The Washington State Patrol is urging drivers to slow-down and be aware of changing road conditions as the Puget Sound area continues to receive above average rainfall this winter.
Last weekend (Friday at noon to Sunday evening at midnight) troopers in King County investigated over 180 collisions; about twice as many as the previous weekend.
Among the incidents was the below three vehicle collision on SB SR 167 in Renton that sent a driver to Harborview Medical Center with serious injuries. The responding troopers, who arrived minutes after the collision, used a floor jack to release the female victim who was pinned under the tire of a car. That driver was struck after exiting her vehicle, which had previously struck a cement jersey barrier. Troopers believe weather and speed played a factor in the original collision.
Drivers are reminded to follow the below tips:
- Drive at a reasonable and safe speed; as little as one-half inch of water can cause a vehicle to hydroplane.
- Keep a safe distance when following other vehicles.
- Turn-on head lights. The dark conditions, even during daylight hours, can cause poor visibility.
- Make sure your vehicle is working in a safe manner. Tires should have proper tread and air pressure, windshield wipers should function properly and all fluids should be checked and measured to their recommended requirement.
