Slick roads cause an 8-vehicle crash between Baker City and Sumpter

BAKER COUNTY – Slick roads do not discriminate, and even vehicles at a standstill can wind up the victims of a crash. The Oregon State Police (OSP) recently responded to a multi-vehicle crash along Highway 7 between Baker City and Sumpter on Monday, December 16. The crash initially occurred at around 1:15 p.m. at Milepost 35, roughly halfway between the two cities. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. A recent press log from OSP explains the full sequence of events:

“OSP responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 7 near milepost 35. Driver statements indicated a blue 1996 Peterbilt Semi and Trailer was traveling southbound when he attempted to stop on a comer to chain up his semi. Due to slick road conditions the semi slid across both lanes and came to a stop in a ditch off the left-hand shoulder of the roadway. 

A white passenger vehicle stopped at the scene causing a green 2008 Kenworth log truck to stop. When the Kenworth stopped it began to slide on the slick roadway until it came to an uncontrolled rest against the Peterbilt. Other passenger cars attempting to stop due to the road blockage, slid into the guardrails of the highway and into each other. 

An ODOT plow that was attempting to warn traffic was rear ended as well. In total eight vehicles were involved. Three panels of guardrail were damaged in the incident. The highway was shut down for approximately three hours. No injuries were reported. Road Runner Towing arrived and was able to get all vehicles involved on the roadway and they were driven from the scene. The initial semi-driver was issued a citation for Failure to Drive Within Lane.”

Drivers are again reminded to always slow down to match conditions and not rely on cruise control during adverse weather. When attempting to slow down on icy roads or regain control in the event traction is lost with the road, gently tap the brakes rather than slamming on them. 

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Elkhorn Media Group