Spokane, Washington – Two People Critically Injured After Car Crashes Into Pole

Spokane, Washington (February 23, 2020) – Two people were critically injured when a car crashed into a pole at the area of North Assembly Road and West Wellesley Avenue on early Sunday morning. According to the article from KHQ, two people were trapped inside the car but were extricated by responders. The victims were described to be in critical condition, with life-threatening injuries including a partially amputated arm. Both patients were taken to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. The driver, Daryn Lee White, sustained minor injuries and was also transported to a hospital, but has been released and arrested.

According to information from the Spokane Police Department, the crash occurred around 2:20 a.m. The car was reported to have been on fire from the crash but was already out before first responders arrived. Officers believe White was under the influence when the crash occurred. The crash remains under investigation.

About Vehicle Accidents

According to facts from the Insurance Institute Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, about 20% of vehicle crash deaths are from striking a fixed object along the side of the road. The top three fixed objects that are struck in these cases are traffic barriers, trees, and utility poles. As for the causes of crashing into these objects, the case is generally that of driver error. Some of the top contributing factors are alcohol, driving under excessive speed, falling asleep or simply driver inattention. Additionally, a car crash caused by another vehicle can cause another vehicle to crash into another fixed object. Some situational factors are road conditions, weather, and poor visibility. In relation to poor visibility, almost half of the fatalities in crashes involving fixed objects are said to have occurred at night. While there are options such as placing breakaway or shielding objects along roads, or increasing the visibility of such fixed objects, the best solution is often to remove the fixed object if possible. As can be seen in this case, even though no injuries were reported damage to fixed objects can result in long road closures.

Regardless of the type of vehicle accident, the best way to solve a car accident is to try and prevent it. We urge all drivers to follow traffic regulations on the road. This includes following road safety, making sure one’s vehicle is stable and ready for the road, and making sure that one is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol before getting behind the wheel. Additionally, one should take extra caution on roads where there are possible hazards. In doing these steps, we can ensure our chances of avoiding any loss, damage, death or injuries while on the street.

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