Wilmington, DE (February 21, 2026) – A serious motor vehicle collision involving a tractor-trailer led to the full closure of Interstate 95 in both directions near Bellevue State Park on Friday, February 20, after reports of a possible ejection and a patient in trauma arrest.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the northbound lanes of I-95 in the area of Bellevue State Park following reports of a crash involving a passenger vehicle and an 18-wheeler. Rescue 13 arrived first on the scene and confirmed a collision between a single vehicle and a tractor-trailer, with one patient found in traumatic arrest. Additional Advanced Life Support (ALS) medics were requested to assist with emergency care.
Responding agencies included the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company No. 1, Claymont Fire Company, New Castle County Paramedics, and the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT). Emergency personnel worked to provide immediate medical treatment while securing the crash scene and managing traffic control.
Due to the severity of the collision, both northbound and southbound lanes of I-95 were shut down. Southbound traffic was closed at the state line and diverted to I-495 southbound. Northbound drivers were directed off the interstate at Marsh Road. The extensive closures resulted in significant traffic disruptions as crews remained on scene to conduct rescue operations and begin an investigation.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the identity of the patient, the condition of the tractor-trailer driver, or the events leading up to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the factors that contributed to the collision.
We extend our sincere hopes for recovery to the individual involved in this serious incident.
What is the leading cause of multi-vehicle accidents in Delaware?
The leading cause of multi-vehicle accidents in Delaware is driver inattention, particularly when motorists fail to maintain safe following distances or respond appropriately to changing traffic conditions. On high-speed roadways such as I-95, even a brief lapse in concentration can lead to severe collisions, especially when large commercial vehicles are involved.
Distracted driving is a major contributing factor in many interstate crashes. Drivers who divert their attention from the roadway to use mobile devices, adjust navigation systems, or engage in other activities may not recognize sudden slowdowns or hazards in time to avoid impact. When traffic is moving at highway speeds, the margin for error is significantly reduced.
Speeding and aggressive driving also contribute to serious multi-vehicle collisions. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, while aggressive maneuvers such as unsafe lane changes or tailgating can escalate minor traffic issues into major crashes. When a passenger vehicle collides with a tractor-trailer, the difference in size and weight can result in substantial damage and severe injuries.
Impairment and driver fatigue further increase the risk of catastrophic collisions. Alcohol, drugs, and lack of sleep impair judgment, coordination, and awareness. On major transportation corridors like I-95, where commercial and passenger vehicles share the roadway, impaired driving can have devastating consequences.
Crashes involving tractor-trailers often lead to serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding, and fractures. In cases involving possible ejection or trauma arrest, injuries are frequently life-threatening and require immediate advanced medical intervention.
When negligence contributes to a serious highway crash, injured individuals or their families may have legal options to pursue compensation. Potential damages may include medical expenses, lost income, long-term care costs, pain and suffering, and other losses associated with the collision. Accidents involving commercial vehicles may also involve complex liability issues related to trucking companies, vehicle maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
A car accident lawyer can assist by conducting a thorough investigation, preserving evidence, reviewing crash reports, and communicating with insurance providers. Legal guidance may be particularly important in high-impact interstate collisions where damages are substantial and multiple parties may be involved.
If you or someone you care about was injured in a serious crash in Wilmington or anywhere in Delaware, do not wait to seek assistance. Call Murphy & Landon at 302-472-8100 today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and available legal options.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Murphy & Landon if you find any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
