CHEWELAH, Washington — A head-on collision on US Highway 395 left two drivers injured Wednesday morning, highlighting the ongoing safety concerns along this heavily trafficked state route. According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), the crash occurred around 7:44 a.m. on January 28, approximately nine miles south of Chewelah in Stevens County.

Authorities report that a 48-year-old woman from Chattaroy was driving a Chevy Colorado southbound when the vehicle lost traction, causing it to drift into the northbound lane. The Chevy collided head-on with an Acura RDX, driven by a 40-year-old woman from Deer Park. Both drivers were reportedly wearing seatbelts at the time and were transported to a hospital with unspecified injuries. Early investigations suggest that high speeds for road conditions may have contributed to the crash.

At this time, the WSP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, and no additional details have been released. Emergency responders worked swiftly to secure the scene and ensure the safety of both drivers.

This incident underscores a broader concern in Stevens County, where traffic accidents remain a serious risk. Between 2021 and 2023, the county averaged six fatalities annually, with 2023 seeing a peak of eight deaths, many on state routes like US 395. Curved sections, high traffic volume, and driver errors such as speeding, distracted driving, and impaired operation contribute to these crashes. According to the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission, state routes accounted for 28% of fatalities statewide in 2023, reinforcing the danger posed by these roads.