Seattle, Washington – Suspected Car Thief Causes Multiple Collisions in Police Chase

Seattle, Washington (July 10, 2019) – A suspected car thief caused multiple collisions by ramming police vehicles and crashing into a parked car on Wednesday afternoon. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries, but the car that the suspect used and the police vehicle sustained severe damage in the head-on collision caused by the suspect. The suspect tried to flee on foot, but was captured by police before he could get away.

Police first saw the suspect driving the stolen vehicle on the 11500 block of Stone Avenue North around 2 p.m. When officers tried to stop the vehicle, the suspect rammed them in response. The man was later found out to have a warrant, and was carrying a stun gun, and several modified car keys that were said to be commonly used by car thieves. The suspect was booked into King County Jail on suspicion of vehicle theft, attempting to elude and assault.

About Vehicle Accidents

While this particular incident contains a criminal element, car accidents of common cause can be just as dangerous. 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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