Attorney Blog

Gig Harbor fatal car crash | Tacoma car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)27581 — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Gig Harbor woman was killed Sunday night when she was thrown from a car and suffered head injuries.

Diane Dorsey Racine, 57, was a passenger in a 2000 Ford Escort driven by her 21-year-old daughter, also from Gig Harbor. The Kitsap County Sheriff's office said the driver lost control traveling westbound on Lake Helena Road in South Kitsap.

The daughter was taken to St. Joseph's Medical Center in Tacoma with non life- threatening injuries.

Call the Andrew Kim Law Firm for a free consultation regarding car accident injuries or death claims. We can be reached toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

One Dies In Lake Padden In Bellingham After Canoe Capsizes

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)26709 — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

One man drowned and another suffer from exposure after a canoe capsized on Lake Padden on Friday afternoon in Bellingham, Washington. Cole Smith and Clay Weden, both 28-year-olds, were Canoeing in the lake when their boat capsized and both fell into the frigid water. A witness called 911 after seeing the boat accident and an officer was on the scene in minutes.

Bellingham Police say that an off-duty Bellingham fire fighter and a police officer were able to rescue Smith using a paddle boat but could not find Weden. Search parties combed the lake and area for the man until dusk, but it was not until the next day that divers were able to recover his body. Smith was taken to the hospital for treatment for exposure.

Two lifejackets were found inside the canoe. It is not clear how the canoe capsized in calm waters.

Are Washington's Cell Phone Laws Working? New Study Says No.

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)26477 — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Washington is one of the few states in the nation that bans all mobile phone use and texting while behind the wheel. But do cell phone and texting bans actually reduce the number of car accidents and car accident injuries? King 5 News out of King County reports that a new study shows that cell phone laws are ineffective at lowering rates of vehicle accidents.

The study, run by the Institute of Highway Loss Data, collected insurance company car crash claims data in four different jurisdictions and found that cell phone bans aren't reducing the number of car accidents. However, it is unclear whether drivers are abiding by cell phone and texting laws.

A number of other studies have recently linked text messaging and cell phone use to car accidents and truck accidents. These studies have led to a nationwide push against driving while talking on the phone or sending messages.

Elderly Renton Woman Killed On Benton Highway In Two-Car Crash

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)25115 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A 97-year-old woman from Renton, Washington, was killed in a two-vehicle car accident on Benton Highway at 11 am on Thursday. The Washington State Patrol reported that the elderly woman, Marguerite Carruthers was in the passenger seat of a sedan driven by an 82-year-old woman also of Renton. The two women were involved in a collision when they struck a car traveling northbound and turning left in front of them.

Carruthers was rushed by emergency rescuers to Harborview Medical Center, where she died from her car accident injuries in the hours after the crash. The accident took place near the intersection of Benton Highway and Southeast 200th St. The woman driving the other vehicle, a 59-year-old Kent, Washington, resident was injured in the car crash but treated and released form the hospital with non-life-threatening medical issues.

The Washington State Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident to determine who was at fault for the fatal WA crash.

Drinking Kayakers Capsize In Puget Sound, One Suffers Hypothermia

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)24945 — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two men smelled strongly of beer as the Coast Guard and Seattle Fire Department rescued them from Puget Sound on Thursday night after their kayaks capsized in rough water.

Seattle Police said a 911 call was received from one of the boater’s girlfriends after she had received a distress call from her boyfriend. She told police that the two men had watched a football game while drinking and then decided to go out onto the water despite the dimming skies. Though they did have life jackets they were not wearing wet suits.

The two men put in their boats at Bermerton and were pulled from the water from rescuers near the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle. After spending a chilly hour in the water, one man was able to return home while the other man was taken to Harborview Medical Center to be treated for Hypothermia in the wake of the boat accident.

Rescuers called the two men lucky, as many winter weather boating accidents end tragically.

Washington Woman Killed By Kitsap Transit Bus

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)23572 — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

An unidentified woman was struck and killed by a Kitsap transit bus in Poulsbo, Washington on December 2 – Washington State Patrol officers investigating the case are still unsure of what caused the deadly bus accident.

According to witnesses, a woman was crossing Highway 305 at Johnson Way on Wednesday evening when she was struck by a northbound bus. The Kitsap County coroner pronounced her dead at the scene of the pedestrian accident and is now working to identify the woman and notify her family.

The bus driver as well as the nine bus passengers, who were traveling from Bainbridge Island to Hostmark, were not injured in the accident. The name of the bus driver has also not been released at this time. The left northbound lane of Highway 305 was closed as police investigated the bus accident scene.

Seattle Worker Dies In Four-Story Fall From Hotel Construction Site

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)23424 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Seattle construction worker was killed by a fall on November 12, 2009, as he was competing a job in a new hotel in the Lynnwood area. Lynnwood Police say that the as-yet unidentified 45-year-old man was helping a crew offload rolls of carpeting when he fell out of the building structure four stories above the sidewalk. The carpet installer was taking the rolls of carpet from a forklift at the time of the fatal Lynnwood accident. The accident happened at around 10 am when the worker leaned too far out of the window and lost his balance.

Although Lynnwood emergency workers and the fire department rushed the man to Harborview Medical Center, he died of his fall injuries after arrival. Police are investigating the deadly fall incident.

Seattle Motorcycle Rider Dies After Losing Control Of Harley

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)21392 — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Seattle motorcycle rider was killed on Highway 101 after he lost control of his bicycle on Wednesday, October 7, 2009. State Police say that 55-year-old Alan Gelvin of Washington was negotiating a curve when he lost control of his bike and left his lane.

At 3:20 pm, the bike slid into oncoming traffic on the two-lane highway and went under a pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction. Gelvin, who was riding a 2007 Harley-Davidson motorcycle, died of his motorcycle accident injuries. He was wearing a motorcycle helmet at the time of the accident.

The two people riding in the pickup truck, a couple in their early 60s, suffered only minor injuries in the fatal motorcycle accident.

A memorial was held for Gelvin a week later - he was a United States veteran and an avid Harley-Davidson rider.

Body Washes Onto Beach Grays Harbor County From Boat Accident

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)21371 — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Washington State authorities believe that the body of a woman who washed up on a Grays Harbor Beach had been involved in a sailboat accident that occurred off of the coast of WA. The body has been identified as 47-year-old Teri Dascher of Kingston, Washington, who departed on a 25-foot sailboat from King County a few weeks before.

The body of the other person on the boat, 51-year-old John Phillip Stapp of Seattle, WA, has not been recovered. A large amount of debris, apparently from the wreckage of the sailboat, has also washed onto shore. Police are unsure of what could have caused the sailboat accident.

The couple was headed to the South Pacific, though they had stopped in Westport for boat repairs over the past few weeks. The Grays Harbor County Sheriff's Department continues to investigate this boating accident case.

Two Yelm High School Teens Injured In Rainy Head-On Crash

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19719 — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Slick roads, inclement weather, and young drivers were probably responsible for a serious Washington car accident involving two Yelm High School teens on Tuesday morning.

The Washington State Patrol reported that 16-year-old Skye Calhoun and her passenger, 16-year-old Alexandria Bachmeier, were driving northbound on Morris Road in Yelm when the rain-slicked roads caused the young driver to lose control of her vehicle and cross into the opposite lane. The girls hit a pickup truck head on.

Both were airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, with Calhoun in critical condition and Bachmeier in serious condition. Both suffered head injuries, chest injuries, and leg injuries in the head-on crash.

The Washington State Patrol said that the rainy morning, in addition to the recent dry spell, made the roads especially dangerous on Tuesday morning. Although the crash is still under investigation, police also believe Calhoun was driving too fast for the road conditions.

Dog Pack Kills Two Horses In Maple Valley, Washington

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19648 — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

What's more dangerous than an aggressive dog? A pack of aggressive dogs. Perhaps no one understands this better than Washington resident Patricia Clark, who lost two of her horses to a pack of dangerous dogs this week in Maple Valley. Clark runs Serenity Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation, where she rescues needy horses in the Washington area.

The five dogs were pit bull mixes and belonged to a neighbor. The dogs tried to attack the horses' two foals, but ended up killing the two mares. Reportedly none of the dogs are fixed and the neighbor's fence had a hole in it. King County Animal Care and Control, who is investigating the dog bite incident, told reporters that the dogs had been surrendered and will be put to sleep.

The horses had been rescued while pregnant from a slaughterhouse only to be killed because of negligent dog owners, the horse owner told reporters.

"It's not [the dogs'] fault. It's the owner's fault," Clark said.

Girl hit by a truck in Sunnyside|Washington Car Crash Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19607 — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to The Seattle Times, a 12 year old girl was hit by a pickup truck in Sunnyside, WA on the Yakima Valley Highway at 7:00 am on Monday. She was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Two other children were not hit but suffered minor injuries.

Police reported that the driver was headed east and didn't see the children crossing the highway due to the sunlight in his eyes.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons in car crashes, truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. Call us at (253) 682-200 in Tacoma, (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Car-friendly Bellevue is looking out for bikers|Bellevue Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19599 — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Already car-friendly Bellevue is looking out for bikers as well, The Seattle Times reports. At the beginning of this year City Council passed a bike and pedestrian plan that included 80 miles of bike lanes, 90 miles of sidewalks and 20 miles of trail improvements.

During the summer months, the city installed two dozen bike racks throughout downtown, coordinated bike-safety fairs, offered urban-cycling techniques classes, printed bike maps and put in new bike lanes on Southeast 26th Street.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, a personal injury law firm with practice areas involving bicycle accidents and car crashes. We provide prompt responses and investigate the scene of the accident to preserve critical evidence that may disappear later. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle or Bellevue, or toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for an immediate consultation.

Musician dies in scooter crash in Tacoma

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19445 — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Brian Redman died in a scooter crash Sunday morning Tacom News Tribune reports. He was trown from his scooter after clipping a curb in the 2400 block of North 21st Street in Tacoma, WA.

Redman was known as a leader of Dirty Knockers, a Tacoma hard-rock band and for his two year association with Vancouver, BC based 3 Inches of Blood. Redman also worked as a bartender at Doyle's Public House, 208th St. Helen's Ave. in Tacoma.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676 or 253-682-2000 or 425-289-1990.

Yelm High School students in critical condition after crash|Pierce County Accident Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)19443 — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Tacoma News Tribune reported that two 16-year-old Yelm girls were airlifted to Harborview Medical Center with critical injuries on September 29th, 2009. According to Washington State Patrol the teenager was driving 1985 Oldsmobile northbound on Morris Road just south of 110th Avenue in Yelm in Thurston County when she crossed the center line and hit a 2003 GMC box type truck head-on.

The Associated Press identified the two teenagers as Skye Calhoun, the driver and Alexandria Bachmeier, the passenger. The driver of the GMC, 43-year-old Matthew L. Benson of McKenna, wasn't injured.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons in car crashes, truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. Call us at (253) 682-200 in Tacoma, (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Settlement Reached In Tacoma Monster Truck Child Death

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)18650 — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

After his six-year-old son was killed by a piece of flying metal at a Tacoma Dome truck show at the start of the year, Jessie Hizey has reached a private settlement with the company that put on the event, Feld Entertainment Inc. The specific terms of the monetary settlement were not released to the public.

Sebastian Hizey of Graham, Washington, suffered a fatal head injury when a piece of metal flew off of one of the large trucks and into the Tacoma Dome audience. An investigation revealed that the flying metal was the result of a problem with the truck's rear drive shaft.

Hizey's Tacoma child accident lawyer explained that the family would not be seeking monetary damages from the city of Tacoma, since they did not believe the city was at fault for the child's death. Field Entertained released a brief statement saying that the matter had been resolved in a confidential manner.

Yakima Cyclist Seriously Injured In Bike Accident Hit-And-Run

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)18648 — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Yakima County Sheriff's Office is still looking for a purple or green Toyota 4-Runner that hit a cyclist and then fled the scene of the bike accident on Wednesday. Eyewitnesses describe the driver of the SUV as a male in his 40s.

The man who was hit by the car while riding his bike, 72-year-old Leslie Ross Bornfleth, suffered multiple fractures from the Washington State bicycle accident and was treated at Seattle's Harborview Medical Center for his serious injuries.

The WA bike accident took place on Wide Hollow Road when the bike rider stopped at 101st Avenue and signaled a left turn in broad daylight.

"As many are aware, there are more and more bicyclists on the roadways," Sgt. John Durand told reporters. "Drivers need to be aware of them and should always expect the unexpected. They should slow down and also allow for plenty of room when passing cyclists so as to not crowd them off the roadway."

Three Brothers Killed in Yakima Jeep Accident On US 12

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)16499 — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Seattle Times reported that A Sunday, August 3 Washtington State car accident near Rimrock Lake on U.S. Highway 12 left three brothers dead. The crash, which took place in Naches, Washington, on Sunday afternoon, took place when a Jeep Wrangler carrying six people turned into an oncoming Ford Explorer towing a boat.

Washington State Patrol reports that the 21-year-old driver, Roman Abundiz, along with two of his brothers, 15-year-old Raul and 11-year-old Fernando, died in the Naches car accident. The other Jeep occupants, including 43-tear-old Rosa P. Abundiz, 22-year-old Yesenia Verduzco Sanchez and 21-year-old and Rogelio Benavidez Ramirez, were rushed by emergency workers to Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center.

The Ford Explorer was also carrying six passengers, all hailing from Kennewick, Washington. Four of the Ford's occupants were also injured in the Naches intersection accident. The driver of the Ford, 32-year-old Daniel Leach, was among the injured.

Kittitas County Woman Loses Leg In Water-Skiing Boat Accident

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)16427 — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

As we reported in our News Section last month, a Kittitas woman was severely injured in a boating accident on the Columbia River on July 4. New updates report that 20-year-old Alison McWeeny is still in the hospital recovering from a lower leg amputation in the weeks following her water-skiing boat accident. The Central Washington University student and track and field athlete remains at Seattle's Harborview Medical Center in satisfactory condition.

The boating accident took place when a motorboat turned too sharply, capsizing and ejecting all seven passengers into the water. McWeeny was thrown under the boat, where she suffered extensive lower leg trauma from the boat's propellers on both legs, according to the Kittitas County Sheriff's Office. She has undergone three surgeries so far to repair damage caused in the Washington State boating accident.

Tacoma Toddler Injured In Fall Out Of Moving Minivan

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)14935 — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Washington car accident involving a Tacoma child has many across Washington State thinking about child protection locks and minivan safety this week. On Friday night, a four-year-old girl in Tacoma crawled out of her seat, opened her mother's minivan door, and fell out onto the road - all while the vehicle was moving.

The little girl, who was run over by the back wheels of the van driven by her mother was rushed to the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center. A Tacoma Police spokesperson told reporters that she was being treated for non-life-threatening injuries from the car accident.

This child accident reminds us to keep our children securely restrained in child safety seats and to take advantage of the child safety locks that many recent cars are equipped with - these safety locks make sliding doors in minivans impossible to open from the inside.

Puppy Pug Bites Young Washington Boy In Groin

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)14872 — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

This week we learned that it is not only adult dogs that are dangerous - especially when they attack small children. In Wenatchee, Washington on Wednesday night, an 8-year-old boy was attacked by a young dog and bitten in the groin outside of the apartment complex where he lived.

The boy, who hails from Royal City, Washington, was playing outside with friends near Western Avenue when a black and tan pug dog began chasing the children. The young 8-month-old dog bit the boy in the groin area. He was rushed to Central Washington Hospital, where he was treated for dog bite wounds and then released.

The dangerous dog's owner was cited by police for having a dog at large.

To learn more about how to protect your children from dog bites and dog attacks, read our library article, Protecting Your Children From Dog Bites in Washington State.

Bike Safety Fair Comes To Bellevue, Washington Area

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)14299 — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Optimist Club will hold its fourth annual bike safety fair in Bellevue, Washington on Sunday, June 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Lake Hills Elementary School. The fair, which is held for children in grades K-5, is aimed at improving bike safety for kids across Washington State and preventing biking accidents, biking injuries, and biking fatalities.

The free safety fair will include a bicycle obstacle course, bike inspections, helmet inspections, bike tune-ups, free bike helmets for children in need, bike safety tip sheets, face painting, prizes, crafts, and goodie bags. In addition, Bellevue Police will help families with official helmet fittings while the Washington State Department of Transportation will host an information booth on bike safety and pedestrian safety. PedBuzz, the pedestrian safety mascot, will also be buzzing around the event.

Those attending the bike safety fair are encouraged to bring non-perishable food as part of a food drive.

Man Dies In Lake Washington Boating Accident

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)14179 — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

With warmer weather ascending on Washington State, the incidence of boating accidents, boating injuries, and boating deaths are on the rise. On Thursday, June 5, 56-year-old August Reyers of Kirkland, Washington died in a boating accident in Lake Washington.

Reyers and a friend were boating in rough waters late on Thursday when the boat capsized north of the Highway 520 floating bridge. The King County Sheriff's Department reported that although the friend swam to shore after an hour and a half in the water, his friend was no where to be found. On Friday, the body was located about seven yards off of Juanita Beach Park. The King County Medical Examiner's Office identified the body.

To prevent boating accidents this summer, be aware of the weather conditions, wear a life vest, and do not drink while operating a boat.

Teens hurt in bus crash in Cascades | Washington Bus Accident Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)13769 — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A small bus was involved in a single-vehicle crash on Blewett Pass in the Cascade Range on Highway 97 Sunday afternoon, The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports. All 12 teenage passengers were taken to Kittitas Valley Community Hospital in Ellensburg but only five or six were treated for minor injuries. The van was taking Northwest Youth Corps member from Eugene, Oregon to the Twisp area of north-central Washington to do trail maintenance. According to Trooper Dave Phelps of The Washington State Patrol, the cause of the accident was under investigation. The stretch of U.S. 97 between Interstate 90 and Highway 2 tends to be quite windy and often drivers take it too fast.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers in bus accidents, and other motor vehicle crashes. If you would like to speak with an injury attorney, call us now at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Finley boy attacked and bitten by dog | Washington dog bite attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)13497 — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 9 year old boy from Finley, Washington was attacked by a dog while walking home from a friend's home. A medium-sized border collie tore up his face which needed 20 stitches to close wounds.

Sgt. Ron Sabin of the Benton County Sheriff's Office told the Tri-City Herald, "It sounds like he's lucky to be alive. It was a serious dog bite."

The boy's mother, Shanda Reed, says the dog attacked her son, Triston Jett, before her son ran home on Friday evening. He was then taken to Kennewick General Hospital, where he was treated for his wounds and later released.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents persons injured from dog attacks and bites resulting in serious permanent injuries and scarring. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 to discuss your possible dog bite case.

Lake Coeur d'Alene boat accident injures man from Denver | Washington boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)13495 — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Nicholas McMordie, 25, from Denver, Colorado was injured in a boat accident on Lake Coeur d'Alene, Washington when he fell overboard from the back of the boat that his friend Benjamin Stein, 25, of Spokane was driving at the time. His right lower leg was severely lacerated from the propeller blades.

EMTs from the Coeur d’Alene City Fire Department responded to the Third Street Public Boat Launch and took McMordie to Kootenai Medical Center to be treated for his injuries. According to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department, it appears that alcohol was not a factor in the accident, and no citations were issued.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents persons injured from a boat accident involving motor boats, PWC, sailboats, canoes, and kayaks. You can speak with an attorney for free at 1-800-636-3676 to see if you have a case or not.

Issaquah man killed in car crash | Bellevue, Issaquah car accident attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)13425 — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 27-year-old Issaquah man was killed Friday night when his SUV went off the road and rolled over several times near the 10100 block of Issaquah-Hobart Road, KomoNews.com reports. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676 or 425-289-1990.

Motorcycle crashed into Ambulance responding to accident | Seattle Motorcycle accident lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)13097 — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to KIROTV.com a 29-year-old man crashed his motorcycle into an ambulance responding to a multi-vehicle accident on I-5 at 117th Avenue Northeast near the Nortgate Mall Monday morning. Southbound lanes of I-5 were backed up about 7 miles and northbound lanes backed up about 1 mile. Washington State Patrol reports that the motorcyclist was most likely looking at the southbound crash when he collied with the ambulance in the northbound lanes.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents persons seriously injured in motorcycle accidents in Bellevue, Seattle, King County, and Washington State. We are available for free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Lacey woman killed in a car crash | Tacoma car crash lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12788 — Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to The Seattle Times, Natalie J. McLaughlin, a 22 year old woman from Lacey was killed early Sunday morning. A vehicle crossed the centerline on Highway 12 in Thurston County causing a head-on collision with McLauglin's vehicle.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Puyallup, Tacoma, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676.

Renton man dies in a car accident | Renton car crash attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12787 — Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Renton man was killed when he crashed his car into a dozen cars in a Chevrolet car dealership lot in Parkland, Washington The Seattle Times reports. According to the State Patrol, Anthony T. McDonald was killed early Sunday when he was thrown from his Jeep Cherokee.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Puyallup, Tacoma, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676.

Driver crashes Porsche into water | Seattle car crash lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12786 — Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A speeding driver crashed his car into the Puget Sound off Seattle's Alki neighborhood near 1170 Alki Avenue SW early Tuesday morning KomoNews.com reports. The fire department found the Porsche about 30 feet off shore. According to the witness the driver was speeding, crashed into a utility pole and went into the water. The male driver was taken to Harborview Medical Center and is expected to recover.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons in car crashes, truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Seattle's waterfront sidewalk collapses | Seattle slip and fall attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)12449 — Sun, 24 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

NWCN.com reports that on May 21st near Pier 48 along Alaskan Way South in Seattle, Washington a sidewalk collapsed and a 60 year old man was trapped in a 10-foot deep hole. The Seattle Fire and Rescue crew pulled the man through a narrow opening over an hour later. The Washington State Department of Transportation is investigating this incident.

If you have been involved in a fall injury accident, call the Andrew Kim Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation at 425-289-1990 or 1-800-636-3676. We would be happy to discuss your case with you.

Increased number of WSP troopers during Memorial Day Weekend | Seattle, Bellevue Personal Injury Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12447 — Sun, 24 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to WSP media release there will be approximately 75 extra troopers patrolling the roadways during the Memorial Day Weekend from Friday, May 22nd to Monday, May 25th. They will be looking for:

1) drivers who are speeding

2) drivers who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)

3) drivers who fail to buckle up

4) vehicles carrying unsecured loads

5) aggressive and negligent drivers (WSP will use an aircraft to help with that)

The WSP also asks that motorists be aware of increased number of motorcycle riders this weekend!

The Seattle, Bellevue, Washington attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people injured in car accidents whether through negligent or reckless driving of the other driver. Call us for a free initial consultation at 425-289-2990 or 1-800-636-3676.

Internet and social media warning to personal injury clients!

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12442 — Sun, 24 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Please be aware!

We are seeing more and more cases where the insurance companies and insurance defense lawyers are searching social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube for photos and blogs about what the clients are doing while they are claiming to be injured. The courts are ordering injured plaintiffs to produce their Facebook pages to the insurance company lawyers.

Initially people were careful about what photos they posted online and who had access to them but these days everybody is more willing to post just about anything. Your friends may have photos of you, that can be searched by your name, tagged on their pages. Your own privacy settings cannot protect you entirely.

Here is what you can do to protect yourself and your possible injury claim:

1) Make sure there is nothing you would not want your mother or the insurance company lawyer to see.

2) Search your name to see that what comes up is acceptable. Make whatever adjustments are necessary.

3) Check your privacy settings.

4) Don't answer emails or requests from people you don't know (keep in mind that because of the lawsuit process, the opposing legal team knows a lot about you and could send you an email that might make you think you know each other).

If you are not sure if your pages are acceptable, speak to your personal injury lawyer about it now. The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons from car, motorcycle, bicycle and truck accidents. If you would like to discuss your case with an experienced Bellevue personal injury attorney, call us and 425-289-1990 or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Great resources for Bellevue | Bellevue accident attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12300 — Thu, 21 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Great resources for Bellevue

Bellevue, WA

Official City of Bellevue Website

City Of Bellevue Police Department

City of Bellevue Fire Department

Bellevue Chamber of Commerce

King County District Court - Bellevue Courthouse

Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, WA

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons from car, motorcycle, bicycle and truck accidents. If you would like to discuss your case with an experienced Bellevue personal injury attorney, call us and 425-289-1990 or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

King County Assessor guilty in vehicular assault | Seattle motor vehicle attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12299 — Thu, 21 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

King County Assessor guilty in vehicular assault. The Seattle Times reports that King County Assessor Scott Noble pleaded guilty to a vehicular assault Wednesday morning. On January 18, 2009 Noble was involved in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 causing injuries to him and two other woman.

Noble, 58 apologized to the victims, King County citizens, Department of Assessments' staff and the County Council. The sentencing is scheduled for June 19, 2009 and Noble is planning to resign before that after 16 years of service as a elected assessor.

The Seattle, Bellevue, Washington attorneys at Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people injured in car accidents whether through negligent or reckless driving of the other driver. Call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

One dead, three injured in Auburn car accident | Tacoma Car Accident Lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12298 — Thu, 21 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

One young man was killed and three people injured in a head-on car crash on A Street Southeast in Auburn, Washington onTuesday evening, The News Tribune reports. One injured woman was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Two other people were transported to Auburn Regional Medical Center. The cause of the accident is unknown and being investigated by the Auburn Police Department.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Puyallup, Tacoma, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676.

