First Big Storm of the Season Hits Hard

The first big storm of the winter season hit Western Washington hard and caused numerous traffic accidents and road closings. Washington’s mountains received a heavy mixture of snow and blizzard-like conditions, while its lowlands received heavy rain and high winds. In fact, Sunday night over 50 miles of Interstate 90 was closed completely due to a combination of blizzard weather and traffic accidents.

Sadly, one of those accidents was a fatal accident. A tow truck driver was killed as he hooked up a vehicle for tow on the eastern side of the Snoqualmie Pass. As he did this, another driver lost control of their vehicle on the icy road and struck him.

A blizzard warning remained in effect through Monday evening in the mountain areas of Western Washington, including the Stevens Pass, Olympic Mountains, and Mt. Rainier. Snow accumulations are expected to be 12-18 inches in the Olympics and 1-3 feet in the Central Cascade Mountains.

Winter Weather Demands Safer Driving from Everyone

As winter rapidly approaches, Washington drivers are urged to use extra caution when driving—especially in extreme weather. In order to stay safe this winter, it is important to keep the following driving tips in mind:

• Always keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. In winter weather, you should double the distance you need to stop—especially on an icy or snowy surface
• Never use cruise control in snowy or icy weather conditions; you should always be in complete control of your vehicle.
• Reduce your speed while driving and remember that black ice is invisible.
• Always use your signals when changing lanes and be sure to double check your mirrors for other drivers and motorcyclists.
• Check the weather reports in your community before heading out and consider changing your plans if the weather is supposed to be bad.
• Drive with low-beam headlights on during bad weather to increase the likelihood that other drivers will see your car.
• Always bring your cell phone with you in case of an emergency—but resist the urge to talk on it or use it while driving.

Washington Personal Injury Lawyers You Can Rely On

In bad weather, an accident can happen at any time and to anyone. Be sure you know the name and number of an experienced Washington personal injury lawyer before an accident strikes. While you are recovering from your accident and focusing on your injuries, your Washington personal injury lawyer will be hard at work, fighting for you and your family.

At Phillips Law Firm, we understand the complications that can arise after a Washington car accident. As such, we always fight aggressively to ensure that our clients receive the maximum compensation to which they are entitled. If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Tacoma, or anywhere in the State of Washington, call Phillips Law Firm at 1-800-708-6000.