A driver lost control of his vehicle during December 2021 on North Park Road in Spokane and collided with a tree. The accident resulted in three individuals receiving serious injuries, none of which are believed to be life-threatening. Around 6:30 in the morning, Spokane Valley law enforcement responded to calls that a Subaru Impreza had exited the road and struck a tree. At the accident scene, Spokane Valley rescue workers helped the occupants of the vehicle, which included the driver as well as two other individuals between the ages of 18 and 22. The driver was subsequently booked into Spokane County Jail on two counts of vehicular assault. 

Spokane law enforcement later stated that they believe impairment and speeding, played a role in the accident. The motorist is believed to have lost control on an icy road and subsequently hit the tree. Law enforcement from Spokane also commented that they responded to over 100 reports of vehicle collisions following a day of snowfall in Spokane that led to icy and snow-covered roads.

Avoid Black Ice Whenever You Can

The best way to avoid ending up in an accident caused by ice this winter is to do whatever you can to avoid icy areas. Black ice often forms in cold places. Locations that are shaded by trees and other places that do not receive sunlight are much more likely to have black ice. Both bridges, as well as overpasses, are also common locations for black ice because cold air circulates above and below the road. 

If you live in an area where black ice commonly forms, you have likely heard individuals talk about bad spots. You might have even noticed a particular location where you commonly see that cars have gone off the side of the road. You should do everything possible to avoid driving over these locations. 

Keep Your Eyes Open

It can be challenging to spot black ice, but every once and a while, you might be able to see hints of black ice. If you notice that one spot of the road is shinier than other areas, you should slow down or do what you can to avoid it because it is potentially black ice. 

Watch the Vehicles in Front of You

If a vehicle travels over black ice, it will most likely lose control regardless of how good a motorist is at driving. If you are driving behind a vehicle, you should keep a close eye on it. You should also avoid assuming that a motorist will behave in a certain manner. Instead, you should practice defensive driving and avoid placing your vehicle in situations where accidents are more likely to happen. 

Contact an Experienced Accident Lawyer in Spokane

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash that occurred in Spokane or the surrounding area this winter, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney. Contact West Law Office today for assistance.