Benton, ME (November 19, 2024) – A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed the life of a 20-year-old man on Interstate 95 in central Maine on Sunday afternoon.
Maine State Police reported responding to a crash at approximately 4:17 p.m. near mile marker 134 on I-95 north in Benton. Upon arrival, troopers identified the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, Isaiah Mathieu, 20, of Clinton, who had succumbed to his injuries.
The crash involved a Chevy Trax, which left the roadway on a curve, striking a guardrail before sustaining significant damage and coming to rest in a ditch near the tree line. Emergency responders, including paramedics and fire crews from the Clinton Fire Department, were on-site to assess the situation and secure the area.
Preliminary findings suggest that excessive speed and the driver’s inability to navigate the curve contributed to the crash. However, the exact circumstances leading to the vehicle leaving the highway remain under investigation by state police.
In addition to Maine State Police, the Clinton Fire Department, the Maine Department of Transportation, and Blanchard’s Towing assisted at the scene to manage the aftermath of the incident.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by high-speed travel and roadway curves, particularly in unpredictable conditions.
Single-Vehicle Accidents in Maine
Single-vehicle crashes are unfortunately common in Maine, especially on major highways like I-95. These accidents often occur due to factors such as speed, distracted driving, or adverse weather conditions. In rural areas of the state, curves and roadside hazards like guardrails or tree lines can increase the severity of such crashes.
Maine’s state agencies work diligently to investigate and address roadway safety, including analyzing accident hotspots to improve signage, road designs, and public awareness campaigns. Despite these efforts, motorists are reminded to exercise caution and drive at speeds appropriate for road conditions to reduce the risk of tragic incidents like this one.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a vehicle accident, understanding your rights and options is crucial. Local Accident Reports can provide valuable information and support to help you navigate these challenging situations.
For families impacted by accidents, our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.