A devastating Tacoma auto accident that caused multiple fatalities changed the lives of several Washington State families forever. Nothing can ever undo the pain and loss felt by these loved ones, but estate representatives do have the ability to obtain a measure of relief through a wrongful death claim. Now, the parents of one of the Tacoma victims have brought a lawsuit alleging that the intersection where the crash occurred was known to be dangerous, and they are seeking damages from the city and state governments. 

In their wrongful death lawsuit, the parents of 19-year-old Cerra Corner accuse city and state officials of failing to address known safety concerns about the intersection of State Route 509 and Alexander Avenue East. Along with Corner, five other people died and three were injured in the accident.  

According to the lawsuit, it was common knowledge that drivers frequently run red lights at the intersection, leading to numerous crashes and injuries. Despite this, the family argues that local and state authorities failed to take necessary steps to mitigate the hazards by reducing speed limits, improving signage or addressing the intersection's poor design.

The plaintiffs’ claim might be bolstered by a 2020 report from the Washington Department of Transportation citing the danger associated with the spot where the crash that killed Corner occurred. An intersection control evaluation cited more than 100 accidents that had occurred there in the previous six years, due in large part to red-light violations. Evaluators recommended that a roundabout be considered for the area in order to slow traffic down and reduce the number of collisions. However, no roundabout was ever installed. 

If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar tragedy, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue justice. Suing a government entity presents certain complications and procedural requirements. Moreover, claims like the one brought by Corner’s family can be difficult to prove as the government defendants might assert that other factors, such as negligent vehicle operation, caused the accident. 

GSJones Law Group, P.S. in Port Orchard handles wrongful death litigation for plaintiffs in Kitsap, Mason and Jefferson counties, as well as Vashon Island and other Washington communities. To discuss your potential case, please call 360-876-9221 or contact us online.