Coulee City, Washington – Crash Involving Three Vehicles Results in Injuries

Coulee City, Washington (June 22, 2019) – At least two people were injured in a crash involving three vehicles on State Route 17 on Saturday night. One victim of concern was a pregnant twenty year-old passenger from the car struck by the causing driver. As a precaution she was airlifted to Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, though the extent of her injuries has not been detailed. The causing driver also sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and was taken to Samaritan Hospital.

The crash happened around 7 p.m. on the State Route 17, 12 miles south of Coulee City. While attempting to pass a semi truck, the driver of the vehicle at fault lost control and collided with a northbound car. The crash also damaged the semi truck. The accident caused State Route 17 to be partially blocked while response crews were on the scene. The causing driver was determined to not have been under the influence, and was cited for unsafe passing and negligent driving in the second degree.

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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