An I-90 Easton crash completely blocked eastbound Interstate 90 near Easton on Thursday afternoon, causing significant traffic delays and backing up vehicles for several miles. The two-vehicle collision scattered debris across the roadway, temporarily shutting down all eastbound lanes until emergency crews could respond and begin clearing the scene.
According to authorities, the crash remains under investigation, and troopers have stated that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the incident.
What Happened in the I-90 Easton Crash?
The collision occurred near Easton, just west of Cle Elum, along a heavily traveled corridor of I-90 that connects western and eastern Washington. Following the crash, debris from the vehicles covered the roadway, forcing officials to close eastbound lanes for safety reasons.
At approximately 1:41 p.m., the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced the roadway closure and initially reported that there was no estimated time for reopening. A tow truck was dispatched to the scene to remove damaged vehicles.
After crews cleared debris and removed the vehicles involved, the right lane was reopened to allow limited travel to resume. Eventually, all eastbound lanes near Cle Elum were reopened later that afternoon.
Traffic Disruptions and Safety Risks on I-90
The stretch of I-90 near Easton and Cle Elum is a critical transportation route, particularly for commuters, freight transport, and recreational travelers heading over Snoqualmie Pass. When a crash blocks lanes in this area, traffic can quickly back up for miles.
Secondary collisions are a common risk during major backups. Drivers approaching stopped traffic at highway speeds may not anticipate the slowdown in time to avoid further accidents. For this reason, WSDOT and the Washington State Patrol typically act quickly to:
- Close affected lanes
- Deploy emergency response teams
- Remove debris
- Restore traffic flow as safely as possible
Even when drugs or alcohol are not involved, serious accidents can occur due to driver inattention, unsafe lane changes, speeding, or failure to maintain a safe following distance.
Liability After an I-90 Easton Crash
Under Washington law, determining liability after a highway collision requires a careful review of the facts. In any I-90 Easton crash, investigators will consider:
- Vehicle speed
- Road and weather conditions
- Driver attentiveness
- Following distance
- Mechanical issues
- Dashcam or witness evidence
Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule under RCW 4.22.005. This means that even if a driver is partially at fault for a crash, they may still recover damages, though their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
For example, if a driver is found 30% responsible and sustains $100,000 in damages, they may still recover $70,000.
Types of Compensation Available After a Highway Crash
Victims injured in a Washington motor vehicle collision may be entitled to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Ongoing rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Even when injuries appear minor at first, symptoms such as whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injuries may worsen in the days following a crash. Prompt medical evaluation and documentation are critical.
Investigation Status and Next Steps
Troopers have confirmed that the collision remains under investigation. While no drugs or alcohol were involved, investigators will continue reviewing evidence to determine the cause of the crash.
When major interstate accidents occur, multiple agencies often coordinate their efforts, including:
- Washington State Patrol
- Washington State Department of Transportation
- Local fire and EMS agencies
Their primary focus is public safety and restoring roadway access, but civil liability questions are typically addressed separately through insurance claims or legal action.
Protecting Your Rights After a Washington Highway Accident
Highway crashes can result in serious injuries and complex insurance disputes. Insurance companies may attempt to quickly settle claims before the full extent of injuries is known. Before accepting any settlement offer, it is wise to understand your rights and the long-term impact of your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an I-90 Easton crash or any Washington motor vehicle accident, experienced legal guidance can help protect your interests and ensure you pursue full and fair compensation.
Contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253-720-9304 for guidance on your legal matter.
Additional Resources
1. Two Injured in Quincy Car Accident on SR-28
A detailed look at a three-vehicle collision near Quincy and how Washington law applies to injury claims.
2. Legal Implications of Fatal Rollover Crash in Easton, Washington
An analysis of wrongful death claims and liability issues following a fatal rollover accident near Easton.
3. Overturned Trailer Briefly Blocks I-90 Near Snoqualmie Pass Summit
Learn how commercial vehicle incidents can impact traffic and what legal considerations arise after highway blockages.
4. Multi-Car Crash on I-90 Near Snoqualmie Pass Causes Traffic Delays
A breakdown of a multi-vehicle collision on I-90 and the legal issues that often follow complex chain-reaction crashes.
5. I-90 Mudslide Near Snoqualmie Pass
An overview of roadway hazards caused by mudslides and how liability may be determined when environmental factors contribute to accidents.