Kalama, WA (April 23, 2025) – A two-vehicle rear-end collision on Interstate 5 northbound near milepost 29 in Kalama resulted in injuries Wednesday evening, according to updates from the Cowlitz County Safety Feed. The crash occurred in the late afternoon and prompted a response from emergency units who arrived on scene shortly after 5:00 p.m.
Initial reports at 5:07 p.m. indicated both vehicles sustained damage in the crash, and by 5:24 p.m., the collision was officially classified as an injury incident. Specific details about the number of people hurt or the severity of injuries have not yet been released by authorities.
The crash led to delays in the northbound lanes as investigators worked to document the scene and assess vehicle damage. Medical personnel were present to provide care, though it’s not yet known if any victims were transported to a hospital.
The Washington State Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash and determine contributing factors, including whether distracted driving or following too closely played a role.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this crash, and we hope for a full and swift recovery.
Rear-End Collisions and Traffic Risk on I-5 in Southwest Washington
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of highway crashes, particularly on major interstates like I-5 where high speeds and dense traffic demand constant attention. The area around milepost 29 in Kalama frequently sees fluctuations in traffic flow due to local merging zones and regional commuting patterns.
Wednesday’s crash is a reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn hazardous when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances or react in time to slowdowns. In these situations, the trailing vehicle often causes the impact, placing occupants of the forward vehicle at risk of neck, spine, or head injuries.
Even crashes classified as moderate in severity can result in significant injuries, especially when seatbelts, headrests, or vehicle safety systems are not optimally used. For those involved, proper medical evaluation—even when symptoms aren’t immediately felt—is crucial for detecting conditions like whiplash or concussions.
For injured drivers and passengers, navigating the aftermath can include medical care, insurance claims, and the emotional toll of unexpected trauma.
If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end crash, knowing your rights and accessing recovery support can make all the difference.
At Local Accident Reports, we provide timely, compassionate updates and help connect victims with the resources they need. Visit Local Accident Reports today for more information and ongoing support.
