Truck driver pinned for an hour after Interstate 80 crash near West Branch

WEST BRANCH - A semi driver involved in Sunday's 34-vehicle pileup on Interstate 80 was pinned in his cab for approximately an hour.

However, the driver's injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, according to the Iowa State Patrol. Two other people were injured; however, they have been treated and released, said Sgt. Nathan Ludwig.

Ludwig said two separate crashes - a two-car and a three-car - happened around noon Sunday in the westbound lanes of Interstate 80 near West Branch. The state patrol reported a 'secondary collision” involving 29 other vehicles followed the initial two crashes.

All told, the accidents shut down westbound I-80 for about three hours.

Ludwig attributed the crashes to slick road conditions and lowered visibility, but also drivers not giving themselves enough following distance and 'panic braking.”

'Basically, not paying attention,” he said.

A semi driver hit a semi trailer in front of him with enough force that his cab was crushed and he was pinned inside. Crews were not able to get to him until they sorted through the other wreckage.

All three collisions remain under investigation.