If you have been injured at a roundabout in Spokane, contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. In many cases, insurers will try to pay you as little as possible for your injuries. We are here to make sure you receive the maximum amount possible and that you are able to focus on healing.
Roundabouts in Spokane County
The State of Washington has around 120 roundabouts. Near us we have a couple in Colville, a few in Deer Park and Liberty Lake, and several in Spokane and Spokane Valley. Spokane County is growing and more are planned. Generally speaking, the roundabouts have been a success.
When traffic is on a roundabout, it’s all moving in one direction, and the dangers of broadside, left turn, head-on and rear-end accidents are significantly reduced. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), impacts at roundabouts usually aren’t as severe as other impacts for the simple reason that vehicles on roundabouts travel usually at lower speeds than routine traffic. The USDOT agrees and says severe crashes are reduced by 78% – 82% thanks to roundabouts.
Rounabout accidents and injuries
While roundabouts reduce accidents, they do not eliminate them nor do they eliminate human error or negligence, distracted or drunk drivers.
Common causes of roundabout accidents and injuries include:
- Vehicles hitting the center circle and passengers getting injured
- Sideswipe accidents
- Failure to yield and collisions when vehicles enter a roundabout
- Rear-end accidents resulting in back injuries, whiplash, etc.
- Pedestrians hit in crosswalks
The Washington State Department of Transportation has created this video showing the proper way to enter, yield, and exit roundabouts:
Do I need a lawyer if I’m injured in a roundabout?
Severe, debilitating injuries can occur in roundabouts, even at low speeds. After an accident, it is important to speak to a local Spokane car accident lawyer. If severe injuries are involved you will often receive drastically more compensation with an experienced, local attorney than you would without one.