2 planes collide in Skagit County | Washington plane accident lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12123 — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Komonews.com reports two planes crashed at the Skagit Regional Airport in Burlington, Washington and all four people involved walked away from the collision without injuries! Skagit County sheriff's deputies said the biplane came in for a landing on top of the Cessna, which had just landed a moment before. The impact knocked the Cessna onto its side and the biplane flipped over after crashing into the Cessna.

The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the accident.

This information was provided by the personal injury lawyers at Andrew Kim Law Firm. We represent people seriously injured in plane crashes and other motor vehicle accidents. If you or someone you know has been injured from a negligent party, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 to discuss your potential case.

18 tips preventing dog bites | Bellevue dog bite lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12122 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

18 tips preventing dog bites

An estimated 4.7 milion people in the United States are bitten by a dog each year.

1. Never approach an unfamiliar dog.

2. Never run from a dog and scream.

3. Stay still when an unfamiliar dog comes up to you ("be still like a tree")

4. If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still ("be like a log")

5. Do not look a dog in the eye.

6. Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.

7. Do not pet a dog without letting it see and sniff you first.

8. Never play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.

9. Never leave an infant or child alone with any dog.

10. Teach your dog submissive behaviors, like rolling over to show its stomach.

11. Do not play aggressive games with your dog, such a wrestling.

12. Seek medical care for any serious dog bites and report all dog attack

13. Support animal control programs in your community.

14. Support dog bite prevention educational programs in schools.

15. Get the advise of a veterinarian about the right breed of dog if you are thinking about getting a family dog.

16. Spay or neuter your dog, this often reduces its aggressive tendencies.

17. Be sure all pets are properly immunized.

18. See a veterinarian's advice quickly if your dog becomes aggressive.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents victims of dog bites and attacks, who have suffered serious and permanent injuries. Please call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Collision coverage or property damage liability coverage? | Seattle Insurance Coverage Dispute Lawyer.

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)12099 — Sun, 17 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

What is collision coverage and should I purchase it?

Collision coverage is a type of voluntary coverage you can purchase which provides for the repair or replacement of your own vehicle after an accident, regardless of whether or not you are at fault.

This is different than property liability insurance coverage. An innocent victim of an accident may present a claim for the property damage under his own collision coverage or under the negligent driver's property damage liability insurance coverage. Your own collision coverage normally includes a deductible, whereas property damage liability insurance coverage does not. In an automobile accident case, after a claim has been paid under your collision coverage, the insurance carrier who paid the claim may proceed against the property damage liability insurance carrier for the negligent driver to recover the amount paid out and refund you for your deductible.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people involved in a insurance coverage dispute and bad faith claims. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Five reasons for not speeding! | Bellevue accident attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12086 — Sat, 16 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Governors Highway Safety Association lists five reasons for not speeding.

Save lives - Slowing down increases your chances for surviving the crash.

Save money - Speeding reduces fuel efficiency. The Department of Energy estimates that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph, you most likely pay $0.20 more per gallon.

Save the Earth - More gas consumed translates into more CO2 in the atmosphere. The faster you go the more fuel you consume.

Save yourself a ticket - Obey the speed limit or you will pay the fine.

Save your license - Each speeding ticket can increase points on your driving record. You may lose your license in the process and increase your insurance premiums.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons from car, motorcycle, bicycle and truck accidents. If you would like to discuss your case with an experienced Bellevue personal injury attorney, call us and 425-289-1990 or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Monroe traffic accident - Sultan man killed | Snohomish County Accident Lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12085 — Sat, 16 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Seattle Times reports that a 19-year-old Sultan man was killed in a car accident in Monroe. The driver was going west on Woods Lake Road when he hit a tree and was pronounced dead at the scene. According to the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office, speed was the reason for the crash.

The Governors Highway Safety Association states speeding as a major factor in nearly one-third of motor vehicle crashes.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured persons in car crashes, truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Highway 101 - Quilcene biker killed | Washington Bicycle Accident Attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12083 — Sat, 16 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to the Washington State Patrol, a 51-year-old Quilcene man was hit by a car and killed when riding a bike on Highway 101, Komonews.com reports.

The Washington State Patrol Trooper stated that the bicyclist entered the roadway in front of the car just outside Discovery Bay, WA. The driver of the car did not receive a ticket for the bicycle accident but he was cited for driving with a suspended license.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, a personal injury law firm with practice areas involving bicycle accidents and car crashes. We provide prompt responses and investigate the scene of the accident to preserve critical evidence that may disappear later. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle or Bellevue, or toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for an immediate consultation.

What should parents learn about car safety and kids? | Washington Kids Accident Lawyer

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12027 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

From the time your new baby comes home from the hospital, until they are driving with their own driver's license, parents need to learn how to maximize their kids' safety in the car. At each stage, kids are at risk in different ways.

Most parents don't know how to use their infant or young child's car seat correctly. Too many school-aged kids are in danger because they don't use booster seats. Some kids are in danger from air bags because they ride in front seat before they are big enough to do so safely. Inexperienced teenage drivers are often overtired, driving under the influence, overly confident in their abilities, or aren't paying attention because they're distracted by their friends, cell phones and food.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of accidental death for all young people from one-year-old babies through teens. Too many motor vehicle deaths and injuries could have been prevented.

The American Academy of Pediatrics can help you get started on how to shop for and correctly install a car seat. Keep your child in a car seat for the longest recommended time. Don't "graduate" them before they are both the recommended age and weight.

The Bellevue, Washington office of the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents adults and children seriously injured in any motor vehicle accidents. If you would like to talk to a personal injury attorney to see whether you have a case, please call us at 1-800-636-3676 or visit www.wainjurylaw.com.

Motor vehicle accident victims | Seattle car accident attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12026 — Fri, 15 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Have you or someone you care about been injured in a motor vehicle accident? You probably have concerns that need to be addressed right away. How should I deal with my insurance company? Should I seek medical treatment for my injuries right away? Who will pay the medical costs for the treatment I already received? What if I need a rental car? Do I have to pay for it while my car is being repaired? Should I call the police? Do I have to take photos of the car and accident scene now or can I wait? Should I hire a lawyer? How do I get the best settlement for my claim?

This website can help. It is designed to provide answers to all these questions and more. Find answers to questions by going to our Frequently Asked Questions section or find more in depth information in our Library articles.

Also our Car Accident practice area is a good source of information. Click on any of these links and find your way to valuable information on what to do if you are seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident or contact the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at 1-800-636-3676 or www.wainjurylaw.com.

$2 million settlement after Wal-Mart's employee death | Seattle wrongful death attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)12002 — Thu, 14 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

CNN.com reported that Wal-Mart reached a settlement with the District Attorney’s Office in Long Island, NY and agreed to pay $2 million which includes $1.5 million for community programs in Nassau County, NY and $400,000 to compensate people who were injured in the "Black Friday" incident and repay out-of-pocket expenses.

The settlement was made in lieu of pursuing criminal charges in the death of 34-year-old man and Wal-Mart employee who was knocked over and trampled to death as 2000 shoppers ran into the store for the morning sales specials. As a part of the settlement Wal-Mart agreed to a crowd-management plan at each of its 92 stores in NY and it will consider applying new safety measures.

The Washington State wrongful death statue allows the surviving spouse, child or parent to file a lawsuit on behalf of their deceased loved one. Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents families of fatal accidents and wrongful death victims. Please call for a free consultation at 1-800-636-3576 or visit www.wainjurylaw.com

Fatal Puyallup crash - car torn in half | Puyallup car accident attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)11993 — Thu, 14 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

One woman is dead and a man and a girl were injured in a four car crash on River Road in Puyallup reports The Seattle Times. The driver of a Mercedes was on Highway 167 when she lost control of her vehicle and crossed into lanes going the opposite direction. The Mercedes collided with two oncoming vehicles and was ripped in two according to the The Washington State Patrol. A 14 year old girl suffered several broken bones and a man is in critical but stable condition.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents injured passengers as well as families of fatal accidents against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Puyallup, Tacoma, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state at 1-800-636-3676.

Pregnant woman killed in car crash - possible DUI Driver | Washington wrongful death attorney

kasiaukim@aol.com (Blog Author)11992 — Thu, 14 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A young Concrete man is under investigation for a driving under the influence and vehicler homicide after killing a pregnant 22-year-old Sedro-Wooley woman reports The Seattle Times . Just before 10:00 pm on Highway 20 near Sedro-Wooley a car that caused the crash ran a red light, hit the victim’s car on the driver’s side and pushed it across the intersection and into a ditch.

Drunk driving is a cause of many motor vehicle accidents. The Washington State Court System posted in its 2008 Annual Report that over 40,000 DUI charges were filed in WA State in the past year.

This represents a decrease in over 5% of the total number of DUI charges in Washington from 2007. Over 17,000 people were convicted of DUI in Washington in 2008. Over 18,000 people in Washington were able to resolve their DUI case by way of a reduction to a lesser offense (Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving). And over 8,500 people in 2008 entered into a deferred prosecution as a result of their Washington DUI.

In addition to criminal charges, the family of the deceased may recover damages in a wrongful death civil suit. Washington State's wrongful death statue allows the surviving spouse, child or parent to file a lawsuit on behalf of their deceased loved one.

The Washington car accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm aggressively pursues claims against drunk drivers when someone was injured as a result of a car accident as well as families of fatal accidents and wrongful death victims. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for information about your legal rights and how to present your injury claim against drunk drivers.

9-Year-Old Washington Girl Killed In Motorcycle Accident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11921 — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

An elderly driver is being held responsible for the motorcycle accident death of a 9-year-old girl who was visiting her grandparents in Spokane, Washington, this weekend.

Nehalah May was riding on the back of her grandfather's motorcycle on Highway 195 on Sunday afternoon when a car turning left failed to see the approaching motorcycle. 89-year-old Esther Mae Westlund turned into the Harley Davidson driven by Robin Scholz. Scholz did not have time to break his bike or avoid the crash.

May died in the accident, while her grandfather, Scholz, remains in critical condition at Sacred Heart Medical Center. Westlund received only minor injuries and was cited for negligent driving.

Westlund has never before received a traffic citation and has a clean driving history. However, she will be re-evaluated in the days after the accident. May's father, Ron, wonders if age played a factor in the woman's negligent driving. Not seeing a motorcycle when turning left is a common motorcycle safety issue.

National Boat Safety Week Theme: Life jacket Safety

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11890 — Tue, 12 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The 2009 National Boat Safety Week kicks off on May 16 - around the time that most families hit the water for the first time this season. Boat Safety Week strives to raise awareness about the 600 boat accident fatalities each year and to urge everyone to "Wear It!" - their life jacket.

The National Safe Boating Council reminds boaters that 90% of people who drown during boating accidents are not wearing life jackets at the time of the incident, and that two out of three people who die in boat accidents drown.

Boat safety advocates also reminded boaters that life jackets now come in lightweight, compact, and attractive styles, making them more comfortable and cool to wear even during the summer months.

During Boat Safety Week, the council will also run an essay contest in which writers can share their life jacket stories. The winner of the contest will receive a $1,000 shopping spree.

Car crashed into tree in Renton | Renton car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11798 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A single car crash on Southwest Seventh Street in Renton, Washington occurred at 12:22 am May 10, 2009 this Sunday morning. The 18-year-old driver and his two passengers were traveling at a high rate of speed when it left the roadway crossed over the sidewalk and hit a tree. All three were critically injured and taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents injured passengers against the at fault driver and helps seek medical coverage from the driver's insurance company, and negotiates a settlement for the injured clients. Call an experienced personal injury attorney today if you've been injured in a car accident in Renton, Seattle, Bellevue or anywhere in Washington state.

Our toll free number is 1-800-636-3676.

Seattle pedestrian hit by car | Bellevue pedestrian car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11796 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 29 year old man was hit by a car at about 10:10 pm after getting off a Metro bus and trying to cross 9th Avenue SW at an unmarked intersection near SW Elmgrove Street in the Highland Park area of Seattle. He was critically injured and taken to Harborview Medical Center with life threatening injuries.

The 51 year old driver of the Chrysler Lebaron that struck the pedestrian was traveling north on 9th Avenue SW. According to the police, the driver showed signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He was also taken to Harborview for a blood draw for further investigation of DUI.

This is case where liability will be disputed by the car driver's insurance since the pedestrian was walking in an unmarked crosswalk at night. However, the car driver was most likely driving under the influence impairing his vision, reaction time, and ability to drive. It's important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to investigate the facts of the car accident as soon as possible.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, we provide prompt responses and investigate the scene of the accident to preserve critical evidence that may disappear later. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle or Bellevue, or toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for an immediate consultation.

Trolley crash caused by texting driver | Bellevue bus crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11795 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Boston trolley train driver was texting his girlfriend on his cell phone when he crashed the train into a stopped train on the Green Line injuring 50 people. The National Transportation Safety Board found no mechanical problems with the brakes or other equipment on the train that caused the crash.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority already bans operators of trains and buses from using cell phones but will now further limit its drivers from bringing the phones on board when driving.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, a Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Washington personal injury law firm representing those injured on a bus, train, trolley and other public transportation. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 to speak with a lawyer now.

Boat explosion injures 11 people | Bellevue boat accident lawyer

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11794 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

What started out as a nice boating trip for an extended family of 14 people who left from Apollo Beach, Florida on a 33 foot Sea Ray to anchor in three feet of water off Pine Key Island (also know as Beer Can Island) ended in an explosion in the rear portion of the boat.

Eleven people on board were injured, including the six who were seriously injured and flown by helicopter to Tampa General Hospital. Five other children were treated for smoke inhalation and released from the hospital. Three others were wading near the boat at the time of the explosion and were apparently not injured.

The cause of the explosion is under investigation. The boat's twin engines were not operating at the time, although a gasoline generator was. The boat burned to the water line and was owned by George Meyer, who was on the boat.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents those injured as a result of negligent maintenance and operation of a boat or water vessel. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Head-on car crash in Renton | Car accident lawyer Renton

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11793 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A pickup truck driven by a 21 year old traveling northbound on 108th Avenue SE near South 190th Street in Renton, Washington crossed the center line into the southbound lanes and crashed into two vehicles. The first collision killed an unidentified 56 year old woman who was a passenger in the vehicle. The pickup then struck a second vehicle before stopping in the northbound lanes.

All three drivers were taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The pickup truck driver was arrested and taken into custody for investigation of vehicular assault and vehicular homicide.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents injured persons in car crashes, truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and surrounding areas and (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma and Pierce County.

Man pleads guilty in fatal car crash near Toppenish | Washington car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11792 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

Kelly Leroy York, of Buena, Yakima County pleaded guilty in Yakima County Superior Court to all charges including fatality hit-and-run, vehicular homicide and vehicular assault in from a fatal car crash last Thanksgiving near Toppenish, Washington.

The car accident killed 37 year old Rose Magana of El Mirage, Arizona and injured five other people. As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence of 10 years. The sentencing date was set for May 13, 2009.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents injured persons from car accidents including cases involving drunk drivers and hit and run drivers. If you would like to discuss your case with an experienced Bellevue personal injury attorney, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Tour bus crash in Perris, California | Bellevue bus accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11785 — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A bus load of people from Colton, California were returning home on a tour bus from a festival in San Diego, when the bus crashed into a wall on Interstate 215. All 25 passengers were injured from the bus accident with eight of those critically injured.

The California Highway Patrol was investigating the cause of the crash. The tour bus was owned by Inland Empire Stages. The company said the driver was released from a hospital, but gave no further details.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC with offices in Bellevue and Tacoma to better serve your personal injury needs. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 if you've been injured in a bus accident and need some guidance and legal advice.

Car crash in Pullman by DUI driver | Seattle Bellevue car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11558 — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A drunk driver made a U-turn on Highway 270 and started driving the wrong way into the westbound lanes. 33 year old Nickole Head of Moscow, Idaho was arrested for DUI and vehicular assault after causing the car crash with a vehicle driven by Paola Segal, 20, of Sandpoint, Idaho and her passenger Hasiba Muhic, 22, of Moscow, Idaho. Muhic was airlifted Wednesday to Spokane’s Sacred Heart Medical Center from Pullman Regional Hospital where she was in satisfactory condition.

The Washington car accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm aggressively pursues claims against drunk drivers when someone was injured as a result of a car accident. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for information about your legal rights and how to present your injury claim against drunk drivers.

Plane accident in Mansfield injures three | Washington plane accident atttorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11554 — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A pilot and his two passengers, all from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho were injured from a single engine plane crash at Mansfield airport near Lake Chelan, Washington after it touched down on the runway, bounced, then veered into a field. The airfield is owned by the Port of Douglas County.

The pilot James Dunn who was taken by helicopter to Central Washington Hospital. The two passengers, Brian Dunn and Christopher Berard, were taken by ambulance to Lake Chelan Community Hospital. The cause of the crash was being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration.

This information was provided by the personal injury lawyers at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC. We represent people seriously injured in plane crashes and other motor vehicle accidents. If you or someone you know has been injured from a negligent party, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 to discuss your potential case.

Tour bus crashes on U.S. 101 in Monterey, California | Seattle, Bellevue, Washington bus accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11552 — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tour bus owned and operated by Orion Pacific Tour Bus Co. in Orange County, California veered into a guard rail on a U.S. 101 overpass on the Monterey Peninsula and flipped and rolled, ejecting several passengers from the bus along with luggage and clothing onto the highway.

The bus was carrying French and Canadian passengers killing at least four people and injuring everyone else on the bus estimated to be up to 48 people on board. Because of the accident scene's remoteness, eight helicopters and 14 ambulances were needed to take the injured to hospitals in the region, officials said. The cause of the bus accident is still under investigation at the time of this writing.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents injured passengers in bus accidents, and other motor vehicle crashes. If you would like to speak with an injury attorney, call us now at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Car crashes into school bus in Bush Prairie | Bellevue car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11551 — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

22-year-old Jace Delgado of Battle Ground, Washington crashed his car into the rear of a school bus on state Highway 503 in Brush Prairie, Washington. The bus driver Nina Millard also of Battle Ground was heading northbound near NE 149th Street when she stopped at a railroad crossing.

Delgado was following an SUV north on Highway 503 also behind the school bus. The SUV driver changed lanes but Delgado was unable to stop in time and ended up underneath the back of the bus. He suffered back pain and was taken by ambulance to Southwest Washington Medical Center where he was treated and released. The bus driver was not injured according to the report.

Oftentimes, a driver in an accident may not experience immediate pain at the scene and will tell the investigating officer that she feels "fine" and so the police report indicates the driver was not injured. Insurance companies will try use this against you but as long as you see a medical professional as soon after the car accident as possible, you will have a better argument to make your case.

For additional information, call a Bellevue, Seattle, Tacoma, Washington bus accident injury attorney at the
Andrew Kim Law Firm at 1-800-636-3676.

Semi-truck and motorcycle crash on I-82 | Washington motorcycle accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11550 — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The driver a 2002 International semi-truck, Johnny Harris, was heading westbound on Interstate 82 near milepost 36 near Yakima, Washington when a tire came off its rim causing the truck to hit the guardrail then veer across the median and into one of the eastbound lanes.

There was no contact with any other vehicles, however, gravel was scattered onto the westbound lanes of I-82 which caused 27 year old motorcycle rider Daniel Reich, 27, of Granger to lose control of his 2007 Suzuki motorcycle and crash. He was taken to Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center for his injuries where he was treated and released. Investigators blamed the crash on the defective tire.

The question in this case is whether the tire manufacturer was responsible for a defective tire or whether the trucking company was at fault for not properly maintaining the tire, or whether the semi-truck driver was an independent contractor or not which would make him responsible as well.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm investigates semi-truck accidents for those injured as a result of the truck driver and/or trucking company's negligence. Call us toll free for an immediate consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Spokane bicyclist injured in hit-and-run car accident | Washington bicycle accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11549 — Sun, 03 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A bicyclist was struck by a silver pickup at 8:54 p.m. on Friday May 2, 2009 in north Spokane, Washington at the corner of Post Street and Cora Avenue.

The pickup left the scene of the hit and run accident. The bicyclist sustained broken bones in the truck crash and was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The Spokane Police is asking anyone with information about the crash is asked to call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, a personal injury law firm with practice areas involving bicycle accidents, car crashes, and truck accidents. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 to speak with an experienced Washington accident attorney.

Aggressive drivers beware of WSP near Hood Canal | Washington car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11548 — Sun, 03 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Washington State Patrol will be looking for aggressive and reckless drivers near the Hood Canal Bridge which will be closed for six weeks for construction.

Speeding and other aggressive behaviors may result in car accidents and/or road rage incidents. Therefore the State Patrol asks that motorists call 9-1-1 and report any reckless behavior, providing dispatchers with a vehicle description and location.

The WSP asks you to please remember that collisions resulting in serious injury or fatality require lengthy investigations, making the commute time longer than expected so please be patient. If you are involved in a fender bender, you should safely remove your vehicle from the roadway if practical to do so. The Washington State Patrol's goal is to see zero fatalities or serious injury collisions during this time period as well as to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

The Seattle, Bellevue, Washington attorneys at Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people injured in car accidents whether through negligent or reckless driving of the other driver. Call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Yakima DUI rollover car accident | Car crash Seattle attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11315 — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Another case of drinking and driving in Yakima, eastern Washington ending in a serious injury rollover car accident.

According to the Washington State Patrol, a 39 year old Rhonda Ruhland from Yakima was seriously injured in the early morning hours around 12:26 am when she was speeding eastbound on Maple Way, left the roadway, and overturned. She was not wearing her seatbelt.

Ruhland was transported to Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center, where she is listed in critical condition. This woman is lucky to be alive and lucky that she didn't harm or kill someone else driving down the roadway.

Call the Andrew Kim Law Firm if you've been injured by a drunk DUI driver. We will pursue the responsible person and if necessary the bar or tavern that may have over-served the intoxicated driver. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Wapato car crashes into utility poles | Car crash lawyer Bellevue

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11312 — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

As a follow up to my previous blog about this Wapato, Washington car crash, the woman who was killed when she crashed her car into power poles has been identified as 43 year old Angela M. Bueno.

The crash knocked out two power poles supporting two large regulators that spilled 50 gallons of cooling oil containing PCBs. Pacific Power cleaned up the mess and restored power that was out for about six hours to more than 600 customers.

The information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, helping injured clients put their lives back together.

Wapato car crash kills woman | Car crash Bellevue Lawyer

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11311 — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A unidentified woman was killed when she crashed her car into a power pole on Campbell Road southwest of Wapato, Washington and her car caught on fire badly burning the vehicle and the victim.

Witnesses reported that the she was driving southbound on Campbell, south of Hoffer Road and traveling erratically since Interstate 82. The driver lost control of her car which went sideways in the road and then struck the power pole on the driver’s side.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents persons seriously injured or killed from a car crash, truck accident, motorcycle crashes. If you or someone you know has been injured and need to talk to an experienced personal injury attorney, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Yakima car crash injures 2 Sunnyside residents | Tri-City Washington car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11309 — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two Sunnyside, Washington residents were injured in a one car rollover accident in Yakima, Washington. The Washington State Patrol has stated that alcohol or drugs may have contributed to the car crash. 20 year old Ricardo Chavez Jr. was driving westbound on Factory Road at around 10:30 p.m. when his car left the road, rolled and hit a power pole near Ray Road.

Neither Chavez nor his 15 year old passenger, Janet S. Castillo, were wearing a seat belt and were injured. They were taken to Sunnyside Community Hospital where Castillo was treated and released but Chavez was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle with more serious injuries and was admitted into the intensive care unit. Chavez was likely be investigated for DUI with a blood draw at the hospital.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm aggressively pursues injury claims against drivers who have been drinking and driving whether charged with DUI or not. If you've been injured by a drunk driver, please call us for a free consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Mason County car crash | Washington car accident lawyer

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)11308 — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

16 year old Joshua McGuire and his 14 year old brother Jordan McGuire were involved in a tragic one car crash on State Route 3, three miles from Allyn, Washington in Mason County. Joshua was driving a 1987 BMW northbound when he lost control of the car and truck a utility pole.

Jordan died at the scene from his injuries and Joshua was transported to Mason General Hospital with a serious head injury and a broken neck. He was later airlifted to Harborview Medical Center where he remained in serious condition. According to the Washington State Patrol, it did not appear that drugs or alcohol were factors in causing the car collision. Both boys attended North Mason High School in Belfair, Washington.

There was no mention in the report if the speed of the car, weather and road conditions, or mechanical failure were factors in the car crash. Investigation of these facts will determine whether the passenger and/or driver can make a claim for injuries against the insurance company.

The Washington personal injury attorney at the Andrew Kim Law Firm represents those injured in one car accidents, multiple vehicle collisions, and rollover crashes throughout the state of Washington including Mason County. If you would like to discuss your potential claim, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Boat crash kills 5 in Florida | Washington boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10963 — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 22 foot power boat with 14 people on board crashed into a docked tug boat on the Intracoastal Waterway on April 12, 2009 at about 7 pm about 25 miles southeast of Jacksonville, Florida. Five people were killed and nine were injured. The boat accident was serious enough to be investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board. Investigators are looking at several factors including speed, capacity of the boat, lighting and whether people were drinking.

