A significant pileup involving around 45 vehicles occurred on Interstate 70 in Indiana on the morning of Saturday, November 29, following snowy conditions that had an adverse effect on road safety. The incident took place in the westbound lanes near Terre Haute shortly before 10 a.m. local time. Thankfully, authorities, including Indiana State Police, reported no major injuries resulting from this chaotic event.
The adverse weather played a crucial role in the pileup, as Matt Ames, Public Information Officer for the Indiana State Police, indicated that slide-offs were also reported on the eastbound side of the highway. After several hours, Ames provided an update that the accident site had been cleared, although light snow was beginning to fall again, further complicating travel conditions.
As a precaution, authorities are strongly advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel. In a follow-up Facebook Live session, Ames emphasized the importance of staying off the roads if possible to allow for improvements in conditions. For those who must venture out, he provided essential safety tips, such as ensuring headlights are on, wearing seatbelts, and maintaining focus while driving.
Ames stressed that reducing speed and extending following distances are critical for navigating winter weather safely. The local forecast predicted an accumulation of 1 to 3 inches of snow throughout the day, along with a mix of sleet and rain expected overnight, contributing to the challenging travel conditions.
This incident serves as a timely reminder of the dangers posed by winter weather. By staying informed and exercising caution during inclement weather, residents can prioritize their safety and that of others on the road.