Rafael Arizaga Tapia Ejected and Injured in Semi-Truck Crash on Highway 97 [Orondo, WA]

Driver Hospitalized after Semi-Truck Collision near Milepost 213

ORONDO, WA (November 16, 2021) – Friday afternoon, Rafael Arizaga Tapia was hospitalized after a semi-truck crash on Highway 97.

Dispatchers responded to the scene around 5:27 p.m., after receiving reports of a big-rig spilling a load of apples in the area.

According to reports, Tapia was heading south on the highway near milepost 213 when he struck a guard rail. The truck landed in a nearby dry creek bed, and spilled a large load of apples that were being transported.

Investigators say Tapia was driving at speeds too fast for the conditions of the road.

Due to the impact, the driver was ejected from the semi-truck onto the road. Paramedics responded and took 53-year-old Rafael Arizaga Tapia, of West Richland to Central Washington Hospital in critical condition.

Once available, further details will be provided.

When operating a vehicle, it is your responsibility to maintain focus on the road at all times. In addition, avoid distractions that can easily lead to dangerous collisions. By practicing safe driving habits, you can help keep yourself and others around you safe.

It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when becoming involved in a semi-truck accident. Reach out to the personal injury lawyers at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, we know what it takes to help you win your case. Our team understands that nothing can alleviate the emotional pain of a death of a loved one, but we can help you seek justice and compensation. Call us at (800) 975-3435 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach us 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. Click here to request a police report.