Six victims were treated at Shands Jacksonville Hospital, two were in critical condition, one was in serious and three in fair condition. The report did not mention where the other three injured were being treated.

The five killed all died at the scene and were aboard the power boat. They were Jacqueline R. Allen, 44, of Jacksonville, Florida; Robert Trenton Craig, 23, of Jacksonville Beach, Florida; Elizabeth L. Rosenfeld, 20, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; Inmaculada Pierce, 42, of Orange Park, Florida; and Olivia Rose Carretero, 23, of South Lake Tahoe, California.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represent persons seriously injured or killed in boating accidents including motorboat crash, powerboat, sailboat, kayak, jet ski, and windsurfer collisions. Call a Bellevue, Seattle, Tacoma, Washington boat accident attorney at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Our clients are from Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah, Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, Puget Sound, Beaver Lake, Pine Lake, Lake Chelan, Columbia River, Nisqually River, Moses Lake, Lake Wenatchee, Lake Tapps, American Lake, and Lake Roosevelt.

Car crash fees for police and fire response? | Bellevue car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10865 — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Accident Response Fees?

A woman in Winter Haven, Florida was involved in a car accident in February. Almost immediately after the crash, local police officers and firefighters showed up at the scene. The quick response wasn't the surprise to the driver Shirly Kimel. Instead it was a $315 bill she received from the city for the cost of the police and fire department responding.

Kimel stated “I always thought this sort of thing was covered by my taxes.” It used to be. But last July, Winter Haven became one of a few dozen cities in the country to start charging “accident response fees.” The idea is to shift the expense of tending to and cleaning up crashes directly to at-fault drivers. Either they, or their insurers, are expected to pay.

The problem is that car insurance is not likely to cover this expense which leaves the driver stuck with the bill. With the downturn in the economy and local governments trying to make up for lost revenues, creative measures such as this accident response fee and other types of fees are popping up around the country.

Let's hope that the State of Washington doesn't get wind of this and start charging us for the privilege of having the police and fire department respond to a car accident.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents persons injured in a car accident, and other motor vehicle crashes. If you have questions about your case and want to speak with a Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Washington personal injury attorney, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Motorcycle crash kills Maryland state delegate's son | Washington motorcycle accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10864 — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

23-year-old Ryan Andrew Myers was killed in a motorcycle crash on April 9, 2009 when a tractor trailer truck pulled out of a truck stop into his path. The accident happened on State Route 63 near French Lane near Hagerstown, Maryland.

According to Maryland State Police, Ryan was riding his motorcycle northbound at a high rate of speed before braking and skidding 300 feet to avoid colliding with the semi-truck. He was run over by the left rear tires of the tractor-trailer operated by Larry Garrett, 62, Edmond, Oklahoma.

No charges have been filed and is under investigation. Myers was the son of Maryland Delegate LeRoy Myers Jr., a Republican from Clear Spring in Washington County.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents persons seriously injured in motorcycle accidents in Bellevue, Seattle, King County, and Washington State. We are available for free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Colville woman killed in one car accident on Highway 20 | Washington car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10843 — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

68 year old Linda Ann Lobdell from Colville, Washington was killed on April 8, 2009 when the driver of her car, 65-year-old John Edward Chaney, lost control of the 1994 Honda Civic and went off the highway onto the shoulder, partially rolled and hit a tree. They were heading eastbound on Highway 20 about 15 miles east of Colville when the accident occurred.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the passenger Lobdell was not wearing a seat belt. The driver was injured and taken to Mount Carmel Hospital in Colville where he was treated and released.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles car accident cases involving serious injuries and wrongful death caused by a negligent driver. Call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Jefferson County plane flips during take-off | Bellevue personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10842 — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

78-year-old John M. Cook of Sequim, Washington was seriously injured when his light airplane crashed during takeoff from Jefferson County International Airport on April 9, 2009. A wind gust caught a wing of the two-passenger, single-engine Light Sport by Remos causing it to flip over and corkscrew into the grass next to the runway.

Cook sustained serious injuries including broken bones and cuts to his face and was flown by helicopter to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the plane accident.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents persons seriously injured in plane accidents as well as other crashes involving motor vehicles. You can call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Snohomish motorcyle crash kills 16 year old boy | Snohomish motorycle accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10841 — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

On April 8, 2009, a 16-year-old boy from the Snohomish area was killed in a motorcycle, car crash collision in the 20400 block of 121st Avenue SE in unincorporated Snohomish. He was attempting to pass a vehicle in a no passing zone when the vehicle he was trying to pass made a left turn into him.

According to the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office, the boy was wearing a helmet. The driver of the other vehicle was a 19-year-old woman who sustained minor injuries.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents injured persons resulting from motorcycle accidents, car accidents, and other motor vehicle collisions. If you would like to talk to an experienced personal injury attorney about your case, call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Washington Police Chief Causes Accident While Texting On Blackberry

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10822 — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Federal Way Police Chief Brian Wilson found himself in a car accident on March 18 when he decided to text while driving - an act that's against the law in Washington State.

Network World reports that the police officer was using his blackberry at an intersection in his police cruiser when he rear-ended the car in front of him. The car accident, which resulted in minor damage and no injuries, resulted in a reprimand and a public apology.

Using a personal mobile device while driving is illegal in Washington State, although it is considered a secondary infraction - drivers are only cited for breaking the law if they are pulled over for another reason or if they cause an accident. Police officers are exempt from the law altogether, although Wilson admitted that he had taken advantage of his exemption.

Washington became the first state to ban texting in 2007.

University of Washington Bans Dogs After Dog Bite Incident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10769 — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

The University of Washington will no longer allow dogs in campus buildings following several dog bite incidents over the last semester. UW's newspaper, The Daily, reported that most recently a dog bit a person in Parrington Hall, beginning a number of rule changes. Non-service dogs will no longer be allowed in campus buildings and pets may not be left unattended outside on campus, even if tethered.

The decision was made by the UW Board of Regents and The UW Academic and Student Affairs Committee and will be enforced by the UW Police Department. Changes will be made to the Washington Academic Code (WAC) to not only bar animals from the university's buildings, but also to comply with Seattle Animal Control standards.

The UWPD will enforce the new rules by first issuing a warning and then to ask the pet owners to leave the building. Pet owners will only be ticketed or banned from the building if they refuse to cooperate by removing their animal from the premises. Animals that are unleashed or unattended on campus could be brought to animal control for the safety of those on campus.

Pickup truck collision with Stryker in Spanaway | Tacoma truck accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10762 — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

On April 7, 2009, a 55-year-old pickup truck driver, Gregory Wood from Roy, Washington, was killed in a collision with a Stryker vehicle from Fort Lewis on SR-507 near Spanaway.

According to Washington State Patrol, two Fort Lewis-based Strykers were stopped at an intersection. The first turned left onto the highway, and as the second was entering the roadway, it collided into the side of a Wood's Ford F-150.

It appears that the Stryker vehicle failed to yield the right of way to the pickup truck and may also have been inattentive causing the fatal crash.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people seriously injured or killed by negligent drivers of cars, trucks or as in this case military vehicles. When dealing with an injury or wrongful death claim against a governmental entity such as the U.S. military, certain procedures must strictly be followed and different statutes (Federal Tort Claims Act) apply. Call an experienced Tacoma personal injury attorney at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation now.

Motor vehicle traffic death crashes fall in 2008 | Seattle car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10698 — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

One bright spot in this country amid the recession is that the U.S. highway traffic crash deaths in 2008 fell to their lowest level since 1961 when John F. Kennedy was president. The recession and $4-per-gallon gas meant people drove less to save more. Experts also cited record seat-belt use, tighter enforcement of drunken-driving laws and the work of advocacy groups that encourage safer driving habits.

Tough economic times during the 1973 to 1974 oil crisis and inflation saw highway vehicle collision fatalities fall more than 16 percent and during the 1981 to 1982 recession under President Reagan saw a drop of nearly 11 percent.

The vehicle miles traveled in 2008 fell by about 3.6 percent, to 2.92 trillion miles, indicating many people adjusted their driving habits as gas prices fluctuated and the economy tumbled. You may have also noticed fewer vehicles on the roadways as there are fewer people working and driving.

The Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma offices of Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represent people seriously injured or killed in car accidents, but we always welcome news such as this where traffic deaths are at historic lows. Should you have any questions about your car crash case, call us for a free consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Lake Tahoe bus crash on I-80 | Bellevue, Washington bus crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10638 — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A shuttle bus operated by the Resort at Squaw Creek crashed on April 4, 2009 on Interstate 80 which is the main highway through California's Sierra Nevada killing one passenger and injuring 27 others. The bus went off the road, hit a guardrail and rolled several times before coming to rest in a ditch.

Some of the 30 or so people aboard were thrown from the bus and one was pronounced dead at the scene according to California Highway Patrol. The injured passengers were taken to hospitals in Reno and Truckee, California including Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. Injuries ranged from serious and critical head injuries, broken bones and bruises.

The bus was transporting employees from Reno to the upscale resort north of Lake Tahoe when the accident occurred.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles serious injury and wrongful death cases involving shuttle buses, vans, trucks and other commercial vehicles which transport people. If you've been injured or know someone who's been injured, call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Kemore worker injured by train in tunnel | Seattle personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10632 — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A worker was injured in Kenmore, Washington on March 30, 2009 when he was struck by the locomotive train that carries equipment and employees through a tunnel being bored to carry treated water from the Brightwater sewage-treatment plant, which is being built by King County, to Puget Sound. The nature of the worker's injuries were unknown at the time of the news report.

If the worker was injured by a third-party, as opposed to his employer, then he would have a claim for his injuries against the third party even though he would also be covered under a worker's compensation claim (L & I). Typically, the injured worker will receive an election of third-party claim form from L & I. The injured worker should contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss the possible third party claim before filling out this form, the sooner the better.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC helps injured workers with injury claims against third-parties whether in a car accident, train accident, truck accident, construction site injury, or defective product. Call us now for a free consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Everett woman killed crossing I-5 | Everett pedestrian injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10631 — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

On March 29, 2009, a pedestrian woman was killed after attempting to run across Interstate 5 in Everett and being struck by two vehicles. According to the Washington State Patrol, the woman was hit in the northbound lanes of I-5 near Everett Mall at about 8:30 pm. Neither driver was hurt according to WSP.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC. We handle personal injury cases involving car accidents, pedestrians, truck, motorcycle, bicycle accidents throughout the State of Washington. If you've been injured in an accident, call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Roll through stop signs for bicyclists in Oregon | Bellevue bicycle injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10630 — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A proposed Oregon bill would allow bicyclists to roll through stop signs only in residential neighborhoods and is sponsored by a freshman legislator, Rep. Jules Bailey, D-Portland. Advocates argue that allowing bicyclists to make rolling stops makes it easier to maintain momentum, encouraging cycling in general and would take cyclists away from busy but dangerous arterial streets with few stops and into neighborhoods that have little traffic and many stops.

The measure is modeled after a similar law in Idaho that allows bicyclists to treat stop signs like yield signs. This measure is drawing fire in the Oregon legislature for a law that may be lethal for bicyclists.

If bicyclists are allowed to roll through a stop sign at an intersection, then how are operators of motor vehicles supposed to react to them?

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC, we can let you know whether you have a case if you are injured in a bicycle vs. car accident. The rules of the road are not always so clear cut and easy to understand when it comes to bicyclists on the roadway. So, call us at 1-800-636-3676 before you talk to anyone from the insurance company. It may make or break your case.

Federal Way woman killed in car accident | Federal Way personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10386 — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

On March 22, 2009, an elderly woman in her mid-80s accidentally backed a car over her passenger who was also in her 80s and killed her when she loading groceries into the car in a Federal Way, Washington parking lot of Top Food & Drug located at 315 Pacific Highway.

The Federal Way Police Department is calling this "just a tragic accident" and found "nothing criminal involved whatsoever." The accident took place in the lot of Top Food & Drug at 315 Pacific Highway S.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm handles claims for wrongful death and serious injuries from car accidents such as this tragic accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide you with the necessary information to make the proper decisions during these difficult times. Call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Sequim man killed in helicopter crash | Washington personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10385 — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

66 year old Roger Hershner was killed in a helicopter crash in a field in central near Moundridge, Kansas. He was piloting the helicopter from Washington to Virginia to perform contract work for the U.S. Forest Service. The cause of the crash is still under investigation and unknown at this point. Weather and fuel have been ruled out as a possible cause of the accident. No other passengers were on board.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC. We handle serious personal injury cases resulting from helicopter crashes, plane crashes, and all other motor vehicle accidents including cars, buses, trucks, motorcycles. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 if you have any questions regarding a possible claim.

Fatal car crash on Redmond-Fall City Road | Redmond car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10384 — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

On March 7, 2009, a 32 year old woman, Gretchen Forsman, was killed in a car crash on Highway 202 near Ames Lake Road in Redmond, after her car hydroplaned in a patch of water, spun into oncoming traffic and was hit by an 2005 Kia Sedona SUV. She was a passenger in a 2000 Honda Civic driven by 33 year old David Forsman who was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle in serious condition.

The driver of the Sedona was identified as Caroline Robinson, 38, and the passengers were Brian Robinson, 35, and two children, ages 8 and 6. Three of the four people in the Sedona were taken to Harborview for injuries as well.

The Washington State Patrol listed the causes of the collision as weather and speed.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents those injured by the negligence of other drivers who cause the car accident and personal injuries including neck and back strains, sprains, head trauma, and other permanent injuries. You can call us at
(425) 289-1990 for a free initial consultation.

South Kitsap Highway 160 Crash Leaves One Dead

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10243 — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to the Kitsap Sun, 23-year-old Josh Heuer of Port Orchard died at Tacoma General Hospital after being involved in a serious car accident on Monday night.

Heuer was pulling on to Highway 160 from Bodle Road when he was struck by an oncoming car driven by a 19-year-old woman headed east. Some reports indicate that one of the two cars involved in the 2-vehicle accident did not have its lights on. Washington State Patrol is still investigating the incident and are waiting for results of drug and alcohol tests.

Heuer, who was not wearing a seat belt, had weak vital signs when emergency workers arrived at the crash site. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later died on his injuries. The woman suffered non-life-threatening injuries, including a sore neck and seat belt abrasions. She was released from Harrison Medical Center in Bremerton.

Highway 160 was closed for two hours following the serious car wreck.

Seattle Begins Enforcing Leash Laws For Dogs As Safety Measure

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10242 — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

In an effort to keep children and adults safe in public parks, Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Seattle Animal Shelter have teamed up to step up dog leash enforcement in several of the city's parks. The change is in response to the public's lax response to the law, and even the misunderstanding that parks are off-leash areas for dogs.

In reality, although many parks allow dogs to run free, others do not for the safety of both the dogs and those using the parks. Parks that will receive ramped-up leash law attention include West Queen Anne Playfield, Gilman Playfield, Bitter Lake Playfield, Ravenna/Cowen Parks, Green Lake Park and Volunteer Park.

In the first weekend of enforcement, Park and Humane Law Enforcement Officers issued 14 citations, ranging from $54 to $162. Tickets focused on leash laws, dog licensing laws, and scooping laws.

Officials also wanted to remind the public and increase awareness about other public places - although leashed dogs are allowed in most parks, some public places, such as athletic fields, children's playgrounds, and beaches, do not allow dogs at all.

Boater who hit kayaker on American Lake found | Lakewood personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10177 — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Lakewood police have found the boater who hit a 14 year old kayaker on American Lake in a boating accident, leaving the boy critically injured. After interviewing the boater, police said today the collision was not "intentional, negligent or reckless".

14-year-old, David Kenny "DK" Ross, suffered severe head injuries. His father also said doctors had to remove his ruptured spleen. He's was in critical condition at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma.

It's hard to imagine how the boat driver could not be at least negligent or even reckless. The operator of a motor boat has a duty to:

Operate at a safe controlled speed for the situation in which you are boating, and any
legally mandated speed requirements that there may be, such as a slow/no wake zone.

Take care to avoid careless, reckless or negligent boat operations--such as operating too closely to
other vessels, boating under the influence, or operating at an unsafe speed for the given conditions.

See the Rules of the Road as they apply to boats and other vessels here.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents those seriously injured in boating accidents involving motorboats, sailboats, PWC, jet skis, Seadoos, and kayaks. You can contact us at (425) 289-1990 in the Seattle / Bellevue area or at
(253) 682-2000 in the Tacoma / Lakewood area.

Everett Sound Transit bus accident injures pedestrian | Everett personal injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10176 — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 44-year-old pedestrian was seriously injured by a Sound Transit bus in Everett on February 20, 2009 at the intersection of Pacific and Wetmore Avenues just before 5 pm. It was not clear if the Everett man was in the crosswalk at the time of the bus accident, and Everett police will review a bus-camera video to help determine the cause of the accident.

The man was taken to Providence Medical Center in Everett and then airlifted later to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he was recovering.

There are many facts and circumstances that may affect whether an injured pedestrian can file a claim against the driver of the bus. Whether the pedestrian was in the marked or unmarked crosswalk, whether there was a pedestrian traffic control device, lighting conditions, weather conditions, visibility of the pedestrian, point of impact of the collision, attention of the driver, etc.

Call us the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC to help you sort through all facts and details and gather the evidence before it's too late. We can be reached at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Fremont Bridge head-on car wreck kills driver | Seattle car accident lawyer

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)10175 — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

42-year-old Christine Duffy from Seattle was critically injured in a head-on car collision on the Fremont Bridge on February 18, 2009 but later died from her injuries. The exact cause of her death is unknown and according to one of her friends, Duffy may have suffered a seizure or some other medical emergency that may have caused her to lose control of her vehicle.

According to Seattle Police, Duffy was driving northbound over the Fremont Bridge when she crossed the double yellow line, clipped a mini van and then crashed head-on into a cargo van. The other drivers, a 49-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman, suffered injuries and were treated at local hospitals.

If you've been injured in a car crash and the other insurance company is denying your claim because they are saying that their insured driver lost control of the car, truck or van due to a sudden and unexpected medical emergency such as a heart attack, then you need to contact us right away.

These types of defenses can be defeated with the proper investigation and argument by an experienced personal injury attorney. You may can call the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990 or toll free at 1-800-636-3676.

Bus crash injures track team on Highway 520 | Bellevue bus accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9975 — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two buses carrying about 75 athletes and coaches from the Eastern Washington University track team were in a bus accident after a car going westbound on Highway 520 cut off the first bus forcing it to brake. The second bus couldn't stop in time and rear-ended the first bus.

The accident occurred on Highway 520, just east of 84th Avenue Northeast in Bellevue. Four people were taken to local hospitals for injuries. According to the Washington State Patrol, the driver of the car fled the scene but later crashed into a barrier at midspan of the 520 bridge. The driver was being investigated on suspicion of DUI.

The obvious at fault driver in this bus crash was the drunk driver but the second bus driver may also be partially at fault for following too close (to the other bus in front). The following vehicle has a duty to maintain a safe distance and to be able to stop even in an emergency situation like this one.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can help you sort through the liability and insurance coverage issues and advise you what you need to do to bring a claim for injuries if you were hurt from a car or bus accident. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 to speak with an attorney now.

Drunk driver charged in fatal car accident | Auburn car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9973 — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Marcelino Rosales-Avendano was charged with vehicular homicide after he was going 100 mph on Interstate 5 and crashed his car and killed his passenger. He was driving southbound on I-5 near Highway 18 in Federal Way, Washington when the car fishtailed and spun before sliding off the highway.

The driver, Rosales-Avendano was ejected, and a 26-year-old Auburn woman, Nora Jerry, was thrown into the back seat and died of head injuries. Neither were wearing a seat belt. Alcohol was involved with Rosales-Avendano's blood-alcohol level measured at 0.10.

The this tragic accident was could have been lessened if the driver and passenger had worn their seat belts. It is fortunate that no other vehicles were involved in the crash.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC aggressively pursues claims on behalf of injured persons against drunk drivers (DUI) and bars and taverns (dram shop claims) that may have over-served them. Usually, the crashes are quite severe and the injuries are often serious and permanent. An experienced personal injury lawyer like Andrew Kim can help you get back on the road to recovery. Call us now for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

We handle case throughout the State of Washington.

Motorcyclist killed on I-405 in Renton | Motorcycle accident lawyer

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9969 — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

A motorcyclist was killed on February 22, 2009 shortly after midnight when his bike struck a barrier while traveling north on an exit ramp from Interstate 405 to Highway 169 in Renton. The rider was identified as Layne Poston, 46, of Auburn. According to the Washington State Patrol, he was riding a 1986 Harley Davidson FXSTC and lost control of the vehicle in a curve.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC which handles motor vehicle injury claims resulting from motorcycle, moped, and scooter crashes. You may contact us at (425) 289-1990 or toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for additional information regarding a possible case.

Pit bull dog owner sentenced for mauling | Dog bite injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9968 — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Travis Dean Cunningham was sentenced to one year in prison for possession of a dangerous dog, and a little more than five years for unlawful possession of a firearm. The judge also reinstated a previously suspended five year sentence from Cowlitz County.

His two male pit bulls attacked an elderly SeaTac woman Huong Le last September 8, 2008 while walking on the sidewalk and suffered serious and permanent injuries. Le had more than 10 hours of surgery to reattach her ears and repair other numerous bite wounds. According to her son Eric John Makus, one of her arms is permanently disabled.

Cunningham apologized to the court for the dog attack and promised never to own a dog again.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents people seriously injured from dog bites whether from aggressive dogs like pit bulls or other breeds like German Shepards, retrievers, and terriers. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

UW lecturer dies after bike accident in Seattle | Seattle bicycle injury attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9943 — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

A bicyclist who suffered head injuries after she was struck by a Toyota Prius Wednesday morning in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood died early Friday in Harborview Medical Center. Carol Salomon was a University of Washington faculty lecturer specializing in the Bengali language, in the Department of Asian Languages and Literature.

The bike accident happened at the intersection of North 56th Street and First Avenue Northeast in Seattle just before 10:30 a.m. According to the police, the cyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents bicyclists injured by other motor vehicles who failed to yield the right of way or were inattentive and did not see the rider until it was too late. For a free consultation, call us at (425) 289-1990 in the Seattle area or (253) 682-2000 in the Tacoma area.

Turkish Airlines jetliner crash in Amsterdam | Seattle airline crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9417 — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Another plane drops from the sky. This time it's a Turkish Airlines jetliner that plowed into a muddy field just short of the runways at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. The Boeing 737-800 was flying from Istanbul, Turkey to Amsterdam when it lost air speed and fell out of the sky. Miraculously, some 125 people survived but nine died including both pilots. Six of the injured were in critical condition, 25 were seriously hurt and 24 had slight injuries, health authorities said.

The plane broke into three pieces. The fuselage split in two, close to the cockpit, and the tail broke off. But the wreckage didn't burn partly because of engineering advances that have resulted in strengthened structures and fire retardant technologies, and because the plane would have used up a major portion of its fuel. The soft muddy grounds also lessened the impact.

Investigators will explore a wide range of possible causes of the crash, ranging from weather-related factors such as wind shear or icing, to fuel starvation, navigational errors, pilot fatigue or bird strikes. They have checked the plane's documents and there is no problem concerning maintenance.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC which handles all major accidents and crashes resulting in serious injuries and death. You may call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Continental flight 3407 jet crashes into home | Seattle plane crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9134 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

On February 12, 2009, Continental Connection Flight 3407 from Newark, New Jersey crashed into a suburban Buffalo house in a fiery plane crash that killed all 48 people a on board and one person Doug Wielinski in the home. Two others in the house, Doug's wife, Karen Wielinski, 57, and their 22-year-old daughter, Jill, escaped with minor injuries.

The cause of the accident was under investigation, but reports of ice building up on their wings seems to be a major factor. The twin turboprop aircraft was coming in for a landing when it went down in light snow and fog around 10:20 p.m. about five miles short of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport in New York.

The 74-seat Q400 Bombardier aircraft, operated by Colgan Air, looked like it suddenly dropped straight down from the sky. The nearly vertical drop of the plane suggests a sudden loss of control and that icing or a mechanical failure, such as wing flaps deploying asymmetrically or the two engines putting out different thrust, might have caused the crash.

In general, smaller planes like the Dash 8, which uses a system of pneumatic de-icing boots, are more susceptible to icing problems than larger commuter planes that use a system to warm the wings. The boots, a rubber membrane stretched over the surface, are filled with compressed air to crack any ice that builds up.

A similar turboprop jet crash 15 years ago in Indiana was caused by icing, and after that the NTSB issued icing recommendations to more aggressively use the plane's system of pneumatic de-icing boots. But the FAA hasn't adopted it. It remains part of the NTSB's most-wanted safety improvements list.

