Driver escapes serious injury after speeding car plunges down embankment in Auburn

A driver experienced a harrowing incident on March 21, 2025, when their vehicle left the roadway and plummeted approximately 200 feet down an embankment along eastbound SR 18 near 304th Street in Auburn, Washington. Trooper Rick Johnson of the Washington State Patrol reported that the driver was traveling too fast for the rainy conditions, which contributed to the severity of the crash. Johnson took to social media to emphasize the critical need for drivers to slow down during rainfall, stating, “It’s raining, the roads are wet, SLOW DOWN!!! ” The incident occurred amid ongoing rainfall, which had created dangerously slick roadways in the South King County area. Miraculously, the driver walked away with only minor injuries, a fortunate outcome considering the steep drop from the road.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash, underscoring the importance of individual driver responsibility. The Washington State Patrol continues to advocate for safe driving practices, particularly during inclement weather. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with speeding in adverse conditions.