West Des Moines, IA (February 9, 2026) – A motor vehicle collision with injuries was reported Saturday morning along Interstate 80/35 eastbound in West Des Moines. Dispatch communications indicated that multiple public safety units were sent to the highway after reports of a crash involving injuries, including one individual who may have struck their head.
Key Details
- Location: I-80/35 eastbound near the I-35 N to University Ave ramp
- Reported: February 7, 2026 at approximately 8:39 a.m.
- Type: Motor vehicle collision with injuries
- Injuries: A variety of injuries reported
- Response: Fire units, ambulance crews, and police
What We Know So Far
- Dispatch logs indicated a collision on the eastbound lanes of I-80/35 near an off-ramp connection.
- One individual was reported to have suffered a head injury following the crash.
- Fire, ambulance, and police units responded to locate the scene and assist those involved.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The total number of vehicles involved in the collision.
- The severity of injuries sustained by all parties.
- The exact sequence of events leading up to the crash.
Local Context
Interstate 80/35 through West Des Moines is a heavily traveled highway segment that includes multiple ramps and merging areas. Injury accidents along this corridor often require lane control and careful scene management due to high speeds and limited shoulder space.
What to Do Next
- Stay inside your vehicle if moving around active highway lanes is unsafe.
- Follow instructions provided by police or fire crews at the scene.
- Note mile markers, ramps, or nearby exits to help document the location.
- Monitor symptoms such as headaches or dizziness and seek medical care if they worsen.
FAQ
Q: Why are highway crashes more likely to cause injuries?
A: Higher speeds and limited reaction time on highways can increase impact forces, raising the likelihood of injuries during collisions.
Q: Why are head injuries taken seriously after a crash?
A: Head injuries may not show immediate symptoms, so medical evaluation is important even if the person appears alert.
Q: What does it mean when multiple units respond to a highway accident?
A: Multiple units help manage traffic, assist injured individuals, and secure the scene to prevent secondary collisions.
