Tacoma, WA - Injury Accident on I-5 near S 38th St

Tacoma, WA (May 17, 2025) – A multi-vehicle collision on southbound Interstate 5 near milepost 131.83, just north of the South 38th Street exit, caused significant traffic disruptions Thursday afternoon. The crash was reported at approximately 2:34 p.m. on May 15, and as of the latest updates, the left lanes remain blocked while emergency crews respond to the scene.

Traffic quickly backed up in the area as law enforcement and medical personnel worked to assist those involved and clear the wreckage. Drivers are being urged to seek alternate routes or expect extended delays during the evening commute.

Authorities have not yet released details regarding the number of vehicles involved. Paramedics worked at the scene to help injured victims and transport seriously injured patients to local hospitals. 

Motorists traveling through Tacoma on I-5 South should proceed with caution and follow real-time traffic updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation.

We hope for the full recovery of the injured victims.

Washington Car Crashes

Car accidents happen far too often in Washington, especially in busy cities like Tacoma. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, the state sees over 100,000 vehicle crashes each year — many of which lead to injuries that require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation.

While driver behavior is a major factor in many collisions, weather conditions also play a significant role in roadway safety. Here are some of the most common weather-related hazards that contribute to crashes throughout Washington:

• Rain and Wet Roads: Frequent rain in the region makes slick pavement a regular danger. Reduced traction increases stopping distances and raises the risk of hydroplaning, especially on high-speed roads like I-5.
• Fog and Limited Visibility: Dense fog can limit a driver's ability to see road signs, other vehicles, or obstacles in time. In unfamiliar areas, this can lead to missed exits or abrupt braking—both of which raise the likelihood of collisions.
• Ice and Black Ice: Even in milder areas like Tacoma, early morning or overnight temperatures can cause black ice to form, particularly on bridges and overpasses. These invisible patches of ice can cause sudden loss of control.
• Strong Winds: Windy conditions make driving more difficult, especially for tall vehicles like trucks and vans. Unexpected gusts or blowing debris can create dangerous, unpredictable situations on the road.
• Glare from the Sun: During sunrise and sunset, harsh glare can reduce visibility and make it difficult to spot traffic signals or brake lights, increasing the chances of rear-end crashes.

If you or someone you care about was injured in a crash caused by weather-related conditions — or by another driver’s negligence — it’s important to seek experienced legal help right away.

At Freeman Law Firm, our seasoned Tacoma car accident attorneys understand how to investigate and prove liability in weather-influenced crashes. We’re here to help you navigate insurance claims, gather evidence, and fight for full compensation for your injuries, medical costs, and lost income.

Your recovery matters to us. Call 206-880-2454 today for a free consultation with a compassionate legal team that puts your needs first. Let Freeman Law Firm be your voice as you work toward healing and justice.