Three semi-trucks collided on Interstate 5 south of Tumwater on Wednesday, causing extended delays for southbound commuters.
The incident occurred around 9:46 a.m. on the southbound side of the highway near 93rd Ave. SW, Trooper Robert Reyer said. The wreck blocked the two left lanes, creating an extended backup.
No injuries were reported, Reyer said. Although tow trucks were dispatched soon after the crash, he said, the road remained partially blocked by the afternoon.
Oil from the affected vehicles dripped onto the roadway, Reyer said. As a result, he said the state Department of Transportation brought out sander trucks to clean up the spill.
Traffic has been slowly getting by on the right lane, he added.
Based on the photographs from the scene, it appears the three semi-trucks were lined up in a single lane prior to the collision.
Reyer said the first two trucks slowed or stopped due to traffic when the third truck collided with the second truck, causing the second truck to hit the first truck.
The driver of the rear truck received an infraction for following the trucks ahead too closely, he said. Drugs or alcohol were not involved in the collision, he added.
With the rainy weather affecting road conditions, Reyer recommended drivers increase follow distances.
"Sufficient distance during dry conditions might not be sufficient during wet conditions," he said. "Increasing following distance can greatly contribute to safety."
