Bellingham, WA - Brandon W. Gipson Killed in Accident on E Smith Rd near Noon Rd

Bellingham, WA (January 28, 2025) - A fatal traffic accident involving a construction vehicle claimed the life of a construction worker on Tuesday morning, January 28. The incident took place in Bellingham, according to information from the Washington State Patrol.

Police and other responders were sent to the scene shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, in a construction zone near the intersection of East Smith Road and Noon Road. Police say a red 2019 Western Star commercial vehicle was backing down the right shoulder of Smith Road while a construction worker, 42-year-old Brandon W. Gipson, of Ferndale, WA, was walking westbound in the same area. The vehicle then struck Gipson, who lost his life at the scene. The driver of the construction vehicle was not injured in the collision. Police in Bellingham continue to investigate the details of the accident. 

We want to offer our sincere condolences to the deceased victim’s family at this time.

Washington Traffic Accidents

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of injuries and death in the United States today. Each year, over 40,000 fatalities are reported in the US related to auto accidents. In 2022, 42,514 people were killed in auto collisions across the nation. Common contributors to these accidents include intoxicated driving, speeding, and distraction. Most of the reported traffic crashes in the US involve high-risk behaviors, with inebriation responsible for nearly 30% of yearly fatalities. 

In 2023, Washington saw over 800 people lose their lives in auto accidents. These tragedies occurred mostly due to negligent driving, which is behind approximately 94% of reported traffic collisions in the US each year. In one recent year, roughly 13,000 people were killed in crashes caused by intoxicated drivers.  

If you or a loved one has recently been hurt in an auto accident, it is vital to determine how the accident occurred. If you think a careless driver was at fault, working with an attorney could be a huge help to you and your family in the aftermath of your collision.

A car crash lawyer from the Freeman Law Firm can help you file a compensation claim after being injured in an accident. This can help you get the funds needed for outstanding medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and more. 

The only thing worse than being hurt in a crash is losing someone you love in the same manner. You should never have to worry about money at a time like this, which is why wrongful death lawyers are here to help. You can get help paying for funeral costs and more when you work alongside a skilled wrongful death attorney in Bellingham.

At the Freeman Law Firm, our trusted and experienced personal injury attorneys have worked for many years to help crash victims and their loved ones recover. Contact us at 206-880-2454 to learn more about our ability to help you during this overwhelming and challenging time.