Eatonville, Washington – Five People Injured in Head-Collision at SR-7

Eatonville, Washington (June 30, 2019) – Five people were injured, with some victims requiring hospitalization in a head-on collision involving two vehicles at State Route 7 on Sunday evening. The driver at fault, identified as Patrick J. Reed  from Spanaway, along with his passenger and a 64 year-old passenger from the other car were all transported to MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup. The driver in the other car and another passenger were also injured but did not require an ambulance ride and were treated on scene.

The crash happened around 7:30 p.m. According to Washington State Patrol, Reed attempted to pass another vehicle in a no-pass zone on the curve near milepost 24 and Pilgrim Road East. He then struck the other vehicle head-on. Reed was also said to be impaired at the time of the accident. He will be facing charges of vehicular assault and driving under the influence. The accident also caused the road to be blocked for more than three hours.

About Vehicle Accidents

In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

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