Spokane, Washington – Two People Injured in Car Accident, Driver Arrested on Suspicion of Leaving the Scene

Spokane, Washington (November 24, 2019) -Update: As of December 2, one of the victims, Peter A. Louthian, has passed away from his injuries. The crash is still under investigation.

Original article: Two people were brought to MultiCare Valley Hospital on early Sunday morning after they sustained injuries in a crash that occurred near the intersection of East 16th Avenue and Sout Balfour Road. One victim was reported to be unconscious and with serious injuries, and remains in critical condition as of Wednesday. The other victim had minor injuries and couldn’t remember the circumstances of the crash. The driver of the vehicle was later found and arrested by police for felony hit-and-run.

According to the report, police found the driver, Ryan J. Elliott at the home of his mother. Elliott stated that he did not remember the circumstances of the crash or how he got home, only recounting that he swerved to avoid something on the road, which caused him to crash into a parked truck near the intersection. Police later found Elliott’s damaged vehicle at the 1600 block of South Balfour Road. According to the report Elliott did not appear to be impaired, and he has been jailed while waiting for court hearing. Deputies are asking for anyone with information on the crash to give them a call as investigation is still ongoing.

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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