Lewiston, ID (March 1, 2026) – One man died following a four-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 12 near milepost 15.3 outside Lewiston, according to authorities.
The Idaho State Police reported that the crash occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on Friday.
Preliminary findings indicate that a 2005 Toyota Tacoma driven by a teenage male from Lewiston was traveling westbound when it began to pass a westbound 2005 Ford F-150 operated by a 71-year-old man from Orofino. During the maneuver, the Tacoma entered the eastbound lane.
A 2015 semi tractor-trailer driven by a 59-year-old man from Texas was traveling westbound as it approached the Toyota and Ford. The Ford was followed by a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 47-year-old man from Kellogg.
Investigators said the Toyota attempted to avoid a collision by re-entering the eastbound lane but struck the Ford. The impact caused the Ford driver to lose control and cross into the westbound lane, where the vehicle collided with the Chevrolet Silverado.
While emergency crews were on scene, the driver of the Ford succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.
The driver of the Chevrolet was transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries and later released. A 48-year-old female passenger in the Chevrolet was not injured. The driver of the Toyota was also uninjured. Authorities reported that the semi-truck-trailer was not damaged in the incident.
Emergency response agencies assisting at the scene included the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, the Nez Perce Tribal Police, Lewiston Ambulance, and the Nez Perce County Coroner’s Office.
We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
Passing Maneuvers on Two-Lane Highways Carry Elevated Risk
Head-on and multi-vehicle collisions frequently occur during passing attempts on undivided, two-lane highways such as U.S. Highway 12. These roadways require drivers to enter oncoming traffic lanes, significantly increasing the potential for high-speed impact.
Even when a driver attempts corrective action, such as returning to the original lane, sudden evasive movements can trigger a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles. Loss of control following initial impact often leads to secondary collisions, as seen in this case.
Crash reconstruction typically examines factors including vehicle speed, sight distance, traffic flow, and timing of lane re-entry. Investigators may also evaluate road design and environmental conditions at the time of the incident.
Motorists are reminded to exercise caution when attempting to pass on two-lane highways and to ensure adequate clearance and visibility before initiating such maneuvers.
