Valley County, ID (February 20, 2026) – Two Valley County sheriff’s deputies were hurt Thursday morning when a semi-truck struck their patrol vehicle on Warm Lake Rd. The crash happened near Little Pearsol Rd at about 7:51 a.m.
Deputies had responded to a report of a fallen tree blocking the southbound lane of Warm Lake Rd. They arrived around 8:12 a.m. and positioned their patrol vehicle to stop southbound traffic while county road crews worked to clear the tree.
While the patrol vehicle was blocking the roadway, a semi-truck collided with it. Both deputies were able to exit the vehicle through the passenger side after the impact.
The deputies suffered minor injuries and were taken to Cascade Medical Center for evaluation. No other injuries were reported.
The incident remains under investigation by authorities. We are thinking of the injured deputies as they recover.
Why Secondary Crashes Happen During Roadway Obstructions
Crashes involving emergency vehicles often occur while crews are managing road hazards. When a tree falls across a roadway like Warm Lake Rd, traffic patterns can change quickly and create unexpected risks.
Drivers approaching a blocked lane may have limited time to react, especially in rural areas where speeds are higher and visibility can be reduced by curves or terrain. Large vehicles such as semi-trucks require more distance to slow down, which can increase the risk of a collision if traffic is stopped ahead.
When emergency vehicles use their patrol cars to shield workers and direct traffic, they create a protective barrier. Even so, approaching drivers must remain alert, reduce speed, and prepare to stop.
Roadway obstruction scenes require patience and caution from all motorists to help protect both workers and first responders on site.