Details For Bombadier Q-400 (DH4)
Source: Colgan Air

74-seat twin turboprop in single-class, four abreast configuration

Jet-like speed with state-of-the-art avionics

Performance profile allows operations below and away from congested airspace

"Q means Quiet" with advanced noise and vibration reduction

Full size cabin with 32" seat pitch and 6'5" of headroom

Two flight attendants for passenger safety and comfort

Continental Airlines short and medium haul in-flight service offerings

Arrives and departs at Terminal C at Newark Liberty Airport

Length 107' 9"
Height 27' 5"
Wingspan 93' 3"
Passengers 68-78
Engines 2 Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. PW150
360 kts (414 mph)

Continental said relatives and friends of those on Flight 3407 who want to give or receive information about those on board can call a special family assistance number, 1-800-621-3263.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC. We represent people who have been seriously injured or killed in major accidents throughout the State of Washington. We can be reached toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Auburn woman killed on I-5 near Highway 18 | Tacoma car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9133 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 26-year-old Auburn woman was killed early Saturday morning February 7, 2009 around 3:20 a.m. when the car in which she was riding left southbound Interstate 5 near the Highway 18 interchange and hit some trees. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Another occupant of the car, a 35-year-old Tacoma man, was taken to Harborview Medical Center with unspecified injuries. It wasn't immediately clear who was driving the car according to Washington State Patrol.

The police investigation report will be crucial in this case to determine who was driving and at fault and who was the passenger who may have a claim for injuries or wrongful death if it is determined that the woman was the passenger. Apparently, the bodies were were either thrown from the vehicle and/or not seat-belted in their final resting positions. However, a final determination of each person's seating position may never be conclusively made.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, we promptly investigate the facts of a car accident and preserve crucial evidence that may make or break your case. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 if you've been injured in an accident before it's too late to do anything about your car crash case.

Pit bull dog attack owner pleads guilty | Seattle dog bite attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9132 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

36 year old Travis Dean Cunningham, who owned two male pit bulls that mauled 71-year-old woman, Huong Le, near her SeaTac home last September 2008, has pleaded guilty in King County Superior Court to possession of a dangerous dog. Le suffered severed ears, a crushed arm and deep bite wounds all over her body. She still suffers permanent disability with her right arm and scarring on her leg.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents victims of dog bites and attacks, who have suffered serious and permanent injuries, against the dog owners. Please call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

9 year old Everett girl hit by stolen car | Everett car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9130 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to Everett police, a 39 year old man driving a stolen 2005 Dodge Magnum struck a 9-year-old girl at a crosswalk on February 6, 2009 at the intersection of Cady Road and Pecks Drive in Everett at around 8 a.m. when she was walking to school.

The driver then scooped her up and drove her around in a failed attempt to find a hospital before dropping her off at a Shoreline convenience store at the Aurora Village Mart located at 20003 Aurora Avenue North. She was found bleeding and crying at the store.

After the police were called, the girl was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and was listed in satisfactory condition with a broken jaw.

The man eventually turned himself in to police and is being held at the Snohomish County Jail for investigation of felony hit-and-run and first-degree kidnapping and possibly car theft charges.

In a pedestrian / car accident case like this, it is unlikely that the at fault driver had insurance to cover the injuries to the girl. The car owner is also not responsible since the car was stolen. Therefore, you will need to find out if the girl's parents had uninsured motorist (UM) coverage for the bodily injury claim and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to pay for medical bills.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, we handle cases involving a pedestrian hit by cars or other vehicles in a marked or unmarked crosswalk and intersection. Call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Cyclist killed in crash with van in Ballard | Seattle bicycle crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9129 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 39-year-old Seattle cyclist was killed in a collision with a van on February 4, 2009 in Ballard on 24th Avenue NW near the intersection of NW 65th Street. The bicyclist was riding downhill south on 24th Avenue NW when he entered the two-way left turn lane, attempting to pass a van on the left.

The van moved into the left turn lane and the bicycle and rider went underneath the van. Medics performed CPR at the scene on the cyclist who suffered life-threatening injuries. He was taken to Harborview Medical Center where he later died. The bicyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. The case is still under investigation.

If you were injured in a bicycle accident and are not sure whether you should speak with the insurance company, call the Andrew Kim Law Firm first at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue or (253) 682-2000 or 1-800-636-3676 in Washington for a free consultation before it's too late. Giving too much information or the wrong information to the insurance company can damage your case.

Pedestrian in critical condition after being hit on I-5 onramp | Seattle pedestrian accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9128 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

On February 4, 2009, a 25-year-old suspected car prowler suffered life-threatening injuries after running onto an I-5 on ramp near the Washington State Convention Trade Center in Seattle where he was struck by at least one vehicle. He was running away from a Seattle Police traffic-enforcement officer who yelled at him to stop but the man kept running and was able to lose the officer in the foot chase. The man was taken taken to Harborview Medical Center.

Yakima man convicted in fatal car crash | Yakima car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9127 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

22-year-old Blake Edward Young was convicted of second-degree murder by a jury in Yakima for a crash on October 22, 2006 that killed Edgar F. Trevino-Mendoza, 19, and Guillermo "Bobby" Aguilar, when they were broadsided by Young who was fleeing from police in a stolen car.

Young faces 32 to 49 years in prison. The Guillermo "Bobby" Aguilar and Edgar F. Trevino-Mendoza Public Safety Act which was passed by the legislature last year following this crash requires that a driver convicted of endangering others while fleeing from authorities be sentenced to an extra year and a day behind bars.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm represents those innocent parties that have been seriously injured or killed in a car crash as a result of the negligent or wrongful acts of another driver. We are available for a free consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Owner Of Deadly SeaTac Pit Bulls Pleads Guilty

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9053 — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Over the past few months, we've brought you the story of the September mauling of a 72-year-old SeaTac women by two vicious pit bulls. Since the initial attack, which resulted in the elderly women suffering crushed bones, a detached ear, and dozens of puncture wounds, the owner of the dogs has been charged with possession of dangerous animals - a felony.

On Tuesday, the owner, 36-year-old Travis Dean Cunningham, pleaded guilty to the felony charge in the King County Courts. He also pleaded guilty to possession of an illegal firearm. He faces up to 11.5 years in prision.

The attack prompted some talk in Seattle regarding a breed-specific ban on pit bulls, which are statistically more likely to attack humans and which have historically done greater harm to humans than other breeds. Similar laws are being consider in other states, though without much success.

The woman involved in the attack, Huong Le, is still recovering from the animal bites. A close friend told the Seattle Times that she suffers permanent disability in her right arm and that some of the wounds in her legs have still not completely healed.

Bellevue High School Football Team Bounces Back After Bus Accident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)9051 — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

On their way to the Tacoma Dome for a semifinal football game this fall, the Bellevue Wolverines's team bus overturned on I-5. The bus was traveling at 60 miles per hour when a ladder from a pickup truck ahead of them flew into the drivers' path. The bus swerved to avoid the obstacle and flipped onto its side, taking the 40-some football players with it. Miraculously, the players were shaken but no one was seriously hurt. One coach suffered a separated shoulder and bruised spine in the Washington bus wreck, but will not suffer any permanent injury.

Since the I-5 bus crash, the team has not only recovered from the traumatic experience but triumphed on the field. Although the semifinal game was delayed, the Wolverines went on to win not only that game but the 3A state football championship. This is the sixth championship win for the Bellevue team in eight years, as well as an undefeated season for the 2008 players.

The Seattle Sports Examiner has declared the triumph one of their top moments of 2009.

Monster Truck Rally Accidents Not As Rare As You Might Think

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8509 — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Last week, a six-year-old boy was killed by flying debris at a Monster Truck rally at the Tacoma Dome. While many newspapers and media outlets around the world called the child's fatal head injury a "freak accident," The Tacoma News Tribune and the Associated Press reported that monster truck accidents are not as rare as you may hope - and that safety may be an issue at these events:

In 2007, a monster truck crash injured nine people (two seriously) during an event in DeKalb, Illinois.

In 1999, four people, including two children, were injured when a monster truck slammed into a pole and sent debris flying into the audience.

In 1999, a Prairie Capital Convention Center monster truck accident left one man dead and another injured when the vehicle went out of control.

In 1997, a monster truck hit a fence and flipped into the sidelines, killing a teenager and injuring two others.

In some instances, accidents are "freak accidents" that couldn't have been prevented or predicted. In other cases, however, unsafe or even negligent conditions can lead to serious injuries or even death, for both kids and adults.

Boating Accident Prevention Tip: Life Jacket Information

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8507 — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

This month, we covered the story of a man sentenced to six years in jail after a drunken boat accident lead to the deaths of three people on the Nisqually River. Although operating a boat while under the influence is illegal and extremely dangerous, we also wanted our readers to note that no one on the vessel at the time it capsized was wearing a lifejacket - a simple precaution that could have changed the outcome of this tragedy.

In Washington State, it's a law for all children under the age of 12 to wear a life jacket while in a boat over 19 feet long. In the case of this recent accident, both the 9-year-old and 5-year-old boys involved would have had on life vests had their adults been following the laws.

It is also important for our readers to know that not all lifejackets are created equal - be sure that yours is well-fitting, and tightly secured. Different water activities involve different types of lifejackets - also be sure to pick the correct safety vest for what you are doing, whether it is fishing or water skiiing.

Finally, understand that lifejackets are important even for those of us who can swim. Although you may be able to swim in ideal conditions, you may need your life jacket to keep you afloat if you are in rough waters, injured, unconscious, confused, or fatigued.

Go cart accident injures 15 month old boy | Bellevue child accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8405 — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A go cart accident at the County Line Amusement Park in Spring Hill, Florida injured a 15 month old toddler boy after he and his father stalled their go-cart and were instructed by an employee to walk to another cart nearby. The boy was hit by another go-cart driver. The parents Lisa Saladino and Shane Stanley are seeking more than $15,000 in damages in the civil negligence lawsuit filed December 23, 2008.

Although there may be some negligence against the amusement park and its employee, some degree of comparative fault may also rest with the father. You may also have some difficulties finding sympathetic jurors to decide in your favor since they may wonder why you would take a 15 month old on a go cart ride in the first place. But then again, why didn't the employee prevent the father from taking the toddler on the ride? There usually is a minimum age or height requirement for rides at amusement parks. Looks like there's plenty of blame to go around in this case but not one that we would take.

The Bellevue, Washington office of the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents adults and children seriously injured in go-cart rides, roller coasters, and other amusement park rides that are defective or not properly maintained causing bodily injury to the riders. If you would like to talk to a personal injury attorney to see whether you have a case, please call us at 1-800-636-3676.

Tragic monster truck show accident kills 6 year old boy | Tacoma truck accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8404 — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tragic truck accident happened at a monster truck show called "Monster Jam" at the Tacoma Dome on January 16, 2009 when 6-year-old boy Sebastian Hizey from Puyallup, Washington was killed after being struck in the head by a metal object that apparently flew from a truck in the show. Sebastian was bleeding from the head and taken to Mary Bridge Children's Hospital where he was pronounced dead according to the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office.

The boy suffered severe brain trauma when he was hit by a 7 to 12 pound Frisbee sized metal ring from a truck.

Another spectator was also injured by a flying object and was taken to a hospital. The extent of his injuries are unknown at this time. The exact cause of the accident is also unknown although witnesses say they saw debris including truck parts fly into the stands after a truck was doing doughnuts and debris flew 30 to 50 feet over a safety barrier into the stands.

Feld Motor Sports, which promoted the truck show, acquired Monster Jam last September which had taken its big-truck shows around the country for the past 25 years.

There are serious questions of whether the promoters provided enough and reasonable protection for the spectators from a truck accident just like this one from happening. Obviously, the safety barrier did not do its job in preventing injury. This is a very sad case and one that should never have happened.

The Tacoma and Puyallup attorneys at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC aggressively pursues injury claims against the promoters, the City of Tacoma, and any other party responsible for wrongful death and personal injury.

Driver pleads not guilty in Lake City Way fatal rear-end car crash | Seattle car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8403 — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

21-year-old Jabari James pleaded not guilty to vehicular homicide charges from a January 3, 2009 Seattle car accident on Lake City Way NE in Seattle, Washington. According to investigation reports, he was driving at a very high rate of speed and driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol when he crashed into the back of a Subaru Impreza that was stopped at a red light at the intersection of NE 95th Street and Lake City Way NE.

James' blood alcohol content (BAC) was reportedly 0.23 which is almost three times the legal limit of .08 in Washington.

A passenger in the back seat of the Subaru, William Somtoa, 19, died the day after the collision from a brain injury. The driver of the Subaru, Chase Evans, 19, suffered a concussion and a second passenger, Carmrodeen Kahn, 21, suffered minor injuries. A passenger in James' car, Daniel Thomas, 20, also suffered a concussion.

The mix of young drivers and alcohol is a dangerous combination. Mr. James should be held accountable for his negligent and irresponsible actions. The criminal courts will deal with the DUI and vehicular homicide charge, but the civil courts will deal with any claims that may be brought against him for personal injuries suffered from the car accident.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC we help those who have been wrongfully injured or killed by a drunk driver. The issues can be complicated from determining insurance coverages available to opening up an estate, appointing a personal representative in the case of a wrongful death of a passenger in this car crash, and finding out who the potential claimants may be. You can call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

Giant bicycle 2009 model recalled | Seattle bike accident atttorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8307 — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of two new 2009 models of Giant Bicycles, the TCR Advanced SL Team and SL (ISP), due to the possibility of weak front forks which may crack and break leading to a fall and injury to the bicycle rider.

You may contact Giant Bicycle for a free inspection and replacement fork at 866-458-2555 for information.

If you've been injured in a bicycle crash or accident due to the negligence of another or due to a defective part on the bicycle, call the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue or Seattle and King County and (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma or Pierce County and we can let you know whether you have a possible claim for injuries or damage to your bike.

Plane makes emergency landing on Hudson River | Bellevue plane crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8134 — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A US Airways Flight 1549 bound for Charlotte, NC made an emergency landing on the Hudson River in New York when both engines struck a flock of birds just after take off from La Guardia Airport. and apparently disabled them.

The skillful pilot Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III of Danville, California was able to bring the airplane down to a relatively soft landing on the water without flipping the plane or breaking into pieces. The intact plane actually floated long enogh for the passing ferries and rescue teams to assist in getting all 155 on board safely off the airplane.

One passenger suffered two broken legs according to a paramedic but there were no other reports of serious injuries except for hypothermia, bruises and other minor injuries. An infant on board also appeared to be fine.
The plane crash took place on a 20-degree day, one of the coldest of the season in New York. The Coast Guard said the water temperature was 36 degrees. Good thing there was such a quick response time to the accident.

The Federal Aviation Administration says there were about 65,000 bird strikes to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990 to 2005, or about one for every 10,000 flights.

Dog Whisperer, Seattle Dog Winterfest | Seattle dog bite attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8003 — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

This weekend was host to the "Dog Whisperer" Cesar Millan at the Seattle Dog Winterfest at the Bell Harbor Inernational Conference Center on the Seattle waterfront. His show on the National Geographic Channel highlights how he changes the behavior of aggressive and difficult dogs and their owners who may need just as much training as the dogs.

Pit bulls, German Sheppards, terriers, pugs, and all kinds of dogs big and small are rehabilitated by Cesar in amazing fashion by using a combination of exercise, discipline, and affection, animal psychology, and rehabilitation. He is truly the alpha male of his pack.

When dog owners lose control of their dogs and are no longer viewed as the pack leader, the dogs can become instruments of pain and suffering when they attack and bite unsuspecting walkers, joggers, and children playing in the streets and cause permanent injuries and scars.

The Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma dog bite attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC has handled several dog bite cases. If you have any questions, you can call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle or Bellevue and at (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma.

Nisqually River drunk boater sentenced in deaths of three people | Thurston County boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8002 — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Thurston County judge sentenced Vincent Farler to six years and three months in prison for operating a boat while under the influence (BUI) of alcohol June 12, 2008 causing the deaths of three people when it capsized on the Nisqually River. His blood alcohol content was 0.19 which is more than twice the legal limit of 0.08.

Cameron McCartney, 9; his younger brother Sean McCartney, 5; and Bryan L. Pierce, 32, all drowned after Farler's boat capsized after running into a logjam. Farler and the McCartney boys' mother, Erin McCartney, were able to make it safely to shore.

An interesting bit of information revealed that Farler admitted he had been drinking at the Cedar Inn Tavern with his father before the boating accident, court papers state. This may impose liability against the tavern for serving Farler if it can be proven that he was obviously intoxicated at the tavern and they still served him drinks.

In cases of wrongful death, your attorney should discover whatever coverages are available including boat liability coverage, insurance from the tavern, and any excess or umbrella policies that may also provide additional layers of coverage. If you have any questions about a boat accident or injury claim, you can contact us at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC and call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a consultation.

Crab fisherman pulled overboard in Bering Sea | Seattle boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8001 — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 40-year-old crab fisherman was reported missing on January 6, 2009 in the Bering Sea after his foot became tangled in a pot line and he was pulled overboard. He was working on board the Kodiak-based Seabrooke which was fishing for snow crab about 22 miles northwest of Cold Bay, Alaska.

This is worst nightmare for any fisherman working in the frigid waters off the coast of Alaska and is a sad reminder of how deadly this job can be. As seen on the television show "The World's Deadliest Catch", mishaps like this can occur at any moment and in the blink of the eye when you aren't paying attention.

6 year old Virginia boy crashes family car | Bellevue car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)8000 — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Here's a story of a 6-year-old Virginia boy who was so intent on getting to school after he missed his school bus that he decided to drive himself there with the family car. He grabbed the keys from the house and started driving and made it to within a mile and a half of the school before running off the road into an embankment and crashing into a pole. He only suffered minor injuries but the parents were slapped with child endangerment charges.

The mother, Jacqulyn Deana Waltman, 26, was arrested and is being held without bond. The father, David Eugene Dodson, 40, was released on a $5,000 bond. The really sad part of this story is that the boy and his 4-year-old brother were placed in protective custody in addition to the parents being arrested.

Not much was said in the news article about the parents' history or what they were doing at the time the boy was driving off with the car, but it seems to be a harsh punishment and a harsh result for the family. Just a reminder to all parents to keep the keys in a safe place where the kids can't get a hold of them. The boy apparently learned how to drive by playing video games. Lord only knows what other things 6 year olds can learn from computers these days.

Bellevue car crash and accident attorneys at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represent car drivers injured from collisions with other vehicles whether driven by adults, teens, or in the unlikely event children.

Seattle | Lake City Way NE car accident seriously injures three passengers | Seatle car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7785 — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

In the early morning of Saturday, January 3, 2009, a BMW crashed into the rear-end of a Subaru stopped at a stop light in the southbound lane of Lake City Way NE at the intersection of NE 95th Street in Seattle. The driver of the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed and was apparently under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI).

The driver was arrested for vehicular assault (RCW 46.61.522) which is a felony charge. Two passengers in the Subaru and one passenger in the BMW suffered life-threatening injuries and were taken to a local hospital. The drivers of both cars suffered minor injuries.

If you've been seriously injured by a drunk driver, call a Seattle car accident attorney from the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC and we will help you file a claim against the drunk driver and hold him accountable for his negligent actions and harm he has caused you. We may also pursue a claim against any drinking establishment that may have over-served the drunk driver when he was obviously intoxicated.

Call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle or Bellevue and at (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma for a free initial consultation.

2 Planes collide on ground at SeaTac Airport

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7765 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

On December 29, 2008, the Seattle Times reported that two passenger-filled airplanes bound for the Midwest from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport were canceled when the planes backed into each other as they left their gates. No injuries were reported.

A Delta Flight number 1288 to Cincinnati was backing from its gate at the same time Northwest Flight number 620 to Minneapolis was backing away from its gate at the South Satellite Terminal. The two planes bumped into each other and as a result the flights were canceled and passengers were transferred to other flights.

Often times, injuries do not immediately show up or they start out as relatively minor symptoms which either do not go away or get increasingly worse. It is important to see a doctor or health care provider sooner rather than later for a thorough examination to rule out any serious injuries. It is also important to document your injuries should you decide to pursue an injury claim against the at fault party which in the above case would be the airline pilot, and/or the air traffic controller.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles all personal injury claims whether airplane crash, motor vehicle accident, or train collision. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 if you have any questions about your legal rights.

Lebec, California Truck crashes into 11 other vehicles | Bellevue, Washington Truck accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7764 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A big rig or semi-truck lost its brakes while driving a downhill stretch of I-5 in the mountains about 70 miles northwest of Los Angeles near Lebec, California . The runaway truck crashed into 11 other vehicles injuring 11 people according to California Highway Patrol. All eleven people were hospitalized including four who suffered major injuries.

Personal injury claims against commercial vehicles such as semi-truck, tractor trailers, "big rigs", or trucks can be complicated and involve federal regulations and statutes. The Seattle, Washington truck accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can guide you through the process of filing a claim and recovering compensation for your serious injuries. You can call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free initial consultation.

I-5 Rollover accident near Boeing Field | Seattle car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7763 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

There was a New Year's roll over injury car accident on I-5 near Boeing Field in Seattle just before 2 a.m. in the southbound lanes of Interstate 5. Washington State troopers and Seattle firefighters were called to the scene where four people were injured from an alcohol related accident.

The vehicle was going northbound on I-5 when it struck the center barrier and flipped into the southbound lanes. Two of the four people in the vehicle were ejected most likely with serious injuries even though not mentioned in the news article.

Call the Seattle, Bellevue attorneys at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC for representation of injury claims against negligent and drunk drivers. Our toll free phone number is 1-800-636-3676.

Pedestrian killed on I-5 near Boeing Field | Seattle pedestrian car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7762 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A man was fatally hit by several cars after he got out of a car that had pulled over onto the left shoulder of the southbound lanes of I-5 near Boeing Field in Seattle to vomit. He then wandered across the median and into the northbound lanes of I-5 when he was hit by several cars that did not stop at the scene. It was dark and rainy at about 3:45 am.

This was one of two major car accidents that happened in the same area of I-5 on the same morning of the New Year. Both accidents involved alcohol. Not the way to welcome in the New Year but unfortunately, there are going to be incidents of drinking and driving resulting in serious injuries and death.

The Seattle, Bellevue car accident injury and wrongful death attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents those injured by negligent drivers. You can call us at (425) 289-1990 if you have any questions about your legal rights.

Pit bull dogs attack Salem, Oregon police officer on command

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7761 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Salem, Oregon police officer shoots at two pit bull dogs after the owner allegedly commands the dogs to attack the officer. One dog was killed and the other ran off but was captured along with the dog owner Francisco Emiliano Martinez.

He was charged with multiple counts, including attempted assault of an officer and interfering with police who were responding to reports of the dog owner trying to get his dogs to attach other apartment complex residents.

This information was provided by the Bellevue, Washington dog bite injury attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC.
1-800-636-3676

Car accident caused by bunched up floor mat

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7760 — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Long Island Newsday reported an injury car accident caused by a floor mat which got caught below the brake and above the gas pedal. As the driver attempted to brake his BMW X3, the mat was inadvertently pushed down on the gas pedal which caused him to accelerate and crash into a storefront Hanukkah party in Woodmere, Long Island, New York. The car crash injured eight children and six adults at the party.

Mat problems have been blamed for crashes across North America whether poorly designed, improperly used or both have triggered recalls for at least a million vehicles over the past 25 years. Floor mats from a variety of makers have led to driving problems. In some cases, pedals have stuck to the mats. In others, the mats interfered with one or more pedals. Whatever the obstructions, misplaced mats can imperil driving.

In 2006, a Kennewick, Washington man suffered head and arm injuries when his car crashed into a ditch after the floor mat got wedged on the gas pedal. Also in 2006, a Montreal boy was hospitalized and his sister died after their mother lost control of the car most likely from the floor mat according to the investigating police officer.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration organized a 2007 recall of all-weather floor mats used in 2007 and 2008 Lexus ES 350 models and Toyota Camrys of the same years, according to the safety agency.

Whether a car accident was caused by driver negligence, or defective design of a floor mat, the Seattle, Bellevue car crash injury lawyer at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can assist you with a possible claim against the negligent party. Call us in Seattle or Bellevue at (425) 289-1990 or in Tacoma at (253) 682-2000, or anywhere in Washington state at
1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

$1.5 million dog bite case upheld by federal appeals court

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7753 — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Here's a case of excessive force where both a jury and now the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with Ken Rogers when he was attacked by a police dog and four Kennewick police officers while sleeping in the backyard of his family's house in Kennewick. The jury verdict for permanent injuries sustained to his hand, back, neck and face was $1.5 million.

He was bitten by the police dog after it followed a wrong scent while looking for someone else who committed a minor traffic violation - riding a Moped without a helmet or headlight. Apparently, the four officers decided to join in and beat him as well. In this case, the injured person was an innocent bystander and happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC, we pursue claims against police dogs and police officers who use excessive force and violate your constitutional rights. If you need to speak with an experienced Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma dog bite attorney, you can call us at 1-800-636-3676.

NHTSA teen driver safety program

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7616 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Leading Cause of Death for Teens - Traffic Crashes

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA's) reported that young drivers, ages 15 to 20 years old are especially vulnerable to death and injury on our roadways. Car and truck crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in America. Mile for mile, teenagers are involved in three times as many fatal car accidents as all other drivers.

Motor vehicle collisions make up 35% of teen deaths, 16% homicide, 12% suicide, and 37% all other.

Research shows which behaviors contribute to teen-related auto accidents. Inexperience and immaturity combined with speed, drinking and driving, not wearing seat belts, distracted driving (cell phone use, loud music, other teen passengers, etc.), drowsy driving, nighttime driving, and other drug use aggravate this problem.

