The Spokane Police Department's Major Crimes Unit is currently investigating a single-vehicle crash that occurred on North Napa Street between Trent Avenue and Main Street. The corresponding segment of Napa Street was closed for several hours following the accident but has since reopened. Law enforcement arrived at the scene to discover two individuals injured in the vehicle. As a result of the crash, a man was pronounced dead at the scene while another individual was transported to a nearby medical facility with life-threatening injuries. Law enforcement stated that the vehicle crashed into a support beam on arterial structural support that runs beneath a nearby railway. 

To many motorists' surprise, the most dangerous types of collisions are not head-on crashes, but instead single-vehicle accidents. Data reveals that more than 8,000 individuals die in single-vehicle rollover crashes each year in the United States. 

How Age Relates to Single-Car Crash Rates

Both young and old drivers are at increased odds of ending up in single-vehicle crashes. Drivers between the ages of 15 and 24 have a 75% higher risk of being part of a crash in which a vehicle is run off the road, while senior drivers over the age of 65 are at a 72% higher risk of the same. 

With younger drivers, issues like inexperience appear to be the most common contributing factor in single-vehicle crashes. Some of the factors that lead older drivers to end up in car accidents include issues involving reflexes, vision, and depth perception. 

Drivers are Not Always Liable for Single-Vehicle Accidents

All motor vehicle drivers must follow traffic laws as well as remain aware of their surroundings including traffic and weather conditions. The failure to drive with reasonable care can constitute negligence, which forms the basis for fault in the case of many car crashes. Several situations, however, can occur in which a single-vehicle crash is not the driver's fault. For example, adverse road conditions, vehicle defects, hit and run crashes, and improperly maintained vehicle equipment can all end up causing serious accidents. 

How to Reduce Your Chances of Ending Up in a Single-Vehicle Crash

Fortunately, motor vehicle drivers can follow several helpful strategies to reduce their chances of ending up in single-vehicle crashes. Some tips that drivers should remember to follow include:

• Avoid any type of distracted driving 
• Avoid driving while fatigued
• Make sure to stay up-to-date with vehicle recalls 
• Never drink and drive
• Never travel faster than the situation calls for
• Stay off the road during adverse weather conditions

Obtain the Assistance of a Compassionate Washington Car Crash Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, one of the best things that you can do is promptly contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. At West Law Office, we understand the challenges often faced by car crash victims and remain committed to the fighting for the results they deserve. Contact our law office today to schedule a free case evaluation.