Bear Lake County, ID (February 20, 2025) – An 85-year-old man tragically lost his life following a three-vehicle collision on US-30 near Montpelier on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Idaho State Police (ISP), the crash occurred at approximately 1:20 p.m. at milepost 421.8, where a Kenworth semi-truck was stopped eastbound due to an earlier accident. A Lincoln MKC, occupied by an 85-year-old woman and an 85-year-old man from Georgetown, ID, was stopped behind the semi when a Freightliner truck, driven by a 42-year-old Las Vegas man, failed to yield and crashed into the Lincoln. The impact forced the Lincoln onto the left shoulder before the Freightliner struck the Kenworth’s trailer and came to a rest.
Emergency responders transported both occupants of the Lincoln to a local hospital, where the male passenger later succumbed to his injuries. Authorities closed the roadway for approximately 10 hours as they conducted an investigation and cleared the wreckage.
The Idaho State Police were assisted at the scene by the Idaho Transportation Department, Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Bear Lake Fire Department, Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, and Soda Springs Medical personnel.
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Truck Accidents in Idaho
Large truck accidents, such as this tragic collision on US-30, are often catastrophic due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Crashes involving semis and passenger cars frequently lead to severe or fatal injuries, particularly when high speeds and failure to yield are factors.
Rear-end collisions, especially those involving trucks, can be caused by distracted driving, driver fatigue, or brake failure. In cases where a truck driver fails to stop for traffic ahead, the force of impact can be devastating, pushing smaller vehicles into other hazards or causing multi-vehicle pileups.
Victims of truck accidents often face overwhelming medical expenses, long-term injuries, and emotional trauma. If a crash results from negligence, such as a truck driver’s failure to maintain a safe stopping distance, injured parties or their families may have legal options to seek compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and other damages.
Authorities continue to investigate Wednesday’s fatal accident to determine whether factors such as distracted driving, mechanical failure, or road conditions played a role.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident, it is important to understand your rights. Local Accident Reports provides essential resources and guidance for victims and their families. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in seeking justice and the compensation you deserve.