On July 20, 2024, a devastating accident occurred on U.S. Route 97 near Blewett Pass in Washington State. The collision, which involved multiple vehicles including semi-trucks, resulted in significant traffic disruptions and brought attention to the dangers of driving on mountain passes, especially under challenging conditions.
Details of the Incident
According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), the incident began when a semi-truck jackknifed, blocking southbound lanes. Another semi-truck attempted an illegal pass to avoid the obstruction, entering oncoming traffic lanes. This maneuver led to a head-on collision with a passenger vehicle carrying four occupants. All four passengers were injured and transported to Confluence Health Hospital in Wenatchee. The semi-truck driver was cited for improper passing but was not injured or under the influence at the time
Impact and Aftermath
The accident caused a prolonged shutdown of U.S. Route 97 as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and conduct investigations. Weather conditions, including poor visibility and slick roads, were cited as contributing factors. The roadway remained closed well into the following day due to fallen trees and adverse weather
Safety and Mountain Pass Driving
This accident underscores the inherent risks of driving on mountain passes. Weather, visibility, and road conditions can change rapidly, making defensive driving critical. Authorities have urged drivers to avoid risky maneuvers like passing in non-designated zones, especially in challenging weather.
The Blewett Pass area in Washington was the site of a tragic accident on July 20, 2024, which resulted in significant disruptions and injuries. The accident occurred on U.S. Highway 97, which crosses through the Cascade Mountains, a notorious location for challenging weather conditions and difficult driving routes. On this particular day, the crash involved multiple vehicles, including at least one semi-truck and several passenger vehicles, and led to road closures for several hours.
According to Washington State Patrol reports, the incident began around mid-day, with weather conditions worsening in the area. The primary cause of the collision was a semi-truck that jackknifed and blocked the southbound lanes of the highway. As other drivers attempted to navigate around the obstacle, one semi-truck driver attempted an illegal pass into oncoming traffic. This maneuver resulted in a head-on collision with a passenger vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. Four individuals from the passenger car, including two people from Seattle and two from Tukwila, sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, the semi-truck driver who initiated the passing maneuver was unharmed
The weather at the time of the crash played a contributing role. Wet and slippery conditions, compounded by reduced visibility, made navigating the pass particularly hazardous. The road was shut down for several hours as emergency services responded to the scene, cleared debris, and conducted their investigation. The incident led to a significant traffic backlog, as travelers were forced to wait for the highway to be reopened
This tragic event highlights the dangers of driving in mountainous areas, especially under adverse weather conditions. It serves as a reminder for all drivers to exercise caution and follow traffic regulations, especially in areas known for their unpredictable weather and difficult driving conditions, such as Blewett Pass.
The incident left four individuals injured. The occupants of the car included two residents from Seattle, Marnie G. Gonzalez (56) and Roneo P. Gonzalez (58), along with two individuals from Tukwila, Charlie C. Megia (64) and Rhodora A. Megia (64). All four were transported to Confluence Health Hospital in Wenatchee for treatment. Fortunately, the driver of the second semi-truck, 61-year-old Dorel Buse of Vancouver, Washington, did not sustain injuries in the crash.
Investigations revealed that the semi-truck driver who attempted the illegal pass was at fault. Weather conditions, which were reported to be messy and hazardous, also played a role in the accident
