Construction Worker Injured in I-84 Crash

Portland, October 3, 2025

News Summary

A serious accident on I-84 in Portland resulted in a construction worker suffering life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred near NE 148th Avenue when a car struck the flagger. Emergency services transported the worker to a local hospital. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the police investigation. As cleanup efforts began, all westbound lanes were closed, resulting in significant traffic congestion. This incident underscores the safety risks construction workers face on roadways, urging drivers to stay vigilant in work zones.

Portland – A construction worker suffered serious injuries following a crash on I-84 in Portland on Thursday night. The incident took place near NE 148th Avenue just before 9:15 p.m., involving a car that struck the worker, who is believed to have been serving as a flagger or traffic control worker at the time.

Emergency services transported the construction worker to a local hospital, where they are currently being treated for life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation by the Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team. As of now, it remains uncertain whether the driver will face any charges related to the incident.

In the aftermath of the crash, all westbound lanes of I-84 were closed between NE 181st and NE 148th, with additional access ramps to the west of NE 181st Avenue also shut down. This has resulted in significant traffic congestion for westbound drivers, who have been advised to find alternate routes. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, eastbound traffic may also experience delays as a result of the cleanup and investigation efforts.

This incident highlights the dangers faced by construction workers on roadways, as they are often at risk from passing vehicles despite their efforts to manage traffic safely. Construction sites typically implement safety measures, including placement of flaggers, to guide traffic and minimize risks to workers. However, incidents such as this remind the public of the importance of remaining vigilant while driving in work zones.

The Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, seeking to gather more details that may contribute to understanding how the incident occurred. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.

Traffic Advisory

Motorists are advised to avoid westbound I-84 near NE 148th Avenue and to use alternative routes. The closures are likely to impact traffic flow in the area. Those traveling eastbound may also want to remain attentive to potential delays caused by the ongoing investigation and cleanup efforts.

Background

Work zone safety is a prominent issue in transportation, with various states taking measures to enhance protection for construction workers. The use of flaggers and traffic control personnel plays a crucial role in organizing traffic in these areas. Despite these efforts, incidents still occur, emphasizing the need for continued public awareness regarding speed limits and attentiveness in construction zones.

Increased Risks

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that construction zones are particularly hazardous. Speeding, distracted driving, and impairment can lead to accidents not just involving workers but affecting other motorists as well. As the state’s infrastructure projects continue, prioritizing vehicular safety in these areas is crucial for protecting both construction staff and drivers.

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Additional Resources

• KPTV: All lanes of I-84 westbound closed due to crash
• Wikipedia: Interstate 84
• KGW: Serious crash closes Interstate 84 westbound
• Google Search: I-84 crash Portland
• KATU: Crash on I-84 seriously injures traffic control worker
• Google Scholar: Traffic Safety Construction Zones
• KOIN: Pedestrian seriously injured after I-84 W crash
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
• OregonLive: Tesla driver struck killed in crash on I-84

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