URBANDALE, Polk County, Iowa, Oct. 24, 2026 — A crash with reported serious injuries shut down southbound Hwy 141 at NW Urbandale Dr in Urbandale on Friday, October 23, according to the Urbandale Police Department.
The department reported serious injuries in the crash and urged drivers to avoid the area while crews worked the scene. Traffic heading south on Hwy 141 was diverted onto southbound I-80/35 during the closure.
The roadway has since reopened. No further details on the people involved, the vehicles, or what led to the crash have been released.
The extent of the injuries and the cause of the crash remain under investigation. Urbandale police have not said whether charges are expected.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Urbandale, IA
This crash happened at Hwy 141 and NW Urbandale Dr in Urbandale, IA. We cover crashes across Polk County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Polk County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What usually causes crashes like this one? Most crashes come down to a mix of driver error, such as following too closely or misjudging another vehicle's speed, along with road conditions and sometimes mechanical failure. Investigators typically look at all of these before determining a cause.
Does speed make a difference in how serious a crash is? Yes. Higher speeds give drivers less time to react and increase the force involved in a collision, which tends to mean more serious injuries and more vehicle damage.
Why is distracted driving considered so risky? Even a few seconds of looking away from the road, at a phone or elsewhere, means a driver can miss a stopped car, a lane change, or a traffic signal in time to react.
Do weather and road conditions play a role in crashes like this? They can. Wet, icy, or debris-covered roads reduce traction and stopping distance, making it harder for drivers to avoid a collision even at normal speeds.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Urbandale, IA
If you're involved in a crash on a busy roadway, try to move to a safe location if your vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so. Call 911 and wait for police to arrive and document the scene. Even if injuries seem minor at first, get checked by a medical professional, since some injuries, like whiplash or internal bruising, aren't obvious right away. Take photos of the vehicles and surrounding area if you're able, and get a copy of the police report once it's available. Keep track of any medical visits or missed work connected to the crash, since that information can matter later.
