Walla Walla blends a thriving wine scene with busy streets traveled by residents and visitors alike. However, like any city, traffic accidents remain a concern.
Recorded crash statistics for 2024:
- Suspected Serious Injury: 13
- Suspected Minor Injury: 37
- Possible Injury: 50
- No Apparent Injury: 312
- Total Crashes: 412
High-Risk Areas for Traffic Incidents in Walla Walla
- 35 crashes at N 9th Ave as it transitions into S Highway 125
This area presents a clear point of confusion and convergence for traffic.
- 14 crashes at the interchange where Plaza Way, Dalles Military Road, S 9th Ave, and S Highway 125 meet
While most reported incidents here involve minor or no apparent injuries, the combination of an interchange and a roundabout increases the likelihood of confusion. As discussed in a previous article, roundabouts are generally more effective than traditional crossroads in preventing accidents, but a lack of clear information may contribute to incidents. - 15 crashes around the perimeter of Fort Walla Walla Park
- 18 crashes on E Isaac Ave between Link St and White St
Additionally, 7 crashes occurred in the short stretch of E Isaac Ave in front of Ankeny Field.
- W Poplar St in Original Town
This street stands out as a central accident hotspot, with incidents recorded at nearly every intersection from S 9th Ave to the Valley Homes area.
Positive News
Some statistics can be seen as “good news,” even though there are still areas for improvement in both driver behavior and road infrastructure.
No severe injury crashes were recorded on US Highway 12
Compared to other major roads, this suggests that it does not pose as high a risk.
For the first time since 2020, a year with zero traffic fatalities has been recorded
This marks a significant improvement in road safety for Walla Walla.
Photo by Emmanuel Munoz
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains a concern in Walla Walla, contributing to 111 crashes in 2024. While most incidents resulted in no apparent injury (80 cases), there were still 31 crashes involving injuries, including 2 suspected serious injuries.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents in Walla Walla 2024
In 2024, Walla Walla recorded 9 pedestrian accidents, with 3 classified as suspected severe injuries. Notably, these incidents occurred on weekdays between 3 and 5 PM, suggesting that hazardous crosswalks or unclear signage may be contributing factors rather than social causes.
⚠️ Nearly 50% of those affected were seniors over 60 years old.
On the cyclist side, only one serious injury was reported—a Friday afternoon incident at E Isaac Ave & N Roosevelt St. Unlike pedestrian crashes, 25% of cyclists involved in accidents were between 15 and 20 years old.
Positive news
Since 2018, Walla Walla has not recorded any fatal pedestrian or cyclist accidents on its streets.
Drunk Driving Accidents
Walla Walla maintains a remarkably low rate of drunk driving incidents, which is commendable. However, the goal should always be zero.
In 2024, 31 crashes were attributed to alcohol impairment, with only one suspected serious injury. This severe accident occurred at 8:50 PM on a Monday, at the intersection of W Rose St & NE Myra Rd.
While the numbers remain low, impaired driving remains a preventable risk—one that should never happen in the first place.
Photo by Rio Space
Teen Accidents
In 2024, there were 73 accidents involving teenage drivers, with the following breakdown:
- 3 suspected serious injuries
- 8 suspected minor injuries
- 10 possible injuries
- 52 no apparent injuries
Out of the 73 total crashes, only 11 were caused by distractions, which is typically a common issue with teenage drivers. Notably, only 1 incident involved cellphone use.
While distractions remain a concern, it’s worth highlighting that the overall number of crashes in this age group could have been higher without this relatively low level of distraction-related incidents.
Other Accidents
- Buses: 2 accidents
- Motorcycles: 8 accidents, 2 with severe injuries
- Trucks: 11 accidents
- Wildlife-related accidents: 7 incidents, although they did not cause severe damages, it’s important to remain cautious when traveling through the following areas:
- S Highway 125 near the Community Bank (3 accidents)
- W Rose St near Blue Mountain Railroad (2 accidents)
- These accidents tend to occur mostly at night, so extra caution is recommended during evening and nighttime driving.
While Walla Walla has its share of crash hotspots and ongoing safety concerns, the 2024 statistics also highlight meaningful progress. Zero fatalities, low rates of severe injury, and relatively few alcohol-related crashes point toward a community moving in the right direction. Still, distracted driving, pedestrian risks, and high-traffic intersections remain challenges that require attention from both drivers and city planners. By combining responsible driving habits with continued investment in safer road design, Walla Walla can build on this progress and work toward an even safer future for everyone who calls its streets home.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash in Walla Walla, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The Advocates have helped thousands of accident victims navigate medical bills, insurance claims, and recovery with care and expertise. Contact us today for a free consultation—because you deserve an Advocate on your side.