West Greenwich, RI (April 18, 2026) – A rollover crash on Interstate 95 left multiple people seriously injured Wednesday afternoon near the Exeter-West Greenwich town line, with authorities later confirming impairment may have played a role.
According to Rhode Island State Police, the crash occurred just before 5:00 p.m. near Exit 14-A. A preliminary investigation found that a 21-year-old man from Norwich, Connecticut, was driving a BMW at a high rate of speed when he changed lanes and struck a cable guardrail.
The impact caused the vehicle to roll over multiple times before coming to rest in the center median.
Authorities say a 20-year-old female passenger was ejected from the vehicle during the crash and sustained serious injuries. She, along with the driver and another 23-year-old passenger, was transported to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment.
Police confirmed that the driver has been charged with driving under the influence resulting in serious bodily injury, as well as reckless driving.
Emergency crews responded quickly to assist the victims and secure the scene following the crash.
The incident remains under investigation, and additional details may be released as authorities continue their review.
We are thinking of those injured and wish them a full recovery.
How Rollover Crashes Lead to Severe Injuries
Rollover crashes often occur when a driver loses control of a vehicle during sudden or aggressive maneuvers, such as high-speed lane changes. Striking a guardrail or median barrier at speed can cause a vehicle to flip, especially if the impact disrupts its balance or trajectory.
These crashes are particularly dangerous because occupants may be thrown from the vehicle if not properly restrained. Ejection significantly increases the risk of severe injuries. Factors such as speed, impairment, and roadway conditions all play a role in how these incidents unfold, making cautious driving and seatbelt use essential for safety.