DA: No Charges in January Pile-ups
DA: No Charges in January Pile-ups Save Email Print

A | A | A

Updated Monday, March 3 --- 3:35pm

New information about the January 6th pile-ups on I-90.

The District Attorney and the State Patrol have decided not to press any criminal charges related to the eastbound lane crashes.

Heavy fog was a problem that day. The State Patrol says drivers were going too fast for conditions. There were multiple crashes on the interstate that day.

The State Patrol will now begin looking through speed data recovered from the cars involved with the eastbound lane crashes.

While the DA won't file criminal charges, the Highway Patrol will begin issuing speeding tickets. Those tickets should all be handed out within the next week.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Updated Tuesday, January 8 - 6:15pm

Authorities have identified both people killed in Sunday crashes on the Interstate.

79-year-old Delbert Smet of Fond Du Lac was killed in a 5-car pile up near Highway N southeast of Madison.

The State Patrol says that crash involved three cars and two semitrailers.

Four other people were hurt in that pile-up.

Killed in another crash near the DeJope casino was 54-year-old Beatrice Winrich of Stoughton.

More than 100 vehicles were involved in crashes along a 5-mile stretch of the interstate Sunday afternoon.

The crashes happened in heavy fog.

The interstate was shutdown for about 8 hours.

-- Click HERE for How EMT Crew's Responded


-- Click HERE for Crash Pics from Viewers


-- Click HERE Drivers Search for Cars


-- Post Your Own Crash Comments Below

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Hospital UPDATE -------- Updated Monday 5:50pm

We have an update now on all the people hospitalized from the interstate pileup.

Two remain listed in critical condition at UW hospital .. with several others there in serious condition.

St. Marys treated 25 people were treated and released.

Meriter hospital treated and released 12.

Stoughton Hospital also received 11 victims from the crash -- 3 were kept overnight for observation.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Latest Stories from the Associated Press (Updated Monday 6:45pm)

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Two people critically injured in the massive interstate pileup near Madison are improving.

7 people remain hospitalized at University Hospital in Madison. All are now in serious condition. Three people were held overnight at Stoughton Hospital for observation, but could be released later Monday.

33 others were treated and released from three Madison hospitals.

More than 100 vehicles piled up on Interstate 90 Sunday afternoon in the thick fog. Two people were killed and at least 50 people suffered injuries.

The State Patrol closed the interstate while the wreckage was cleared and reopened it early Monday.

A fog advisory continues for much of Wisconsin Monday.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

RE-CAP of Sunday's Massive Pile-up

- The Wisconsin State Patrol says more than 100 vehicles were involved in the series of pileups that left two people dead.

- Two separate crashes were reported at about 2:30 Sunday afternoon in a Three-mile stretch between the Beltline and Highway "N".

- At last three people have suffered life-threatening injuries.

- Officers at the scene describe it as a "war-scene."

- The Salvation Army Canteen was at the scene, assisting victims.

- Earlier, Metro Buses were used to transport drivers to Wingate Hotel.

If you have pictures from the scene, e-mail them to NBC15 at news@nbc15.com.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NBC15 Reporter Erin Koskovich filed this report from the scene:

Julia Wagner avoided hitting another car but got out to see the crash scene for herself. "There was a huge amount of fog and everyone in front of us just stopped short and we didn't even see it. And then we just slammed on the brakes and pulled into the shoulder here and luckily we didn't hit anyone, a lot of people did" said Wagner.

Mother Nature wasn't kind to travelers: patchy areas of thick fog caused drivers to slam on their brakes.

"All the sudden it was white out conditions. It got horrible. A split second after that all I saw were red lights from the car stopped in front of me" said Sam Hillier.

As traffic came to a stand still, cars and semis started piling-up on the interstate, the medians, and the ditches.

"When I got out I looked behind me and two semi trucks were basically barreling down the road taking out the cars in front of them" said Hillier.

"Next thing you know we just got caught up in it. Seeing the semi behind us hit the Trailblazer behind us and then they hit us and our window busted out" said Christopher Nawrot.

It's a scene of mass chaos, with multiple accidents, multiple injuries, and many people wandering the interstate on foot.

"It was just horrible. People's cars were flipped over and had to be pried out. It was bad" said Hillier.

"There's a couple people they pulled out from the car in front of us. In front of that semi, they actually had to pull a kid out of there" said Nawrot.

"We saw a woman who was bleeding and shaking and a firefighter was holding her child" said Wagner.

While crews worked to save lives, the cars backed-up and victims did anything they could to keep even the littlest of their family members alive and search for answers.

"It was pretty much so quick it was hard to tell exactly what went on" said Nawrot.

