Teenagers Killed in Thurston County Crash

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on September 10, 2013

A 19-year-old Montesano man and a 19-year-old woman from McCleary were killed when their car crashed into a tree along the roadway in Thurston County. According to a news report in The Seattle Times, the fatal crash occurred on eastbound Highway 8 east of McCleary. Officials are investigating if speed was a factor when the car left the roadway and crashed into a tree with enough force to split the car in half. The driver was ejected from the vehicle during the collision and both were fatally injured.

Speed is a common contributing factor in many of the most devastating Seattle car accidents. Under Washington Statute 46.61.400: “No person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.” This means that drivers are not only required to obey the posted speed limit, but also to adjust their speed to the traffic, weather, and roadway conditions.

It is important whenever a single-vehicle crash occurs to consider all possible causes of the accident. Speed, distractions, alcohol, and fatigue are common contributing factors in the majority of single-vehicle crashes. There are, however, other potential causes to consider during an investigation. Some single vehicle crashes result from hazardous roadway conditions and defective auto parts.

An experienced car accident attorney will diligently work to determine what caused the crash and who should be held accountable for the family’s tragic loss. In some cases, the victim’s family is able to receive financial support for their considerable emotional and financial losses. A successful wrongful death claim can result in financial support for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The experienced car accident attorneys at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. offer free consultations to anyone who has lost a loved one in a Washington crash. Please call our offices today at (888) 228-3860 to discuss your legal rights and options with a skilled wrongful death attorney.