Spokane, Washington – Multiple Injured When Car Crashed Through Window Of Gym, Two People Hospitalized

Spokane, Washington (June 21, 2019) – Multiple people were injured and two people required hospitalization after a car crashed through the window of a gym at the 2921 block of East 57th Avenue. The driver of the car, a woman in her 70s, was shaken but uninjured. The victims belonged to a group workout session consisting of 30 people. Two people were hospitalized at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center for cuts and bruises, with one victim possibly having a broken ankle. Other sustained minor injuries, including cuts from broken glass.

The crash happened around 10:15 a.m.. The cause of the crash was pedal error, as the driver mistook the gas pedal for the brake as she was trying to park in front of the windows. Fortunately, two Marine corps veterans were present to give first aid on the scene. The gym however, will be closed until further notice. This is the second time that a car crashed through the windows of the gym, with an earlier incident last November.

About Vehicle Accidents

From data gathered on car crashes into buildings, the cause was usually operator error or pedal error. For operator errors, drivers usually accelerated or were at high speeds, or were in the wrong gear. Pedal errors similar to the situation in this case, means that drivers stepped on the gas when they meant to step on the brake. Other, smaller factors for crashing into buildings are situation-based, such as driving under influence, traffic accidents, weather conditions or medical emergencies. A very small percentage are for people who intentionally ram buildings to commit theft. From these causes, lack of control is a common feature.

Because of the crash site, the threat of injuries applies not only to the occupants of the car but also people inside the building. Damage can also be done to either the car or the struck building. As always, we urge everyone to drive with caution and practice safe driving wherever you go. Doing so minimizes damage and injuries you can inflict not only on yourself, but on others as well. If you have however become a victim of a vehicle accident of any sort, we extend our sympathies and compassion.

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