Work zone collision offers an important safety reminder for drivers
On the morning of Thursday, Sept. 25, WSDOT survey crews were parked in the ditch on the west side of SR 9, just north of Marsh Road, about eight feet off the roadway. The crews were just starting to unload their equipment when an apparently inattentive driver heading southbound on SR 9 left the roadway and crashed into the back of the survey truck.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the driver of the SUV was traveling at about 50 mph when he collided with the WSDOT truck. The impact of the collision totaled the SUV, damaged the truck, and sent equipment and debris flying. The driver was transported to the hospital; a seatbelt and airbags likely saved his life. One survey worker sustained minor injuries and was also transported to the hospital.
This collision offers an important reminder for drivers to slow down, pay attention and drive safely through work zones. Nearly 99 percent of people injured or killed in work zone collisions are drivers and passengers. Please reduce your speed and stay alert to make work zones safer for both construction crews and drivers.
