Nespelem, WA (December 18, 2025) – Julia Bucsko, 55, of Omak, was injured in a crash with a semi-truck on SR 155.
Incident Details: According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred around 10 a.m. on SR 155, approximately nine miles north of Nespelem. Robert Johnson, 52, of Colville, was driving a semi-truck downhill and stepped on the brakes. When he stepped on the brakes, the trailer lost traction and jackknifed into the southbound lane of traffic. The jackknifed trailer collided with an SUV driven by Julia Bucsko.
Bucsko sustained injuries in the crash. The extent of Bucsko’s injuries is unknown, but emergency crews transported her to Mid Valley Hospital. The semi-truck driver, Johnson, was not injured in the crash.
WSP Troopers cited Johnson for driving too fast for conditions. They noted that drugs or alcohol did not appear to be involved in the crash.
Investigation: The Washington State Patrol is continuing to investigate the semi-truck crash on State Route 155, approximately nine miles north of Nespelem. Investigators will examine physical evidence from the scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and the final position of the jackknifed trailer, to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the collision.
Because the crash involved a commercial truck, investigators may also review data from the semi-truck’s event data recorder to evaluate speed, braking input, and throttle position in the moments leading up to the jackknife.
Troopers will also assess roadway conditions, the downhill grade, and whether the driver’s speed and following distance were appropriate for traffic and weather conditions. The citation issued for driving too fast for conditions will be a key factor in determining how the loss of traction occurred.
Legal Considerations: Commercial drivers are required to operate their vehicles safely and adjust their speed based on roadway conditions, especially when traveling downhill with a loaded trailer.
A citation for driving too fast for conditions may support a finding of negligence if the investigation confirms that the driver’s conduct caused the crash. Depending on the findings, liability may also extend to the trucking company if issues related to driver training, supervision, or vehicle maintenance contributed to the collision.
For Julia Bucsko, the injuries sustained in this crash with a semi-truck may lead to ongoing medical treatment and financial strain. A personal injury claim may allow her to seek compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering related to the crash.
I wish Ms. Bucsko strength and a smooth recovery as she continues to heal from this serious accident.
Source: KPQ