(Wash. Highway, Washington) On August 30th, a two vehicle crash occurred due to an improper lane usage that killed five people on Washington Highway.
According to Washington State Patrol, the collision occurred at 9:40 p.m. when a 2014 Nissan Maxima was going westbound when it hit a Chevrolet Sonic after crossing the eastbound lanes on Highway 2.
Four people in the Nissan Maxima died. The Chevrolet Sonic driver was killed as well. The driver was a 77-year-old woman from Omak, Washington.
Reported by outlets, the incident was due to improper lane usage. Washington State Patrol believe that impairment in alcohol and drugs played a factor in this collision.
Analysis on Washington Highway
Since police believe impairment may have played a role in this collision, investigators may review RCW 46.61.502 to determine what the driver violated before her fatal death. She may have violated (1) (a) of this code. This law discusses that a person driving within two hours of 0.08% or more of intoxicating liquor, cannabis, or any drugs in blood after driving, is guilty of driving under the influence.
Another violation that is considered in driving under the influence is (c), a combination of intoxicated liquor, cannabis or any drugs. This is an important law that investigators can look at due to the belief of both drugs and alcohol both being the cause of the fatal collision.
If the vehicle had issues in itself, the driver may have violated RCW 46.37.010. (1) under this law it is a traffic infraction to move a vehicle in unsafe conditions that can endanger other people. This violation may be the exact cause for the improper lane usage that resulted in the vehicle collision.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Washington State Patrol can help you receive more information from the investigation. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in car accident cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
