OLYMPIA, Thurston County, Wash., Nov. 1, 2026 — Two drivers were hurt on Thursday, October 29, when three vehicles collided on southbound I-5 in Olympia, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The crash happened near milepost 108 on southbound I-5. The patrol said one vehicle and a second vehicle were traveling in the far right lane when the first struck the rear of the second. The second vehicle was then pushed into the driver's side of a third vehicle traveling one lane over, troopers said. All three vehicles came to rest in the same lane.
The drivers of the first two vehicles were taken to St. Peter's Hospital with injuries whose extent has not been released. The driver of the third vehicle was not hurt. The roadway was blocked for about one hour and 14 minutes while crews cleared the scene.
The Washington State Patrol cited the driver of the first vehicle in connection with the crash and listed failure to yield as the cause.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Olympia, WA
This multi-vehicle crash happened on I-5 in Olympia, WA. We cover crashes across Thurston County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Thurston County accident news page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can drivers avoid getting caught in a chain-reaction crash like this one?
Keeping a steady speed, watching traffic several cars ahead and being ready to brake early can help drivers avoid rear-ending a vehicle that slows suddenly.
What should I do if I come up on a crash blocking a highway lane?
Slow down well before reaching the scene, turn on hazard lights if traffic is stopping, and merge early rather than waiting until the last lane closes.
Why does following distance matter so much on the highway?
A longer gap between vehicles gives a driver more time to react if traffic ahead stops or slows, which can prevent one crash from triggering another.
Frequently Asked Questions
