Multi-Semi Truck Collision Closes I-65 North Near Lafayette, Indiana; Two Injured

Modified Date: 
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 8:43am
Accident Date: 
Thursday, January 23, 2025

Morning snow shower snarls traffic on Interstate 65 in the Lafayette area

The accident at the Indiana 25 exit happened when a semi slowed down and the rig behind him rear-ended the semi, Piers said.

Multiple Crashes on I-65 Impact Traffic

Fortunately, there were no fatalities in the crash. Three of the drivers sustained injuries, with one reported to have more serious injuries.

A chain-reaction crash involving four semi-trucks occurred Thursday afternoon on northbound Interstate 65 near the Lafayette/Indiana 25 exit, resulting in two confirmed injuries and significant traffic disruption. The incident began when one semi-truck slowed down, causing a rear-end collision with a second truck. A third semi attempting to avoid the initial crash changed lanes but was then sideswiped by a fourth semi, which also rear-ended the second truck in the sequence. Two drivers were transported to Lafayette-area hospitals, with a possible third victim sustaining minor injuries. As of 1:30 p.m., Indiana State Police Sgt. Jeremy Piers reported multiple crashes stretching from Clinton County to beyond the Indiana 18 exit in White County. Tippecanoe County Coroner Carrie Costello confirmed no fatalities. Emergency response resulted in closure of all northbound lanes, with traffic being diverted off and back onto I-65 via the Indiana 25 exit ramps.

Location and Infrastructure - The accident occurred on a crucial section of I-65, a major north-south interstate corridor connecting Indianapolis to Chicago. The Lafayette/Indiana 25 exit serves as a primary access point for Lafayette and West Lafayette, handling significant commercial truck traffic. This stretch of I-65 experiences heavy freight movement due to its position between major distribution centers and manufacturing facilities. The interstate typically maintains three lanes in each direction through this area, with dedicated exit and entrance ramps at Indiana 25. The location between the exit ramps allowed emergency services to implement an effective temporary traffic diversion system.

Legal Rights and Considerations - Under Indiana Code Title 9, commercial vehicle accidents involve specific liability considerations, including federal hours-of-service regulations and commercial driver's license requirements. Indiana's comparative fault system may affect compensation claims, as multiple parties' negligence could be factors. Injured parties typically have two years from the accident date to file personal injury claims. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages. Commercial vehicle insurance policies often carry higher liability limits than personal auto policies, reflecting the increased risks associated with semi-truck accidents. An experienced Indiana truck crash lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

 

Related Resources:

  • Indiana State Police Lafayette Post
  • Tippecanoe County Emergency Management
  • Lafayette Fire Department
  • Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Traffic Safety Division
  • Indiana Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division
  • Indiana Crash Victims' Rights Organization
Roadway: 
I-65