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Tacoma, WA (August 5, 2026) – Traffic was impacted on Monday morning, August 3, after a two-vehicle crash on eastbound SR 16 near Sprague Avenue in Tacoma injured an 86-year-old man. Two lanes were blocked for about 30 minutes following the collision.
According to official reports, a 21-year-old woman from Joint Base Lewis-McChord was traveling westbound on SR 16 and exiting toward Sprague Avenue South when she made a U-turn in front of an 86-year-old Lakewood man traveling eastbound. The man’s vehicle then struck the woman’s truck. The Lakewood man was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The woman was charged with second-degree negligent driving, and officials said drugs and alcohol were not involved. The investigation into the cause of the collision remains ongoing.
We are sending our thoughts to the injured driver and wishing him continued healing.
What Is Reviewed After a Highway U-Turn Crash?
Crashes involving sudden turns or lane changes are reviewed by examining vehicle movements, traffic conditions, and roadway design. Investigators may look at where each vehicle was traveling, the timing of the turn, vehicle damage, and evidence from the roadway.
Witness statements, available camera footage, and vehicle inspections may provide additional information about the moments before impact. These details can help explain how the vehicles interacted and what factors contributed to the collision. A complete review helps create a clearer timeline of the crash.
