From Washington State Patrol:

While putting on chains two men were seriously injured when they were struck by two vehicles that slid out of control on the snowy roadway.

Just before 4:00 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, a three vehicle collision occurred on westbound Interstate 90 near exit 38.  A Toyota Corolla pulled onto the right shoulder to add chains as roadway conditions worsened.  A blue four-wheel drive Toyota pickup truck, driven by a 33-year-old man from Kenmore, was traveling west in the left lane when he lost control and struck the driver’s side of  a black Honda Pilot traveling in the right lane.  Both vehicles were stuck together as they slid to the right shoulder where the two male passengers from the Corolla, a 20-year-old from Burien and a 22-year-old from Seattle, were putting chains on the Toyota.  Both men were struck and seriously injured.

During the investigation of the collision it was discovered that the pickup truck that lost control had four- wheel drive capabilities, but was only in two-wheel drive at the time of the collision.  That area of westbound Interstate 90 was past any traction tire restriction, but the roadway in the area was covered in snow.  The Corolla had minor damage from the vehicle contact and no other injuries were reported in the collision.  All vehicles were drivable following the collision.

Far too often collisions occur that kill or cause serious injury in which speed too fast for the conditions of the roadway is the main cause.  Although many times applying chains is merely frustrating and cold, this type of unfortunate circumstance can happen to anyone.  Some choices may decrease the likelihood of collisions and injuries in winter driving conditions:

• Don’t ASSUME roadway conditions will improve because you have left a traction tire restricted area.
• Slow Down!  Speed is the leading cause of losing control in adverse weather conditions.
• Things happen fast.  If your outside your car be alert and give yourself a place to run if needed.
• Apply safety chains in designated “Chain-up” areas that are wider keeping vehicles further from traffic.
• Take an exit if needed to find a safe location to add chains away from traffic.
• Don’t be overconfident in your vehicles abilities – 4 wheel drive and chained vehicles crash in poor weather too.  Know when to use your chains and 4 wheel drive.
• Have emergency supplies in case you need to wait in your car for help.
• Divide your attention – watching for traffic may save your life.