These statistics are a bit surprising to even me, an experienced car accident and personal injury attorney who has handled quite a large number of car accident, truck accident, and motorcycle crash injury claims over the past 15 plus years.

Research clearly shows three steps in reducing teen crashes –

1) Increase seat belt use,

2) Implement graduated driver licensing, and

3) Reduce teens' access and use of alcohol and/or drugs

These are three things that we all should be striving to do on a consistent basis for the safety of our children. The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC provides information to help parents make well informed decisions regarding the well being of their kids.

New NHSTA study finds drivers age 21 to 24 have highest rate of alcohol-impaired fatal crashes | Bellevue car crash attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7614 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

New National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) research shows that between 2002 and 2006, nearly four fatalities out of 10 involved alcohol impaired crashes in the last two weeks of December. The new study also found that 21-24 year old drivers are involved in more alcohol-impaired fatal crashes than any other age group.

Deaths from drunk driving crashes is higher between Christmas and New Year’s than any other time and so we are into the last week before the New Year 2009. If you go out this weekend or on New Year's eve and have some drinks, arrange for a designated driver. Avoid the risk of getting in a car accident, avoid the risk of injuring yourself or worse killing someone, and avoid the costs financially and personally if you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI).

The national campaign to curb drunk driving called the “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest” law enforcement and public awareness campaign is in effect through the New Year holiday. Please don't drink and drive.

The Bellevue car crash attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC will vigorously pursue claims against drunk drivers who cause injury or death to others in a car crash, truck accident, or bike wreck. We can be reached at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue and (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma, or 1-800-636-3676 anywhere in Washington state.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters Announces New Data Showing Record Low Highway Fatalities | Seattle car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7613 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Americans Safer than ever on the Nation’s Roads, Rails, and in the Skies

According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, the number of people killed in traffic accidents is expected to reach a new record low in 2008. The Secretary said the new fatality data marks the first time the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is able to project fatality figures prior to the end of the calendar year.

Early estimates show that 31,110 people died on the nation’s roads from January through October, compared to 34,502 in 2007 during that same 10-month time period which is about a 10% reduction in fatal car, truck, railroad and airplane collisions.

This is good news to see fewer people killed from traffic crashes overall. Good driving habits, better maintained roads, enforcement of driving laws especially drunk driving (DUI) and reckless driving, safer vehicles, and education should help improve this transportation statistic each year.

Handling fatal car crashes, bicycle accidents, wrongful death from boating accidents, airplane crash, and collisions with interstate tractor trailers or semi-trucks, is what we do. The Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Everett attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can assist you with the difficult task of sorting through the loss of a loved one and preserving a legal claim on behalf of the wrongful death. Our toll free number is 1-800-636-3676.

Refurbished youth football helmets not properly tested

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7611 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The former president of Circle System Inc, pleaded guilty for failing to properly test youth football helmets required under guidelines set by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). About 4,000 helmets were returned to the field improperly during 2005 and 2006.

It looks like profit over the safety of our kids playing football was the driving force of David Drill, the former president of Circle System. He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

This information was provided by the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC, the Bellevue child safety and kids accident and injury attorney.

Munire Cribs Recalled after Child Is Poisoned by Lead Paint

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7610 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

3,000 Newport Rubbed Black 4-in-1 Cribs and 6,000 matching furniture pieces made by Munire Furniture of Piscataway, New Jersey were recalled after one child was hospitalized for lead poisoning from the lead paint which is in excess of the federal limits.

The paint in question is a red paint underneath the black finish paint on some of the cribs and matching furniture which can be harmful to teething babies and toddlers who may ingest the paint chips after chewing on the rails like this one baby did.

Specialty furniture stores nationwide sold these items from April 2006 through November 2008. For more information about the recall, check out the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission news release here.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC provides information to parents to help keep children safe from harmful products.

Port Orchard Yacht Club marina fire destroys boat | Tacoma boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7609 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

An early morning fire on December 26, 2008, destroyed a 46-foot Chris-Craft boat at the Port Orchard Yacht Club. No other vessels were damaged due the efforts of about 30 firefighters who responded to the scene. No one was living on board the boat and so no one was injured.

Unfortunately, fires on boats may be caused by the negligence of the boat owners for failing to properly maintain the electrical equipment on their boats, or failure to safely operate the vessel by not storing flammable liquids properly, or not ventilating gas and other combustibles before operating the engine.

If you have any questions regarding claims for damages related to a boating accident, contact the Seattle, Tacoma, Washington boat injury attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC.

West Seattle ATV crash critically injures man | Seattle ATV accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7608 — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Komo News reported that a 41-year-old man was seriously injured in West Seattle while riding an all-terrain vehicle with a friend at about 11:30 pm Christmas night. The ATV crash occurred at 40th Avenue and Barton Street in West Seattle. It is unknown how the accident actually happened. The injured man was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he was reported to have life-threatening injuries from the crash.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents people injured in ATV collisions as well as other motor vehicle crashes where an at fault person caused the accident and injuries. We can be reached at 1-800-636-3676 for an initial consultation.

Bellevue Downtown Park collapses and injures young girl | Bellevue child accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7602 — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 21, 2008, the skating rink tent at Bellevue’s Downtown Park collapsed from the weight of snow on the roof. A young girl was the only one who needed assistance from firefighters to get out, who was injured and taken to Overlake Hospital Medical Center for examination.

With the record accumulation of snow we've had the past week and with the temperatures expected to rise making the snow melt and become heavier, caution should be used in removing snow from flat roofs which may collapse from the weight of snow.

Bellevue accident and injury attorney Andrew Kim assists children and others injured from defective structures, collapsed decks, due to improper maintenance and inspection, defective design, and negligent construction. You can call Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at the Bellevue office at (425) 289-1990 for a free consultation.

I-90 pickup truck crashes into WSP car in King County | Bellevue car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7578 — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 24, 2008, a speeding 2005 Dodge Dakota pickup spun out of control on snowy road conditions across three lanes of Interstate 90 in King County and crashed into the rear of a Washington State Patrol car parked on the shoulder that was investigating a previous car accident. The state trooper who was inside the WSP car suffered minor injuries in the car crash and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

If you've been injured in a car accident on I-90 in Bellevue, Issaquah, North Bend, or Snoqualmie, due to snow or ice on the road, you can consult with the Seattle, Bellevue car crash attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990.

Fatal car crash on Highway 105 near Westport | Ocean Shores car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7577 — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 21, 2008, a head on car crash on Highway 105 near Westport, Washington killed a passenger, Aron Damaranville, from Ocean Shores, and injured both drivers and three other passengers. Icy roads caused the car to skid into an oncoming pickup truck.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC provides free legal advice to car accident and truck accident injury claims and wrongful death claims resulting from negligent drivers. Our toll free number is 1-800-636-3676.

Tacoma car accident near Spanaway at SR-512 and Pacific Avenue | Tacoma car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7576 — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 22, 2008, Richard L. Clevenstine from Tacoma was driving his van when he was allegedly rear-ended by a red truck which fled the scene. He called 911 and continued to chase after the truck exiting off eastbound SR 512 onto southbound SR 7 (Pacific Avenue). Both vehicles ran through a red light, however, Clevenstine T-boned a 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass on the passenger side with the front of his van and then hit a 1996 Ford R10 pickup which was traveling northbound on Pacific Avenue.

The driver of the Oldsmobile, 18 year old Aaron W. Swan of Spanaway and his passenger, 18 year old Kristine M. Turner of Puyallup, were injured and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup. Clevenstine’s passengers, 30 year old Jason Clevenstine and 23 year old Jared M. Clevenstine were also transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. The driver of the Ford R10, 21 year old James L. Epps, was reportedly uninjured in the collision.

Call the Tacoma car accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC to discuss your legal rights involving a car crash with multiple vehicles, and multiple insurance policies and coverages that can often be complicated in a case like this. Our toll free number is 1-800-636-3676.

I-5 Seattle car accident crashes into Washington State Patrol vehicle | Seattle car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7575 — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 14, 2008, a 1997 Chrysler driven by an 18-year-old Tacoma man swerved off southbound Interstate 5 near Seattle onto the shoulder where it crashed into the back of a Washington State Patrol car that stopped to assist another vehicle on the shoulder. The crash pushed the WSP patrol car forward into the car that had slid into the guardrail, a 1987 BMW.

The driver and passenger of the Chrysler, and the WSP trooper were all injured and taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. The driver of the Chrysler was charged with vehicular assault since the car accident involved serious injuries and driving under the influence (DUI). Other factors included speeding and light snow on the highway.

The Seattle car accident attorney at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles car crashes against drunk drivers and aggressively pursues insurance claims against the responsible driver and bar, tavern, or other drinking establishment that may have over-served the intoxicated driver (dram shop claim). We also represent passengers of the at fault driver. Give us a call at (425) 289-1990 to talk about your options and legal rights.

Dozens Hospitalized in Continental Airlines Airplane Crash at Denver International Airport

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7484 — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On the evening of December 20, 2008, thirty eight passengers were hospitalized at several different hospitals in Denver, Colorado after their airplane on Continental Airlines flight 1404 crashed during takeoff and caught fire on the entire right side of the plane. The cause of the crash is unknown and is still being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board.

The plane landed in a ravine between two runways on the west side of the airfield at Denver International Airport. The Boeing 737 was departing from Denver and heading to Houston and it was carrying 107 passengers and five crew members who all managed to escape from the emergency chutes.

The Seattle, Bellevue, Washington Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC helps people injured in airplane crashes due to negligent maintenance, faulty equipment or products, defective design, and pilot and crew member error. Call us for a free initial consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

10 Cars for Winter Driving

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7483 — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

If you're looking out the window right now and live in the Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue, or the Seattle areas, you'll see the snow still coming down and probably more than the weather forecasters predicted which means a very messy Monday morning commute into work. I may not get into my office in Bellevue if there are enough cars that slide off the road like on Issaquah - Fall City Road or other cars that can't make it up a hill and are abandoned making it difficult to navigate and weave in and out of these obstacles.

Anyway, so I came across this list of 10 cars on AOL tonight (Sunday) that are supposed to be good in the snow.

VW Jetta
Jeep Liberty
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Acura RDX
Toyota Camry
VW Rabbit
Audi A6 Quattro
Toyota Avalon
Jeep Patriot
Jeep Commander

You can judge for yourself but I personally would not drive anything unless it had 4WD or all wheel traction control with good snow or all season tires, and I'm not sure that all of these listed vehicles have them. You wonder if Jeep, Toyota and VW paid AOL to get on this self serving list.

Anyway, if you see one of these in a car accident out in this snow tomorrow and especially if you are hit by one of these vehicles in a crash and are injured, give me a call at 1-800-636-3676 and we can talk about this list and your injury case.

Public swimming pools and hot tubs required to have new anti-drowning drain covers

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7481 — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

A new law that went into effect recently requires any pool or spa that is publicly used, including municipal pools and those at hotels, private clubs, apartment buildings and community centers to have anti drowning drains installed. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said the agency will focus initially on public baby pools and wading pools specifically designed for small children, as well as in-ground spas that have flat drain grates on the bottom and just one drain system.

The issue received heightened attention after the 7-year-old granddaughter of former Secretary of State James A. Baker was sucked onto a spa drain in 2002. She drowned despite efforts to pry her off.

The National Swimming Pool Foundation, a nonprofit group in Colorado Springs, Colorado said about 80 percent of the 300,000 public pools and spas in the United States do not comply with the new rules and may have to close.

Alan Korn, public policy director of the Washington-based nonprofit group Safe Kids Worldwide, said the vast majority of American swimmers don't realize that the bottom of pools and spas and wading pools are a hidden hazard, especially to children. There have been 33 deaths of children under age 14 between 1985 and 2004 according to his agency.

Seattle charter bus accident on Capitol Hill | Seattle bus accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7457 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Two charter buses carrying approximately 80 students slid down a steep and icy road in Capitol Hill area of Seattle and crashed through a concrete wall and metal rail. The front end of the buses dangled precariously 30 feet above the northbound lanes of I-5.

The bus drivers decided to travel down East Thomas Street approaching Melrose Avenue East and made a bad decision to attempt to navigate the slippery road which could have resulted in much more serious injuries if the buses had crashed down onto Interstate 5.

Tamera Vasquez, Stephanie Jackson, Talkeetna Setuckmarie, Zachary Blackburn, Nicole Maxie, and Dean Short were some of the passengers on the buses which were operated by Northwestern Trailways. They and other students were involved in the Columbia Basin Job Corps program based in Moses Lake, Washington and were on their way back to the bus station for transport home when the bus accident occurred.

11 young adults were taken to Harborview Medical Center with minor injuries from debris and flying glass and another two, also with minor injuries, did not want to go to the hospital. Often times, we see clients injured in a bus accident, car accident or other motor vehicle crashes who initially felt fine but later realized that something was wrong with their body. A complete examination by your doctor or health care provider should be performed to rule out possible injuries and/or to determine the extent of your injuries.

The Seattle, Bellevue bus accident attorneys at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can assist you in finding a doctor or health care provider to properly document your injuries if you decide to pursue a claim against the negligent driver. You may call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Kitsap County sled and ATV accident | Tacoma Kitsap County accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7456 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

A 10 year old Kitsap County boy suffered serious injuries including facial fractures and other traumas when he was hit by a 53 year old man riding an all terrain vehicle (ATV) early Friday morning at 12:45 am, December 19, 2008.

The boy was heading north on Banner Road on his sled and the man was traveling south on Banner Road south of SE Fragaria Road in Kitsap County, Washington just before the collision.

The man fled the scene on foot after the crash and was later arrested at his home in Olalla, Washington. He was charged with vehicular assault and hit and run.

You have to wonder what was the boy doing sledding at night in the dark, and the same could be asked of the man driving the ATV and why did the man leave the scene of the accident. This case raises serious questions of liability and I'm sure the insurance company, if there is any, for the ATV will try to put the blame on the boy as much as possible to avoid paying medical bills or for bodily injuries.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC helps injured sledders hit by negligent ATV and other vehicle drivers. A quick and thorough investigation of the facts and preservation of evidence is critical to defeat the insurance company denial of claims. Call our Tacoma office at (253) 682-2000 or 1-800-636-3676 to discuss your case further and as always there is no charge.

Kent sledding accident seriously injures boy | Kent accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7455 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

A boy suffered serious injuries in a sledding accident in Kent, Washington on December 18, 2008 when he was being towed by a car and went under the back end of a parked vehicle near 226th Street and 127th Avenue. The boy was taken to a hospital for his serious injuries.

In a case like this involving a car and sled accident, insurance coverage and liability will be the key issues. An experienced car accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can guide you through this legal mess and help you seek compensation for your son's injuries.

Call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation before speaking with the insurance company and saying something that may hurt your case later.

Katmai fishing boat accident and crew member deaths | Seattle, Washington boat accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7454 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The 93 foot cod fishing vessel Katmai owned by Katmai Fisheries, Inc. sank in October, killing seven of 11 crew members. The bodies recovered included Joshua Leonguerrero of Spanaway, Washington, Cedric Smith and Glenn Harper, both of Portland, Oregon, Jake Gilman of Camas, Washington in Clark County, and Fuli Lemusu of Salem, Oregon. Two others Carlos Zabala of Helena, Montana, and Robert Davis of Deming, Washington in Whatcom County remain lost at sea.

The four survivors are skipper Henry Blake of Worcester, Massachusetts, Guy Schroder and Harold Appling, both of Anchorage, Alaska and Adam Foster of Shoreline, Washington.

The Katmai sank as the skipper tried to push through a dangerous island passage in a huge storm that had prompted other boats to seek safety on the lee side of islands. Former crewman, Isaac Vigil, said that a weak area of the fishing boat was improperly repaired by trying to weld aluminum to steel, and that a crack below that patch leaked water into the fish factory. Investigators also are trying to find out why one of the vessel's life rafts might not have inflated however, a carbon-dioxide cartridge was missing that is vital to inflation.

Survivors and the families of those who died have filed claims under maritime law, but it is unclear whether $5 million in insurance money will be made available to help settle the claims due to some coverage issues. The insurance companies may deny coverage if they can find evidence of false or inaccurate representations made by Katmai Fisheries Inc. about the vessel and whether all operating restrictions were followed. Some settlements have been reached with the owners of Katmai from private funds.

The Seattle, Washington boat accident and wrongful death attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents those seriously injured or killed at sea as a result of the negligence of the boat owners. For a free initial consultation, please call us at 1-800-636-3676.

See related article here.

Snohomish County car crash kills Everett and Coupeville men and injures another | Everett car accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7453 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

On December 7, 2008, driver Jamie Paul Lyon of Everett, Washington and passengers Derrick Thomas Kenney of Coupeville, Washington and a 26 year old Everett man were involved in a car crash on Riverview Road near Snohomish, Washington.

The driver Lyon and passenger Kenney were killed at the scene from head injuries, and the other passenger was injured and taken to an Everett hospital for treatment of injuries.

According to the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office, the driver of the older model BMW was speeding when it left Riverview Road around 1:30 a.m. and struck a tree.

The Everett, Snohomish County car accident attorney at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents passengers of cars and other vehicles who have been injured or killed as a result of negligent drivers. Call us at 1-800-636-3676 for an immediate free consultation.

Bicycling change in works for national parks

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7452 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Washington Post reported that the The Interior Department issued a proposed rule that would make it easier for mountain bikers and other cyclists to ride through the back country of national parks.

Currently, the National Park Service must go through a rule making process before allowing mountain bikes on hiking and horse trails. The change would give park superintendents greater discretion in allowing bikers in by waiving the formal rule making requirement.

The International Mountain Bicycling Association supports this proposed rule to allow better access to the trails while environmentalists oppose it saying bicyclists may pose a danger to hikers resulting in bicycle accidents.

Call a Seattle, Bellevue, Washington bicycle accident attorney at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990 to discuss any legal issues regarding the rights of bicyclists and pedestrians involved in an accident or crash.

Seattle bicyclist killed in Renton car collision

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7239 — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Bicyclist killed in Renton crash

The Seattle Times reported in today's paper that a 56-year-old Seattle man died in the early morning on Thursday, December 11, 2008 at around 6:30 am on South 130th Street and Renton Avenue South in the Skyway (Seattle) neighborhood, when the bicycle he was riding collided with a car driven by a 79-year-old Renton man.

Apparently the 1997 Lincoln Towncar made a left turn in front of the bicyclist causing the fatal bicycle / car accident.
The King County Sheriff's Office is still investigating.

We often see these types of car accidents where the driver fails to yield the right of way to the other vehicle, car, motorcycle, bicycle, and even pedestrians. Usually it's just inattention of the driver not seeing the other person who is going straight through the intersection and has the right of way. And in the case of motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrian, the smaller silhouette makes it harder to see them. This does not relieve them of responsibility or liability for causing the collision.

If you have been involved in a similar bicycle accident, call the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC for a free consultation at
1-800-636-3676.

Vicious Dog Owner Facing Felony For Pit Bull Attack Pleads Not Guilty

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7211 — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

In the past weeks, we've covered the story of Huong Le, a 71-year-old SeaTac woman who was walking in her neighborhood when twp loose pit bulls attacked her in the street. She was rushed to the hospital with severe, life-threatening injuries that too 13 hours to treat and that still haunt her today. The two pit bulls were shot in the street after they would not leave the woman alone.

Tooday, KOMONews.com reports that the owner of the two pit bulls has pleaded not guilty to his felony charge related to the violent dog attack. The man, Travis Cunningham, is charged with the felony of possessing a dangerous dog. He has a criminal record dating back to 1993.

Cunningham has said that he was aware that his dogs were aggressive, but that he did not know that they could escape from his back yard. Neighbors and witnesses disagree, saying that the dogs had escaped from the yard many times before, due to a low fence and a gate with no working lock. Officials said that there was a partially-installed electric fence around the yard, but that it didn't work and it wasn't connected to power.

In addition, Cunningham was not supposed to have dogs in the yard according to his signed rental agreement.

Pedestrian Seriously Injured On Highway 7 In Pierce County, Wash.

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7210 — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The News Tribune out of Tacoma, WA, reported that a pedestrian was hit by a car and injured on Highway 7 just before 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the 27-year-old man from Graham was walking in north in the southbound lanes of Highway 7 near 240th Street East. Police suspect drugs or alcohol were involved.

He was hit by a 64-year-old Spanaway, WA, woman. She was not injured, although her car was damaged, the state troopers reported.

Emergency response officials took the injured man to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma for treatment, though it is not clear what the extent of his injuries are. State Police will not file charges on the driver of the car that hit the man, saying that the pedestrian was in violation, not the woman driving the car.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Washington State, call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Washington Puts New "Insurance Fair Conduct" Law to Use

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7059 — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Olympia, Washington

It's been one year since the hotly-debated Referendum 67 became law. Washington's Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA) created a process for consumers who feel their insurance companies have not promptly and fairly settled a valid claim. It requires insurance companies to deal in good faith when settling claims, or risk having to pay a policyholder triple damages if the company ends up losing the case in court.

What is the Insurance Fair Conduct Act?
The Insurance Fair Conduct Act provides remedies to policyholders whose claims are unreasonably denied by their insurance companies or whose insurance companies violate particular regulations governing claims settlement practices. It took effect December 6, 2007.

What is covered by this law?
The law covers policyholders whose insurance company unreasonably denied their claim. It also covers a policyholder whose insurance company violated certain laws governing claims settlement practices.

For example: Insurance companies must acknowledge their policyholders’ letters and phone calls about their claims, must promptly investigate claims, and must promptly and fairly settle valid claims.

The law applies only to claims made by insured people to their own insurance companies. It does not apply to claims made by one person to someone else’s insurance company.

For example: If a person has been in a car accident, this law applies to a claim made by an insured under his own policy to his own insurance company. It does not apply to someone making a claim against another person’s insurance company.

Does the law cover all insurance companies?
No. It doesn't apply to claims under health insurance policies. It applies to claims under other kinds of policies, including policies that include medical costs as part of that coverage.

For example: It applies to claims under car and homeowner’s policies, even though reimbursement for health care services may be covered by those policies.

The Patient’s Bill of Rights provides consumer protection for policyholders of health insurance coverage.

What does this law require of the policyholder?
If an insured person wants to sue his or her insurance company for violating one of these laws, the policyholder must mail written notice of the potential lawsuit to the insurance company and to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner at least 20 days before the lawsuit is filed.

What will the Office of the Insurance Commissioner do with the notice?
When the agency receives each notice, we will stamp it with the date it was received, and file it in a designated location. Then, if there is a question about whether the insured person filed the notice in accordance with the law, the custodian of the notices will be able to certify whether, and when, it was received.

For more information

RCW 48.30.010 - Unfair practices in general - Remedies and penalties

RCW 48.30.015 - Unreasonable denial of a claim for coverage or payment of benefits.

Head-on motorcycle accident causes death of motorcyclist in Skagit County, State Route 9

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7032 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

MOUNT VERNON, Washington

The Washington State Patrol reported that a motorcyclist from Mount Vernon was killed when his motorcycle crossed the centerline and struck an SUV on State Route 9 in Skagit County.

Motorcyclist killed in Skagit County motorcycle accident, State Route 20

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7031 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

SKAGIT COUNTY, Washington

A motorcyclist was killed and another car driver was critically injured in a crash involving two cars and two motorcycles on October 1, 2008, on State Route 20 near milepost 70, three miles east of Sedro-Woolley.

Investigators from Washington State Patrol believe the driver of a Toyota pickup truck traveling east on Highway 20 crossed over the center line and smashed into an oncoming Buick sedan and continued into two oncoming motorcycles before crashing into a ditch.

The driver of the first motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene and the driver of a Buick sedan was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The condition of the second motorcycle driver was not known.

The pickup driver was was arrested for investigation of vehicular homicide since alcohol was involved.

Minor injuries reported in jet boat accident on Snake River, Clarkston, Lewiston

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7030 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

CLARKSTON - A tour boat's excursion from a Snake River Adventures on September 22, 2008 was cut short when it reportedly hit a rock on the Snake River. Medics and police responded to a dock behind the Quality Inn after a report of injured passengers.

The boat went through a spot he thought was too narrow, then the boat hit some rocks in the river. At least one person was taken to the hospital by Lewiston ambulance.

Airbus A320 airplane crashes during training flight off France's southern coast

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7029 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

PARIS (AP) - Search teams on Friday found the flight recorders from an Airbus A320 passenger jet that crashed off France's southern coast during a maintenance flight, killing two people and leaving five others missing and feared dead, officials said.

Poulsbo teen bicyclist struck by truck

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7028 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

POULSBO, Washington

A 14-year-old girl was seriously injured and airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle after she was struck by a pickup truck while riding her bicycle on November 10, 2008. She was riding along Clear Creek Road just outside of Poulsbo, Washington when she apparently made a sudden turn across the street to head onto Lakeness Road.

The driver of a Dodge Ram truck was unable to swerve in time and struck the girl with his right front fender according to the Kitsap County Sheriff's Department. Unfortunately the girl was not wearing a safety helmet which could have reduced the severity of her injuries.

Bellevue police officer hit in car accident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7027 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

BELLEVUE, Washington

A Bellevue police officer was hit by a car while directing traffic on February 8, 2008 at the scene of a car accident at 111th Avenue NE and NE 4th Street in downtown Bellevue.

