Long Beach, Washington – One Child Dead, Three Injured in Head-On Collision

Long Beach, Washington (December 20, 2019) – An 11 year-old boy died and his father and sister were injured in a head-on collision that occurred on Sandridge Road on Friday afternoon. The child, identified as Gavin Lehotta, was taken to Ocean Beach Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The child’s father was reported to have sustained broken ribs in the accident and is in the intensive care unit of the hospital. Two other occupants in the same car were also injured, but no word has been given regarding their condition. The driver of the pickup truck also sustained minor injuries in the crash and was taken to the hospital.

According to the report from the Pacific County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Friday afternoon. Witnesses reported that the pickup truck was heading north and it swerved into the opposite lanes several times before the collision occurred. Deputies that responded to the scene reported that the driver was not under the influence at the time of the accident. The collision remains under investigation.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only case of fatality in car 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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