Some Ramps Remain Closed at I-10 and I-49 in Lafayette Following Crash into Overpass

Drivers in Lafayette are being urged to plan ahead as some ramps at the I-10 and I-49 interchange remain closed following a crash on Tuesday (Dec. 3), when an 18-wheeler hauling a large load struck the eastbound I-10 overpass. While both interstates have reopened, the exit ramp from I-10 East to I-49 North and the ramp from I-49 South to I-10 East will stay closed for at least the next few days as officials assess the damage.

The crash occurred just as many were leaving work during the afternoon rush hour, forcing closures of I-49 in both directions and I-10 eastbound at University Avenue. Traffic was backed up for hours as drivers were detoured off the interstates. The roads reopened shortly after midnight, but damage to the overpass remains a concern to authorities.

According to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), one of the bridge’s girders sustained an impact, prompting immediate damage assessments. “We’ll be working on a plan to put a project together, whether it’s through an emergency contract to go ahead and remove and replace that impacted girder,” explained DOTD spokesperson Deidra Druilhet to News 15.

The Lafayette Police Department confirmed that the crash resulted from improperly secured equipment on the 18-wheeler, which struck the overpass as the truck was hauling a forklift. While the investigation is ongoing, no citations have been issued to the driver at this time.

This is the second major incident at this overpass in two years. A similar crash in January 2023 caused structural damage that required significant repairs over an elongated period of time.

Officials are asking drivers to use caution and seek alternate routes while repairs are planned and executed. As the damage assessment progresses, further updates will be provided here.