"A bunch of us were talking and after we came down off the initial high of the accident... a bunch of us we pretty happy to just be okay and not hurt" said Hillier.

Pictures below courtesy Dan Sinnett, Kelly Hanson and Heather Deininger.

Click Pictures to Enlarge
Post Your Comments
First Name:
Location:
Enter Comments: characters left
Email (optional):
By posting this comment I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy:
You must agree to the Terms of Service to continue.
Read Comments
Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
Posted by: ferdie Location: Netherlands on Jan 20, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Fog collisions can be avoided by using the arff system (automatic rear fog flashlight) As soon when the rear fog light is switged on, the rear fog light will start to blink (not by slowly driving) and also when the reasr fog light is not switged on by hard braking

Posted by: ANDREA Location: PRAIRE DU CHIEN on Jan 12, 2008 at 02:39 PM
MY FRIEND AND I WERE COMMING HOME FROM CHICAGO THAT DAY AS SOON AS WE CROSSED INTO WISCONSIN THE FOG HIT US FAST AND THICK I THANK GOD THAT WE WERENT HURT... MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO PEOPLE WHO GOT HURT I FEEL FOR THE FAMILIES.. I THANK EVERYONE WHO HELPED THESE PEOPLE GET THREW THIS HARD TIME...

Posted by: Inger Location: Rockford, IL on Jan 10, 2008 at 07:20 PM
My husband, 12 yr old son and I were right in the middle of the 2nd crash. We are thankful for making it through this alive. I thank every emergency responder and any individual that was helping. We truly experienced a war zone out there. I credit everyone that was a victim of this horrible accident with their concerns for others. Everyone I talked to was more concerned about the well being of others and weren't worried about their cars or how long they would be stuck there. I know that all of the emergency personnel went above and beyond the call of duty & were so helpful to us. We received water and were offered blankets. I also want to thank the victim's families. Monday night we received news from our pastor that someone from our church received the gift of a kidney from one of the victims. Please know that even through your pain and suffering at least one person was given the gift of life. I pray that God will give you the peace that surpasses all understanding. Thanks

Posted by: sarah Location: madison, wi on Jan 9, 2008 at 11:22 AM
you know i love the people that come from out of state and complain about our state...here's a thought...STAY OUT!!!!!!! the people that are complaining are probably the ones driving too fast and don't care about other people...the most heart breaking thing i saw on the news was the officer walking two young children away from the accident...people are stupid when it comes to conditions, if you live in the midwest you should really know how to drive by now. If you can't see 100 ft in front of your face well chances are you can't see whats stopped in front of you either...and what's with the idiots driving without lights? Just because its daylight out doesn't mean people can see you in FOG!!! Next time you wanna drive like idiots think of the millions of young children in the cars around you and what could happen to them if you hit them.

Posted by: Katie Location: Madison on Jan 9, 2008 at 09:03 AM
Regarding signage during the accident - if you couldn't see the lights in front of you, how would you have been able to read a sign on the side of the road? And the conditions changed literally from mile to mile, so.....where would they put the signs and what would they say? I say kudos to the emergency response teams, Culver's, and people involved in the accidents who kept their wits about them and remained calm. This could have been much worse.

Posted by: Stacey Location: Portage on Jan 9, 2008 at 04:33 AM
It would be nice to have a device that if you see a vehicle driving without headlights in weather where you would need them on, you could point, push a button and they would go on and they can't turn them off unless they turn off the car. I pray for all those involved and those that had to wait in traffic or information. I think we should worry less about blaming other peoples driving and worry more about our own. If one can sit there and blame others, then maybe you should become a driving instructor and teach people how to avoid accidents. If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem, so back off!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Madison on Jan 9, 2008 at 12:07 AM
THANK YOU, TO ALL THE EMERGENCY PERSONNAL THAT RAN TO THEIR POST WHEN PAGERS SOUNDED BOTH VOLUNTEER AND CAREER. The reponse between major divisions of a scene like this is best stated by Professionalism. THANK YOU AGIAN the responders that stayed on scene ( some more than 12 hours ). THANK YOU to all people that went beyond any call of duty to help a perfect stranger.It is times in life such as this one that everyone needs to pull together to insure WE NEVER FORGET a loss of life is the ultimate tragedy. My prayers go to all the families involved in this event.

