Head-on Police Vehicle Accident in Washington Leaves Woman and Dog Injured

On August 28, 2020, Dorothy A. Russ was driving her Lincoln-Continental Aviator eastbound on South 56th Street in Tacoma Washington, accompanied by her beloved dog, Tiffany.

As Mrs. Russ entered the intersection of South 56th Street and South Cheyenne Street, her vehicle was struck head-on by an oncoming police vehicle attempting to make a left turn. The police car was driven by on-duty officer Chaz Pingul. The impact was severe. Airbags deployed in both vehicles, and significant damage occurred to Mrs. Russ’s Aviator.

While neither driver reported serious injuries at the scene beyond being shaken up and suffering a few minor scratches, the situation changed in the hours following the crash. Once the adrenaline wore off, Mrs. Russ began experiencing neck pain, back pain, right shoulder pain, and bilateral knee injuries, all of which caused her significant discomfort and impacted her daily life. Tragically, her dog Tiffany was paralyzed in the accident, adding emotional distress to her physical injuries.

This case serves as a reminder that accidents involving police vehicles present unique legal challenges, including government immunity issues and complex liability questions. If you or a loved one has been injured by a police car in Washington, it’s essential to consult an experienced personal injury attorney immediately to protect your rights and pursue full compensation.

Tacoma Car Accident Lawyer Joshua Brumley says regarding the accident, “Collisions with police vehicles aren’t handled like typical accident claims. The government’s legal team will work to minimize your payout from day one. You need an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands how to address government defenses and navigate complex immunity laws. At Brumley Law Firm, we work diligently to protect our clients’ rights and pursue fair compensation based on the facts of each case. If you’ve been involved in a collision, especially one involving law enforcement, contact us promptly so we can begin protecting your legal interests.”