Most Washington drivers have encountered an upcoming traffic jam that required them to reduce their speed. Such a situation often occurs on a highway, and some drivers may find the rapid speed adjustment difficult. In most cases, provided the driver has been paying careful attention, he or she can reduce speed safely and in a timely manner. Unfortunately, recently, the driver of a semi-truck lost control of his vehicle while attempting to slow for traffic and, in the process, crashed head-on into another vehicle, resulting in fatal personal injury to the driver of that vehicle.
According to police, the incident happened on a Monday morning on Pacific Highway South in Federal Way. The semi-truck was traveling north when the driver had to slow for traffic and, in the process, lost control of the vehicle, veering over the center line into southbound traffic and crashing head-on into another vehicle. Sadly, the 50-year-old woman driving the car that was hit was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reportedly, two other vehicles were also involved in the crash. As a result of the head-on collision, another southbound vehicle made minor contact with the semi, and that driver was transported to a hospital with minor injuries. Police have said another semi was also involved in the crash, but that vehicle sustained very little damage. The driver of the semi that seems to have caused the crash suffered injuries not considered life-threatening. Authorities are still investigating the accident.
Some drivers find highway driving a little more challenging, at times, than travel on roads with a lower speed limit. This semi-truck driver may have lost control of his vehicle for a variety of reasons, but when the investigation concludes, evidence could indicate driver error. In that case, the victim’s family members have the right to pursue the matter further. A knowledgeable Washington personal injury lawyer can help them understand their legal options moving forward.