The stretch of westbound I-90 in Seattle that was earlier closed due to a recycling truck collision is now open. The traffic standstill, which lasted several hours, was caused by a rollover accident at the junction of I-90 and I-5. As confirmed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on X, all lanes have since been cleared for travel.
CLEAR: All lanes have reopened on WB I-90 at I-5 in #Seattle. Still prepare for delays over the bridge and consider alternate routes. https://t.co/xfJMiXq66q
— WSDOT Traffic (@wsdot_traffic) March 15, 2024
Despite the collision, only minor injuries were reported, involving the driver of the recycling truck. After almost being entirely blocked near I-5 for about three hours, regular traffic flow resumed on the interstate. The lanes were blocked, struggling to manage the accident's aftermath till afternoon hours. Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson informed the public about the incident through posts showing the truck overturned on KATU.
Transportation authorities have cautioned drivers to anticipate slower traffic as the backups clear. They recommend considering alternate routes to avoid congestion. "The extent of the driver's injuries is unknown," stated Trooper Johnson in a post shared on social media platforms and reported by KING5. The mishap, which unfolded near Rainier Avenue, saw a prompt response from Eastside Fire and Rescue, ruling out any critical harm to those involved.
It is actually a recycling truck. Here is a picture. Tow on the way. Driver is injured but unsure about nature of injuries. pic.twitter.com/da8qAE4BfI
— Trooper Rick Johnson (@wspd2pio) March 14, 2024
As the backup of vehicles stretched back for miles, the affected section of I-90 remained a site of swift clean-up and investigation. Remarkably, the transported materials within the recycling truck were safely handled by the officials on the scene. "Eastside Fire and Rescue responded to the incident and said the injuries were minor," according to a detail obtained by KATU, giving some relief amidst the traffic chaos that unfolded on a busy Seattle highway.
