Minidoka County, Idaho (September 23, 2025) – Two truck drivers were hospitalized after a rear-end collision between potato-hauling semis on State Highway 24 north of Rupert, according to Idaho State Police.
Accident Details: The crash occurred at approximately 5:02 p.m. on northbound SH-24 at milepost 23. Investigators say a 38-year-old Rupert man driving a 2010 Kenworth semi-truck loaded with potatoes had stopped in the northbound lane to make a left-hand turn when a 1983 International semi-truck, also hauling potatoes and driven by a 59-year-old Heyburn man, struck the Kenworth from behind. The impact caused significant damage to both commercial vehicles and scattered debris across the highway. Troopers noted that both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision.
Injuries and Response: Both drivers sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not released detailed updates on their conditions. The roadway was blocked for about five hours while emergency crews stabilized the scene, provided medical aid, documented evidence, and coordinated heavy-duty towing to remove the damaged rigs. Traffic control was established to route motorists around the crash site until the highway could be safely reopened.
Investigation: Idaho State Police are examining factors commonly associated with rear-end truck collisions, including following distance, speed management, driver attentiveness, and visibility approaching a turning vehicle. Mechanical inspections may be performed to rule out brake or lighting defects on either semi, and troopers will review skid marks, vehicle data (if available), and witness statements to confirm the sequence of events. Because both trucks were engaged in agricultural hauling, load securement and lighting requirements for long, heavy vehicles may also be reviewed as part of standard protocol.
Safety and Legal Considerations: Rear-end impacts involving semis can be especially severe due to the weight and stopping distances of heavy trucks. Injured drivers in commercial-vehicle crashes may pursue claims to recover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and other damages. Depending on investigative findings, liability can extend beyond the individual driver to the motor carrier if issues such as inadequate maintenance, hours-of-service violations, or deficient training are identified. Even when seat belts are used—as in this crash—forces in tractor-trailer collisions often result in significant injuries and lengthy recovery periods.
I wish both injured drivers a full and swift recovery following this Minidoka County truck accident.
Source: Idaho State Police