Tacoma, WA – A tragic crash on Interstate 5 in Tacoma Thursday afternoon has left a motorcyclist dead following a collision with a car during a lane merge maneuver.
Crash Occurs During Afternoon Commute
The collision took place shortly after 2:24 p.m. near South 56th Street, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. The crash brought traffic to a halt on one of the busiest stretches of I-5.
Washington State Patrol reported that both the motorcyclist and a woman driving a car were traveling northbound in one of the center lanes. The motorcyclist was seen lane splitting, riding between vehicles on the broken white lines separating two lanes—an often dangerous maneuver.
Driver’s Attempt to Merge Ends in Tragedy
According to WSP Trooper John Dattilo, the driver of the car noticed the motorcycle in her rearview mirror. Believing she had sufficient distance to safely change lanes, she began merging to the left. As she did, her vehicle collided with the motorcycle, causing the rider to be ejected from the bike.
The News Tribune reported that the motorcyclist died at the scene, and authorities confirmed he was an adult male. His identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
No Impairment Suspected, Investigation Ongoing
The female driver was uninjured, not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and is said to be cooperating with investigators. There are currently no charges filed, as officials work to determine the exact sequence of events and fault.
The investigation is ongoing, and WSP has not confirmed whether the motorcyclist was also attempting to merge at the same time.
Traffic Impact and Road Closures
Following the incident, the left lanes in both directions of I-5 were blocked, causing significant traffic delays. Officials have not yet provided an estimated time for the roadway to be cleared.
Drivers were urged to seek alternate routes as investigators and cleanup crews continued their work at the scene.
Road Safety Concerns
This accident highlights ongoing concerns around motorcycle safety, particularly lane splitting, which remains a gray area in Washington state law. While it is not explicitly legal or illegal, law enforcement generally discourages the practice due to the high risk of collision.
Motorists are reminded to always check mirrors and blind spots before merging, and motorcyclists are urged to use extra caution, especially in congested areas where visibility is limited.
What are your thoughts on lane splitting and motorcycle safety in heavy traffic? Share your perspective in the comments below.
