A semi-truck overturned on Interstate 65 southbound near mile marker 116 in Indianapolis late Monday evening, causing a significant diesel fuel spill and forcing authorities to close the ramp connecting I-65 southbound to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street for several hours. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) reported that approximately 100 gallons of diesel fuel spilled across the roadway following the crash, which occurred sometime before 11:02 p.m. on Monday night. Emergency responders from multiple agencies worked through the night to clear the overturned commercial vehicle and address the environmental hazard posed by the fuel spill. Indiana State Police initially estimated the closure would last two to three hours past 11:48 p.m., but cleanup efforts extended well into Tuesday morning. The affected ramp finally reopened to traffic just after 4:00 a.m. Tuesday. Fortunately, Indiana State Police confirmed that no individuals required medical transport to local hospitals, suggesting that while the crash resulted in significant property damage and environmental concerns, serious injuries were avoided.

Location and Infrastructure

The crash occurred at mile marker 116 on Interstate 65 southbound, specifically affecting the exit ramp leading to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street in Indianapolis. This location sits in the heart of Indianapolis's urban corridor, where I-65 serves as a major north-south thoroughfare carrying substantial commercial and passenger vehicle traffic through the metropolitan area. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street exit provides access to several key Indianapolis neighborhoods and connects to the downtown area, making it a frequently utilized interchange. Interstate 65 through Indianapolis experiences heavy truck traffic as it serves as a primary freight corridor connecting the Great Lakes region to the Gulf Coast. The mile marker 116 area features typical interstate infrastructure including concrete barriers, overhead signage, and standard exit ramp geometry. During overnight hours, while traffic volumes are reduced compared to peak periods, the interstate still maintains steady flow from long-haul truckers and late-night commuters, making prompt emergency response and traffic management crucial for public safety.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Indiana law, commercial vehicle accidents involving hazardous material spills fall under both state traffic regulations and federal Department of Transportation safety standards. Semi-truck operators and their employers must maintain adequate insurance coverage as required by Indiana Code and federal motor carrier safety regulations, typically including liability coverage of at least $750,000 for general freight operations. Individuals affected by commercial vehicle accidents in Indiana generally have two years from the date of the incident to file personal injury claims under the state's statute of limitations. Potential compensation in truck accident cases may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, depending on the circumstances and extent of any injuries or damages. Environmental cleanup costs associated with fuel spills may be covered under the trucking company's pollution liability insurance. Indiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning compensation can be reduced based on any contributory negligence by other parties. Given the complexity of commercial vehicle regulations and multiple potentially liable parties including drivers, trucking companies, and insurance carriers, accident victims should consider consulting with qualified legal counsel to understand their rights and options under Indiana law.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services: 911
• Indiana State Police: (317) 899-8577
• Indianapolis Fire Department: 911

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Indiana Department of Transportation: (855) 463-6848
• Indianapolis Department of Public Works: (317) 327-4622
• Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Traffic Safety: (317) 232-1986

Support Services:

• Indiana Victim Assistance Program: (317) 232-1986
• Indianapolis Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services: (317) 232-2385

Legal and Regulatory Information:

• Indiana Code Title 9 (Motor Vehicles): iga.in.gov
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: fmcsa.dot.gov
• Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles: in.gov/bmv