When there’s a car accident, it brings uncertainty. This doesn’t just apply to your injuries, but what actually happens when there’s a collision. Often, it’s not the initial collision that puts you in danger, but the secondary ones.
Such an accident happened on Friday, June 21, 2024 in Spokane according to a story from KREM 2. The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) and Washington State Police (WSP) responded to an accident between two vehicles and a semi-truck along the westbound lane of Interstate 90 near the Thor & Freya exit. Investigators say that a Dodge pickup truck contacted the right rear of a Subaru as it tried to switch lanes, causing the Subaru to spin out and lose control, landing back in the roadway where a semi-truck collided with it.
SFD had to pull the driver of the Subaru out of the car and they were transported to a local hospital with injuries. They are currently in critical condition. None of the others involved were injured. The crash is still being investigated, but WSP said drugs and alcohol were not a factor.
Is the First or Second Person Responsible in a Car Accident?
When you’re in a car accident where you’re hit by two separate vehicles, it’s obviously pretty scary. Not only are you likely to get hurt from the first collision, but also from the second. This means that your injuries could potentially worsen when it’s all said and done.
But in terms of liability, both the first and second person that hit you can share the legal responsibility for your injuries. This is because liability is based on negligence, so when a driver fails to keep you and others safe by driving recklessly, they’re responsible for the resulting damage.
That also applies to a second driver that hits you. Ultimately, anyone that’s behind the wheel of a car has a duty to drive safely at all times, even in situations where they can’t react in time. This applies in all different types of accidents, whether it be:
- Rear-end accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Turning accidents
- Parking lot accidents
- Accidents due to bad weather or poor road maintenance
Regardless of why the accident happened, it’s really important to follow some key steps to stay safe and have the right records. First, check if anyone is hurt and try to move your car to a safe spot, if you can. Exchange your contact info and insurance details with the other drivers involved. Take pictures of the accident scene to have proof of what happened. Make sure to tell the police and your insurance company about the accident. And if you or anyone else is injured, get medical help right away.
Once these steps are completed, contact our Spokane car accident lawyers for further guidance.
Spokane Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Since 1948, CCD Law has been helping Spokane car accident victims with the legal process. We understand the challenges you face and are here to help you pursue your legal rights. We’ll make sure you can file a strong injury claim to cover your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Repair/replacement costs for your vehicle
Contact us today for a free consultation to get started.
