Thurston Co., WA - One Critically Hurt in ATV Collision on Zenkner Valley Rd

Thurston County, WA (July 1, 2025) — A serious crash involving a quad bike left one rider critically injured on Saturday afternoon, June 28, on Zenkner Valley Road in southern Thurston County.

Emergency crews with South Thurston Fire were dispatched to the 21600 block of Zenkner Valley Road after receiving reports that a quad rider had been forced off the road by another vehicle.

Responders arrived to find the rider in urgent need of medical attention. The individual was initially transported by ground to a nearby hospital, but due to the severity of their injuries, they were later airlifted to a regional trauma facility for advanced care.

Authorities have not yet identified the rider or released specific details about their injuries. However, the air transport suggests the situation was considered critical and potentially life-threatening.

As of now, investigators are still working to determine the circumstances that led to the crash. It remains unclear whether the incident was accidental or involved dangerous or aggressive driving by the other vehicle.

We extend our best wishes to the injured rider and their loved ones, and we hope for a strong and speedy recovery.

Washington ATV Collisions

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) offer a thrilling way to explore Washington’s rugged landscapes, but when accidents happen, the consequences can be severe. Each year, ATV crashes across the state result in serious, often life-altering injuries, particularly when negligence or unsafe behavior plays a role.

From forest trails near Mount Rainier to rural backroads in Thurston and Chelan counties, ATV riders face risks that are often overlooked. In many cases, these crashes involve high speeds, uneven terrain, or reckless actions by another driver, sometimes even collisions with larger vehicles on mixed-use roads.

In 2023, Washington saw numerous ATV-related injuries, highlighting the ongoing need for greater safety and awareness. Some of the most common causes of these incidents include:

• Speeding or riding too fast for the terrain
• Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Distracted or careless driving (by ATV riders or other motorists)
• Failure to yield or observe trail/roadway rules
• Inexperienced operation or lack of safety gear

Whether it’s a rollover on a forest trail or a collision with a passenger vehicle on a shared roadway, the aftermath of an ATV crash can be devastating. Victims may face long-term recovery, significant medical expenses, time away from work, and deep emotional distress.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an ATV accident, you may have a right to seek compensation for:

• Hospital bills and ongoing medical treatment
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost income and diminished earning potential
• Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
• Property damage to your ATV or personal gear

At Freeman Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys help injured riders across Washington protect their rights and hold negligent parties accountable. Our experienced legal team understands the unique challenges ATV accident victims face—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way with compassion, clarity, and determination.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Call Freeman Law Firm today at (206) 880-2454 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you pursue justice and regain the stability you deserve after a serious ATV crash.