A 75 year old man was driving a 2008 Audi TT, traveling east on NE 4th Street when he struck the officer who was taken to an area hospital with injuries which required surgery and hospitalization for several days.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC which focuses its practice on car accident, pedestrian injury claims, and personal injury cases is conveniently located in downtown Bellevue just a couple of blocks away from where this pedestrian, car accident happened.

We are located at the intersection of NE 2nd Street and 110th Avenue NE in the 110 Atrium Place Building at 110 - 110th Avenue NE, Suite 420, Bellevue, Washington 98004. (425) 289-1990

Nordstrom pays civil penalty for selling dangerous and defective clothing, Seattle

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7026 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Seattle

Nordstrom will pay to settle claim

Nordstrom Inc. will pay a $60,000 civil penalty to settle allegations it knowingly failed to properly report the sale of children's drawstring jackets and sweaters to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission that had declared such clothing dangerous and defective more than a year earlier. The strings pose a strangulation hazard for children, and the CPSC has had guidelines against them.

See here for more information www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/208.pdf

Spokane drunk driver crashes into 7 cars

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7025 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Spokane, Washington is in the news again when a man driving away from a Spokane bar hit at least seven cars within 13 minutes, including an off-duty detective, before he was arrested for DUI.

A witness at a bar in the Browne's Addition neighborhood of Spokane called in the drunk driver to the police. This incident happened at about 3:30 pm on a Saturday afternoon. Just goes to show that you can be a victim of drunk drivers even in the middle of the day so just be aware and always practice defensive driving.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC represents victims who have been injured in a car crash or truck accident, against drunk drivers and the bars, restaurants, or night clubs that may have over-served an intoxicated person who then gets in a vehicle and causes a car accident.

Call us at 1-800-636-3676 for a free consultation.

Snow blamed for dozens of car wrecks in Eastern Washington, Spokane

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)7024 — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The first snow of the season in Eastern Washington, Spokane resulted in more than 70 car accidents. Two of car crashes resulted in death of the occupants.

The first was a head-on collision with a truck north of Deer Park in Spokane County, Washington. Two young victims in the car were 20 and 18 years of age. The Washington State Patrol arrested a 39-year-old man for investigation of driving under the influence. It appears that this car accident had more to due with drinking and driving, rather than the bad driving conditions.

The second car accident was a one car rollover accident along Highway 2 and Highway 211 in Pend Oreille County near Diamond Lake, Washington. The drive lost control of his vehicle and rolled into a ditch. The passenger was injured and taken to a hospital.

Before we get snow here in Western Washington, Bellevue, Seattle it would be a good idea to check our tires for wear, change to snow tires or studded tires, and be aware of the possibility of black ice in the mornings as we head out to work, or school for the kids.

If you are injured in an car accident in Seattle, Tacoma or Bellevue due to snowy or icy road conditions, a Seattle, Bellevue car accident attorney at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can help you answer any questions you may have about the claims process. We provide a free no obligation initial consultation at (425) 289-1990 or 1-800-636-3676.

Seattle Alaskan Way Viaduct construction and safety for bicyclists

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6946 — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

There are big plans for a safer and easier commute for bicyclists commuting from West Seattle to downtown Seattle but much still needs fixing. Cyclists face potholes, standing water in the uneven pavement, railroad tracks, faded bike lane stripes, and the constant threat between freight trucks and northbound cyclists entering from the West Seattle Bridge trail from causing a bicycle accident.

Another hazardous area bike riders must cross is East Marginal Way South in Seattle to reach the bike lane to downtown Seattle. Truck drivers tend to show courtesy toward the bicyclists, but sight lines are poor enough that cyclists shun two traffic signals, instead choosing to cross wherever the coast is clear.

Hopefully, once the viaduct project is completed, bicyclists will have one of the best views and paths along the waterfront for safe riding without having to worry so much about getting in a crash with a car or truck.

Puyallup car accident on SR 512 kills woman and injures others

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6854 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A woman 64 year old woman was driving an Acura SUV eastbound on State Route 512 lost control and crossed over the median, through a cable barrier, and collided with a semi-truck. The impact of the crash forced the semi into the path of a Toyota pickup truck, causing it to roll.

The woman died at the scene. The man driving the pickup truck was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma with serious injuries and his 4 year old son was taken to Mary Bridge Children's Hospital also with serious injuries. The driver of the semi truck was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup for broken bones.

This is the third fatal crossover accident along this stretch of road since the cable barriers were installed a year and a half ago.

If the woman suffered a sudden and unforeseeable illness like a heart attack, her insurance company may deny liability based on the "sudden illness" defense. You will need to investigate whether she had any prior history of illness and should have known of her condition before getting into a car. You will also need to investigate whether the State installed proper barriers sufficient enough to prevent a car, truck, or other vehicle from crossing the median into oncoming traffic and causing serious injuries to the pickup truck occupants and semi-truck driver.

If you have any questions about whether you can make a claim against the driver claiming a sudden illness defense or the State for defective or improper design of highway safety cable barrier, you can contact the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at 1-800-636-3676.

New Court of Appeals case, Laguna v. State, Duty to prevent ice from forming on the roadway

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6853 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Washington Court of Appeals, recently decided a case involving an injury car accident and a claim against the State for negligently failing to prevent ice from forming on the roadway before the accident happened. See Laguna v. State at 146 Wn.App. 260 (2008).

The Court held that the State did not have a duty to prevent ice from forming on the roadway at the time and place where the accident occurred.

Generally, the State has a duty to maintain its roads so that they are reasonably safe for ordinary travel. However, the State must have (a) notice of a dangerous condition which it did not create, and (b) a reasonable opportunity to correct it before liability arises for negligence from neglect of duty to keep the streets safe.

The Court went on to say that "there is a difference between liability based on knowledge that a dangerous condition actually exists and knowledge that a dangerous condition might, or even probably will, develop. No Washington case has held that the State has a duty to act when weather conditions exist that are likely, or even certain, to produce icy roads."

The lesson from this case is that unless you have evidence that the State had prior notice of icy roads, for example, the WSP reports other car accidents in the same area, and the State does not take action to de-ice the roadway within a reasonable period of time, then you will not be able to go forward with a case against the State.

Bellevue High School football team injured in Des Moines bus accident on I-5 | Bellevue bus accident attorney

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6852 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The dangers of unsecured loads on trucks or other vehicles became obvious once again in this recent bus accident that occurred on I-5 in Des Moines, Washington this past Friday. The Bellevue High School football team was on its way to the Tacoma Dome for a playoff game when the driver of the charter bus swerved hard to the right to avoid hitting a ladder on the roadway, crossed another lane of travel and crashed into the shoulder embankment landing on its side.

The ladder had fallen off a red pickup truck which left the scene and is currently under criminal investigation for losing an unsecured load causing injuries. Washington state passed a law in 2005 making it a criminal act to fail to secure a load if it comes loose and hurts or kills someone. See RCW 46.61.655

Several of the passengers were injured and taken to local hospitals. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries reported.

The driver of the pickup truck is clearly at fault for not securing his load and causing the bus accident. However, whether the bus driver for the Bellevue High School football team was also partially responsible remains to be seen and will need to be investigated. Cases like this is a matter of finding out which insurance policies would apply and making a full recovery for our clients.

This Bellevue bus accident is the second crash involving Seattle area high school teams within the past eight months. Twenty one members of the Garfield High School varsity and junior varsity softball teams were hospitalized when their 12 foot high chartered bus crashed into a 9 foot high underpass in the Washington Park Arboretum. The driver in that case was not paying attention to his driving and instead was looking at his GPS device.

If you would like to speak with a Bellevue, Washington bus accident attorney, please call (425) 289-1990.

Washington boat accident attorney, Nisqually River boat accident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6651 — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A Washington boat accident attorney at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can provide helpful information to people injured from a boat crash or who have a wrongful death claim from a boat accident.

The case of an Olympia man who pleaded guilty to three counts of homicide by watercraft in a boating accident on the Nisqually River last June is an example of the type of boating accident case we handle.

Please see here for more.

Edmonds motorcycle accident leaves 17 year old girl in coma

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6461 — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A 17-year-old Lynnwood girl, Melanie Thielman, was injured in a motorcycle crash this past August 2008 in Edmonds, Washington and was in an induced coma at Harborview Medical Center and was unlikely to come out of it for at least a year. Doctors decided to put her in a coma "to relax the brain" and stabilize the clot.

Melanie was riding on the back of a motorcycle with a 23-year-old man when he crashed into a utility pole. She suffered severe head trauma when she was thrown from the back of the motorcycle. Both she and the driver were wearing helmets. According to police, the crash happened about 10 p.m. on the 9000 block of Olympic View Drive in Edmonds.

Both speed and the riding experience of the driver may have been contributing factors. Usually, high speed motorcycle accidents result in serious and permanent injuries and sometimes death. From a legal perspective in this case, you have to look at the available insurance of the at fault driver and any other insurance coverages available such as underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage through your own automobile insurance policy or your parents' insurance policy if you still live with them.

Often times, there is not enough coverage to fully compensate the seriously injured person because the medical bills are very high which may exceed all available insurance coverages. You should consult with an experienced Seattle, Bellevue, Washington personal injury attorney like Andrew Y. Kim on these complicated cases before you make any decisions with the insurance companies. Remember that the insurance companies are not looking out for your best interest, and the call to us is free at 1-800-636-3676.

Construction site fall prevention initiative

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6440 — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that falls from one level of a construction site to a lower level was the second most common cause of workplace deaths nationally, according to a recent OSHA report? Transportation accidents was number one. Nationally, 13 percent of workers, or 733, died in such falls last year.

Back in my home town of Philadelphia, "The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has joined the Steel Erectors Association of Metropolitan Philadelphia and Vicinity Inc. and the Iron Workers Local Union 401 in a program to promote workplace safety and health and provide training, with a particular focus on fall prevention."

Here in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington, we see a lot of construction of buildings and high rises even with the downturn of the economy. Workplace safety for the guys who work on the steel beams and floors under construction on a daily basis should be the most important consideration for construction companies.

If a worker has been injured through the fault of another contractor or subcontractor on the construction job site, we can help at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC. Time is of the essence to investigate the scene before the evidence disappears. So, call us at (425) 289-1990 in Seattle and Bellevue, or (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma, Washington.

Seattle worker dies at glass plant

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6438 — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Seattle Times reported that on November 20, 2008 a woman was electrocuted while working at a Seattle glass container manufacturer, Saint-Gobain Containers. The state Department of Labor and Industries and the King County Medical Examiner's Office are investigating the death of the woman.

According to their website, Saint-Gobain Containers is a leading producer of glass packaging for the food and beverage industries. Glass packaging is their only product.

The Department of L & I is investigating the fatal injury accident and death of the worker since she was on the job at the time. The questions is whether a defective product was to blame causing the electrocution, or lack of proper training and supervision of the worker.

At the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC, we aggressively pursue claims on behalf of injured workers against a third party like a manufacturer of defective equipment or products. You can reach us toll free anywhere in Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma or Washington state to discuss a potential case.

2-car crash closes Highlands Drive in Issaquah

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6332 — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

I just read this article in the Issaquah Press about a serious injury car accident on Halloween night October 31, 2008 that closed Highlands Drive just off I-90 in Issaquah. I drive on this road every day on my commute from my house on the plateau to my law office in downtown Bellevue. Now I realize that the collision and back ups on exits 15, 17, and 18 from Interstate 90 on that night when I was driving home were caused by this two car accident during the evening rush hour.

I ended up driving to the Preston exit and going through Fall City to get back home. Anyway, that portion of Highlands Drive can be dangerous with the sweeping curve in the road and slope. I've seen a few accidents in approximately the same location as this accident and more so when the roads are slick from rain, snow or ice.

Apparently, there was no alcohol involved in this accident so you wonder then what caused the BMW to cross the center line on Highlands Drive and hit the Toyota Corolla head-on. Was it speed, road conditions, loss of traction, inattention?

We represent injured drivers from car accidents and investigate the cause of the collision. If you have any questions about what you should do in a situation like this, please feel free to call me at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990.

Disfigured Prisoner Settles for $300,000 against Department of Corrections

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6329 — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The November 18, 2008 Seattle Times reports on a case of a Mason County man who settled a personal injury case against the Washington State Department of Corrections after the medical staff at Stafford Creek Correctional Center in Aberdeen misdiagnosed him in 2004 with an allergic reaction to cold medication which turned out to be flesh eating bacteria (necrotizing fasciitis).

Charlie Manning was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where surgeons performed life saving surgery and removed several pounds of infected flesh in his pelvic area including his penis and testicle. He is now left with permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Avoid Slip And Fall Injuries On Your Rented Property

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6271 — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

If you live in Washington state and rent a house or apartment, how can you prevent slip and fall injuries on the property? Although not all slip and fall injuries are preventable, and although not all slip and fall injuries that take place on rental property are due to someone else's negligence, there are a few things you can do to prevent slip and fall cases in these situations.

1. Report dangerous conditions. If there is a broken stair, uneven pavement, unsafe deck, etc., make sure that your landlord is aware of the problem - they can't fix it if they don't know about it. The majority of landlords will send a professional to fix the issue and keep your building safe.

2. Keep on them if they do not respond. If the situation is not remedied in a timely manner, keep writing letters and keep a record of what they said and when you sent them. This way, if an accident does occur, there is written proof that the landlord was aware of the issue and did not respond.

3. Make sure the repair is done well. While most landlords will send professionals to fix problems, a few will attempt to make repairs themselves. While some are able to do so well, others may rely on a temporary solution or do a shoddy job of fixing the problem. If the latter is the case, write another letter voicing your concern.

4. Ice and snow should be shoveled. Landlords' duties go beyond making sure that repairs are made - they are also responsible for removing ice and snow from step, walkways, and driveways. If you slip and fall because this snow and ice was not removed, your landlord has been negligent.

Creston Man Receives Head Injury In Motorcycle Accident

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6270 — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Wenatchee World Online reported that a Creston, Washington, man was upgraded to stable condition after a serious motorcycle accident in Leavenworth, WA, left him with a head injury on October 18.

The man, Steven Holzapple, was thrown from his 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE motorcycle due to mechanical failure, according to a Washington State Patrol spokesperson, trooper Rich Magnussen. The incident took place on Highway 2. Investigators determined in the wake of the accident that either the engine or transmission failed, causing the rider to lose control of his bike.

The head injury may have been less severe had Holzapple been wearing a helmet that met federal safety standards, however, the helmet probably helped save him from a more serious injury or even death. He was first transported to Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee and then transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle by helicopter due to the seriousness of his head injuries.

ACE Cycle-Car, motorcycle or car?

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6240 — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Saturday's 11/15/08 Seattle Times (local news section, page one) featured a short piece about Pete Larson and the ACE Cycle-Car that he designed and builds from his industrial building on Rainier Avenue South in Seattle, Washington. So is it a motorcycle or a car? Well, it's a little of both. The tri-wheeler has two smaller wheels up front and one really big one in the rear. This is a high performance vehicle which is technically classified as a motorcycle. So, does this mean that you have to have a motorcycle endorsement on you driver's license? I'm not sure but you can can check out his web site at www.cycle-car.com and find out.

The ACE is powered by a V-Twin Harley Davidson motor with a five speed automotive transmission with a reverse gear, and can go up to 120 mph. Oh yeah, and the ACE also has a steering wheel which detaches so you can get into the thing. These beauties are "a piece of kinetic sculpture" according to Larson. It's design was influenced by the British-made Morgan models from the 1930s. One thing for sure is that the rumble of the Harley Davidson engine and the cool design will turn heads when you cruise on by!

The link to this blog for further details is to an earlier Seattle Times article from June 27, 2007 titled "Seattle designer puts 1930s flair on the road. ACE Cycle Car brings back romance of driving". You'll note that over a year ago the price of the ACE was about $40,000 but now they go for about $50,000. Each one takes about six to eight months to build but may be well worth the wait if you want to stand out from the crowd.

If you do decide to buy an ACE, make sure you get the right kind of insurance for it whether car or motorcycle insurance. The last thing you want to do is get in a car accident or motorcycle crash in Seattle, Washington or along I-90 in Spokane, Washington maybe on your next trip to Sturgis, South Dakota for the wild and crazy Sturgis biker's rally and find out that you have the wrong type of coverage.

If you do get in an accident and have any questions about insurance coverage or injury claims, you can definitely call us at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC at (425) 289-1990 or 1-800-636-3676.

Washington State - Nighttime seat belt enforcement project

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6226 — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

In today's Sunday Seattle Times newspaper, I noticed an ad from the Community Traffic Safety Task Force and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission announcing that law enforcement agencies in this area will be conducting nighttime seat belt patrols from November 17 and December 7, 2008.

This is because the traffic death rate is four times higher at night and seat belt use is lower at night. Other factors of nighttime traffic car or truck accident related deaths are alcohol and drug impaired driving (DUI), speeding, inattention, reckless driving, and drowsy driving.

It is well known fact that wearing a seat belt can saves lives if you are involved in an auto accident. The difference of wearing a seatbelt is between having no injuries or very minor injuries such as neck and back strains/sprains, to suffering serious, permanent, or life changing injuries and in the worst case scenario, death. I insist that all passengers in the vehicle that I am driving put on their seat belts before a drive and we all should practice this.

"The mission of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) is to reduce deaths and serious injuries resulting from motor vehicle collisions by implementing programs designed to address driver behaviors through coordinated efforts of federal, state and local agencies."

Check out WTSC's web site for further information.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC can help you with all motor vehicle collision injury claims resulting from the negligence of others. Please feel free to call us for a free initial consultation at (425) 289-1990 in Bellevue, Seattle, or King County, and at (253) 682-2000 in Tacoma and Pierce County.

Questionable tests lead to reopening of Richland go-kart death case

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6107 — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A test result that indicated 12-year-old Kenneth McKinster of Gresham, Oregon, who died in a go-kart accident on April 11, 2008 in Richland, Washington, had alcohol in his system was apparently caused by botched procedures in the Benton County Coroner's Office. The initial blood test showed alcohol in his system, however, a second test was ordered that found no alcohol, the Tri-City Herald has learned.

"I am aware of the conflicting toxicology report," Benton County Prosecutor Andy Miller said Friday. "There is no evidence the boy had alcohol. It was a mistake by the coroner's office."

Mike Russell, who worked as a coroner's assistant for Corson until resigning May 21, 2008 said he's not surprised by the problem because blood vials are stored poorly at the coroner's office and there has been contamination of needles that are used for taking the blood samples.

In the accident, the boy was fully suited in safety equipment during a supervised race at the Horn Rapids ORV Park when his go-kart ran off the track on a turn and into a cable fence. McKinster's body was caught in the cables, causing a fatal wound to his neck. The track where the boy died is owned by the city of Richland and leased to the Tri-City Kart Club, which built and maintains the facility.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles injury accidents, defective product, defective design and wrongful death cases in the State of Washington including the Tri-City areas of Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco.

Call us for a no obligation consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Cars and pedestrians, 9 tips for safe walking

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6075 — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Here's a good tid bit of information I read in today's Seattle Times: "About one-third of all pedestrian fatalities happen the last two months of the year, when fog, rain and murky winter light play havoc with a driver's ability to see." We're in November already with December just around the corner. So, let's drive more attentively and keep a look out for pedestrians and bike riders.

Minivan crash in South Seattle injures four people

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6074 — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Four people in a minivan were injured and taken to a hospital early Sunday morning on November 10, 2008 at about 2:48 a.m. They were traveling southbound on Martin Luther King Jr. Way South when the driver lost control and crashed into a light pole near South Norfolk Street.

Although there is no mention of alcohol use or DUI, you have to wonder whether this was a factor in causing the car accident after a possible Saturday night out with friends and then returning home in the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately, there were no other vehicles involved but just a light pole that was damaged.

Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC handles injury claims for passengers against the at fault driver. Multiple claimants may raise an issue of whether there is enough liability insurance coverage on the minivan, depending on the severity of the injuries and the total value of the claims. You may need to determine if there is other insurance available for example, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, to provide another layer of coverage.

Let us figure out the legal issues for you so you can focus on getting the necessary medical treatment for your injuries and getting better. Call us at (425) 289-1990.

Lynnwood woman killed in wreck in Eastern Oregon

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6021 — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A Lynnwood woman was among four people who died early Sunday October 19, 2008 when a pickup struck their car from behind on Interstate 84 east of Pendleton, Oregon. The driver of the pickup from Carlton, Oregon was jailed on charges of manslaughter and drunken driving.

This tragic incident involved drinking and driving, a deadly combination. An experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorney can investigate whether other parties, such as a bar or tavern may have over-served the driver, and therefore also be legally responsible for the loss of innocent lives in this case.

Call the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC for a free initial and confidential consultation at 1-800-636-3676.

Owner of pit bulls that mauled SeaTac woman faces felony charges

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6020 — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The owner of two pit bulls that mauled an elderly SeaTac woman in September, leaving her with a number of injuries, was charged today with possession of a dangerous dog, a felony. Huong Le, 72, was on her way back from walking her granddaughter to a school bus stop when she was attacked around 8:15 a.m. Sept. 8.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC has successfully handled many serious dog bite injury cases against the dog owners. Please contact us for further details.

Rain, leaves, and darkness make for dangerous driving

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)6017 — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

I left my law office in Bellevue, Washington yesterday and on the drive home along I-90, it was raining lightly and it was dark outside around 5:30 pm. I realized that my wiper blades were old and didn't wipe the windshield as clearly as it should leaving streaks of water after each wipe of the blades. I make a note to myself to change them as soon as possible. Being able to see what's in front of you as well as to your sides and rear is important to driving safely.

It seems that when it rains in Seattle, you will hear at least one or more traffic reports on the radio about a car accident blocking the roads or highways. Sometimes these accidents involve injuries or in the worse case scenario, death. Rain, darkness, traffic, speed too fast for conditions add up to a dangerous mix. You would think with all the rain we get from fall, winter, spring, drivers would be more able to handle the driving conditions but that's just not the case.

Anyway, driving on Interstate 90 westbound towards home, I noticed water from the rain that had accumulated in the grooves worn into the roadway by cars and trucks as they travel over the same surface day after day until they form "channels" of water. These can easily cause a motor vehicle to hydroplane on the layer of water and lose traction and control of the vehicle. This usually ends up being an adrenaline pumping moment for the driver as the car loses traction, and the driver hopes and prays that the car doesn't go sideways or spin around and hit another car or semi-truck passing by causing a motor vehicle collision. The best thing to do in this situation is let off the gas and allow the car to reduce its speed so eventually the vehicle's tires hit pavement again and have some traction. I usually drive just to the left or right of these channels to avoid hydroplaning.

After getting home, I was driving to my daughter's 1st grade Thanksgiving school play, along Fall City - Redmond Road which is a two lane roadway (one lane in each direction) with a speed limit of 50 miles per hour. There are lots of trees along the way and with the recent change in temperature, most of the leaves have fallen to the ground with many still on the roads. The wet leaves from the rain are slippery and can cause you to lose control of your car just like driving on the channels of water on the highway. Now with my old wiper blades doing the best they could to clear my view, the rain is coming down and the spray from passing vehicles force me to really focus on my driving. Their oncoming headlights make me look down at the lines in the road so I can stay in my lane of travel. It's my daughter's 1st grade play and she and her classmates have been practicing really hard for weeks to show their proud parents. I will make it safe and sound. Slow down when the weather is bad, get new windshield wipers, and be aware of the road conditions whether it be rain, leaves, snow or ice.

Sudden illness defense

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)5876 — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Have you been involved in a car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident in Washington through no fault of your own and think that the other driver's insurance company was going to take care of everything for you? For example, the other vehicle is coming towards you from the opposite direction and all of a sudden it crosses the center line straight towards you. Your first reaction, after saying some choice words to yourself, is to attempt to swerve out of the way, but there isn't enought time and you crash head-on with the at fault driver.

Your car is totaled and you have neck and back injuries. You say "no worries" the other driver has insurance but then you get a letter from his insurance company denying the claim because their insured had a sudden and unexpected illness, usually in the form of a heart attack which caused this car accident in Washington, and there is no liability.

What?! No way, you say! Believe it or not, there is such a defense to liability (sudden illness defense) in the State of Washington in case of a car crash but they have to show that the sudden illness was unexpected or unforeseeable. This is where an experienced Bellevue, Seattle, or Tacoma personal injury attorney can help you build a case against the other driver for your car accident or motorcycle accident. Any prior medical history which was known to the driver that should have prevented him from driving in the first place can be used against him. For example, if medication was supposed to be taken on a regular basis and the driver didn't do so, that can be an argument to attach liability.

The Seattle Times recently reported a "Fatal heart attack suspected in wreck" in Shoreline, Washington on October 17, 2008 when a 45 year old man suffered a heart attack while driving on I-5 near NE 205th Street in Shorleline lost control of his vehicle and ran into a pole, according to KING-TV, which then fell onto other vehicles causing damage and injuries.

We have successfully represented victims of automobile accidents just like in these situations and have helped them recover settlements for the injuries and damages sustained from the other driver's insurance company even after they initially denied the claim. You can call us for a free consultation at Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC (425) 289-1990 to see if you have a claim.

