Berkshire Township, OH (December 5, 2024) – Two people, including a Delaware County sheriff’s deputy, were seriously injured early Thursday morning after being struck by a semi-truck on Interstate 71 South near milepost 131. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that the incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. when the driver of a 2009 Toyota Camry was involved in a prior crash on the west side of I-71 South. While investigating the initial crash, two Delaware County sheriff’s cruisers had their emergency lights activated on the right-hand berm. During this time, a 2017 Freightliner Cascadia driven by a woman traveling south on I-71 lost control, jackknifed, and veered off the road. The truck struck a deputy on foot as well as the disabled Toyota Camry.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and both the deputy and the Camry driver were transported to Grant Medical Center with serious injuries. Fortunately, the truck driver was not injured in the crash. The incident caused significant disruption, with the ramp from US-36 to I-71 South and all southbound lanes of I-71 at the US-36/State Route 37 exit shut down for several hours during the morning commute. The roads reopened shortly before 8:15 a.m.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, along with other emergency crews, is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including why the truck driver lost control.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this tragic event, as well as with the families of the victims. We hope for their speedy recovery.
Semi-Truck Accidents in Ohio
Accidents involving semi-trucks often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. In this case, the crash occurred while emergency personnel were attending to a prior incident. The unexpected loss of control by the truck highlights the critical need for heightened awareness when traveling near emergency vehicles or accident scenes.
This crash underscores the importance of safe driving practices, particularly in inclement weather, early morning hours, or situations involving previous accidents. Drivers must be vigilant and exercise caution when passing through areas with active emergency scenes or vehicle breakdowns, as these situations present additional risks for both first responders and drivers.
The incident also disrupted the morning commute, as local school districts like Olentangy Schools reported delays for buses due to the closure of nearby roads. These types of disruptions affect not only the people involved but also the larger community, as roads are often closed for hours while authorities investigate and clear the scene.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to providing accurate and timely information regarding traffic incidents and their aftermath. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance to understand your options and rights. Stay safe on the roads and always be cautious around accident scenes.