Winter pileups on I-94 are a recurring danger in North Dakota, especially during snowstorms, black ice events, and low-visibility conditions. These multi-vehicle crashes can happen in seconds and often involve serious injuries or fatalities. Understanding the causes, risks, and prevention strategies is essential for all drivers, especially during the peak winter months from November through March. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a commercial truck driver, knowing how to respond to winter hazards on I-94 can help you avoid becoming part of a chain-reaction crash. Our North Dakota personal injury attorneys offer tips and suggestions for protecting yourself this season.
Why I-94 Is a High-Risk Corridor in Winter
Interstate 94 is a major east-west route that cuts across North Dakota, connecting cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Dickinson. It’s a vital corridor for both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. But in winter, this stretch of highway becomes one of the most hazardous in the region.
From November through March, North Dakota drivers face frequent snow squalls, freezing rain, and sudden temperature drops that create black ice. These conditions often lead to reduced visibility and slick road surfaces. Historical data from the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) shows that winter weather contributes to a significant number of multi-vehicle crashes on I-94 each year.
The rural nature of many I-94 segments adds to the risk. Emergency response times can be delayed in remote areas, which may worsen outcomes after a crash. Heavy commercial truck traffic also increases the severity of pileups, as larger vehicles are harder to stop and can cause more damage in a collision.
Key Causes of Winter Pileups on I-94
Winter pileups on I-94 are rarely caused by a single factor. Instead, they often result from a combination of weather conditions and driver behavior.
- Blowing snow and whiteouts: Sudden loss of visibility can cause drivers to brake abruptly or drift out of lanes.
- Black ice and slick roads: Rapid temperature drops can create invisible ice patches, especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Distracted driving: Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a chain-reaction crash when roads are icy.
- Overconfidence in vehicle capabilities: Many drivers assume that four-wheel or all-wheel drive makes them immune to sliding, but these systems don’t improve braking on ice.
- Tailgating: Inadequate following distances are a leading cause of multi-vehicle collisions in winter. When one car loses control, others often can’t stop in time.
Understanding these causes helps drivers make smarter winter driving decisions. Savvy North Dakotans know that adjusting driving habits to match winter conditions is key to staying safe.
Recommended Safety Measures for Drivers
Traffic safety professionals and NDDOT officials agree that prevention starts with preparation and caution. Here are the top winter driving safety measures to reduce your risk of a winter pileup on I-94:
- Drive slower than the posted speed limit when roads are icy or snow-covered. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, not winter hazards.
- Increase your following distance to at least 8–10 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
- Avoid sudden braking or lane changes, which can cause your vehicle to skid or lose control.
- Equip your vehicle with winter tires, and make sure your brakes, lights, and windshield wipers are in good working order.
- Check NDDOT road condition updates and weather alerts before heading out. Use resources found at the NDDOT and National Weather Service websites.
- Carry emergency supplies in your vehicle, including blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
For Commercial Drivers
Truck drivers face added risks on I-94 in winter. Experts recommend:
- Following FMCSA Hours of Service regulations to avoid fatigue-related errors.
- Conducting thorough pre-trip inspections, focusing on tires, brakes, and defrost systems.
- Staying in communication with dispatch about delays or changing weather conditions.
- Understanding the physics of heavy vehicles on ice. Stopping distances are much longer and jackknifing is a real threat.
Commercial drivers who stay informed and prepared are better equipped to avoid becoming part of a pileup.
Common Misconceptions That Lead to Crashes
Many winter crashes on I-94 stem from false assumptions about driving in snow and ice. Here are some of the most common:
Myth: Posted speed limits are safe in all conditions
Reality: In winter, driving at the speed limit can be dangerous. Always adjust your speed to match road conditions.
Myth: Four-wheel drive prevents sliding on ice
Reality: These systems help with traction but don’t improve braking or prevent skidding on ice.
Myth: Pileups only happen during heavy snowfall
Reality: Freezing rain and sudden temperature drops can create black ice, leading to crashes even when snow isn’t falling.
Myth: Normal following distances are enough in winter
Reality: You need much more space to stop on icy roads. Tailgating increases the risk of chain-reaction collisions.
Recognizing and correcting these misconceptions can help drivers avoid preventable accidents.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Winter Pileup
If you find yourself in a pileup on I-94, your safety is the top priority. Here’s what to do:
- Stay in your vehicle if it’s safe to do so, especially if visibility is low or traffic is still moving.
- Call 911 and provide your exact location.
- Document the scene with photos and gather contact information from witnesses if possible.
- Avoid standing on the roadway, as secondary collisions are common in pileups.
- Contact a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and next steps, especially if you’ve been injured.
Taking these steps can protect your safety and help preserve important evidence for any legal claims.
How a North Dakota Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Winter Pileup
If you or someone you love has been injured in a winter pileup on I-94, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, we understand the unique risks of North Dakota’s winter roads and the serious consequences of multi-vehicle crashes. Contact us to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.