News Summary
A construction worker was seriously injured in a crash on I-84 in Portland when a vehicle struck him while he was controlling traffic. The incident caused significant traffic disruptions and prompted a large emergency response. The injured worker was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries, while the driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Authorities are investigating traffic safety measures as the scene remains active. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid delays.
Construction Worker Seriously Injured in Crash on I-84 in Portland
PORTLAND — A construction worker was seriously injured Thursday night following a collision on Interstate 84 in Portland. The incident took place near NE 148th Avenue, causing significant disruptions and prompting a large emergency response.
Details of the Incident
According to reports from the Oregon Department of Transportation, the crash occurred just before 9:15 p.m. when a vehicle struck a construction worker, who was reportedly serving as a flagger or traffic control worker at the scene. Following the impact, the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with a barrier on the side of the freeway.
The construction worker sustained injuries described as life-threatening and was immediately transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment. The authorities have not released the exact nature of the injuries but confirmed the severity of the situation.
Driver and Investigation
The driver remained at the scene after the accident and is cooperating fully with police investigators. At this time, it is not clear whether the driver will face charges related to the crash. The Portland Police Traffic Division’s Major Crash Team has taken over the investigation, analyzing scene evidence and providing updates as they become available.
Traffic Impact and Road Closures
The crash has resulted in the closure of all westbound lanes of I-84 between NE 181st and NE 148th avenues. Additionally, access ramps leading west from NE 181st Avenue have been shut down to facilitate investigation and ensure safety. Motorists traveling westbound are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid delays.
The Oregon Department of Transportation has indicated that traffic congestion is significant in the area, and drivers should expect delays. Officials have also warned that eastbound traffic might experience impacts, although the focus remains on westbound closures at this time.
Additional Information and Future Updates
The scene remains active as authorities continue their investigation. Transportation agencies are working to restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible but emphasize caution and patience for drivers in the area. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Background Context
Accidents involving construction personnel on busy highways can be particularly serious due to the nature of roadside work zones. Safety measures, including traffic control and signage, are critical but can’t always prevent every incident. Authorities routinely investigate such crashes to determine causes and enforce safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
In this case, the incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by construction workers and the importance of driver awareness and vigilance in work zones. Traffic safety remains a priority for local agencies, especially during high-traffic times and during construction periods.
Conclusion
The incident on I-84 in Portland has resulted in life-threatening injuries to a construction worker and significant traffic disruptions. The investigation continues, and police are urging drivers to use alternate routes until the scene is cleared and normal traffic flow resumes. Further updates will be issued as authorities gather more details about the crash.
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Additional Resources
- KPTV: All lanes of I-84 westbound closed due to crash
- Wikipedia: Interstate 84
- KGW: Serious crash closes Interstate 84 westbound
- Google Search: I-84 crash Portland
- KATU: Crash on I-84 seriously injures traffic control worker
- Google Scholar: Traffic Safety Construction Zones
- KOIN: Pedestrian seriously injured after I-84 W crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- OregonLive: Tesla driver struck killed in crash on I-84
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