Federal Way, Washington – One Killed, One Injured in a Crash on the I-5

Federal Way, Washington (June 23, 2019) – One person was killed and another injured after a car crashed on the freeway and collided with another vehicle. The victim was a 29 year-old driver of a Chevrolet Cruze whose identity has not yet been released. Troopers have stated that this driver died on the scene. The driver in the other car, a 25 year-old in a Honda Fit, was injured, but the extent of their injuries has not been stated. There were no reports that that the injured driver was taken to the hospital for treatment.

The first crash happened when the 29 year-old driver struck a guardrail on the right shoulder, causing their vehicle roll over and end up on its top in lane three. The 25 year-old driver, who was on lane three, collided with the crashed car and landed on top of it. This accident caused the highway to be partly blocked for four hours. Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.

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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