Renton, WA (May 13, 2026) – A serious injury crash involving a motorcycle and a car caused major delays on southbound I-405 near Sunset Boulevard in Renton.
The collision was reported around 5:15 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13. According to transportation officials, two of three southbound lanes were blocked during the early morning commute. Traffic was reduced to a single lane for a period of time, leading to backups stretching more than two miles.
Officials later confirmed that only the HOV lane remained blocked by approximately 7:13 a.m. Emergency units responded to the scene to assist those involved and manage traffic in the area.
Investigators said the crash involved a hit-and-run incident and was being reviewed as a vehicular assault case. The driver of the fleeing vehicle had not been located at the time of the report. Information about the injured motorcyclist’s condition was not immediately released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
Why Motorcycle Crashes on Major Highways Often Cause Heavy Delays
Motorcycle crashes on busy highways can quickly affect traffic flow, especially during morning rush hours. Even a single blocked lane may lead to long backups because vehicles have limited space to merge safely around the scene.
These crashes also tend to require additional response time due to the need for medical assistance, roadway cleanup, and scene documentation. Damage to motorcycles can spread debris across multiple lanes, making travel conditions more difficult for nearby drivers.
Traffic delays may continue even after lanes reopen because congestion takes time to clear. In some situations, investigators also review nearby cameras, vehicle damage, and witness statements to better understand how the collision happened. Highway crashes involving hit-and-run drivers may take longer to review while officials work to identify the vehicle involved.