Posted by: L Location: Madison on Jan 8, 2008 at 10:00 PM
The tow companies were simply doing their jobs. When State Patrol calls and says to move cars off the road, it has to be done. These companies spent a lot of time on the scene clearing the roads for safety purposes; they are not out to clean anyone's pockets.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 8, 2008 at 06:46 PM
It's sad, it's really sad. No one asks for things like this to happen they just do. But for people to point fingers and insult should be forbidden. Take the time to be thankful, not to complain. No one can control mother nature. We are all responsible for our own actions, and I'm sure those involved because they traveled to fast or didn't slow down soon enough are in enough sorrow. I know from being in previous wrecks, that this horrible picture will forever morn in their minds. Don't make it any harder than it already is!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Janesville on Jan 8, 2008 at 04:08 PM
These towing bills seem ridiculous! I just read today on People.com that Britney Spears had her car towed yesterday and they only charge $104 for the tow, not $200 or more. Something's seriously wrong here if people in California get a better deal than us little ol' Wisconsinites; where the cost of living doesn't even compare to Calinfornia.

Posted by: Unknown Location: Illinois on Jan 8, 2008 at 12:22 PM
Can we please just stop pointing fingers?

Posted by: ann on Jan 8, 2008 at 12:18 PM
I read a lot of these comments and all I hear is blame. what about the people that were hurt in all this that is what matters the most my prays go out to them.

Posted by: Unknown Location: Madison on Jan 8, 2008 at 10:05 AM
I feel awful for everything that happened. Fog is a serious thing! Im thankful that it wasnt me in that car accident. Im pretty sure that alot of you should be thankful for that. I my prayers go to the families that lost people in the accident and it goes out to the ones that are seriously hurt. My apologizes to everybody out there. Is the road already cleared up?

Posted by: Kim Location: Rhinelander, WI on Jan 8, 2008 at 09:55 AM
My husband, daughter (1 yr) and I were driving back from Chicago and were involved in this terrible mess. After looking at these photos, I realize how horrible this was. Fortunately, we were able to avoid being hit or hitting anyone by driving into the median. I was impressed with everyone we talked to because there was no complaining and complete concern for those involved. The emergency crews did everything they could to give care to those in need. The sense of togetherness was incredible. I felt really good that my family was able to give some of our extra snacks and milk to a woman and her young daughter and newborn who were in a firetruck without food. It was a good feeling knowing that we could help. I would gladly sit in my car for 7 hours again if it meant that my family was safe. Others were not so lucky. Everything happened so quickly. So many people went above and beyond to help those who needed it. We will keep all victims and their families in my thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: m Location: sun prairie on Jan 8, 2008 at 08:02 AM
My heart goes out to all the victims. In the last 2 days of this fog i have seen 23 cars without their headlights on and funny thing most have been white vehicles(even worse to see in fog). i saw one of these vehicles pass 2 cops and nothing happened. Is there a law or not about fog and headlights?

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Madison, WI on Jan 8, 2008 at 07:18 AM
As someone who ended up in traffic for three hours *behind* the accident scene, I'm grateful to have missed it. But what still baffles me is why there wasn't more use of signage to suggest alternate routes for drivers. I got on I39 northbound at mile marker 175 sometime after 4:00pm. The first and only sign that said the highway was fully closed and to take alternate routes did not appear until *well after* the last exit before the closure (#156 Hwy 51 Stoughton), and that after being in standstill traffic for several miles already. The only exit available at that point was 147 (Co. N) so there was no option to take an alternate route. I certainly would have if given any head's up. In addition, there was no signage or direction at the end of the ramp for Co. N. As someone from the area I knew where I was, but I was one of only a few people who went north to get around the accident. I feel for those who followed the herd south to where...Lake Kegonsa(?) and ended up thoroughly lost.

Posted by: Dawn Location: Sun Prairie on Jan 8, 2008 at 06:12 AM
Thank you to all the local hospitals, emts and first responders. It is disheartening to think this whole thing could have been avoided but, instead of pointing fingers I think we could all learn how to be safer drivers. I am extremely disappointed on some of the charges that are being imposed by the towing companies. Looking at the info from here on NBC15 and channel3000.com, do tow companies think it is fair to have a sliding rate on how much they should charge? From over $600 down to $200? Just because someone complains? Shame on you. I think city and other contracts should be reviewed if that is how you choose to conduct business.

Posted by: James Location: Madison on Jan 8, 2008 at 12:14 AM
To Raul, If you don't like the way Wisconsinites drive, feel free to never come up here again. Stop pointing the finger at who is responsible and do so some good and pray for those who weren't as fortunate. At least Wisconsinites PAY to drive on your roads.

