Ritzville, Washington – One Person Dead in Head-On Collision at State Route 261

Ritzville, Washington (February 4, 2020) – Updated:  One person was reported to have died in a head-on collision involving a semi truck on State Route 261 on Tuesday afternoon. According to an article on the Spokesman-Review released on February 5, 2020, the victim has been identified as 76 year-old Sally J. Graves from Washtucna. The driver of the semi truck was not injured in the collision.

According to information from the Washington State Patrol, the vehicle Graves was driving was heading north on State Route 261 just after 3 p.m. Grave’s car then crossed the center line sideways, leading to a collision with a southbound semi truck.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion to the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only time a collision has resulted in a fatality and 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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