Community Calls for Improvements to Rainier Avenue South

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on May 26, 2015

One way to reduce the number of Seattle traffic accidents is to zero in on trouble areas and make improvements. Rainier Avenue South, for example, is where an alarming number of accidents occur and members of the community have had enough. According to the Seattle Department of Transportation, Rainier Avenue South in Seattle has averaged one crash per day for the last three years. In fact, there were 1,243 car accidents along Rainier from 2011 to 2014.

Seattle officials promised improvements to the roadway, but KOMO News reports that community members want changes now. Locals took to the streets to raise awareness, file petitions, and demand change. The city has proposed shrinking the roadway to two lanes with a center turning lane or potentially adding a bike or transit lane. However, they are not planning on making any final decisions until mid June of this year.

The city is also considering lowering the speed limit from 30 to 25 mph between Hillman City and Columbia City. They may also extend crosswalk times, adjust traffic light timing, and add more signs. It is unclear when and if these changes will take place in a timely manner or how many more people will be hurt along the dangerous roadway before improvements are made.

It is advisable to avoid roadways and intersections where accidents commonly occur. However, it is not always possible to avoid major thoroughfares such as Rainier Avenue. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to remember these tips when driving on a dangerous and busy roadway:

• Adjust your speed to the weather conditions and do not exceed the speed limit.
• Regularly check your mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles and bicycles.
• Keep a two-car length distance between vehicles unless it is raining, in which case you should leave even more room.
• Put away your phone and other distractions while your vehicle is in motion.
• Understand your rights if you are ever involved in an accident.

Financial support is available for victims of Seattle car accidents. With legal guidance, victims of negligent drivers can seek monetary support for medical bills, time away from work, the cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and other related damages. An experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer at Hardwick & Pendergast, PS can help them better understand their legal rights and options. For a free consultation, please call (425) 228-3860.