Ritzville, Washington – Multiple-Vehicle Collision on Interstate-90 During Dust Storm

Ritzville, Washington (April 11, 2020) – A multiple-vehicle crash was reported on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90, west of Ritzville on Saturday afternoon. According to an article from the Spokesman-Review, ten people were taken to the hospital for medical care, but no serious injuries were reported in the incident. Everyone involved in the crash was also reported to be wearing their seat belts.

According to information from the Washington State Patrol, the incident involved five vehicles and occurred just after 2 p.m., 20 miles west of Ritzville. A white minivan struck a semi truck from behind, causing a series of rear-end collisions. Another semi truck struck the first, followed by an SUV running into the two trucks. All four vehicles then came to rest on the shoulder of the highway, with a fifth vehicle hitting the fourth car and coming to rest on the left side of the road. According to the WSP, the incident was caused by dust blowing over the road and the SUV driver following too closely.

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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