East Los Angeles, CA – A major accident involving a big rig (semi-truck) led to the closure of all southbound lanes on the I-5 Freeway in East Los Angeles early Monday morning. The crash, which occurred north of Indiana Street, resulted in significant traffic congestion and required an extended roadway clearance operation.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash was reported just after 5:30 a.m. on February 3, 2025. The semi-truck, which was carrying groceries, collided with a bridge along the freeway, causing it to topple over and block all lanes of traffic.
Authorities issued a Sig Alert, and emergency crews were dispatched to the scene to manage the situation. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of serious injuries, but the impact of the accident caused a major disruption to morning rush hour traffic.
The freeway shutdown resulted in heavy traffic backups, with congestion reaching as far as the I-5 and I-10 Freeway northern split. Thousands of commuters were left stranded or forced to seek alternate routes. At approximately 6:50 a.m., one lane was reopened, allowing some relief for drivers, but the remaining lanes were expected to stay closed for at least three more hours as crews worked to clear the roadway and remove the overturned truck.
Impact on Commuters & Official Warnings
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and local officials urged drivers to use alternate routes and remain cautious while traveling through the area. The accident, which occurred during peak traffic hours, caused severe delays for those heading southbound on I-5.
Drivers were advised to check traffic updates before heading out and consider using surface streets or detour routes to avoid the congestion.
With emergency crews on-site, the cleanup operation focused on removing the overturned semi-truck, assessing potential structural damage to the bridge, and clearing debris from the freeway. Officials estimated that full clearance could take several hours, meaning lingering delays for morning and midday travelers.
Big Rig Accidents & Road Safety Concerns
This incident highlights the risks associated with large commercial vehicles on major highways. While semi-trucks are essential for transporting goods, their size and weight make crashes particularly dangerous—often leading to significant road closures and hazardous conditions.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, including whether speed, road conditions, or mechanical issues played a role in the accident.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering. Working with a big rig accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of truck accident claims, including determining liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
