A serious traffic collision occurred late last night on Interstate 405 North near South Alameda Street in Long Beach, CA, causing significant traffic disruptions. The incident took place around 9:56 PM when a black sedan collided with a wall and subsequently impacted a dark-colored sport utility vehicle.
Emergency services responded promptly, arriving at the scene by 10:12 PM. One individual sustained leg injuries and was unable to exit their vehicle, prompting immediate medical assistance. The collision blocked the middle lanes of the highway, leading to a complete halt of traffic in all lanes by 10:08 PM.
Witnesses reported that airbags deployed in both vehicles, indicating the severity of the crash. As emergency responders worked to assist the injured party and clear the roadway, traffic backed up significantly, causing delays for motorists in the area.
By 10:21 PM, only the high-occupancy vehicle lane was open, while the other lanes remained closed for safety and cleanup efforts. A tow truck was called to the scene to remove the disabled vehicles, which were confirmed to be non-drivable.
The situation was resolved by 10:47 PM, when all lanes were reopened to traffic, allowing vehicles to resume their journeys. Authorities have not reported any further injuries beyond the individual with leg injuries.
Motorists are advised to remain cautious and aware of potential delays in the area as cleanup efforts continued. The California Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision to determine the cause and any further actions that may be necessary.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving and the potential hazards present on busy highways. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.