Crash on I-65: Why North Indiana Interstate is an Accident Hotspot

The 60-mile stretch of road between Indianapolis and Lafayette, Indiana may appear to be harmless. The mostly straight lanes are surrounded by fields with consistent scenery. Yet, these are exactly the conditions that make this seemingly safe stretch of highway a disastrous spot for collisions, car crashes, and truck wrecks.

The stretch is on the North Indiana section of I-65, an 887.3 mile interstate that connects Lake Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico. These particular 60 miles are an accident hot spot for semi-truck and car drivers passing through.

Indiana Accidents on I-65

On February 7, 2021, a driver going the wrong way on I-65 southbound collided with five vehicles, resulting in two injured people and one fatality, according to the Indiana State Police. The crash shut down all southbound lanes for hours. This devastating car accident on Indiana I-65 is unfortunately not unique.

Just five days prior to the deadly crash, a semi wreck on I-65 south brought traffic to a standstill. The truck collided with a car, the semi flipped, and the southbound ramp closed. The driver of the car was unconscious and taken to a nearby hospital.

In early January, 2021, a truck accident on northbound I-65 resulted in a nine-vehicle crash with three fatalities at the fault of the truck driver. According to the Indianapolis Star, Sheriff Mike Nielsen said the crash was due to distracted driving.

Causes of Frequency in I-65 Indiana Accidents

Highway Hypnosis

These Indiana I-65 accidents have much to do with what surrounds, and what doesn’t surround, this stretch of highway. The consistency in surroundings and the never-ending white line on the blacktop can produce a condition called white-line fever, also known as highway hypnosis. Without the distraction of changing scenery, the brain can get too used to the driving conditions, leading to a lack of focus on the road.

Semi-Truck Accidents

Highway hypnosis can be especially problematic in the case of trucking accidents as truck drivers often drive at night and are more likely to experience drowsy driving. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recognizes the problem of truck driver fatigue. They’ve placed standards of driving and operating hours for truck drivers, as well as penalties for violations. FMCSA is doing their best to prevent semi accidents in Indiana and across the country.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can also cause crashes on Indiana I-65. Driving on unchanging, consistent roadways can lead to the temptation to reach for your phone, look away from the road, or the belief that there is no danger. During times of distraction when focus is on something other than driving, the risk for accidents increases.

Accident Prevention

Both truck and auto accidents can result in significant damage, severe injuries and even loss of life. The injuries that result from accidents on I-65 can range from small scrapes to traumatic brain injuries. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also a common outcome of auto accidents.

For your own health and safety and the wellbeing of others, it’s essential to be especially vigilant when driving on I-65 through Indiana. This car crash hotspot is dangerous, as demonstrated in the examples above. It’s best to be aware and proactive while driving on this highway.

There are a few things you can do to keep your focus on I-65 without daydreaming or zoning out:

• Focus on the road
• Pull over if needed
• Scan further down the road
• Maintain a safe distance behind the car in front of you
• Roll the windows down
• Keep your phone out of reach
• Put on music that will keep you awake

These tips can help keep you alert and safe during your time on North Indiana’s stretch of I-65.

If You Are Involved in a Crash

If are involved in an I-65 accident in Indiana, whether with another car or a semi, the first thing to do is get to safety. I-65 can be dangerous, so getting off of the road and over to the side is important. Once you are safe,

• Stay Calm and Get to Safety
• Check for Injuries
• Call the Police
• Document the Accident
• Collect Information
• Seek Medical Care
• Inform Your Insurance Company
• Call an Attorney

Car accidents can be a traumatic event. Having an experienced attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Auto Accident Attorney

If you have been involved in an I-65 crash in Indiana, contact the Indianapolis truck accident lawyers at Wilson Kehoe Winingham for legal assistance. The experienced auto accident and personal injury lawyers at WKW understand the dangers of I-65. We are here to help you. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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