Soggy weather, slick roads

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)5875 — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

It's day lights savings and we all enjoyed an extra hour of sleep this morning. But this also means starting tomorrow that by the time we get into our car, truck, motorcycle, or bicycle and leave our work place in Bellevue, Seattle, or Tacoma and start our drive for home in Issaquah, Redmond, Renton, Auburn, or Kent, it will be dark outside.

As I look outside my window today, it looks like the rainy season is here to stay which in combination with the darkness, can make the evening commute a hazardous proposition. Just the other day, I was driving on Highway 520 from Bellevue to Seattle to get to the King County courthouse during the middle of the afternoon. Traffic was awful as usual and it had just rained. I could see on the roadway of Highway 520 a sleek rainbow sheen of oil that had risen from the pavement onto the surface of the road. I could see this because I was stopped or barely moving in bumper to bumper traffic and had nothing better to do while I crawled at a snail's pace towards downtown Seattle.

I thought many unassuming drivers could find themselves in a bad situation if they were driving too fast for conditions or had to take quick evasive actions, and all of a suddent lose traction and control resulting in a car accident in Bellevue, Washington or on the 520 bridge. The combination of a little rain, oil on the road makes for slick conditions.

By the time I made it to the I-5 interchange with Highway 520, traffic was still backed up, and sure enough there was a tow truck, and Washington State Patrol vehicle attending to a motor vehicle collision. The elevated on-ramp had that same shiny sheen that I saw near the I-405 and Highway 520 interchange, but this time the Department of Transportation had put some sand on the slick surface. So, be careful out there when driving or riding a bicycle. We may saved on hour of sleep in the morning but soggy weather and slick roads may cause you to lose sleep at night if you're involved in an accident.

The Andrew Kim Law Firm helps people injured in accidents get back on their feet and on the road to recovery. Please contact us if you have any questions.

What are the most dangerous dog breeds in Washington?

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)5815 — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

This month we covered a story about a woman who was attacked by a leashed pit bull while jogging. This woman went on to spread pit bull dog bite awareness throughout the Seattle, Washington area through her national website, dogsbite.org.

Although many states are considering breed-specific dog ordinances and laws to lower the number of dog attacks, many consider this to be "breed bullying" and unfair. Even though some types of dog bite more often than others (and even though some types of dog are known to do more serious damage due to their size and strength), they argue that the vast majority of dogs are never aggressive towards humans.

With both perspectives in mind, we think it is helpful to list the types of dogs that are more prone to attack people and be aggressive based on solid statistical analysis. This list does not mean that ALL dogs of these types should be avoided, but it does mean that you may want to be more careful when around strange dogs of these breeds. Also keep in mind that most dog bites are not by strays, but rather by the dogs of friends, neighbors, and family.

Dangerous dog breeds:

Alaskan Malamutes
Rottweiler
Pit Bull
Doberman Pinschers
Akitas
Boxers
Wolf-hybrids
German Shepherds
Siberian Huskies
Presa Canario
Great Dane
Chow Chow

October Library Items: A Focus on Slips and Falls

Drewykim@aol.com (Blog Author)5814 — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

This month, we decided to focus our informational Library Items on slip and fall accident awareness.

First, we wanted to let our readers know how common slip and falls really are -- not just minor trips where you might skin a knee, but serious slip and fall accidents where you may injure your back, your wrists, your ankles, your shoulder, or your knee. Although you might think these accidents are rare, you might be surprised: the annual numbers are in the millions.

Secondly, we wanted to give our readers a few tips on how they could help prevent such accidents, especially for those in the workplace and for the elderly. As attorneys, we understand well that some slip and fall accidents cannot be prevented -- the negligence of the property owner was to blame, not your footwear or your vigilance. However, there are some simple rules you and your family can take to help stop serious injuries from occuring, especially in bad weather or in other dangerous environments.

As always, if you have been involved in a slip and fall accident, call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We would be happy to discuss your case with you.

Wrong Way Driver Killed On I-90, Two Injured, Near North Bend, WA

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12959 — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

One man was killed and two others were seriously injured in a wrong way driving incident on Interstate 90 near North Bend in Washington State. Washington State Police believe that alcohol was a factor in the fatal WA car crash that took the life of one man and left two others in critical condition.

The wrong way car accident occurred just after midnight on Friday, February 19. The car probably took the off ramp onto the wrong side of I-90 at exit 31 and then sped down the highway, narrowly running head-on into a Washington State Patrol car. The two men driving the wrong way vehicle, a Jeep, swerved to miss the cruiser and instead crashed head-on into a box truck.

The driver of the car, a 25-year-old man from Bremerton, died at the scene of the accident. The passenger in the Jeep and the driver of the box truck were both rushed to Harborview Medical Center with serious injuries.

All westbound lanes of I-90 were closed for three hours on early Friday morning as Washington Police investigated the crash and collected evidence.

Wrong way driving kills about 350 people each year in the United States. Just last year, a wrong way driving elderly couple on I-5 killed one person after they mistakenly entered the road using an exit ramp. In another case of wrong way driving in Seattle, a drunk woman drove down the wrong side of I-90, killing two young women after striking their car head-on.

West Seattle Prius Driver Crashes Car After Gas Pedal Sticks

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12951 — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Toyota Prius has been an extremely popular car model in Washington State since it debuted in 2004, but now owners of the car worry that the gas pedal accelerator issues that have plagued other Toyota models may be a danger to them. While the hybrid, environmentally friendly car has not been included in the recent Toyota recalls involving the gas pedal issues, it was listed in the floor mat issue that made headlines in late 2009.

One Seattle driver is among hundreds of Prius owners who say that they have been the victims of car accidents and car accident injuries due to the sudden, unexplained acceleration of their cars. In February 2009, the yet to be named driver says that his 2007 Prius abruptly accelerated out of his control on Southwest Andover St. in West Seattle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaint that was filed regarding the issue, the car accelerated off of the road, hit a fence post, and then hit a retaining wall. The car, which was declared a total loss by the driver’s insurance company, ended up hanging off of the wall.

The 71-year-old Prius owner says that he slowed to make a right turn when the car suddenly sped forward, running through a chain linked fence. He also reported that he had had a full-car checkup just a week before the accident took place. While he didn’t report anything right away, the recent issues with other Toyota models made him come forward with his story of unexpected acceleration.

Toyota makers say that they have been checking the Prius for gas pedal problems, but that believe the model is not affected like other models are.

Kent Toddler Seriously Injured In Fall From Window

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12905 — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A two-year-old Kent child was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle after he fell out of a second-story window in the Western Washington State city. The young boy was in a residential house on 268th Street in Ken when apparently the screen in the window broke sending the boy to the paved driveway below.

Kent Fire Department officials said that the boy was talking when they arrived on the scene but that the toddler was seriously injured by the fall accident. He is now in stable condition, but was initially bleeding from cuts on his head.

A language barrier made it difficult for more detailed reports about what happened to the child, what caused the fall, or who was watching the child at the time of the child fall injury – however, a translator was available was available when the family called 911 to request help. The serious child accident is still under investigation by the Kent Police Department. The believe that it was an accident.

A hanging screen at the scene of the serious accident has many wondering whether a faulty window or defective window screen could have led to the child’s accident. It is also unclear whether or not the child lived at the resident and whether the owner of the property was responsible for keeping the small child safe.

Fall accidents are the most common cause of injury in Washington State, and are especially common among those under the age of five.

Seattle Records Three Serious Traffic Accidents In Early February

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12904 — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Seattle car accident in the White Center neighborhood left four people injured and one in critical condition. Seattle Police say that a pickup truck ran into two other vehicles while speeding. Some say that the serious WA car accident was a hit-and-run, though others argue that the truck did stop down the road. Two of the car accident victims were transported to Harborview Medical Center while two others who had less serious injuries were driven to Highline Medical Center. A Major Accident Response and Reconstruction Unit (MAR) was brought to the scene of the truck wreck to investigate the cause of the crash. The crash closed 1st Avenue S. between 108th and 116th, and the streets may close again as the accident is investigated further.

In the International District of Seattle, a female cyclist was involved in a bike accident with a Seattle Police patrol car. The accident took place during the morning commute at the intersection of 12th Ave. and Jackson. The woman was rushed to Harborview Medical Center with possible back and neck injuries. Police are investigating what caused the WA cyclist accident.

In Marysville, two semis crashed on I-5 near the 88th Street on February 3 just after 10 pm. As one big rig slowed with traffic, a commercial truck driving behind him did not see the slowing vehicle and rear-ended him. The truck driver who caused the accident suffered serious injuries in the Seattle truck accident and was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center.

Boy Wounded Boy Family Dog, Taken Into Child Protective Services

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12814 — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Washington State child has been taken from his parents after their neglect lead to his severe mauling by a dog. Port Angeles police say that the 11-year-old boy was left at home alone with the family's three-year-old lab and Rottweiler mix when the dog attacked him. The boy ran to his neighbor's house, who took him to Harborview Medical Center. He was treated for multiple puncture and tear wounds caused by the dog. The neighbor claims that the boy was bleeding heavily from his face.

The boy should have been at school or under the care of his parents, but Washington police say that the father, Matthew Sims, was out stealing a motorcycle at the time of the dog attack. The father allegedly was also drinking and may be responsible for mistreating or neglecting the dog in the years before the dog attack. In fact, the neighbor claims that after the father saw what the dog had done, he kicked the dog in the back of the head.

The dog, Jack, was taken to the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society, though he is not considered adoptable. After the dog attack, the neighbor said that the dog went "berserk" in the house and then ran away. The father later returned with the dog.

The boy has been taken from his family and is in the care of Child Protective Services. His future, like Jack's future, is unclear.

Child Ejected From Vehicle In Seattle Car Accident And Killed

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12317 — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

While many parents are sure to securely place their children into child safety seats, a shocking number of car seats are not installed properly. This may have been the case in a three-vehicle accident that took place at 20th Street and Main Street in Seattle near Pratt Park, where a child and the child’s car seat were both ejected from the car during the WA car collision.

According to Seattle Police, the accident took place Monday, January 4, 2010, between a sedan, a minivan, and a DirecTV van. Two witnesses who were interviewed by police said that the DirecTV van t-boned the sedan at the intersection. The car then spun several times before striking the minivan. One adult and two children received very serious injuries in the crash. Four people in total were rushed by emergency workers to Harborview Medical Center for treatment. The drivers of both of the vans were not injured.

There are no stop signs at the intersection where the Washington car crash took place.

To be sure that your child’s car seat is installed correctly, read the manufacturer’s manual closely and follow the basic child seat safety rules. You may also bring your car seat in for an inspection at some fire departments or police stations. Unfortunately, just because your child is strapped into his car seat does not mean he is safe from ejection – the car seat must be secured correctly in your vehicle.

Dog Attack In King County? Expect Delays From Animal Control.

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12285 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Facing enormous budget problems as well as a mandate to step up actions to protect abused and neglected animals, King County Animal Control is struggling to protect dog bite victims, respond to dog attacks, and protect Seattle residents from dangerous and aggressive dogs. A recent investigative piece in the Seattle Times shows just how poorly animal control has been responding to dangerous and vicious dogs – even those that have already attacked humans.

While animal control officers are responding almost immediately to reports of animal abuse or neglect, reports of vicious dogs may go months before any action is taken. For example, in 2008, a man was attacked by two pit bulls and required 40 stitches on his arms. Although the man called 911 to have the dangerous dogs removed, animal control didn’t respond until the next day – when the dogs had been moved by their owners. In Kent this year, it took animal control four months to respond to an aggressive animal call that left a 13-year-old mauled in the arm. In Bellevue, a woman reported a neighbor’s dog had bitten her on the leg – by the time animal control responded, the neighbor had given the dog away online.

At the same time, sick and injured pets are being picked up immediately and the kennel’s conditions have improved dramatically. Unfortunately, although conditions have improved for the animals, it is at the cost of animal control’s ability to keep dangerous dogs off of the Seattle streets. In the end, King County seems to lack the funds to do both.

Seattle Cyclist Forced Off SR 202 By Speeding Minivan, Biker Seriously

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12286 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

In some cases, a car can seriously injure a cyclist without ever touching him. In Seattle last week on SR 202, a cyclist was forced off of the road and into a ditch when a speeding minivan almost hit him head-on.

The Washington State Patrol reported that the biker was among a group of ten cyclists belonging to the Starbucks racing team traveling west on State Route 202 near Ames Lake and east of Redmond just before noon when a minivan speeding east passed several vehicles in the westbound lane of the two-lane highway. Witnesses say that the van was driving very fast and erratically. The 49-year-old Seattle cyclist, who would have been hit head-on by the van, threw himself off of the roadway and into a ditch, where he suffered serious injuries. He was rushed to Overlake Hospital in Bellevue for treatment where he remains in serious condition.

A head-on accident with a car could have lead to serious head injuries and possibly death even though the cyclist was wearing a helmet. None of the other cyclists were injured.

Washington Police believe that the van was a newer red model of the Honda Odyssey, but are actively seeking witnesses to the Seattle bicycle accident. Witnesses are asked to call Detective Stacy Moate of the Washington State Patrol at 425-401-7746 with any information.

CPSC Creates New Rules For Infant And Child Product Manufacturers

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12223 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a rash of recalls involving dangerous products for toddlers and infants, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has made some changes that they hope will reduce the number of child injuries from defective products. Specifically, the changes will allow those who by baby products to keep in closer contact with the product manufacturer and vice versa.

The new rules, which were unanimously set in place last week by the CPSC, requires that manufacturers of certain infant and toddler products must include a postage-paid registration form with the product so that they have a list of people who bought the item in the event of a dangerous product recall. In addition, certain toddler and baby products will also be required to have their model number, product name, date, and company name printed clearly and permanently on the product itself in case of a dangerous toy injury or a defective product recall.

The list of baby products that will be affected by these new rules include full-size cribs and small cribs; toddler beds; high chairs, booster chairs, and hook-on chairs; bath seats; gates and other enclosures for confining a child; play yards; stationary activity centers; infant carriers; strollers; walkers; swings; bassinets and cradles; children’s folding chairs; changing tables; infant bouncers; infant bathtubs; portable toddler bed rails; and infant slings.

The rules will go into official effect for most products in 180 days – or about six months. A few products will not legally require registration forms for one year.

Accident Victim Wins $7 Million Injury Lawsuit With King County

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)12179 — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

King County reached a settlement with a Metro Transit accident victim this week before the personal injury trail was scheduled to begin on Monday in Seattle. It is one of the largest settlements of its kind in county history.

The transit vehicle accident occurred in November of 2007 when 33-year-old Elizabeth Newman was driving her Vespa scooter to her nursing job at the Swedish Memorial Hospital in Seattle. The accident occurred at the intersection of 12th Avenue East and East Thomas Street when a Metro Transit bus failed to yield the right of way to Newman and struck her vehicle.

Newman suffered extensive internal injuries including several leg fractures. She was transported to Harborview Medical Center in a coma and still suffers from the consequences of her injury. She has not been able to return to her job as an operating room nurse since the van accident.

A spokesperson for the county told reporters that the county felt that the settlement was fair considering the circumstances and that the accident was a tragic and unfortunate one.

The driver of the Metro van, 57-year-old Ricky Moore, was charged with injury with a vehicle, a misdemeanor assault, though the charges were later dropped.

The city of Seattle became involved in the case after King County put forth that the intersection where the scooter was hit is prone to accidents and injuries due to its poor design. The details of the settlement have not been shared.

Four Die At Highway 9 Intersection Car Accident In Marysville, WA

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11933 — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Snohomish County saw the worst car accident on record this year when two coupled were killed in a horrific crash on Highway 9 in Marysville, Washington. The man Washington State Police believe is responsible for the fatal car accident has been booked at the Snohomish County Jail and is under investigation for four counts of vehicular homicide regarding the accident.

Washington State Police released the names of the four people killed, all of which died at the scene of the car accident: 48-year-old Melissa Agerup, 54-year-old Bradley Agerup, 62-year-old Hilda Woods, and 57-year-old Thomas Woods.

The accident took place on Sunday night, according to Trooper Keith Leary, at the intersection of Highway 9 and 108th Street NE. The driver of the other car involved in the crash, 27-year-old Matthew C. McDonald of Snohomish, allegedly drank 8 beers before the accident and had a blood alcohol content of 0.123, almost double the legal limit.

McDonald tried to run from the scene of the deadly Washington car accident briefly before turning himself in to police. One of person was injured in the crash, a 32-year-old passenger in McDonald’s car, who told McDonald to slow down before the crash took place. He was driving over the speed limit and ran a stop sign, causing the Washington State car accident.

The police report was filed in Everett District Court and McDonald is being held on $1 million bail. The two couples had lived across the street from each other in rural Clearview, WA.

Big Rig Driver Falls Asleep At The Wheel On I-5, Causes Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11931 — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Truckers work long hours and are often put under tough deadlines. Despite federal regulations meant to keep big rig drivers alert and awake at the wheel, truck driver fatigue and truck accidents caused by sleepy drivers are still a very real problem on the highways and interstates in Washington.

Just this month, a tractor-trailer driver fell asleep at the wheel on Interstate 5 in Marysville, running off the road and closing down I-5 with his totaled vehicle and cargo blocking the road. The truck accident, which occurred minutes after 5 in the morning, was the direct result of a tired and fatigued truck driver.

Washington State Police say that 34-year-old Kuljinderpal Perhar was driving a load of mixed cargo up to Canada from California when he nodded off on I-5. He drove off the road and into two trees, demolishing his 18-wheeler and throwing cargo into the roadway. KING 5 reported that the roads were cleared by 3 pm that afternoon, though significant traffic troubles backed up all lanes throughout the morning. . While Perhar’s truck was totaled in the truck crash, the man suffered only minor injuries.

Although drugs and alcohol were not involved in the accident, the driver will face citations for falling asleep while driving. The cargo that fell out of the torn trailer included edible goods and car parts. The crash took place near the Seattle Premium Outlet Mall.

Seattle Bicyclist Charged With Vehicular Assault After Hitting Child

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11932 — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

In the majority of cases, bicyclists worry that they will be the victims of dangerous and even deadly hit-and-run accidents in Seattle and Washington State at large. However, in some instances, bicycle riders and cyclists can ignore traffic laws and hurt others, like pedestrians. This was certainly the case in Seattle last month, when a cyclist ran a red light and struck a 6-year-old boy hear Pike Place Market.

The accident occurred in a crosswalk at a quarter until 7 pm on the corner of Pike Street and First Ave. Witnesses say that the bike rider passed several cars and sped through a red light, hitting the child in the intersection.

Rafael Araneta, the cyclist, said that he saw both the red light and the person in the crosswalk, but thought he could make it though safely. Seattle Police say that his bike was not equipped with brakes or a light. Although Araneta climbed on his bike and tried to ride away from the scene of the bike accident, standers-by stopped the man and held him until police arrived. Later, Araneta said that he was scared and didn’t know what to do.

The child was rushed to Harborview Medical Center, where he was treated for serious face injuries, including a broken jaw. Doctors had to wire the boy’s jaw shut. Araneta has been charged with a hit and run and with vehicular assault.

Three Large Recalls Of Baby Furniture After Child Injury And Death

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11880 — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

We like to think that our children are safe in their beds or in their strollers, but even established infant product companies can produce defective children’s products that could cause serious injury or death. In the last month, three different serious baby product recalls have been announced in the United Sates:

•    After two different suffocation deaths were reported, 24,000 Amby Baby Motion Hammocks were recalled across the nation. The recalled baby motion beds, which gently rock and bounce the baby, led to infants rolling and becoming trapped in the bed’s sides or mattress. The Consumer Product Safety Commission urged all people with the hammock to stop using it immediately and to call the retailer for more information. A repair kit is not yet available.
•    Maclaren has announced an enormous voluntary recall of their umbrella strollers after years of reports regarding finger amputations and finger injuries when digits become caught in the sharp side hinge mechanism. Over the last decade, 15 incidents have been reported according tot he US CPSC. Those with umbrella strollers are urged to request a repair kit and to call the company with any questions or concerns. Dangerous strollers include the Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.
•   Stork Craft has recalled a half-million drop-side cribs after 10 separate incidents involving babies and toddlers becoming stuck in the moveable side of the crib. This can lead to suffocation and busing. Most incidents occur when the defective brackets on the side of the crib break. The CPSC recommends that all parents stop using the crib until they use the bracket repair kit. The cribs could be purchased at J.C. Penney, Kmart and Walmart stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com, Babiesrus.com, Costco.com and Walmart.com.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed In Fatal Seattle Pedicab Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11881 — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

After a man died in a Seattle Pedicab accident last August, his wife and children have filed wrongful death lawsuits against the Washington pedicab company as well as the Chinese manufacturer of the pedicab.

Peter and Mary Dzioba were in Seattle celebrating their 25 wedding anniversary when they took a pedicab ride with Cascadia Cabs. However, at the intersection of Western St. and Cedar St. in Belltown, the pedicab driver lost control of the bike and was not able to brake at the red light. The three-wheeled bicycle plowed into a scooter and minivan, and all three occupants were thrown into the street, where Peter was run over by a car and killed.

Mary Dzioba is seeking damages for loss of consortium, and loss of care, loss of comfort and society, witnessing the death of her husband, her permanent disabilities, and future medical costs. She says the brakes on the pedicabs were not suited for Seattle’s hilly streets and that the pedicab company did not take proper precautions. Both put passengers of the vehicles into danger daily. The cab company claims that they have never before had an incident with brake malfunctioning, that they have a clean history of other accidents, and that they are very sorry for the accident.

Pedicabs are popular tourist attractions in Seattle, though there is very little regulation regarding insurance, safety inspections, and other requirements.

Monster Trucks Return To Tacoma One Year After Child's Fatal Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11505 — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Exactly a year after the death of a six-year-old boy at a monster truck show at the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington, the venue is welcoming the promotion back to the stadium for three shows. Despite last year’s fatal child accident at the event, the dome is not taking any extra safety precautions and is not changing any aspect of the event.

Last January, Sebastian Hizey was attending a Monster Jam monster truck rally at the Tacoma Dome when a piece of metal flew off the truck and struck the young boy in the head. He died of his injury. His parents are suing the company that puts on Monster Jam, Feld Motorsports, who claims that the shows are safe. The family says that not only are they still grieving for the loss of their son, but they are also concerned that what happened to their boy could easily happen to someone else.

Monster truck rallies are more dangerous than most think – seven people have been killed at monster truck events since 1992 and even more people have been seriously injured by flying projectiles. In 2007, nine people were injured during a monster truck show in Illinois after a truck crash showered the crowd with debris. While some, such as the director of operation for Monster Jam, believe these incidents are simply freak accidents, others believe that Hizey’s blunt force trauma death could have been prevented and that the monster truck promotions should take more safety precautions such as installing nets to protect the audience.

Safety Rope Saves Seattle Window Washer From Deadly Fall

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11493 — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

How important are safety regulations when it comes to window washers and other Seattle workers? To one Washington State window washer, it was the difference between inevitable death from an 8-story fall and a minor injury to his pinky finger.

In downtown Seattle on Thursday, 34-year-old Eduardo Lozada lost his balance while washing windows and plummeted more than 80 feet, crashing into the buildings windows and screaming as he went down. Luckily, a safety rope caught the worker just inches before he hit the ground, saving his life from a potentially deadly fall accident. In the end, the man suffered a single broken finger, though he was shaken from the fall.

The Seattle fall accident was caught on tape by a nearby security camera, which shows the man saved by his rope right before impact. Surely, this accident and near-death experience illustrates well the importance of safety precautions and safety measures for window washers and other city workers who conduct their jobs at great heights. The absence of a proper harness or rope could be the difference between a minor injury and major trauma.

"I have to accept that it was my last moments, and when I let go of the ropes, I know I'm going to die. So in my mind and in my heart, I die for a minute, for seconds," Lozada said. I say, 'OK, this is the end.' I say, 'God, forgive me, and take me. Everything, all your life just came through your mind, and you're able to see everything at once."

The death rate for a three-story fall is 50%, and most do not survive falls of four stories or greater.

Fatal I-5 Rollover Crash In Tukwila Leaves Police Asking Questions

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11494 — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Washington State Patrol officers and other emergency personnel responded to a serious multiple-vehicle rollover accident on Wednesday, where one person was killed and others were seriously injured.

Authorities say that the accident occurred just before 6 am north of Highway 518 on Interstate 5 near Tukwila. The Washington State car crash involved a Toyota Land Cruiser, a Ford Crown Victoria operating as a taxicab, and a Toyota Camry. So far the investigation has revealed that the initial crash was between the taxi and the Land Cruiser in the two-lane exit lane for Highway 518 toward Southcenter Parkway. The Land Cruiser then rolled into the center lanes of westbound I-5 where it was struck by an oncoming vehicle.

The driver of the Land Cruiser, an unidentified 43-year-old resident of Seattle was declared dead at the scene of the accident. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. The three other men involved in the accident suffered only minor injuries and were treated at the scene of the accident.

Investigators and emergency responders cleared the I-5 car accident scene for three hours – affecting five out of the six I-5 lanes and backing up morning commuter traffic. While the Washington State Patrol does not believe that drugs or alcohol were a factor in the deadly Washington crash, they are still unsure of what caused the initial impact between the taxi and the Toyota. Anyone with information about the car accident should call Detective Ruth Medeiros at 425-401-7719.