Posted by: Nelson Location: Stoughton on Jan 8, 2008 at 12:03 AM
"I am not saying to drive 20 MPH, but in dense fog 50 MPH is reasonable." Really Bob??? The stopping distance on wet pavement at 20 mph is 60 feet, at 30 mph 120 feet and at 50 mph it is a whopping 175 feet. (http://www.driveandstayalive.com/info%20section/stopping-distances.htm) Visibility in the fog bank was reported to be 50 feet. 20 miles per hour was border-line "safe" except for the risk of people who think like you. When you can't even see where the edge of the road is, what's the difference if you are driving 75 or 50? You are still one of the causes, not victims, of the eventual crash. May God watch over those who were injured and those you may injure next time.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Stoughton, WI on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:20 PM
Wow, i've been reading these comments and was going to post about respecting all drivers from other states BUT RAUL.....I lived in the Chicago area for 15 years-trust me IL drivers are worse-maybe you need a little cheese. This is not a time to throw mud. I applaud the Emergency Responders and all the people that pulled together and helped in an extremely difficult situation. I was a victim of the Tornado two years ago and I was so impressed and amazed by our EMT's - awesome people. Red Cross-fabulous organization! Volunteers-Amazing! This is why our communities are great here in this wonderful state of WI! Yes, people need to pay attention on the roads. Weather is out of our control! But I believe when tragedies occur MOST people go above and beyond! My prayers to all the victims and their families.

Posted by: Josh Location: Seymour, WI on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:02 PM
I was in the middle of this accident yesterday afternoon. Although I wasn't hit, many others were. A lot of vehicles were driving way to fast entering the large wall of fog. We walked around on the interstate for about six to seven hours just looking at all the damaged vehicles. This is one thing that I will never forget.

Posted by: John Location: Stoughton on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:42 PM
Dear Raul and Frank - After living on the west coast and experiencing Tule Fog in the San Joaquin Valley and fogs along the coast, and this latest bout of fog here in Wisconsin, I find your posts and your advice to be insulting at best. Under no circumstances is anyone supposed to drive faster than a distance they can see. And Raul especially, how dare you insult this state by inferring that somehow IL drivers know how to drive in the fog. It's very hard to tell anything about IL drivers, since they drive through this area so fast they're basically a blur. It's not the cheese, it's the IL drivers crowding up our highways that concern us.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:01 PM
Wow Raul!! You seem like a pretty bright guy. If you are so worried about cheese clouding our thought process then maybe its time you find a new route. Things happen where they happen. I think instead of pointing a finger we need to focus on the families who were hurt and those who lost loved ones in this horrible accident. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims and families. It is a great feeling to know how this state pulls together in tragic times like these and takes care of those who are need. If that is the cheese clouding us then I think we need to be proud of that.

Posted by: J Location: Baraboo on Jan 7, 2008 at 06:42 PM
I drive a school bus and have seen on many days when people should be driving with lights on and watching how they are driving and don't. Sorry for everyone who was involved yesterday and hope we all learned something. Slow down or you or someone you love could die. Lights on in the dusk and wether you can't see very well on, it doesn't take more gas to drive with them on and then everyone can see you and maybe we will have safer roads. And please quit driving and talking on the phone in bad weather.

Posted by: "Doc" Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 05:42 PM
As a retired EMT, I still carry my gear in my car, for just such an occasion. Never, in all my 40 yrs of being an EMT was I so happy to have my gear with me! To the little boy, and his parents, who stopped me as I ran along the shoulder and asked if I could help with daddy's diabetic sugar", I was happy to help! To "Mindy", please don't be offended, but I don' give out my address/ ph. # for thank you cards/ etc. because it is not neccessary. The hug you gave was enough, thank you, and I was just so happy I could help. To "Todd", thanks Dude, for helping with the blanket! And thanks to all the stand up citizens that chipped in to help each other out. When you doubt the good in the world, just look at the way we bonded that time, and you'll see goodness so bright you're eyes will tear up.

Posted by: Raul Location: IL on Jan 7, 2008 at 05:41 PM
Funny how this always happens in Wisconsin. The first time it happened it was odd...now it is an epidemic. Does the cheese cloud the thought process up there? Learn to drive in the fog Wisconsin.

Posted by: LC Location: WI on Jan 7, 2008 at 04:48 PM
This pile-up crash is indeed a tragedy. Driving 70 in a 65mph zone is called speeding. Not taking the precaution to drive "slower" in poor weather condtions such as "fog", snow, heavy rain, strong winds or any other thing mother nature bestows upon us is a no brainer. I was on the road yesterday and actually saw 2 cars without their headlights on and one car zoom pass me like the devil was chasing him. My first thougt was I hope to God he doesn't kill anyone and my second was I hope he lands his butt right in the ditch. Just because the interstate is "express", common sense should tell you different when road conditions are not good. These accidents could very well be avoided.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2008 at 04:46 PM
I thought about taking the interstate home from my parents, who live in Poynette yesterday; but for some good reason I decided to take the back road home. Thank God I did. I couldn't imagine being stuck for hours with my 2,6, and 8 year olds in a car that isn't moving. I feel for all the parents that were traped in that mess yesterday. My heart also goes out to the families that lost loved ones.

