Spike in Traffic Fatalities Concerns WSP

Washington State Patrol troopers are urging motorists to make better choices and hopefully stem a recent spike in highway fatalities.  Last weekend troopers responded to six major collisions in which a total of ten people died. It was the deadliest weekend of 2009. 

"This loss of life is of great concern to me," stated Chief John R. Batiste, Washington State Patrol, "and we do not want it repeated this weekend." 

Three of the ten people killed were not wearing their seatbelts. Alcohol was involved in three of the collisions. Additional contributing factors to the collisions were speed, aggressive driving, and driver inattention.  

"All of the contributing factors were choices made by the vehicle drivers," Batiste added. "We hope others will learn from these tragedies, and make better choices."

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The six collisions occurred in all parts of the state; three in Yakima County, one in Thurston County, Lincoln County, and Snohomish County. Three of the collisions were one vehicle collisions, one involved 4 vehicles, and two involved 2 vehicles.

The weather was not a factor as the roadways were bare and dry.  Two of the collisions occurred at night the rest were between 12 noon and 8:30 pm.

The weather forecast for this weekend is for mild temperatures with a possibility of rain.  Because we have had no rain recently, when it does come some roadways may be slick.  Watch your speed and following distances. Give yourself enough room to maneuver if an emergency arises.

When you get behind the wheel or grab onto the handlebars of your motorcycle you are the one making the decisions. The WSP is asking you to make wise choices because wrong decisions could result in collisions which could cost your life or the life of an innocent party.

Please drive safely.