A Tuesday accident involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle that miraculously did not result in fatalities left a veteran Washington State Patrol (WSP) trooper speechless, major news outlets have reported.
The crash, which took place on the I-5 Skagit River Bridge in Mount Vernon, involved a Nissan Altima and a semi-truck. Officials had to shut down both the north and southbound lanes to aid the victim and clear up the site of the crash.
Driver Suffered Minor Injuries Despite Vehicle Condition
According to the WSP, the Nissan Altima was traveling on the I-5 Skagit River Bridge when the semi-truck struck it from behind. The large vehicle eventually came to a stop on top of the Nissan Altima, crushing it as a result. The driver miraculously survived, despite being stuck inside the vehicle that had been folded in half as a result of the accident. Because the traffic was causing the bridge to move, causing the truck to become unstable, officials blocked both lanes and towed the front end of the semi-truck off the passenger vehicle.
On Twitter, trooper Rocky Oliphant said that he had never seen anything quite like the I-5 semi-truck collision before.
According to the same trooper, the Nissan driver was able to get out of the crushed vehicle on her own, not requiring additional help after the tow truck lifted the front end of the semi-truck.
Following the collision, the truck driver was fined $189, receiving a citation for “following too closely.”
Following Too Closely Is Never A Good Idea: Avoid Accidents By Slowing Down
This accident reminds us that slowing down and giving vehicles ahead enough space can help prevent injuries.
Thankfully, nobody was seriously injured in this particular accident. However, drivers involved in similar crashes might not have the same luck. As the weather worsens, roads become more slippery, and days become shorter, drivers must do their part to keep Washington roads safe. Keeping a safe distance is especially important during the colder months.
For more on this crash, follow this link. And for tips on how to stay safe while driving this winter, check out our latest blog entries here and here.
