In light of the recent semi collisions on I-5 through Tacoma, WSDOT has released the following message:

This notice is for all freight haulers traveling on Interstate 5 through Tacoma, WA. The Washington State Department of Transportation is asking, in the strongest terms possible, for freight drivers to please slow down to an advisory 50 mph speed limit when traveling through I-5 construction zones in Tacoma. Earlier this morning, the 8th semi collision in as many months closed all lanes of I-5 for several hours near State Route 16. The semi trailer was empty as the driver reportedly lost control of his vehicle, smashed into numerous sections of jersey barrier and jack-knifed. Fortunately this time, the driver was not seriously injured.

These 8 semi collisions share many of these common features:

  • Semi speeds were in excess of both the advisory and regulatory speed limits
  • Incidents occurred during dark, very early morning hours (around 2-3 a.m.)
  • Highway surface was wet
  • Incidents occurred in a construction zone where I-5 is in a temporary configuration
  • Drivers lost control of their vehicles. Most incidents involved only the semi.

WSDOT and the Washington State Patrol have been working to raise drivers’ awareness of the need to drive for conditions. Beyond setting an advisory speed limit, WSDOT has restriped the area multiple times, added reflective markers on the roadway, and increased signage to alert drivers that they’re entering a construction zone. WSP has conducted commercial vehicle safety emphasis patrols and increased public safety messaging.

Interstate 5 through Tacoma will be in the same temporary configuration through May. What can truckers do over those two months? The message is straightforward: slow down through Tacoma, even if you have the highway to yourself. Hundreds of semis successfully traverse I-5 through Tacoma every day without incident. Don’t become a statistic – pay attention, stay alert, and drive for conditions. We thank you, other drivers thank you, your loved ones thank you and your company thanks you.