damage and injuries. Always take a parking lot accident just as seriously as any other type of collision.
Who is Liable for Car Accident Injuries in Bellevue, WA?
Understanding the auto insurance liability laws in Washington State can make the car accident process easier. Washington is a fault state, which means that the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the damages and injuries resulting from the accident.
Determining liability in car accidents can be complex, often requiring an in-depth investigation to establish fault. In Bellevue, Washington, the principles of negligence apply to determine liability. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, harming others. If a car accident in Bellevue injured you, a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Bellevue can explain your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.
The minimum liability coverage required by law in Washington is commonly referred to as 25/50/10 coverage. This means drivers must have at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $10,000 in property damage coverage.
To file a claim and recover compensation after a car accident, consult an experienced auto accident attorney. They can provide invaluable guidance and handle the entire process. The right legal representation can significantly improve the outcome of a car accident case.
Seeking Compensation for Your Losses
After a car accident in Bellevue, you may seek compensation for your losses.
These losses can include:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
Consult a skilled car accident attorney who can evaluate your case, calculate the compensation you deserve, and negotiate with insurance companies for the total amount.
The legal process after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with injuries and other stress.
A Bellevue car accident attorney can handle all communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, negotiate settlements on your behalf, and, if necessary, advocate for you in court.
Consult a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in Bellevue Now
If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Bellevue, act quickly and consult a trusted car accident lawyer in Bellevue. They can assess your case, guide you through the legal process, and fight for your rights.
Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a personal injury claim, so don’t delay in seeking legal assistance. Contact a car accident attorney in Bellevue today to discuss your case for free, no matter where your accident occurred in the city.
