Technological advances in automobile safety might lead you to believe that the number of fatal vehicle accidents is declining in Washington State. In fact, the opposite is true. The year 2023 marked a grim milestone with 810 traffic deaths, the most on record since 1990. This alarming surge in fatalities has prompted deep concern among lawmakers, safety advocates and communities across the state. 

While the causes behind this increase are complex and multifaceted, the statistics point to several factors associated with traffic fatalities, such as:

• Drunk or drug-impaired driving —According to the state’s Traffic Safety Commission, almost half of the fatal crashes involved motorists under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It’s important to remember that even certain prescription medications can alter someone’s perception and reaction time to the point that they should not be operating a vehicle. 

• Speeding — In more than 250 of the deadly accidents statewide, a driver was reported to be speeding. Traveling above the posted limit not only makes a collision more likely, but increases the chances that the victim will suffer a catastrophic injury due to the force of the speeding vehicle. 

• Distracted driving — It doesn’t matter if it’s a smart phone, dashboard display, take-out meal or something else, a distraction behind the wheel can be deadly. The commission reported that distracted driving contributed to 135 fatal collisions, an increase of 36 percent over the previous year.

• Failure to recognize pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles — Along with the high overall number, the state also experienced all-time highs in deaths of pedestrians (157) and motorcycle riders (141). High-risk driving presents an extra risk to people who are walking, biking or riding their motorcycle because someone who is speeding, impaired or distracted might not notice them until it’s too late.

If you or someone you love is injured in a vehicle crash, it is critical to determine exactly how the accident occurred. Accident scenes can be chaotic and stressful. Even a diligent police officer might miss an important clue that indicates how the collision occurred. Retaining an experienced auto accident attorney gives you the best chance to obtain the evidence needed to recover substantial compensation from the negligent driver. 

GSJones Law Group, P.S. in Port Orchard represents plaintiffs in personal injury and wrongful death claims stemming from vehicle collisions. Please call 360-876-9221 or contact us online to discuss your situation with a dedicated attorney. We assist clients throughout Kitsap, Mason and Jefferson counties, as well as Vashon Island.