Dozens of vehicles were involved in Friday’s dust storm along U.S. Highway 95 north of Lewiston.
According to an Idaho State Police news release, at approximately 2:20 p.m., ISP troopers responded to reports of multiple crashes on US Highway 95 near milepost 322, south of Genesse. Upon arrival, it was discovered that more than 60 vehicles piled up and blocking the southbound Highway from milepost 321.5 to 322. Strong winds with dust created hazardous road conditions and low visibility. Multiple injuries from various crashes were reported.
The Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office along with the Idaho Transportation Department assisted with closing the Highway and diverting traffic. Nez Perce County Deputies also assisted with crash investigations. An emergency call was placed to multiple local tow companies to respond to assist with the recovery of the vehicles disabled in the incident. One southbound lane was open at 3:50 pm and all lanes were cleared by about 5:45 pm.
Multiple off duty, good Samaritan medical personnel along with Genesse Ambulance were able to assess injuries and three individuals were transported to a local hospital by ground ambulance. The use of seatbelts was able to reduce the number and severity of injuries in the various crashes.
Nine vehicles were determined to have crashed in the scene with three distinctive chain reactions of three vehicles apiece. A far majority of motorists involved were able to avoid striking other vehicles during the pileup.
The Idaho State Police would like to remind the motoring public that low visibility and hazardous weather conditions require slower speeds and caution when driving on Idaho roadways.
