Spanaway, WA - Construction Worker Hurt in Crash on Hwy 7 near 188th St

Spanaway, WA (May 13, 2025) -  A woman is in custody for suspected DUI after a crash in a Spanaway construction zone early Tuesday morning, May 13, that left a worker seriously injured, according to Washington State Patrol.

The collision happened around 12:45 a.m. on Highway 7 near 188th Street. Authorities say the woman was heading south when her vehicle slammed into a traffic control trailer, launching it 30 to 40 feet into a construction worker nearby.

The impact didn’t stop there—her vehicle struck the back of a cable trailer, triggering a fire that quickly engulfed the car.

Fortunately, two bystanders rushed to the scene and pulled the driver from the burning vehicle. She was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.

The injured worker, who suffered serious injuries from the impact, was also hospitalized. State troopers continue to investigate the crash and have taken the driver into custody under suspicion of driving under the influence.

Our thoughts are with those involved in this traffic accident in Spanaway. 

Washington Car Accidents

Washington roadways, especially rural and suburban corridors like SR 161, see hundreds of crashes each year. In Pierce County alone, more than 500 collisions were reported in a recent year—many leading to serious injuries. When those injuries happen on the job, such as to construction workers, delivery drivers, or road crews, the situation becomes even more complex.

If you’ve been hurt in a crash while working—whether in a construction zone, operating a company vehicle, or simply driving between job sites—you may be entitled to more than just workers' compensation.

Common Work-Related Collision Injuries and Their Effects:

• Spinal and Back Injuries: These are frequent in rear-end and impact collisions. For workers whose jobs rely on physical movement, such injuries can result in long-term disability or the inability to return to previous duties.
• Facial Injuries: Whether from shattered glass, steering wheel impact, or airbag deployment, facial trauma can be both physically painful and emotionally distressing, especially when it affects your appearance or ability to work.
• Chest Trauma: Even with seatbelt use, workers can suffer rib fractures, bruising, or internal injuries, particularly in high-impact crashes or when struck by equipment or trailers on the job.
• Fractured Limbs: Construction workers, delivery personnel, and others are at risk of broken arms or legs in vehicle accidents. These injuries often require surgery, immobilization, and months of rehab, making it difficult to return to work.
• Burn Injuries: Crashes involving heavy machinery or hazardous materials can cause thermal or chemical burns, which are not only painful but can require extensive medical treatment and cause permanent damage.
• Mental Health Effects: Workplace crashes don’t just affect the body—they take a toll emotionally, too. Anxiety, PTSD, and depression are common after traumatic accidents, especially if you can’t return to work or suffer permanent injury.

If your injury happened while you were on the clock, you may have multiple paths to recovery, including workers’ compensation and a third-party personal injury claim if someone else’s negligence contributed to the accident.

At Freeman Law Firm, we understand how devastating it can be to be injured while doing your job. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling complex work-related car accident cases and can help you pursue the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, future care, and emotional suffering.

Call us at 206-880-2454 for a free consultation. Let us guide you through your legal options and help protect your rights so you can focus on healing and rebuilding. At Freeman Law Firm, we are here to fight for the support and justice you deserve.