Posted by: David Location: Portage, WI on Jan 7, 2008 at 04:01 PM
No Frank, the high speed was the problem. When there is 100 foot visibility and you are traveling at 65 mph, the distance to get stopped is farther then you can see. The people who slowed down were doing the right thing.

Posted by: Brad Location: Beloit on Jan 7, 2008 at 04:00 PM
I drive for a living 5 days a week so here is a lovely rule of thumb that i live by, watch the semi drivers.They will know ahead of time if the roads are unsafe.They have these little devices called CB radios and they talk to each other.Now i know semis were going to fast yesterday but the one thing with fog is one second its clear and the next you cant see a damn thing.I witnessed it myself yesterday and today.Everybody in this country is in to much of a hurry.Reducing the speed limit on the interstate is the dumbest thing Ive ever heard.Its 65 now and 85 seems to be the minimum now, at least in Madison.Oh and for closing down I90 were would you like them to go?Some little two lane highway where the conditions are probably worse.Nothing could of stopped yesterday unless someone who is posting can remove fog from the roads.Oh ya and one last thing TURN ON YOUR LIGHTS, that probably could of helped a little.

Posted by: JJ Location: Dane on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:57 PM
I get a Kick out of the Person who asked whos gonna pay for all theses expenses !!Umm You are you were there so you are partially liable regardless whos fault it is>if your Insurance company wont assist then,time to find a new one.

Posted by: benny Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:52 PM
My Brother and I stopped just before the accident. We were running to Janesville and right when we got onto 90 everyone slammed their breaks. my brother swerved to the shoulder and then we filed into line. we waited for 3 hours before the police turned us around. it's a good thing we didn't leave 45 seconds earlier.

Posted by: gal Location: wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:27 PM
FRANK: people like you with comments like that are what cause grief in the world today! We are all HUMAN and make mistakes. IF you have heard they said it was weather and high speeds for the conditions etc. I pray for all injured and for the families that have permanent loss and for those who even had to be a part or witness this tragedy!

Posted by: Holly Location: Shreveport, La on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:26 PM
This is my second post. My husband was involved in this yesterday, but thank God he was OK.. I read people asking who is at fault and who is going to pay... My husband's job takes him from one side of the country to the other over 100,000 miles a year. It is time for the drivers to learn about the highways. All over the country, highways are over crowded, and people have no patients with others. My HB does not drive an 18 wheeler, but how do you think you get your groceries and the things we need. It would be good if we could all learn to concerve. Travel only when necissary,car pool some to cut down on traffic, stay off the cell phones, slow down when the weather is bad, and be conciderate to them around you. We are all responsible for the highways. And we need to learn like we did in Kindergarted to share, and be polite of others. My Hb said the local officials did the best they could for such a bad situation...

Posted by: Frank Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:03 PM
The problem was not the high speed of traffic but the dummies who stop or slow down to a crawl.

Posted by: Lauretta Location: Hollandale on Jan 7, 2008 at 02:50 PM
I was traveling back to Madison from Chicago with my husband, daughter and grandchild when we were stopped by the accidents and fog on I90/39 yesterday afternoon. I had slowed down prior to the accident stoppage, but people were going far too fast for the conditions. I want to compliment all of the police and paramedics for doing such a wonderful job at the accident scene. Everyone was very professional and kind. These kinds of stressors are difficult on everyone, but people really showed their finest at the scene. I want to commend all of the first responders who do such a difficult, but wonderful job. People as a general rule...were patient and kind to each other.

Posted by: mike(wrecker driver) Location: madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 02:04 PM
I'm a wrecker driver who's worked for a Madison based towing co. for over 20 yrs. I've worked that stretch of hwy & seen many accidents. I39/90 from Janesville to the BDGR interchange is the worstsection of road in WI in bad weather. I read these comments & see alot of finger pointing. As cars get smaller & trucks remain big, our roads will become more dangerous. The main problem I see with this stretch of road is the volume of cars & traffic. Over the yrs traffic has increased tremendously on this road. Years ago there was talk to make this 3 lanes from the state line to the BDGR interchange. This project has been dellayed over & over due to budget cuts. As more people travel in our state, we need to make our roads safer. Human life should be more important!! This road NEEDS to be constructed to 3 lanes to help the increased traffic flow!! P.S. CONTACT YOUR GOVERNOR!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Stu on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:50 PM
J.C.,could you imagine if the gov't or highway patrol tried keeping you off the roads!!! You'd scream about your rights!! The bottom line is is if you can't see--you shouldn't be driving.

