Common and Dangerous: Navigating a Rear-End Accident in the Lynnwood Area
Stop-and-go traffic is a daily reality for anyone driving in the Lynnwood and Edmonds area. Whether you’re inching along I-5 during rush hour, navigating the busy lanes of Highway 99, or dealing with the constant traffic lights on 196th Street SW, the risk of a sudden stop and a subsequent rear-end collision is always present.
While often dismissed as “fender benders,” rear-end accidents can cause serious, long-lasting injuries and significant financial stress. If you’ve been the victim of a rear-end crash, it’s important to understand the unique factors at play and how to protect your rights.
Why Are Rear-End Collisions So Common on Our Local Roads?
Rear-end crashes are the most frequently reported type of collision, and our local traffic patterns create the perfect conditions for them.
- Congestion on I-5 and I-405: During peak commute times, these major highways become parking lots. A moment of distraction, such as checking a text message or changing the radio station, is all it takes for a driver to fail to notice the stopped traffic ahead.
- Busy Intersections in Lynnwood and Edmonds: Intersections like 196th St SW & Hwy 99 or the Edmonds Way & 100th Ave W crossing see heavy traffic. Drivers who tailgate or try to anticipate a light change can easily cause a rear-end collision.
- Distracted Driving: This is the single biggest cause of rear-end accidents. From Alderwood Mall Parkway to the streets of downtown Edmonds, drivers looking at their phones instead of the road are a constant hazard.
The Presumption of Fault in Washington State
In most car accident cases, determining who is at fault can be a complex process. However, Washington state law has a general rule for rear-end collisions: the rear driver is almost always presumed to be at fault.
The law (RCW 46.61.145) requires every driver to follow at a distance that is “reasonable and prudent,” considering the speed of other vehicles and the condition of the road. Striking the car in front of them is strong evidence that they failed to do so. This is because every driver has a primary duty to see what is happening in front of them and maintain enough space to stop safely.
Can the Front Driver Ever Be at Fault?
While the rear driver is usually responsible, there are rare exceptions. Washington follows a “comparative fault” rule, which means that if the lead driver did something to contribute to the accident, their compensation could be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Some examples where the lead driver might share a small percentage of fault include:
- Driving with broken or non-functioning brake lights.
- Suddenly reversing without warning.
- Pulling out into traffic without enough space and being immediately hit from behind.
However, an insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to unfairly shift blame to you for a “sudden stop.” It’s important to remember that stopping suddenly for a legitimate traffic reason, such as for a pedestrian, a yellow light, or stopped traffic ahead, is not negligence.
Don’t Ignore Your Injuries: The Danger of Whiplash
The most common injury from a rear-end collision is whiplash. The force of the impact snaps the head and neck forward and backward, straining the muscles and ligaments. Like many soft-tissue injuries, the symptoms of whiplash may not appear for hours or even days after the accident. You might feel fine at the scene but wake up with:
- Severe neck and shoulder pain
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Headaches
- Dizziness or fatigue
It is critical to seek a medical evaluation after any rear-end accident. This not only ensures you get the care you need but also creates an official record that connects your injuries directly to the crash. This record is a vital piece of evidence for any injury claim.
How a Lawyer Can Help
After being hit from behind, you may find the at-fault driver’s insurance company is difficult to deal with. They might downplay your injuries or delay your claim. An experienced car accident lawyer handles this process for you, ensuring your rights are protected so you can focus on your recovery.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Every case is different, and you should consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your situation.
