Article: Montagna Klein & Camden*
Photo by Kaboompics on Pexels
Traffic safety remains a critical focus for the Spokane region, as evidenced by ongoing local incidents and statewide trends. While local and state agencies continuously analyze detailed, real-time collision data for every Spokane intersection, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) highlights persistent challenges across Washington State.
Preliminary 2024 data from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) indicates a concerning increase in distracted driving fatalities, even as overall traffic fatalities have seen a slight decrease. These trends underscore the pressing need for robust traffic management strategies and a proactive approach to safety, particularly at intersections where various modes of transportation converge.
Understanding Spokane’s Traffic Landscape and Emerging Challenges
Spokane’s population growth contributes to increasing traffic volumes, while the wear on existing infrastructure can exacerbate challenges at intersections. Local incidents frequently highlight these dangers.
For example, on May 25, 2025, a car collided with a Spokane Fire Department fire engine at the busy intersection of Boone Avenue and Monroe Street near downtown Spokane. Such events underscore the complex nature of urban traffic safety and the continuous need for effective intersection management.
The Indispensable Role of Safety Policies and Infrastructure
Adequate traffic safety is a multifaceted endeavor that relies heavily on sound policies and robust infrastructure. Policies, such as established speed limits, rules for right-of-way, and regulations against impaired or distracted driving, create the framework for safe behavior. Without clear and consistently enforced rules, chaos would reign on our roads.
Infrastructure plays an equally critical role in complementing these policies. Well-designed roads, visible signage, functional traffic signals, and safe pedestrian crossings are not merely conveniences; they are fundamental safety features. They guide drivers, separate conflicting movements, and forgive human error.
For instance, marked crosswalks and pedestrian signals allow vulnerable road users to navigate intersections safely. Properly timed traffic lights reduce bottlenecks and the temptation for drivers to rush through yellows. Investing in infrastructure improvements—from simple pavement markings to complex interchange redesigns—directly reduces collision points and improves overall traffic flow and safety. This integrated approach, where policies dictate safe practices and infrastructure facilitates them, is essential for building a resilient and safe transportation system.
Key Initiatives for Enhancing Spokane’s Road Safety
Spokane is actively addressing traffic safety through an integrated approach. In late 2022, the city adopted a Vision Zero resolution, committing to eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries. This commitment is guided by a “Safe Systems” approach, designing roads and policies to protect all users and acknowledging that human error is inevitable. The Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC) further supports this with its Regional Safety Action Plan, adopted on September 12, 2024. It analyzes crash data to identify high-risk areas and recommend regional countermeasures.
Responding to a rise in severe collisions, Spokane introduced new traffic safety measures. Additionally, the Spokane Police Department has reinstated a dedicated Traffic Safety and Education Unit. This unit, with officers focused on general enforcement and DUI prevention, aims to curb dangerous behaviors. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasized this urgency, stating in April 2025 that surpassing 2024’s 20 fatalities would be “unacceptable.”
The city is also implementing targeted infrastructure improvements, partially funded by a $9.6 million federal “Safe Streets for All” grant awarded in December 2023, with construction planned for late 2025 through 2027. Projects outlined in the 2023 Vision Zero Action Plan focus on high-risk locations, including pedestrian safety enhancements like shortened crosswalks and “leading pedestrian intervals” at downtown signals. The city council approved a policy in May 2025 to make right turns on red illegal at specific downtown intersections to enhance pedestrian safety.
Moreover, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) champions the “Roundabouts first” policy for state highways, recognizing their proven ability to significantly reduce serious crashes by lowering speeds and eliminating specific conflict points. Spokane County also continually reviews speed limits and implements measures like visible signage and law enforcement to ensure compliance and public safety, which its Traffic Department manages.
The Critical Role of Driver Behavior
Driver behavior remains a leading factor in traffic incidents. The WTSC consistently identifies impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and failure to use seatbelts as major contributors to fatalities statewide.
Despite Washington’s 2017 “Driving Under the Influence of Electronics Act” prohibiting handheld cell phone use, distracted driving fatalities have unfortunately risen in Washington, as per preliminary 2024 WTSC data. To combat this, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) is conducting emphasis patrols on a 14-mile stretch of I-90 in Spokane through July 31, 2025, using non-personal cell phone data to identify and address problem areas for speeding and distraction. The Spokane Police Department also has dedicated officers for DUI enforcement as part of its reinstated traffic unit, aiming to deter impaired driving before it begins.
