Olalla, Washington – One Dead in Head-On Collision

Olalla, Washington (June 27, 2019) – One woman was killed in a head-on crash involving a car and a pickup truck on Southeast Burley Olalla Road and Shady Glen Avenue Southeast on Thursday afternoon. Officials attempted lifesaving efforts on the scene but were unable to revive the victim. The victim’s identity has not yet been released. Additionally, a six year-old found in the back of the victim’s car was also taken to the hospital to be checked out as a precaution.

The crash happened around 4:30 p.m. According to officials, the victim had been driving west on Southeast Burley Olalla Road when she crossed the center line, causing her to collide with a pickup truck headed east. An investigation is ongoing to see if the woman had been impaired. The cause and manner of death is yet to be determined.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only fatal case of collision that has happened. 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.

[cta]