Spokane, Washington – Hit-and-Run Driver Arrested For Striking Occupied Car

Spokane, Washington (December 19, 2019) – A collision involving a truck and an occupied car at the intersection of North Ash Street and West Northwest Boulevard was caused by the truck driver running a red light. The driver, identified as Brian K. Souminen, fled the scene and later abandoned his vehicle, but was later found by police. Fortunately no one was injured in the collision, though the collision caused airbags to deploy.

The incident happened around 10:40 a.m. when an officer witnessed the collision. The Spokane Police reported that Souminen refused to obey the officer’s commands and left the scene. Officers found his vehicle abandoned not too far from the scene, and were later able to arrest him on charges of driving on a suspended license, obstructing officers, reckless driving, and a hit-and-run on an attended vehicle. Souminen was booked into Spokane County Jail but was reported to have been released.

About Vehicle Accidents

While this particular incident contains a criminal element, it is important to note that accidents of other causes can also result in damage or injuries. 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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