Douglas Co., WA - Two-Car Accident with Injuries on Hwy 97

Douglas County, WA (May 18, 2025) – A two-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 97 north of Orondo on Saturday afternoon, May 17, left four people injured, including two children, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP).

The crash occurred around 2:45 p.m., approximately 10 miles north of Orondo, when 75-year-old Lief H. Carlsen of Chelan attempted to make a turn off the highway in an SUV. While doing so, his vehicle was struck by an oncoming sedan driven by 53-year-old Martin P. Perez of Brewster.

Perez and his three passengers—51-year-old Analilia Perez-Medina, an 11-year-old boy, and a 6-year-old girl—sustained injuries in the impact. Perez and the boy were taken to Lake Chelan Hospital for treatment, while the young girl and Perez-Medina were transported to Confluence Health Hospital in Wenatchee. Perez-Medina was later airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for additional care.

Carlsen was not injured in the crash. The accident led to traffic delays on the highway for approximately an hour as emergency crews worked at the scene.

We hope for the full and rapid recovery of the injured victims. 

Washington Car Accidents

Each year, thousands of vehicle collisions occur across Washington, with a significant portion tied to distracted or fatigued driving. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, over 1 in 5 crashes involve a driver who was either inattentive or impaired due to drowsiness.

Fatigue behind the wheel is a silent but dangerous threat. Here’s what every Douglas County driver should know about the dangers of drowsy driving:

• Slower Reaction Time: Tired drivers often take longer to respond to changing traffic conditions, road hazards, or braking vehicles ahead. A few seconds of hesitation can mean the difference between a near miss and a devastating crash.
• Poor Decision-Making: Exhaustion can impair a driver’s judgment, making it harder to gauge following distance, speed, or safe braking zones—leading to risky maneuvers or failure to avoid obstacles.
• Microsleeps on the Move: Drivers may unknowingly fall into short bursts of sleep, known as microsleeps. Even just 3–5 seconds of unconsciousness at highway speeds can result in traveling the length of a football field without control of the vehicle.
• Greater Danger on Rural Roads: Long, isolated roads common throughout Douglas County can lull drivers into a false sense of security, increasing the likelihood of fatigue-related incidents.
• Challenges in Reporting Fatigue: Unlike alcohol impairment, fatigue doesn’t leave obvious evidence. There’s no roadside test to determine if a driver fell asleep or was too tired to operate a vehicle safely, which makes fatigue one of the most underreported crash factors.

If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a traffic accident, speaking with a car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. From proving fault to negotiating with insurance companies, having the right legal support makes a significant difference.

At Freeman Law Firm, we proudly serve clients across Washington, including Douglas County. Our experienced car accident attorneys are ready to listen, guide, and advocate for your best outcome. We offer free consultations, and you’ll never pay unless we win your case.

Call 206-880-2454 today and take the first step toward recovery with confidence. Our lawyers at Freeman Law Firm are here to fight for your rights. Moreover, we're here to help you move forward.