Available 
Benton County, WA (February 14, 2026) – A driver suffered injuries in a head-on crash Friday morning along State Highway 24 near milepost 43 in Benton County. According to officials, the collision occurred when the driver of a car traveling eastbound lost control and crossed the center line, striking a westbound truck.
The impact resulted in injuries to the car’s driver, who was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center for treatment. Authorities stated that both drivers had their seatbelts on at the time of the crash. The injured driver, a resident of Mattawa, was later cited for negligent driving in the second degree. Investigators determined the primary cause to be excessive speed for the road conditions. No signs of impairment were involved.
Key Details
- Location: State Hwy 24 at Milepost 43, Benton County, WA
- Date of Incident: Friday, February 13
- Time of Day: Early morning (exact time not stated)
- Vehicles Involved: Car and truck
- Injuries: One driver was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center
- Citations: Car driver cited for negligent driving, second degree
What We Know So Far
- The car’s driver lost control and collided head-on with a truck
- One person was injured and taken to a local hospital
- Speed too fast for road conditions was identified as the cause
- No drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Specific nature of the driver’s injuries
- Estimated cost of vehicle damages
- If additional charges or civil action will follow
Local Context
State Hwy 24 near milepost 43 traverses rural Benton County with limited lighting and open stretches that can become hazardous during early hours or changing weather. Drivers traveling this route are urged to adjust speed for road conditions, especially during mornings when surfaces may still be slick or visibility is limited.
What to Do Next
- Slow down on rural highways and adjust for current weather or road surface conditions.
- Use extra caution when approaching blind curves or hills on open roads.
- Ensure your seatbelt is fastened at all times while driving or riding.
- Report any erratic or dangerous driving behavior to authorities immediately.
FAQ
Q: Why are rural highways like Hwy 24 prone to head-on crashes?
A: These roads often lack center dividers and have high-speed limits, making loss of control or lane departure especially dangerous during early morning or low-visibility hours.
Q: What does “negligent driving in the second degree” mean?
A: In Washington, this charge typically applies when someone operates a vehicle without reasonable caution, endangering others, but without signs of intoxication or criminal intent.
Q: How do investigators determine the cause of a crash?
A: Police examine road conditions, witness statements, vehicle positions, and driver behavior to establish fault or contributing factors such as speed or distraction.