Posted by: Don Location: Illinois on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:48 PM
To Lucky One's Wife: Is there a price for your husband being safe and sound? I too was caught in the mess yesterday. Pay the bills and move on. God was on your husband's side, how can you even think about who is responsible? Who was responsible for fog so dense you literally couldn't see past the end of your hood? It was the combination of mother nature and driver error. Count your blessings you don't have to replace the car or that you aren't paying a large hospital bill, or even a mortician.

Posted by: Renee Location: Abbotsford BC Canada on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:28 PM
Im so sickend to see this accident. My Niece was in this mess. By the Love of God she came out of un harmed, the car in front as crushed and the car behind her was crushed. I believe in a higher power! My thoughts and prayers are with all the people in this disaster

Posted by: rick Location: madison wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:27 PM
HI IAM A SEMIDRIVER AND TRUCK SPEED IN THIS STATE IS OUTRAGES IAM 65OR LESS IN ANY COND,, , BUT IS FOR BLEM FOR THIS ACC I DONT KNOW BUT TRUCK SPEED IN WI, SHOULDEN BE IF THE SMITH SYSTEM WAS IN PLACE WITH ALL 4 WHEELS AND SEMI

Posted by: unknown Location: wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:17 PM
My heart goes out to the WINRICH family also the DELBERT family for thier loss in the traggic accident from yesterday. Bless You All with deepest sympathy!

Posted by: A Lucky One's Wife Location: WI on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:54 PM
My husband was in the middle of the accident yesterday afternoon. Our car was not involved in the accident but was towed while he was at the Wingate Hotel. After several calls to the State Patrol, Channel 15 was able to locate our car. $125 was charged to us for the towing, even though the windshield had the word Wingate clearly printed across it. Thank you all that assited those involved in the melee. My question is who is going to pay for all the charges that were incurred, hotel room, towing, meals since he could not come home....our insurance said it is all in the deductible

Posted by: anonymous Location: wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:00 PM
I am an ER RN and wish to thank all madison, McFarland, Stoughton,Deforest, and all other involved EMS for their assistance to all accident victims. Excelent triage work was performed under very difficult circumstances.

Posted by: Diane Location: Illinois on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:56 AM
My husband and I had been driving since 9 am from Faribault MN - varying amounts of fog the whole time and varying degrees of good and bad drivers. It took 4 eyes the whole trip to drive as defensively as possible and neither of us had time to consider the license plate of the cars passing us. It didn't matter, we were all in a battle against the no lights, 70mph, tailgating, drivers who had no respect for us or themselves or their passengers. We did meet the stand still traffic about 1/2 mile from the 51 ramp around 2:45. We were lucky. I don't know who caused the accidents, but there were many drivers out there that could have.

Posted by: karen Location: wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:55 AM
this interstate is a death trap, i have to drive it daily for work, have seen alot of horror and people just not using any brains when traveling this interstate. i have been forced into construction barrels by semi's whom do not follow road signs that clearly show traffic moving to right, i believe something needs to be done with this interstate as it is killing alot of people, state of wisconsin........possibly drop speed limit a bit on this road?????

Posted by: Kyle Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:47 AM
I was stuck on I-90 from 2:50pm until 11:30pm last night. The rescue workers did a fantastic job. The one issue was that nobody did anything for the cars that were stuck. People were low on gas, had no food/ water and no information. I was with my pregnant wife and 18 month old; it would have been nice for someone to check to make sure that people who were stuck for 9 hours didn't need help. Of course I understand that there were MUCH higher priorities, but it would have been nice to have 1 or 2 officers seeing if anyone need help. We didn't get that, we never saw the red cross. Again, I would like to reiterate, that everyone helping those hurt did a great job, it would have been nice though to see if people needed blankets or water or something.

Posted by: Brad Location: Edgerton on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:44 AM
This will be a really unpopular post, but make all roads 55 MPH all the time for all vehicles. This will no doubt cut back on the number of accidents and save vast amounts of fuel at the same time. This won't work unless we have a very large scale law enforcement to go hand in hand with it. Some counties in IL use quotas in seatbelt enforcement to pay for the officer's income. We should use speeding over 55 MPH as the same.

Posted by: dianna Location: janesville wi on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:35 AM
i just wanna thank god i didnt venture out yesterday sounds like a horror story my prayers go out to friends and familys to the accident victims,and please everyone slow down in bad conditions

Posted by: JC Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 11:13 AM
Dawn, well, you stayed home, and many more like you stayed home--me too, I stayed home. I don't know why reading others' opinions makes you sick. Maybe reading is like driving. Stay off the comments when you think someone may have an opinion making you sick. I feel it is good public policy for our government and law enforcement to stop people from going on the highway, when conditions warrant.

