Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision on I-10 Near Queen Creek Road Claims One Life in Maricopa County
Interstate 10 reopens south of the Valley after deadly crash Saturday morning
The eastbound lanes of the freeway were closed for several hours as DPS investigated the crash.
A tragic collision on Interstate 10 south of Queen Creek Road in Maricopa County resulted in one fatality on Saturday morning, January 18, 2025. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to a two-vehicle crash that forced the closure of eastbound lanes for several hours. Emergency personnel arrived at the scene, and DPS officials confirmed one person was pronounced deceased. The identity of the victim has not been released pending notification of next of kin. The crash investigation prompted authorities to close the eastbound lanes of I-10, causing significant traffic disruptions until the roadway was cleared and reopened later that morning. Details regarding additional injuries or the specific circumstances leading to the collision are still under investigation by DPS.
Located in the southeastern portion of Maricopa County, this segment of Interstate 10 serves as a crucial transportation artery connecting Phoenix's southeastern suburbs with Tucson. The area near Queen Creek Road experiences substantial daily commuter traffic and commercial vehicle movement, particularly during morning hours. This stretch of I-10 typically maintains a 75 mph speed limit and features three lanes in each direction with wide shoulders. The intersection with Queen Creek Road includes an overpass and on/off ramps, making it a significant junction for local traffic merging with interstate travelers.
Under Arizona law, families of fatal accident victims have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim (A.R.S. § 12-542). Survivors may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship. Arizona follows a comparative negligence system, meaning compensation can be pursued even if the deceased was partially at fault, though any award would be reduced by their percentage of fault. Insurance considerations typically involve both liability coverage and potentially uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can provide additional protection in cases where at-fault parties have insufficient coverage. An experienced Maricopa County car crash lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.
Related Resources:
- Maricopa County Sheriff's Office: Emergency Services Division
- Arizona Department of Transportation: Traffic Safety Division
- Arizona Department of Public Safety: Victim Services Unit
- Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office
- Arizona State Bar Association: Legal Referral Service
- Arizona Department of Transportation: Road Conditions (511)
- Arizona Revised Statutes: Title 28 (Transportation)
- Local Crisis Response Team: Trauma Support Services
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