Fargo, ND – Drivers across eastern North Dakota are being urged to slow down during winter storms after a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 29 left two people injured amid near-whiteout conditions.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash happened Wednesday on I-29 near mile marker 19, just south of Fargo. Officials said initial minor crashes occurred on the shoulder during extremely low visibility conditions as a winter storm moved through the area.
While first responders were attempting to reach the scene, a semi-truck traveling at approximately 65 miles per hour struck the crash site, worsening the situation and resulting in two reported injuries, authorities said.
Troopers noted that due to the severe whiteout conditions, it took roughly one hour for emergency crews to safely arrive. In conditions like these, stopped vehicles, emergency lights, and even people on foot can be nearly impossible to see until drivers are dangerously close, the agency warned.
The Highway Patrol emphasized that posted speed limits are designed for ideal driving conditions — not snowstorms or whiteouts. When visibility drops, the safest driving speed may be far below the posted limit, and in some cases, travel should be avoided entirely.
Officials are reminding motorists to slow down well below the speed limit, keep headlights on, increase following distance, and reconsider travel plans during severe winter weather.
“These crashes are preventable,” the Highway Patrol stated, adding that the injuries sustained could have been avoided with reduced speeds and greater caution.
Winter weather remains a recurring hazard across North Dakota this season, and law enforcement continues to urge drivers to prioritize safety over travel timelines.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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