KIRO TV’s Jenni Hogan recently reported on the top five trouble spots on roadways in the Puget Sound region of Washington. Ms. Hogan is the morning traffic anchor for KIRO TV. The information was gleaned from information provided by WSDOT and the WSP. These “trouble spots” are as follows (in the order of least severity):
5. Interstate 5 through Everett, from the Boeing Freeway to the 88th Street exit. WSP and WSDOT responded to 480 incidents in this stretch during 2008. The WSP reports that most incidences were caused by speeders.
4. Interstate 405 and state Route 167 interchange in Renton. There were 612 incidents recorded in this area.
3. Interstate 5 from Fife to Federal way. There were 654 incidents recorded (almost 2 incidents reported each day on average!)
The top 2 “trouble spots” will not be reported by KIRO TV until later this week. But WSDOT and WSP spokespeople state that driver distraction and inattention are very common causes of the incidences they respond to on a daily basis.
My office handles many auto accident cases. Here are some of the explanations or reasons I see in my practice as to why the accident took place. The person who caused the accident was at the time:
1. Putting on make-up.
2. Talking on a cell phone.
3. Texting on a cell phone.
4. Taking photos with the cell phone.
5. Talking to a passenger in the back seat.
6. Trying to read a document while driving.
7. Fell asleep.
8. Playing with the radio.
9. Holding a pet dog or cat.
10. Eating food.
Can you believe these reasons? Unfortunately, I’ve heard each excuse at least once when I later take the at-fault driver’s deposition or review their interrogatory answers. People need to remember that they should focus 100% of their attention on the road and vehicle ahead!
Excellent article. I would say this is the same problem we have here in CA