Providence, RI (March 20, 2026) – A crash involving a tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle left one person injured in Providence.
The accident occurred just before 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, along Interstate 95 South near Exit 37. Reports indicate that a Mazda attempted to take the exit ramp abruptly, struck a guardrail, and spun back into the travel lanes.
A tractor-trailer traveling behind the Mazda was unable to avoid a collision and struck the vehicle. The impact caused the Mazda to spin again and become lodged underneath the truck.
The driver of the Mazda was taken to Rhode Island Hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not hurt.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they are provided.
We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
How Sudden Lane Changes Can Lead to Highway Crashes
Abrupt movements on highways can increase the risk of serious crashes, especially near exit ramps. Drivers who change lanes quickly or attempt to exit at the last moment may lose control or collide with roadside barriers.
When a vehicle spins or stops suddenly in active lanes, nearby drivers have very little time to react. This is especially true for larger vehicles like tractor-trailers, which need more distance to slow down.
Highway speeds also make these situations more dangerous. Even a brief loss of control can lead to multiple impacts or vehicles becoming trapped.
Planning lane changes early and reducing speed before exiting can help lower the risk. Keeping a safe following distance also allows drivers more time to respond to sudden hazards ahead.
