A wrong-way accident involving several vehicles in Tukwila this week resulted in injuries, news outlets reported. One driver was arrested for driving under the influence. According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), a 44-year-old woman behind the wheel of a 2003 Toyota Rav4 was traveling south on Interstate 5 Monday night when she entered the northbound lanes, crashing into a 2010 Toyota Prius head-on.
After the initial collision, the Rav4 spun and crashed into a 2008 Chevy Express. The Prius also collided with another vehicle after it was pushed into another lane due to the impact, crashing into a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The 44-year-old woman was taken to the hospital for treatment and then taken into custody on DUI charges.
The 36-year-old man behind the wheel of the Express vehicle was treated for injuries at the scene while the 53-year-old Prius driver was taken to Valley Medical Center for treatment. The fourth driver involved in the multi-vehicle accident was not injured.
After the accident, two left and two right lanes were blocked. Officials and emergency personnel ended up shutting all lanes shortly after the crash.
Final update, CLEARED: The collisions on NB I-5 south of I-405 (MP 155) have cleared. All lanes are now open. https://t.co/3MspvC1EEF
— WSDOT Traffic (@wsdot_traffic) October 10, 2023
Drunk Driving Is Still A Problem Nationwide
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol in Washington, just as it is illegal to drive under the influence in the rest of the country. However, one person was killed in a DUI accident every 39 minutes across the country in 2021.
Alcohol and drug consumption increase impairment and make driving riskier. Unfortunately, drivers continue to ignore the law, choosing to drive while under the influence. As a result, about 37 people in the United States die as a result of DUI accidents every day.
With the number of deadly DUI accidents increasing nationwide yearly, officials are concerned that drivers are ignoring state laws.
Avoid DUI Accidents In Washington: Be A Responsible Driver
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges drivers to plan their drive home before any party, event, or get together by choosing a non-drinking friend as a designated driver. Drivers can also make sure they won’t be driving home while intoxicated by using a ride-share app to find a safe ride home.
If you know someone who has been drinking and is planning on driving home, take their keys and help them make it home safely.
When hosting a party, make sure all guests have a sober ride home.
For more on the wrong-way DUI accident, follow this link.