Posted by: Kate Location: Elkhorn on Jan 7, 2008 at 10:32 AM
I was driving home Saturday morning from Milwaukee on I-43. The fog was bad then also. There were times visibility was maybe a half mile and then times only 100 feet ahead of me. Because I knew it was flucuating like that I used my head and kept driving no more that 45 and would slow as need be. Semis and other cars were speeding past me going at least 65-70 miles per hour and I kept thinking they are crazy when I was afraid going 45. I kept in my mind that accident a few years ago in the fog on 43 North. People are just nuts these days. No kind of weather seems to slow them down.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2008 at 10:28 AM
driving too fast. they can't stop in the distance they can see.

Posted by: Dawn on Jan 7, 2008 at 10:08 AM
I get so sick of reading....the state patrol should have closed the highway down etc. etc. People, if it is bad DON'T go out. It is as simple as that. My plans changed and I stayed home!!! It is common sense and not difficult to figure out!

Posted by: Joyce Location: Stoughton on Jan 7, 2008 at 10:03 AM
Dug-typical Chicago attitude!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wisconsin on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:57 AM
Great Job to the E.M.T.'s they do a great job and if you were one that was on the scene you should have thanked them for helping you and your families.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:40 AM
Something that I have noticed since moving to Wisconsin, is that hardly anyone followings the three-five second rule. Why is everyone tailgating? If more people followed that rule, maybe we could reduce the amount of accidents like yesterdays.

Posted by: JC Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:32 AM
I think we (our State Patrol and local law enforcement) should close our highways with conditions like we had yesterday. Not to infer I believe it is their's or anybody else's fault. I'm just saying that we might be best to make the decision that in conditions like yesterday, we need to close it down before the accident. Possibly we could close the highways to all but commercial truckers.

Posted by: S Location: CP on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:23 AM
There were a lot of comments about driving, and I just want to say that I don't understand why most of those people were out. If the road conditions are that bad and the news was warning us about the fog, why bother going some where. I bet if you ask all those people at least 1/4 of them will say they didn't need to be out...

Posted by: S Location: CP on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:21 AM
It is just amazing the things that happen in life. It is amazing that more people weren't killed in this crash.

Posted by: Nat Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:18 AM
I think that people need to stop criticizing the drivers and take the time to thank God that most of the people are okay and pray for those who lost their lives and their families. People should be thanking the EMTS, firefighters, police and any persons who got out of their car to help others who were injured worse than them. The world need more people like them.

Posted by: mike Location: westfield on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:11 AM
I am really sorry for the people that got killed and injured. But these moran people in cars is just out of control.If you can not see 10 feet in fro nt of your car you should be doing 10 mph.People are just so stupid nothing is going to happen to them.All these peple in there cars that think they are so cool driving so fast i fell very sorry for the people that got hurt but not for the people that caused it.And guess what we will all pay for the stupid people that dont care. I have been driving that road for over 35 years and see a lot of idoits and truckers.We need more police to give big tickets to these idiots.I agree with the message from dory

Posted by: a. Location: near madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:04 AM
we were driving in madison a little while after the accident. the fog was insane! you could see perfectly fine and then out of no where you couldn't see anything. so don't sit there and say that these people were driving horribly. i can understand how this happened cuz right before we go to the interstate on rap, i was freaking out cuz we couldn't see a thing. it was really scary on the roads yesterday! i'm sorry to those that lose their lives and am so thankful that more didn't! everyone really is lucky!

Posted by: Jan Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 09:01 AM
I found that so many people were driving without their headlights on. Please remind everyone that it is impossible to see a car that is light colored in this fog, I almost pulled out in front of a lt. gray mini van with no lights on. What about those flashing signs on the interstate that warn of accidents or bad road conditions?

Posted by: bob on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:58 AM
wow

Posted by: Bill Location: Sun Prairie on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:56 AM
Once again, something else besides the obvious is being blamed. LOOK AT THE PICTURES. These vehicles were no traveling 50 mph when this crash happened. Who drives this fast when you can't see?? We an put up all the signs and improve vehicles to maximum safety standards but until drivers start taking responsibility and drive with common sense, these crashes will continue. Notice I used the term crash, not accident. This was a preventable event!

Posted by: Ray Location: Rockford, Illinois on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:49 AM
We were in the middle of the wreckage on Sunday afternoon, headed to the Dells from Rockford. We had already slowed down due to the fog and somehow managed to manuever off onto the outside shoulder and keep from hitting anyone or getting hit. The interstate quickly changed from a 2 lane to a 4 lane highway. Cars and semis flying off into the ditches. We got out and could hear cars and trucks behind us in the fog screeching tires and slamming into each other. Nothing you can do at that point. Yes some were going too fast for conditions, but not all of us. Some of us drive responsibly. Our daughter, who has brain injuries from a car accident last February was with us and so it was very frightening for us to see this first hand. The accident happened at 2:30 and we weren't allowed to leave until 10:00. While I appreciate the chaos the rescuers had to deal with, they need to coordinate better and do some announcement up and down the road next time so we know what is going on.

