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by Matthew C. Andrew - November 20th, 2024
Snow-covered roads in Twin Falls and Wendell, Idaho, present serious challenges for drivers. A snow car crash can lead to severe injuries, traffic disruptions, and significant equipment damage, as seen in two recent incidents where semi-trucks on I-84 rear-ended snowplows. These collisions under dangerous winter conditions highlight the risks of driving near snowplows. At Andrew Injury Law Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Twin Falls, we provide legal help for snowplow crashes in Twin Falls, ensuring injured parties receive the necessary representation.
Two alarming accidents involving snowplows and semi-trucks occurred recently along I-84 in Twin Falls and Wendell. These crashes emphasize the dangers of Idaho’s winter road conditions and the challenges snowplow operators face while clearing icy highways. Engaging with a Twin Falls Personal Injury Lawyer ensures experienced guidance through the complexities of insurance claims and helps secure fair compensation following such incidents.
Such incidents disrupt vital snow-clearing operations and jeopardize public safety. According to the Idaho Transportation Department, snowplow collisions are rising, with at least nine accidents reported this winter alone.
On the same day, two snowplows traveling eastbound on I-84 were struck from behind by semi-trucks. Both collisions injured the snowplow drivers and created significant delays for motorists. These incidents occurred under winter weather conditions, which likely reduced visibility and road traction.
Seeking assistance from a Twin Falls Car Accident Lawyer can help victims handle complex insurance processes and pursue the compensation they deserve after such incidents.
Emergency responders had to travel treacherous roads to reach the scenes, highlighting the risks of icy conditions. These collisions illustrate the heightened danger of driving near snowplows and the need for drivers to exercise caution around them.
The road conditions at mile markers 173 and 153 significantly affected the accidents. During winter, this stretch of I-84 is prone to accumulating black ice, a nearly invisible layer of ice that drastically reduces tire traction. Coupled with snow accumulation and blowing winds, these conditions create an environment where even experienced drivers may struggle to maintain control.
In addition to icy surfaces, visibility was likely a contributing factor. Blowing snow from nearby fields or passing vehicles can reduce drivers’ ability to see other vehicles, including snowplows with flashing lights. This visibility challenge makes it more difficult for semi-truck drivers to react quickly, particularly when approaching slower-moving snowplows.
The timing of these accidents also matters. The early morning crash near Twin Falls and the afternoon crash near Wendell both occurred when shadows or glare from sunlight can worsen visibility on icy roads. The Idaho Transportation Department emphasizes that understanding and adapting to such conditions is critical for preventing collisions, especially in areas with frequent winter weather.
The timing of these accidents had a significant impact on traffic flow along I-84.
Such accidents underline the importance of maintaining clear traffic flow during winter storms. Idaho’s highways are vital transportation corridors, and disruptions can have widespread consequences for commuters and freight operators alike.
Yes, the road conditions at mile markers 173 and 153 significantly affected the accidents. This portion of I-84 is particularly hazardous during winter, as it often develops black ice—an almost invisible sheet of ice that severely compromises tire traction. Combined with snow buildup and strong, gusty winds, these factors create treacherous conditions where even skilled drivers may find it challenging to maintain control.
Beyond icy surfaces, reduced visibility likely played a significant role. Blowing snow from nearby fields or passing vehicles can impair a driver’s ability to see others on the road, including snowplows with flashing lights. This lack of visibility poses a greater challenge for semi-truck drivers, who may struggle to react quickly enough when approaching slower-moving snowplows.
The National Weather Service explains that black ice often forms overnight or in shaded areas and can be nearly invisible, creating dangerous driving conditions for all vehicles. Drivers are advised to reduce speeds, increase following distances, and remain cautious in areas where ice is likely to develop.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a snow car crash, such as a semi rear-ends snowplow Twin Falls legal case, Andrew Injury Law is here to help. We provide experienced representation as your Twin Falls semi-truck accident lawyer and Wendell truck and snowplow collision lawyer, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 208-517-7670 or visit us at 3597 E Monarch Sky Lane Suite 240, Meridian, ID 83646. Let our team guide you through the intricacies of your case so you can focus on recovery.
Matt Andrew has been an attorney and member of the Idaho Bar since 2007 and has a varied and fascinating legal career. Since 2013, Matt has focused on representing seriously injured people in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Matt has successfully tried multiple cases to verdict before the Idaho District Courts and the Idaho Industrial Commission.
Member of the Idaho Bar since 2007
Bar Number: #7698
Location: Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, Idaho.
Both collisions followed a similar pattern of semi-trucks failing to slow down and rear-ending snowplows.
While both semi-truck drivers failed to slow down, these incidents emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance from snowplows. These vehicles travel at lower speeds to perform their work effectively, leaving little room for error if other drivers don’t adjust their speed. As the Idaho Transportation Department notes, collisions like these underscore the challenges snow-clearing crews face in maintaining safe winter travel.
The location of these crashes created significant challenges for emergency responders. Both mile markers 173 and 153 are on stretches of I-84, known for their exposure to harsh winter weather. Snowstorms and icy conditions in these areas reduce visibility and road traction, making it difficult for emergency vehicles to reach accident scenes promptly.
Additionally, the high volume of traffic on I-84 exacerbated the situation. This Interstate is a significant transportation route for commuters, long-haul trucks, and local drivers, meaning that any accident along its length can result in significant congestion. During winter storms, this congestion worsens as vehicles struggle to travel icy roads safely while maneuvering around blocked lanes.
Another complicating factor is the rural nature of these locations. Emergency response teams often need additional time to access remote areas, especially during heavy snowfalls that slow their progress. As the Idaho News reports, such delays not only prolong traffic disruptions but also increase the risks of secondary accidents as drivers attempt to bypass the scene.
Yes. Both snowplow drivers were injured in these accidents. The driver in the Twin Falls crash was transported to the hospital via ground ambulance, while the Wendell driver was taken to the hospital in a personal vehicle.
Snowplow operators already face hazardous working conditions, and rear-end collisions with heavy trucks amplify the risks. Victims in these types of crashes may experience significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term physical challenges. Seeking help from a Twin Falls snowplow rear-end accident attorney is critical to recovering compensation.
Both crashes immediately caused traffic disruptions and road maintenance delays, which significantly impacted the Interstate’s flow and safety. Emergency responders had to block lanes to ensure the safety of the injured snowplow drivers and passing motorists. These closures caused several hours of delays for eastbound traffic on I-84, a major route for local and interstate travelers.
Furthermore, accidents like these have long-term ripple effects. Snowplows damaged in collisions must undergo costly repairs or replacements, further delaying winter maintenance efforts. The Idaho Transportation Department highlights how such delays create unsafe conditions for other drivers, particularly during peak snowfall periods.
Another serious consequence is the increased risk for future collisions. Icy roads combined with unplowed snow pose even greater hazards, making it essential to minimize snowplow disruptions whenever possible.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney Matthew Andrew, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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