Seattle recorded 35 traffic fatalities in 2023, with 60% of them involving an impaired driver and 72% speeding. 128 of the victims were pedestrians and 73 were the driver of the motor vehicle.
With its rainy weather, hilly terrain, and congested roads, driving in Seattle can be challenging. Stay safe on the streets with these 5 tips to help avoid a car accident.
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Drive Defensively
The first key to avoiding accidents is driving defensively. Be alert and anticipate other drivers’ moves. Don’t assume they see you or will follow traffic laws. Allow plenty of following distance behind other cars and keep your eyes moving to spot potential hazards early. Defensive driving helps compensate for others’ errors and reduces accident risk. Scan intersections before entering and always check your blind spots before changing lanes. The Aurora Avenue/Denny Way intersection is one of the most dangerous in Seattle, closely followed by Rainier Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.
Adjust for Rain
While Seattle experienced its 10th driest year on record in 2024, with 32.17 inches of rain, the city’s frequent rainstorms mean slick roads that reduce braking and handling ability. When it’s raining, increase your following distance and decrease your speed. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration that can cause skidding on wet pavement. Turn your headlights on to see and be seen. Replace windshield wipers if they streak. Good tires with adequate tread are essential for grip. Also, beware of hydroplaning on flooded roads. Try to avoid puddle-filled streets until the rain has passed.
Watch for Pedestrians
With a large pedestrian population, Seattle has a high rate of car accidents involving people on foot. Watch carefully for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. Be extra vigilant at bus stops where riders may dart across the street. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and only pass stopped cars when safe. In crowded areas like markets and schools, drive slowly and be prepared to stop. Don’t block crosswalks when waiting to make a turn. Remain alert for pedestrians at night when visibility is reduced.
Handle Hills Cautiously
Seattle’s steep hills can increase accident risk. Descending vehicles may gain speed rapidly, so maintain control and don’t rely on brakes alone. Watch for stopped or slow cars ahead. Going uphill, monitor your speed and stay attentive in case the car in front stops or rolls backward. Give trucks plenty of room and don’t pass on blind hills. Allow gravity to slow you on downgrades. Use lower gears, especially when driving manual transmission vehicles.
Avoid Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like speeding, tailgating, unsafe lane changes, and road rage greatly raise the odds of car accidents, with 96% of drivers witnessing aggressive behavior on the road. Allow extra travel time so you’re not rushed or impatient in traffic. Don’t take other drivers’ actions personally. Focus on your own safe driving and don’t antagonize others. The car accident lawyers in Seattle at Davis Law Group recommend limiting distractions from mobile devices or passengers, as following the rules of the road and being courteous defuse tensions and enhance safety for everyone.
By taking extra care to account for the unique driving environment of Seattle, you can help prevent many common accidents. Drive prudently, watch out for other road users, and stay focused solely on driving safely at the moment. Following these tips will go a long way towards avoiding a crash and arriving safely at your destination. Maintaining attention, caution, and patience on Seattle’s streets protects you and your fellow drivers.
