Benton County, Washington – Injuries Reported in Two Separate Crashes on Interstate-82

Benton County, Washington (February 23, 2020) – Two separate crash incidents were reported to have occurred on Interstate 82 between Kennewick and Umatilla County on Sunday afternoon. According to the article from KOMO News, five people were hospitalized for their injuries but none of the injuries were considered life-threatening.

The two incidents were reported to have occurred just after Sunday noon. One crash involved two vehicles, while the other crash involved four vehicles. Crews that responded to the incidents reported that the area had extremely low visibility due to high winds in the area blowing dust. It was not mentioned if low-visibility conditions were a factor in the crashes. The incident caused the eastbound lanes to be blocked for over an hour.

bout 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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