According to the investigators, a driver was trying to make a left turn when they failed to yield to oncoming traffic and sparked a crash involving three vehicles
Gig Harbor, WA – One person was killed while two others were hospitalized after a collision on State Route 302 near the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Gig Harbor on Wednesday evening.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the accident took place near State Route 16 at around 3:40 p.m. on February 18.
According to the investigators, a driver was trying to make a left turn when they failed to yield to oncoming traffic and sparked a crash involving three vehicles.
One person was confirmed deceased at the scene of the accident. The victim’s identity was not immediately available.
Two other involved parties were transported to a hospital for treatment. The condition of the hospitalized patients was not specified.
The accident caused the closure of a section of State Route 302 as authorities investigated and cleared the scene. There was no update on when the roadway was reopened.
No additional details on the incident were released. The Washington State Patrol troopers who responded to the scene were still investigating to determine the exact cause of the collision.
Traffic-related accidents result in multiple injuries and deaths in Pierce County each year. Fatalities in the county have remained a serious concern, averaging 91 fatalities annually between 2021 and 2023. The situation worsened as it reached its highest point in 2023, when 95 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 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-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 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.