Three-Vehicle Crash on Highway 12 Led to Injuries [Rochester, WA]

Rochester, WA (September 6, 2026) — Washington State Patrol troopers arrested a 70-year-old Lewis County man on suspicion of DUI after a three-vehicle crash on Highway 12 Tuesday evening.

The collision happened around 5:40 p.m. west of 183rd Avenue Southwest. Investigators said the Mineral man was driving a 2018 Ford Focus eastbound when he allegedly crossed into the westbound lane while attempting an illegal pass.

The Ford struck a westbound 2020 Nissan NV200 and a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The Nissan driver, a 47-year-old Oakville man, suffered injuries, while the Hyundai driver, a 37-year-old Oakville woman, escaped injury.

The suspected DUI driver also sustained injuries and went to Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia for treatment.

Emergency crews temporarily shut down the highway while they treated the injured and removed one of the drivers. Authorities reopened the roadway about 70 minutes later.

Troopers identified suspected DUI and illegal passing as contributing factors. The Ford and Nissan sustained total damage, while the Hyundai suffered reportable damage.

Let Us Be Mindful of Others on the Road

When we drive, we are all part of a larger community of people who share the road. We owe it to each other to drive responsibly, be alert, and respect the rights of others. Safe driving doesn’t just protect you—it protects your family, your neighbors, and even strangers on the road.

Together, we can reduce the number of traffic collisions and make our roads safer for everyone. Let’s drive with care, stay aware, and take responsibility for our actions.

If you are injured in a crash, seek medical attention promptly and document your injuries, vehicle damage, and other evidence. If another driver caused the collision, you may have legal options for pursuing compensation.

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Helping You Rebuild After an Accident

No one expects to be in a collision, but when it happens, it can bring lasting physical and emotional pain — not to mention financial stress. Knowing the right steps to take following a traffic accident can make all the difference in protecting your future.

If you’re involved in an accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, report the crash, and contact a trusted personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, handle insurance claims, and pursue fair compensation while you focus on recovery.

At Sweet Lawyers, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the challenges that follow serious crashes. Our attorneys bring over 40 years of experience to every case and are dedicated to achieving justice for accident victims and their families.

You don’t have to face the aftermath of an accident alone. Let our team stand by you and help you move forward with confidence.

📞 Call (800) 674-7852 today for a free, confidential consultation with a compassionate attorney in your area.