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WOODS CROSS, Davis County, Utah, Sept. 20, 2026 — A 20-year-old woman died on Saturday afternoon, September 19, after a five-vehicle crash on northbound I-15 in Woods Cross.
State troopers said the crash happened near 2600 South on northbound I-15. A silver sedan was reportedly traveling at high speed when it struck the rear of a semi-truck, authorities said. The semi then lost control and hit other vehicles on the freeway, according to the Utah Highway Patrol.
Five vehicles total were involved. The 20-year-old woman died at the scene or as a result of the crash, according to officials. Another occupant was taken to a hospital with injuries described as minor. No other injuries or deaths have been reported.
Northbound I-15 was closed at 2600 South for several hours while crews investigated and cleared the scene. Traffic was diverted during the closure. The freeway has since reopened, authorities said.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not released the names of the other drivers or said whether charges are expected.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
A Common Misconception About Truck-Involved Crashes
Many drivers assume crashes involving semi-trucks mostly happen late at night, when trucks are presumed to dominate quiet highways, and fatigue is worst. The data does not support that as the main pattern.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 76 percent of fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on weekdays in 2023. That points to daytime commercial traffic and commuter volume as bigger factors than late-night driving alone.
Speed differences between passenger vehicles and trucks, sudden lane changes, and following too closely also play a role in multi-vehicle crashes like pileups. A single vehicle striking a truck from behind can set off a chain reaction that pulls in several other cars, as authorities described in this case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an underride crash?
An underride crash happens when a smaller vehicle slides partly or fully beneath a truck's trailer during a collision, usually because the trailer sits higher than a car's crumple zones.
What typically causes large-truck crashes?
Common factors include speed, following too closely, driver fatigue, mechanical failure, and sudden braking or lane changes by nearby vehicles.
How can drivers share the road with trucks more safely?
Give trucks extra following distance, avoid lingering in blind spots, and pass decisively rather than staying alongside a trailer for long stretches.
Does fatigue play a role in truck crashes?
Yes. Long hours behind the wheel can slow reaction time for any driver, including commercial operators, though federal hours-of-service rules are meant to limit that risk.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in Woods Cross, Utah
If you're involved in a crash with several vehicles, stay where it's safe and check on yourself and others before moving anything. Call 911 even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms show up hours later.
Get checked by a medical provider as soon as possible, even if you feel fine at the scene. Exchange information with other drivers when it's safe to do so, and take photos of the vehicles and road conditions if you're able.
Ask responding troopers how to obtain a copy of the official crash report once it's filed. Keep records of any medical visits or vehicle damage in case you need them later.
