COLES, Coles County, Ill., Nov. 12, 2026 — A three-vehicle crash on I-57 northbound at milepost 198 left people injured on Tuesday morning, November 10, according to Illinois State Police. The roadway has since reopened.
Illinois State Police said the crash happened on I-57 northbound near milepost 198 in Coles County. Injuries were reported among those involved.
When troopers arrived, they closed both northbound lanes while they worked the scene. Traffic was later shifted to move through the right lane only, and drivers in the area faced delays. Illinois State Police said the roadway is now fully back open at milepost 198.
The crash remains under investigation. We wish the injured a complete recovery.
More on Crashes in Coles, IL
This multi-vehicle crash happened on I-57 in Coles, IL. We cover crashes across Coles County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Coles County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes crashes involving three or more vehicles hard to investigate?
Investigators have to work out the sequence of impacts, since each vehicle may have been struck more than once and from different directions. That takes longer than sorting out a two-car crash and usually means lanes stay closed longer.
What typically causes pile-ups involving multiple vehicles?
Common factors include one driver following too closely, sudden braking, reduced visibility, or a stopped vehicle that others don't see in time. Investigators look at all of these before determining a cause.
Why do chain-reaction crashes happen on highways like I-57?
A single slowdown or stopped vehicle can trigger a chain reaction if trailing drivers don't have enough space or time to react, especially at highway speeds.
What should drivers do if they come across a multi-vehicle crash scene?
Slow down well before reaching the scene, watch for emergency crews and flares, and move into an open lane early instead of waiting until the last moment.
