Osceola, IA (March 6, 2026) – Two people were injured after a collision involving a car and a semi-truck on Wednesday afternoon, March 4, along Interstate 35 near mile marker 33 in Clarke County.
Emergency units responded to the crash around 1:09 p.m. along the southbound lanes of the interstate. According to the crash report, a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze was traveling south in the left lane while a 2023 Kenworth T680 semi-truck was traveling in the right lane.
Investigators said the driver of the Chevrolet attempted to merge into the right lane to reach an exit ramp. During the maneuver, the car made contact with the semi-truck and became pinned between the truck and the guardrail.
Authorities identified the driver of the Chevrolet as 20-year-old Ryleigh Ann Rawls of Iowa City. Rawls was hurt in the crash and taken to Clarke County Hospital for treatment. A 71-year-old passenger, Patricia Louise Swartzendruber of Iowa City, was also injured and taken to MercyOne for care.
The driver of the semi-truck, identified as 40-year-old James Keith Lawrence of Benson, Arizona, was not reported injured.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. We extend our thoughts to those injured and wish them a full recovery.
Lane Changes and Collision Risks on Interstate Highways
Arterial highways like Interstate 35 often carry steady traffic in multiple lanes. Drivers may need to change lanes quickly when approaching exit ramps, especially in areas with higher traffic speeds.
Lane changes on busy highways can create risks when drivers misjudge the position or speed of nearby vehicles. Large trucks occupy more space and may require longer distances to slow down or move aside, limiting the time available to avoid contact.
When a smaller vehicle becomes trapped between a large truck and a roadside barrier, the force of impact can increase the chance of injuries. Highway speed, traffic density, and the timing of lane changes can all influence the occurrence of these crashes.