Kent Woman Critically Injured In Multi-Vehicle Hit-And-Run

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11307 — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

On Tuesday morning at roughly 5 am, a Kent, Washington, woman was struck and seriously injured by a car on Benson Road (State Route 515). A refugee from Bhutan, 22-year-old Namada Timsina was crossing five lanes of sporadic traffic when she was struck by a man who later turned himself in to police. However, Detective Stacy Moate of the Washington State Police believe that Timsina’s injuries point to more than one hit-and-run incident.

Police Trooper Dan McDonald said that the position of the young woman’s purse 200 feet beyond her body and other evidence have led police to suspect that one or more cars may have struck to accident victim after the initial impact. McDonald also added that Highway 515 in Kent is not an unusual place for a serious pedestrian accident, as the five lanes of traffic pose a serious risk to those on foot.

Timsina apparently lived in an apartment building near the lace where she was struck. Friends and family say that she left her apartment early each morning in order to take the bus to Seattle for work.

Reports also indicated that Timsina was new to the country and was probably not as familiar with United States traffic laws or the dangers of motor vehicles in general.

Emergency crews rushed the young pedestrian accident victim to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where she is still in critical condition but stable.

Police are asking anyone with any information regarding the hit-and-run pedestrian accident to contact Det. Stacy Moate immediately at (425) 401-7746.

Teen Sentenced To 1.5 Years For SeaTac Pit Bull Attack

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)11293 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

On June 21, 2009, a 16-year-old girl allegedly used her pet pit bull to attack two other women. Now, a SeaTac judge has sentenced the minor to between 14 and 17 months in juvenile detention. The normal sentencing for similar cases is a matter of months, but the judge in the case, King County Juvenile Court Judge Philip G. Hubbard, Jr., said that the amount of violence and anger seen in the dog attack required a longer sentence for the teen girl.

On that summer day, witnesses say a woman stopper her car to tell the teen not to kick her dog. The teen responded by beating the woman with her phone and sic-ing the pit bull on the woman. When a third woman stopped to help the first woman, the teen and dog attacked her as well. Both women were left scarred and traumatized following the dog attack - and both required medical attention at Harborview Medical Center after the aggressive dog was told to attack them.

The girl apologized to the two women in court, and a social worker spoke on behalf of the girl, reporting that the girl's parents and environment were a clear cause of the young woman's violent actions. The unnamed girl will spend her sentence at Echo Glen Children's Center in Snoqualmie while the dog, Snaps, will be transferred to a sanctuary for abused pets outside of Seattle. The dog was not fit for adoption due to its display of aggressive behavior.

Seattle Children's Hospitals Takes Blame For Boy's Overdose

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10813 — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

When we take our children to the hospital, we not only expect them to get better, we expect them to be safe. However, a recent incident at Seattle Children's Hospital ended in tragedy as an accidental overdose killed a 15-year-old Washington boy.

In a horrifying Washington medical mistake, Michael Blankenship was given a powerful painkiller that took the boy's life while he slept in his bed the night after a dental procedure at the Washington hospital. The Kent, Washington, boy suffered from autism and could not speak - making the tooth extraction slightly more complicated than for other children.

The drug he was given, a powerful high-dose fentanyl pain patch given to those suffering from chronic pain or those recovering from serious surgery, is not meant for children, those not used to narcotics, or those recovering from minor dental work. Despite this, the prescription made its way past several safety checks and onto the body of Blankenship.

Seattle Children's Hospital has publicly apologized for the deadly medical mistake and said in a press conference that they will "everything in their power" to prevent future negligence that may lead to a Washington child accident. They also admitted their system to prevent medication errors was flawed.

The parents of the young man have filed a WA wrongful death lawsuit against those that they believe are responsible for the boy's medical malpractice death. They believe that two dentists as well as Seattle Children's hospital itself, were negligent and reckless. The wrongful death suit was filed in King County Superior Court.

Belfair Car Accident Injures Five Children Without Seatbelts

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10790 — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Belfair, Washington, car accident has the state talking about preventable car accidents, children's car safety, drunk driving, and responsible adult behavior.

The Washington State Patrol has reported that a car carrying two adults and five children left the road after pulling out of a McDonald's drive through, veering off of Highway 3, and falling down a steep embankment. A copse of trees stopped the van from falling further down the embankment. All seven occupants were injured in the accident - and two were seriously injured. The accident victims were transported to Harrison Hospital in Bremerton with non-life threatening injuries

The driver of the car, 32-year-old Miguel Juan-Zacarias of Belfair, and the passenger, an unidentified 35-year-old woman, suffered from head injuries and chest pain. The driver was found to be either drinking and driving or under the influence of drugs. None of the five children were wearing seatbelts or in child safety seats at the time of the crash. The children were 11, 10, 8, 5 and 3 years old.

In the wake of the Mason County car accident the driver was charged with suspicion of DUI and third-degree assault of a child. The two adults in the car were also not wearing their seatbelts. Following the Washington car accident, the passengers have been released from the hospital while the driver of the car was transported to the Mason County jail. He has been arrested for drinking and driving - with a child in the car - on a previous occasion.

Despite The Dangers, Truckers Want Exemption To Future Texting Laws

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10778 — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Seattle Post Intelligencer reports that truckers may want exemption from any future federal legislation banning texting, emailing, mobile phone use, or computer use while driving.

The truckers argue that they use work computers in order to stay updated on traffic, routes, new orders, and work-related information. The on-board computers also keep them in contact with their dispatchers while on the road. They also argue that unlike smaller mobile devices like Blackberries or iPods, large computer screens are not as dangerous or distracting.

However, recent studies have found that any driver distraction exponentially increases the chance of truck accidents. A study released earlier this year found that truckers using texting features on mobile phones were 28 times more likely to cause a truck accident while truckers using on-board computers were ten times more likely to cause a truck accident. The dangers of distracted driving may be even more serious for truckers, who drive much larger, heavier vehicles that are more likely to seriously injure or kill those they hit.

Although the American Trucking Associations spokesperson has called the bill overkill, Washington lawmakers still want to discuss the issue further at the national distracted driving summit being held this week. Many speaking at the summit will argue that new technology of all kinds are increasing the number of truck accidents and truck accident injuries.

Truckers say they often feel pressure to use their computers while driving because deadlines in the trucking industry are so tight. Using the computers takes the truckers' eyes of the road for an average of four seconds at a time.

Ballard WA Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit After Fatal Cyclist Crash

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10708 — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Following a deadly bicycle accident at a Ballard, Washington, intersection, the family of the accident victim has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against two of the parties involved in the fatal bike crash.

University of Washington molecular researcher 39-year-old Kevin Black was commuting to work in a bike lane in February when a van attempting a u-turn drove into the bike lane and fatally struck the cyclist. The van was driven by an Ambient Control Co., Inc. employee - and both the driver and the company have been named in the wrongful death lawsuit. His family, which includes two young daughters, are seeking compensation for the driver's negligent behavior that led to the cycling death of their father.

In the moment after the crash, a passerby attempted CPR on the bicycle crash victim while others called for help. EMS rushed the biker to Harborview Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The accident took place near Northwest 64th Street and 24th Avenue Northwest according to Seattle Police. When news of his death spread, cyclists from Ballard and Seattle gathered at the scene of the accident in a memorial for the biker.

His brother was seriously injured in a WA motorcycle accident in 2007 at the same intersection.

"Everybody loved him. He was the glue of my lab," said UW professor William Zagotta, Black's long-time boss. Black was also an active member in the Alki-Rubicon Racing Team and biked to California for his high school reunion.

Drunk Driver Hits Washington DOT Truck In I-5 Construction Zone

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10698 — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A drunk driver from Longview, Washington, mistakenly followed a Washington DOT truck into a construction zone on Wednesday night and struck the back of the government truck when it slowed down to place cones in the roadway. The WA car accident took place near Chehalis, Washington.

Washington State Police say that 42-year-old Walter Radcliff II was under the influence of alcohol when he entered the closed lane of Interstate 5 in Washington just before midnight on Wednesday, possibly because he was following a Washington Department of Transportation vehicle ahead of him. When the truck slowed down to fix some construction site orange cones, Radcliff failed to slow down and slammed into the back of the DOT truck.

Radcliff was rushed to the hospital by emergency workers and the man suffered from several broken ribs as well as a head injury. The DOT worker, 43-year-old Irene M. Lindberg, of Glenoma, WA, suffered minor injuries. Radcliff was taken to Providence Medical Center for treatment. The two passengers traveling in the DOT vehicle were uninjured in the WA car accident.

Radcliff was charged with driving under the influence and will also probably face future charges as the Washington car accident investigation continues. The crash temporarily closed all northbound I-5 lanes and traffic was diverted over the Main Street-Exit 77 interchange while police and clean-up crews took care of the accident.

Couple Dies As Truck Plunges Over Washington State Bridge

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10382 — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A man and a woman were killed when their tractor-trailer ran off of a bridge and into the river below in Wenatchee, Washington last week. Washington State Police identified the driver of the big rig as 48-year-old Kathleen Walker of Olympia, Washington and the passenger of the big rig as 60-year-old Peter Wooley of Olympia, Washington.

The couple was carrying a load of apples at the time of the WA truck accident, which took place on Highway 97 in Washington State on the Beebe Bridge. Washington State officials say the bridge may be closed for weeks as repairs are made - the bridge is sagging about four inches due to the accident, which damaged two of the bridge's beams.

The Washington truck crash occurred on Monday at about 5 p.m. when the driver of the 18-wheeler crashed into a support beam on the bridge. While the cab detached from the trailer and plunged into the river below, the trailer broke to pieces on the bridge, scattering apples across the roadway. The two bodies were recovered in the Columbia River below the Washington bridge by dive teams. Some believe another vehicle may have been involved in the Wenatchee truck accident, and drive crews continue to look for the wreckage of another car or truck as well as other bodies.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is set to inspect the bridge for structural damages this week to determine what work needs to be done.

Birdsview Grandmother Charged After Dog Bites Baby

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10374 — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

On August 2, 2009, a 9-month old infant girl was rushed to a Seattle children's hospital with dog bite wounds on her face and a skull fracture following a Washington State dog attack. Shockingly the same infant girl had been attacked by the same dog just two days before the second incident. The little girl, Olivia DeZam, spend nine days in the hospital recovering from her dog bite wounds, which were located on her scalp, face, and eye.

Following the two dog attack incidents, Skagit County charged the grandmother of the little girl, the woman who owned the dangerous and aggressive dog, with criminal negligence. According to the grandmother, 49-year-old DeEtta DeZam of Kagit County, WA, and other family members, the dog bites injuries were not as serious as reported.

The aggressive dog, a three-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix named Hercules, bit Olivia on the ear just days before the second dog attack - and Olivia sustained injuries that required her ear lobe to be stitched together. The dog is being held under quarantine at a local veterinarian's office, as per Washington State dog laws. If the dog is deemed dangerous, he could be put to sleep following the dog attacks. Skagit County Animal Control will determine whether or not the dog is dangerous.

Although the Skagit County Sheriff's Office claimed the dog bite wounds were life threatening, the family contends that the baby was not seriously hurt during the dog attack.

Three Infants Injured As SUV Crashes Into Redmond Daycare

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10361 — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

We like to think that our children will be safe when we drop them off at daycare, but as this week's car accident involving Childtime childcare in a Seattle suburb proves that child accidents and child injuries can happen at any time. On Monday just after 4 p.m. in Redmond, Washington, a Rav4 SUV crashed into the infant room at the Childtime daycare building.

Redmond Police say that the driver of the SUV was a 45-year-old woman from North Bend, Washington, who had arrived at the daycare to pick up her granddaughter. Although Washington Police would not give details about the crash, witnesses at the scene of the child accident say that the driver was wearing a cast on her right foot that may have caused uncontrolled acceleration. The woman was not arrested and no charges have been made at this time, although the car accident is still under investigation.

Of the seven infants in the infant room at the time of the Washington State car accident, three were injured. Two babies were taken to Overlake Hospital Medical Center in Bellevue while a third infant was rushed to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. However, recent reports reveal that none of the babies were seriously injured in the car accident.

The Childtime childcare center will remain closed as repairs are made and as the center's owners determine that the building is structurally sound.

Cyclist Suffers Massive Head Injury In Seattle Bike Collision

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10345 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Seattle Police believe a man who was critically injured in a downtown Seattle bike accident on Monday afternoon may have run a red light seconds before the collision. Witnesses also confirmed that the young cyclist may have run a red light into the path of an oncoming black Lexus.

The 25-year-old cyclist was hit by a car a the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Olive Way near the Westlake Center in Seattle at just after 4:30 p.m. Seattle Fire Department medics arrived on the scene of the cyclist accidents a few minutes later, transporting the bike accident victim to Harborview Medical Center for treatment. The young man suffered a traumatic brain injury that may have been prevented if he had been wearing a safety helmet. There are no Washington State laws requiring cyclists to wear helmets. Police described his WA bike accident injuries as life threatening.

Traffic Collision Investigation detectives are speaking with the bike accident witnesses and have collected evidence from the scene of the Seattle cyclist accident. The investigation is ongoing. The driver of the Lexus has not been issued a citation for the incident or charged with any crimes.

Bike riders in Washington State are expected to follow the same rules of the road as other vehicles - and running a red light on a bicycle is illegal. Others note, however that the intersection where the accident took place is notorious for all types of traffic accidents.

Federal Way Man Hit And Killed On Shoulder Of I-5

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10341 — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

When a bus filled with party-goers broke down on Interstate 5 on Saturday night, the driver pulled the vehicle to the shoulder of the highway in South Seattle and a passenger went outside fix the bus. However, a passing pickup truck struck both the bus and the man, killing the bus driver and injuries multiple others. A Kia then struck the back of the pickup truck.

The Washington State Patrol was called to the scene of the I-5 accident in Seattle at around 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, where three different vehicles were involved in the crash and where multiple car accident injuries were reported. The bus passenger who was killed outside of the 1996 Ford bus was 26-year-old Scott Glover of Federal Way, Washington. Two others were seriously injured in the Seattle car accident, including the driver of the Kia, the passenger of the Kia, and the driver of the pickup. The injured were transported to the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. The bus driver, from Renton, Washington, was not hurt, while six of the bus' passengers suffered minor injuries.

Police say that they suspect that the driver of the pickup truck was either under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Although the I-5 bus accident is still under investigation, police are considering several criminal charges for the driver of the pickup truck, including vehicular homicide. Two southbound lanes of I-5 were closed in the hours after the deadly car accident.

Baby Not Secured In Child Seat Dies In Lynden, WA, SUV Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10120 — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

In Lynden, Washington, last month, the importance of adequate child safety seats in cars was never clearer. An infant, held in the arms of its mother, was killed in a Washington State car accident after being ejected from the vehicle. Not properly restraining an infant in Washington is illegal.

On Tuesday, July 21, the Washington State Patrol responded to a two-vehicle accident on State Route 546 at Northwood Road at a quarter to eleven at night. Officials say that a Ford Explorer SUV contained a driver and the mother and her baby in the passenger seat. For unknown reasons, the SUV left its lane and crossed the centerline, ending in a head on collision with an oncoming 18-wheeler truck.

The two-and-a-half-month baby boy was wrapped in a blanket and held in his mother's lap. Upon impact, the baby was ejected from the vehicle and was found in the road by a passing motorist. Although the passerby tried to give CPR to the child, he was declared dead at the scene of the accident.

The mother of the child, who spoke Spanish, was rushed by ambulance to St. Johns Hospital in Bellingham and then airlifted to Harborview Medical Ccenter, suffering from a broken pelvis as well as internal injuries. The driver of the Ford left the scene of the accident and was pursued by Whatcom County sheriff's dogs.

Although the investigation continues, police did report that empty beer cans were found in the vehicle.

Washington Boat Builder May Be Responsible For Snohomish County Boat Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10094 — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

There are many different causes of Washington State boat accidents. However, many people are only familiar with some of the more common causes, such as operator mistakes, boating under the influence, or adverse weather conditions. In some cases, WA boating accidents may be caused by the mistakes made by the boat's builder.

Last month, a Snohomish County was killed in a boating accident that may have been caused by a Washington boat manufacturer. Washington State resident 48-year-old Cindy Tate was an experienced boater using the Lake Stevens recreation area in good weather in July when her boat flipped over, killing the woman and injuring nine other passengers.

According to the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office, the boat was taking on water and sunk much faster than it should have. These anomalies led authorities to investigate the boat's manufacturer. Tiger Trax boats like Tate's were built by Phil Warnock in the late 1990s and have a history of malfunctions and sinkings. According to former workers at the boat manufacturer, the builder used low-cost foam on the boat's hulls, making them unsafe and making them more likely to take on water and decrease buoyancy.

Snohomish County will investigate the boat's make, although they will also investigate whether the boat was overloaded with ten people. Also boat maker Warnock has not been in trouble for fatal boating accidents in the past, his boats have been known to take on water and his business has been in trouble for fraud in the past. Warnock now makes boats under the brand name Mirage.

Fatal South Seattle Motorcycle Crash Delays Light Rail Service

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10056 — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Light rail service was disrupted in South Seattle early on Wednesday morning when a WA motorcycle accident took place on the railroad tracks. Two motorcycles crashed on Martin Luther King Jr. Way South for an unknown reason at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. One rider was killed while the other was critically injured. The motorcycle rider who was killed was ejected from his bike and came to rest on the light rail tracks.

The light rail was closed from about 5 am to 7 am, disrupting the Seattle morning commute. However, although the stations were closed between the Tukwila station and the Othello station, alternative means of transportation were available for light rail riders. Commuters took buses as investigators collected evidence from the Washington State motorcycle accident scene. Debris from the two crashed biked was strewn over a large distance, and one of the bikes came to rest on the light rail tracks, furthering delays.

Seattle Police reported that evidence has shown that the two men were speeding when they both hit an obstruction in the road, though the crash is still under investigation.

Friends and family of the injured motorcycle rider and the killed motorcycle rider told reporters and police that the bikers belonged to a local Seattle motorcycle club and that both men were safe riders.

The names of the two Seattle motorcycle accident victims were not released.

Cyclist Critically Injured By Turning Car In Seattle Bicycle Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)10029 — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Seattle continues to be a dangerous city for cyclists. On Thursday afternoon, a Seattle bike rider was critically injured when he was struck by an SUV. According to Seattle Police, the westbound 1988 Nissan was stopped in the center lane of Northeast 45th St. near the 200 block of the city street, waiting for traffic to clear so that he could turn into a driveway. The Washington bike accident took place at half past noon on August 5.

The cyclist, identified only as a 26-year-old male by authorities, did not see the SUV turning left and struck the vehicle. The Seattle bicycle accident probably took place because a car going east stopped to let the SUV turn, while the bicycle going east had his vision blocked by the stopped car.

The cyclist was rushed to Harborview Medical Center with critical injuries. It is unknown whether the bicycle rider was wearing a helmet or other protective gear. The 36-year-old driver of the SUV that hit the cyclist was not under found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, which is still under investigation. The SUV driver was released after questioning.

It is unclear who had the right of way in this accident, and whether or not the cyclist was aware of the turning car before the Washington bike accident. No citations were issued.

Brinnon, WA, Boy Mauled By Jefferson County Bull Mastiff

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)9925 — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to the Peninsula Daily News, a Bull Mastiff will escape euthanasia after attacking an 8-year-old boy. Jefferson County Animal Control Officer Bruce Turner explained that the Washington State dog attack was provoked by the young boy, and that the dog does not appear to be aggressive after a visit to the family home. The father of the boy agreed that the dog attack was the boy's fault, although he also told the press that the dog would be given away to a family friend.

The 70-pound, 3-year-old dog, which was the family's pet, was playing with the boy under a bed last year when the dog attacked. The family said that their son was repeatedly harassing the dog, which led to the dog bite.

The Brinnon, Washington, boy was transported by helicopter to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he was treated for extremely trauma to his nose and the left side of his face. He went through surgery and was then released to his home, where he continues to recover from his dog bite wounds.

"A provoked bite is an affirmative defense, so there is no reason for me to seize the animal," said Turner, who investigated the dog bite and came to the conclusion that the dog was not a danger. Still, the dog will leave the household.

"The father said he just couldn't ever trust the boy and the dog together again," Turner said.

The dog bite victim may need further cosmetic surgery in the future - though time will tell.

Boy With Learner's Permit Hits Pedestrians On Lopez Island

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)9627 — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 15-year-old boy with a learner's permit and a 17-year-old friend in the passenger's seat was speeding a custom car in San Juan County when he lost control of the vehicle and ran into a group of joggers and bicyclers on Lopez Island near Friday Harbor in Washington State.

On Sunday afternoon, the two boys were tinkering with the engine of a 1974 Chevy Nova when they decided to take the vehicle on a test ride on Lopez Sound Road. The two-lane rural road is popular with pedestrians and cyclists, and when the boy lost control of the car, he hit a 7-year-old girl from Seattle who was biking with her family and a 26-year-old jogger, Paul John Jaholkowski, who died at the scene of the pedestrian accident.

The driver and the passenger of the car both suffered injuries. The passenger was ejected from the car after the vehicle hit the two groups of pedestrians, rolled up an embankment, and spun out of control. The small child on the bike was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center along with the 17-year-old passenger. Neither the driver or passenger were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.

The driver was treated and released from a local hospital into the custody of his parents. He suffered a minor head injury. San Juan County Sheriff Bill Cumming told reporters that although the road is easy to navigate, the driver's inexperience likely contributed to the crash.

No charges have been filed yet in this deadly Washington pedestrian accident, as investigators continue to collect the evidence of the case.

Unsecured Load On I-90 In Seattle Causes Pileup

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)9558 — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Once again, an unsecured load on a major Washington State road has lead to a multiple car accident as well as a number of injuries.

In the westbound lanes of I-90 near the floating bridge over Lake Washington on Monday, an unsecured load left a black ten gallon bucket in the center of the road around 3:30 in the afternoon. When a car swerved to miss the bucket, it caused a chain reaction crash involving four other cars and a tractor trailer. A pickup truck involved in the multiple vehicle car crash spilled an estimated 20 gallons of paint during the collision, splattering the roadway and causing further damaged to the other cars involved.

One pickup truck landed on top of a car, trapping several drivers and passengers inside. The car accident victims were saved by Mercer Island and Seattle fire departments.

Six car accident victims were transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, though no one suffered life-threatening car accident injuries according to the Washington State Patrol.

Two westbound lanes of I-90 were closed for several hours after the crash, affecting rush hour traffic and backing cars back into Bellevue, Washington.

Earlier this year, two different accidents involving unsecured loads on I-5 caused two separate car accidents. In one case, a steel ramp fell off of a big rig and into the road, causing damage to dozens of cars and several minor injuries near Ship Canal Bridge. In another case on I-5, a steel rod fell off of a truck and flew into the windshield of a man driving behind the tractor-trailer.

Woman Boater Drowns In Lake Stevens Boating Accident

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)9464 — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

As the summer season continues on, an increasing number of boating accidents and boating fatalities are being reported around Seattle and in Washington State as a whole. Last weekend was no exception, with police investigating a fatal boating accident on Lake Stevens that took place on Saturday.

The 48-year-old Lake Stevens woman was the driver of a 20-foot ski boat with a wake board tower. There were nine other passengers aboard the boat, all of whom made it safely ashore after the accident. Witnesses reported that the boat capsized.

According to the Snohomish County Sheriff's office, the accident happened on Saturday evening, although the cause of the boating accident was not immediately clear. The other passengers were saved from the water before emergency workers arrived at the scene, but the driver of the boat went down with her vessel. A red boat that was socializing with the sunken boat pulled the other boating accident victims from the water.

A search and recovery party was called off around midnight and resumed on Sunday morning, when high-tech sonar gear provided by the Seattle Police Department was able to locate the sunken boat containing the boating victim's body.

The boat was in 50 feet of water. The identities of those involved in the accident and of the victim have not been released. It is not clear whether drugs or alcohol were a factor in the deadly boating accident. It is also not clear whether overloading was a factor in the accident.

Bremerton, Washington Cyclist Fatally Struck By SUV

drewykim@aol.com;4259410219@vtext.com (News Author)9396 — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to the Seattle Times, a cyclist was hit and killed in a bicycle accident by an SUV at a rural intersection near Bremerton, Washington.

The Kitsap County Sheriff's Office reported that the accident took place at around one in the afternoon last Saturday, June 4, northwest of Bremerton and not far from Wildcat Lake. More specifically, the bike accident took place at the Northwest Holly Road intersection with Wildcat Lake Road Northwest in Central Kitsap.

The fatal Washington bicycle accident occurred when 69-year-old James McClurkan was hit by a 2003 Nissan Murano SUV at an intersection. The driver of the SUV was a 47-year-old woman from Kitsap County.

The bicycle rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, and reportedly flew into and through the SUV's hood and windshield. After the bike accident, the body rolled off of the hood on the driver's side and into a ditch on the side of the road. McClurkan was rushed to Tacoma General Hospital in critical condition due to head injuries and brain trauma. He passed away on Sunday according to hospital officials.

Police are still investigating the case and asking anyone if they have information on the fatal bike accident. Investigators reported, however, that drugs and alcohol do not seem to be a factor in the case and that speeding was also not involved in the cyclist death. There were no other occupants in the car at the time of the cyclist accident and the driver was not injured in the crash.