June 19th 2024 Multiple Crashes and Semi Fire on I-70 Near Georgetown Result in Injuries
GEORGETOWN, Colo. Eastbound lanes of Interstate 70 near Georgetown were shut down Wednesday afternoon as emergency personnel worked to clear multiple crashes. The incident began just before 12:45 p.m. when a semi-truck caught fire in the eastbound lanes, according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
The fire, which originated in the truck’s brakes, prompted emergency crews to close the eastbound lanes and work to extinguish the blaze. As a result, traffic came to a standstill behind the crash site. The closure extended from Exit 203 at CO 9 Silverthorne to Exit 232 at US 40 Empire.
According to COtrip.org, there were multiple crashes at mile marker 228 in Georgetown. CSP Golden reported that a total of six vehicles were involved in the incident, which led to three people being injured and transported to the hospital. The injuries were initially reported as not serious, but one additional person sought medical attention after leaving the crash scene.
CSP Golden tweeted that the situation escalated when a semi-truck, unable to stop due to the downhill slope, crashed into several stopped vehicles. This secondary crash significantly contributed to the traffic disruption.
The eastbound lanes began to reopen at around 3 p.m., with one lane allowing vehicles to pass the crash site. Full reopening of the lanes occurred approximately 20 minutes later, restoring normal traffic flow.
Were You or Someone You Know Injured?
Ramos Law Injury Intelligence: Potential Injuries in Such an Accident:
In an accident involving a semi-truck and multiple vehicles, injuries can range from minor to severe. Given the nature of the crash, likely injuries might include:
- Whiplash: Common in rear-end collisions, resulting from the sudden jolt.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Due to the impact and potential crushing forces.
- Head Injuries: Including concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries from sudden deceleration or direct impact.
- Spinal Injuries: Such as herniated discs or even spinal cord damage, particularly if the impact is severe.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruises, sprains, and strains resulting from the body being thrown around within the vehicle.
- Burns: In this specific case, burns could occur due to the initial semi-truck fire.
Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are crucial for all individuals involved to address any injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
EB I-70 is closed at Georgetown because of a crash with a few vehicles, WB has heavy traffic and delays from driving by that crash.
— Matt Renoux (@MattRenoux) June 19, 2024
EB I-70 Traffic is being held in Silverthorne. #9News pic.twitter.com/FEXIxWb4jG
I-70 Georgetown Semi Crash Details – June 19 2024
Initial Incident:
- Time: 12:45 PM
- Location: Eastbound I-70 near Georgetown
- Event: Semi-truck fire due to brake failure
Secondary Incident:
- Time: Shortly after the initial incident
- Location: In the backup caused by the semi-truck fire
- Event: Five-vehicle crash
Injuries:
- Initial Incident: No reported injuries
- Secondary Incident: Three people transported with non-life-threatening injuries
Traffic Impact:
- Closure: Eastbound I-70 closed between Silverthorne and Georgetown
- Reopening: Reopened around 4:00 PM
- Delays: Significant delays and detours in the area
Additional Details:
- The semi-truck fire was the catalyst for the subsequent multi-vehicle crash.
- Cleanup of the crash scene was expected to be extensive.
- The incidents caused significant disruptions to travel on I-70.
Colorado State Patrol Troop 1A covers Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties.
Three injured parties being transported out of a five vehicle crash involving a semi. Injuries do not seem serious at this time, but clean up will be extensive.
S1 https://t.co/pdJMNFOr21 pic.twitter.com/qenajfeGSU
— CSP Golden (@csp_golden) June 19, 2024