Proactive Steps for Spokane Drivers: Your Role in Safety
While systemic changes in policy and infrastructure are essential, individual drivers hold significant power to enhance road safety. By adopting a proactive and defensive approach; every Spokane driver contributes to a safer community.
First and foremost, maintain unwavering situational awareness. This means constantly scanning your surroundings, not just the vehicle directly in front of you, checking cross-traffic, anticipating pedestrian movements, and being mindful of cyclists. Particularly at intersections, where traffic movements converge, actively observing your environment can prevent many conflicts.
Secondly, eliminate distractions. Washington State laws explicitly prohibit handheld electronic device use while driving or stopping in traffic, and the Washington State Patrol continuously emphasizes the profound dangers of distracted driving. This includes avoiding activities like adjusting the radio, eating, or engaging in intense conversations that divert your mental focus from the road. Your full attention is the most critical safety feature in your vehicle.
Third, adhere strictly to all traffic signals and signs. Even if it means waiting an extra moment, obeying traffic signals is non-negotiable. Resist the temptation to “beat” a yellow light, as this impulsive action is a frequent cause of severe T-bone collisions at intersections. Be aware that the City of Spokane has already approved policies to make right turns on red illegal at specific downtown intersections to enhance pedestrian safety, and this trend may expand.
Fourth, exercise heightened caution around large vehicles. Commercial trucks and buses have significantly larger blind spots and require more room to maneuver and stop. Give them ample space and avoid lingering in their blind zones.
Fifth, plan your routes strategically. Utilize navigation applications that provide real-time traffic data. This can help you identify and avoid heavily congested areas or problematic intersections, especially during peak hours, reducing your exposure to high-risk situations.
Sixth, always observe posted speed limits and adjust for conditions. Speeding dramatically reduces your reaction time and directly increases the severity of any collision. The ongoing WSP emphasizes patrols on I-90 in Spokane, specifically targeting speeding, reinforcing the message that compliance is critical.
Finally, maintain a safe following distance. Allow enough space between your vehicle and the one ahead to react to sudden stops or unpredictable changes in traffic flow. This is particularly crucial at intersections, where traffic patterns can be erratic. By consistently practicing these defensive driving techniques, Spokane drivers become active participants in preventing accidents and fostering a safer, more protective environment for everyone on the road.
Addressing the Aftermath: What to Do After an Accident
Even with diligent driving, accidents can happen. If involved in a collision, prioritize safety and proper procedure:
- Ensure Safety: Move the involved vehicles to a safe location if possible.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries.
- Call 911: Report the incident and promptly request emergency medical services if needed.
- Exchange Information: Safely exchange insurance and contact information with other involved parties.
- Document the Scene: Take clear and timely photos and videos of vehicle damage, the surrounding area, and any other contributing factors.
- File a Collision Report: Washington State law requires drivers to complete a collision report form if law enforcement does not investigate, if damages exceed $1,000, or if an injury occurs.
- Seek Medical Attention: Prompt medical evaluation is crucial, as some injuries may not be visible or immediately apparent.
- Consult Legal Counsel: Dealing with insurance claims can be complex. Insurance companies do not always offer you a fair settlement that fully covers these damages. Protecting your rights and doing everything to ensure a fair resolution is paramount in such situations. An expert car accident attorney in Spokane can guide victims through these complexities, ensuring all necessary documentation is correctly filed and advocating for the compensation they deserve.
A Collaborative Path Forward for Spokane
Improving traffic safety in Spokane requires a shared commitment from city planners, traffic engineers, law enforcement, and every driver. The City of Spokane’s Vision Zero initiative, SRTC’s safety plans, and the SPD’s renewed focus on enforcement marks a strong foundation.
Continued investment in modern infrastructure, strategic designs, sustained public education, and consistent traffic law enforcement are vital. By working together, the Spokane community can collectively strive for safer roadways, reducing preventable collisions and enhancing the quality of life for all.
