Seligman, AZ – Deadly Crash on I-40 Near Cross Mountain Rd Causes Hours-Long Closure

Seligman, AZ (August 16, 2025) – On Thursday, August 14, a serious crash involving a commercial truck and a passenger vehicle took place along Interstate 40 near milepost 99, close to Cross Mountain Road. The incident was reported at approximately 6:44 a.m. and led to a complete shutdown of the westbound lanes for about seven hours.

Authorities stated that a fire broke out in the passenger vehicle after the initial impact. One individual lost their life, while several others sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for further medical treatment. The full closure resulted in heavy delays and forced traffic to detour through Historic Route 66 in Seligman, where congestion stretched north of Kingman for several miles.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety confirmed that drivers had to turn around in the median to help alleviate the long backup. Traffic was rerouted from Interstate 40 to Historic Route 66, with congestion extending along Andy Devine Avenue and reaching past Valle Vista. The Seligman Fire Department responded to assist with the incident, while the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office managed traffic flow during the extended closure.

Westbound Interstate 40 reopened at 1:51 p.m., but traffic on Route 66 took an additional two to three hours to clear. By 5:30 p.m., officials reported that traffic had returned to normal in the area. The crash remains under investigation.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Car Accidents in Arizona

Car accidents in Arizona remain a leading cause of injuries and fatalities each year. Recent reports show that thousands of crashes occur annually across the state, with a significant number involving major highways such as Interstate 40. Many of these collisions lead to extended road closures, traffic congestion, and serious consequences for those involved. State officials have consistently encouraged safe driving practices to reduce the number of accidents on Arizona roads.

Understanding why accidents occur and what risks are most common is important. Below are some key factors that often play a role in collisions across the state:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers using cell phones, adjusting in-car systems, or becoming otherwise inattentive are at increased risk of causing an accident. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a serious crash, especially at highway speeds.

• Fatigue Behind the Wheel: Long hours of driving without rest can impair reaction time and judgment. Commercial truck drivers are particularly at risk, and fatigue-related crashes often result in severe injuries.

• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the driver’s ability to control their vehicle and increases the impact force during a collision. Many highway crashes involve drivers who were traveling faster than posted limits.

• Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, dust storms, and reduced visibility can all make driving dangerous. When drivers fail to adjust their speed and following distance, accidents are more likely.

• Mechanical Failures: Tire blowouts, brake issues, and other mechanical problems can contribute to crashes, particularly for large commercial trucks. Regular maintenance is critical to reducing these risks.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision, speaking with a dedicated truck accident attorney is critical.

Following an accident, many victims face hospital bills, time away from work, and long-term recovery needs. Calling an attorney as soon as possible helps protect your rights and ensures important evidence is preserved. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or delay claims, but having a legal advocate on your side can make the process smoother. By acting quickly, victims can increase their chances of securing fair compensation for medical treatment, lost income, and other damages.

National Injury Help has years of experience assisting individuals and families after serious accidents. Our team understands how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can be and is here to provide guidance every step of the way. We know that each case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions clearly. Our attorneys work diligently to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable for their actions. We offer free consultations, so you can learn more about your options without any obligation. If you or a loved one has been affected by a crash, call us today at (866) 932-4817 to get started.