According to the WSP, Jack Haworth, 81, was driving northbound on SR 221 when he was hit by a second vehicle that was also heading north
Benton County, WA – The Washington State Patrol is investigating an incident where a two-vehicle collision sent a car off the roadway and left one driver dead in Benton County on Thursday morning.
The collision happened on State Route 221 near Highway 14 on Thursday, January 15.
According to the WSP, Jack Haworth, 81, was driving northbound on SR 221 when he was hit by a second vehicle that was also heading north. The impact pushed Haworth's vehicle off the roadway and it rolled over.
Haworth was not wearing a seatbelt and was killed in the accident. There was no update on the condition of the second driver.
Both directions of State Route 221 were shut down between Sellards Road and SR 14 as authorities investigated the scene, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. It was unclear how long the closure would last.
The Washington State Patrol is conducting an ongoing investigation into the deadly Benton County accident.
Benton County has recorded relatively high number of fatalities in traffic-related accidents in the recent past. The county averaged 22 fatalities annually between 2021 and 2023. The situation got worse as it reached its highest point in 2023, when 38 lives were lost due to traffic collisions. Data from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) shows that a large share of these fatal crashes occurred on state highways, with Interstate 5 and I-182 ranking among the most dangerous roadways in the county.
These routes are particularly hazardous due to a combination of sharp curves and heavy traffic flow, including frequent semi-truck activity. Such conditions often lead to risky passing maneuvers, increasing the likelihood of vehicles veering into oncoming lanes. In addition to roadway design and traffic volume, contributing factors commonly include impaired driving, excessive speed, unsafe passing, and driver distraction. Motorists are strongly encouraged to stay alert, especially when traveling through high-risk areas like I-182 and I-5, to reduce the chances of being involved in a devastating crash.
Speak with a Professional Car Accident Lawyer for Legal Help
If you were injured or lost your loved one in this car accident, you may have the right to seek compensation. It is advisable to seek legal guidance from a professional car accident lawyer. Visit our car accident lawyer page to learn more about the legal options you have.