Multi-Vehicle Crash Closes I-41 Off-Ramp at West Mason Street in Green Bay

A multi-vehicle collision occurred just before 7:45 AM on Thursday at the I-41 northbound off-ramp at West Mason Street in Green Bay, Wisconsin, prompting temporary closures and traffic diversions. The incident, which resulted in non-life-threatening injuries, led authorities to close both the northbound off-ramp at West Mason Street and access to the I-41 North on-ramp at Lombardi Avenue. The Green Bay Police Department responded to the scene and implemented immediate traffic control measures. Emergency personnel are currently managing the situation, with officers remaining on-site to direct traffic and ensure public safety. The crash appears to be weather-related, following Wednesday's winter weather event that left roadways in hazardous condition.

Weather-related accidents present unique challenges for insurance claims and legal proceedings. When poor conditions like snow, ice, or rain are involved, determining liability becomes more complex as multiple factors must be considered: whether drivers were operating at speeds appropriate for conditions, maintaining safe following distances, and had properly maintained their vehicles (including adequate tire tread and functioning wipers/defrosters). Insurance adjusters and courts must evaluate whether drivers exercised reasonable care given the known hazards, which can affect comparative negligence determinations. Additionally, municipalities may share liability if they failed to adequately maintain roads or respond to dangerous weather conditions within reasonable timeframes. Documentation of weather conditions through official weather reports, photos of road conditions, and witness statements becomes crucial evidence in establishing the circumstances that contributed to the accident.

Location and Infrastructure - The I-41 corridor through Green Bay serves as a crucial north-south transportation artery, with the West Mason Street interchange providing essential access to the city's west side commercial district. This heavily trafficked intersection typically handles significant daily commuter volume, connecting residential areas with major retail centers and business districts. The interchange's design includes multiple on and off-ramps to manage traffic flow between the interstate and local arterial roads. During winter months, this section of highway can become particularly challenging due to its exposure to wind and weather conditions, while the elevation changes at the interchange can exacerbate hazardous driving conditions.

Legal Rights and Considerations - Wisconsin's comparative negligence law (Wis. Stat. § 895.045) allows accident victims to recover damages even if partially at fault, provided their negligence isn't greater than the defendant's. Victims typically have three years from the accident date to file personal injury claims. Recoverable damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Insurance claims should be filed promptly, as Wisconsin requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 per accident. Weather-related accidents may involve complex liability determinations, particularly regarding reasonable care under hazardous conditions. An experienced Green Bay personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources:

• Green Bay Police Department: (920) 448-3200
• Brown County Sheriff's Office: (920) 448-4200
• Wisconsin DOT Winter Driving Tips: wisconsindot.gov/winter-driving
• Brown County Highway Department: (920) 662-2160
• Wisconsin State Patrol - Northeast Region: (920) 929-3700
• Local Victim Support Services: (800) 446-6564