Northern Idaho has seen a concerning rise in serious injury crashes, as well as fatal crashes. Busy roads and consequential accidents in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene should not be underestimated – the possibility of danger exists for all road users.
Understanding the key causes of road crashes in the area is not only a good preventative measure, but also important knowledge for legal options and protection, should the need for it arise.
In this article, we will look at what most commonly causes accidents in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene and what legal options are available to victims.
Accidents in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene: An Overview
Kootenai County has seen a worrying number of road accidents. Recent data shows that distracted driving is responsible for 18% of fatal crashes, and aggressive driving – for 15%. In fact, in 2023, which was named the deadliest year for traffic deaths in over a decade, Kootenai County saw a total of 590 crashes, 6 of which were fatal.
According to local law enforcement, aggressive driving remains one of the biggest issues on the road. Many drivers fail to identify what real aggressive driving means – it does not only include reckless driving or road rage, but it covers all driving behaviors that may endanger road users and their property. Subsequent problems arise from this, such as other drivers being influenced by aggressive driving patterns, deepening the risk.
Let’s now look at the main causes of accidents in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene.
Common Causes of Accidents
In gaining a thorough understanding of the most common causes for road crashes in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene, you gain prevention and protection in the event of an accident. Causes include:
- Distracted Driving: This includes phone use, such as to text or to use GPS, as well as eating and drinking while driving.
- Aggressive Driving and Speeding: Not only running red lights, but also weaving through traffic, this is a leading factor for fatal crashes.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use severely impacts reflexes, judgment, and reaction time.
- Failing to Yield and Intersection Collisions: Especially common at busy junctions and during turns.
What Legal Options Do Victims of Accidents in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene Have?
In the unfortunate event you have been injured in an accident in Northern Idaho, it is within your legal rights to seek compensation for your pain and losses. The damages available for victims of road crashes cover medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Some key points to keep in mind are:
- Time: Be aware of the statute of limitations. In Idaho, you will have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Insurance System: The at-fault driver is the one responsible for damages, however, if you are partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced proportionately to the percentage of your fault.
- Legal Help: It is important to seek legal guidance through this process to ensure correct handling of evidence and correspondence with insurance adjusters.
Knowing you have these legal options and discussing them with your lawyer ensures that you receive the best support possible, and that you are not dealing with the aftermath of the accident alone.
Why Hire a Lawyer for an Accident in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene
Reaching out to one of our attorneys at Bendell Law Firm PLLC means that you will receive help and guidance from a seasoned personal injury law expert, which in turn will maximize your chances of securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Having a trusted advisor to represent you in the claim process takes some of the pressure off, so you can put the traumatic event of a crash behind you and focus on your recovery. At Bendell Law Firm PLLC, we have a track record of achieving the best possible results for clients like you. Contact us today and let’s work towards your post-accident future together.