Posted by: Sarah Location: Sandwich, IL on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:37 AM
We were traveling home from Portage, WI and EVERYONE would start hitting their brakes as soon as they hit fog, all you need is one person not to be paying full attention! There were MANY people out there with out lights on as well, PLEASE, everyone, let this be a sign to you!

Posted by: Ann Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:24 AM
Why is there no alert system in place for motorists, traveling on any given interstate. INFORMATION saves lives. We all have cell phones or car radios Why not utilize this technology to warn of emergency information? A comment on the interstate problems, which seem to be on the increase. I would like to see more speed control on this part of the interstate. There are 4 major exit/entrances onto the interstate within this stretch of interstate. IT SHOULD NOT BE 65 mph or even 55mph, BUSINESS AS USUAL. Consider speed traps and limit reductions to 45 for highway conditions such as this one. State Patrol: Give out the tickets! I think anyone would take the ticket over death, anyday!

Posted by: xii Location: madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:21 AM
From the story: "While crews worked to save lives, the cars backed-up and victims did anything they could to keep even the littlest of their family members alive and search for answers." Can someone explain what the heck this sentence means?

Posted by: Liz Location: Illinois on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:21 AM
To Ann from Minnesota. FYI - my "son that learned how to drive in dense fog conditions" is a responsible person and good driver that doesn't speed and happens to live on the UP for 90% of the year where the driving conditions are horrible most of the time. We made it home, thank God, in one piece, crawling all the way to Milwaukee until things cleared up. He had the wherewithal to pace himself behind a semi at a good distance and followed this trucker from Madison to Milwaukee. And again, we had cars passing us at 70 mph. I take great offense to your comments. We made it home. You made it to your destination. We are both well enough to blog on this site and you should be thankful for that. There are many people out there that are not.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Baraboo on Jan 7, 2008 at 08:20 AM
For those of you who drive with no lights because you can see just fine, remember others may not be able to see you!! My heart goes out to all involved. By the way, what ever happened to common sense. Slow down and keep your lights on!!!

Posted by: TMA Location: RC on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:42 AM
I was caught in fog on Friday, December 21 at about 4:30 PM. I was headed from the southwest corner of the state to Green Bay. I got just north of Sun Prairie on Hwy. 151 and couldn't see the car next to me or in front of me. I pulled off and took a hotel room for the night. My plans for a weekend up north weren't worth risking my life and putting my family through a horrible tragedy right before Christmas...or at any time. It was the most frightened I have ever been driving, much worse than snow or rain. It was a feeling of being invisible, knowing that going too fast was risking plowing into someone, or too slow would get you run over. I'm glad I got off the expressway and didn't risk my life or any others. It sounds like this fog yesterday was even worse. I can't imagine. The older I get, the fewer chances I'm willing to take in inclimate weather, I guess.

Posted by: Dory Location: Wisconsin on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:31 AM
I would just like to say that it is THE LAW in Wisconsin that anytime there is reduced visibility or you need your wipers on TO TURN ON YOUR HEADLIGHTS regardless of whether it is day or night. It is also illegal to drive faster than the conditions allow- regardless of posted speed. The police should really smack down on people who don't obey or who drive too fast for the conditions. Curse the morons who caused this accident, I have no sympathy for those who jeopardize others. May they reap what they sow. As for those who were afflicted by this tragedy because of the illegal actions of those who caused the accident, may they have swift recoveries and get what they deserve- big payouts from our insurance companies. To all you bad drivers out there- wise up.

Posted by: Mary Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:23 AM
I think it's sick that some people run around taking pictures with their cell phones hoping to get recognition on this and other news websites. A friend of mine was in a one car accident and only one person helped while countless others drove by taking cell phone pictures. People are no longer willing to move out of their "comfort zones" and help others!!

Posted by: candy Location: Edgerton wi. on Jan 7, 2008 at 07:17 AM
My husband and myself were driving that day too. Thank god we didn't take 90 like we always do. All I can say is I know that people just are not watching what they are doing! You couldn't see a car in front of you until you was right up on him and I was driveing very show. So I can amagine what 90 was like. I pray for all them poor people that were involved.

Posted by: Judi Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 06:41 AM
This is only one reason why we should have a mandatory headlight law!!

Posted by: Rita Location: Hillsboro, Missouri on Jan 7, 2008 at 03:12 AM
Please stop blaming who and what cause the accident and just pray for all in the accident, their love ones and families and all the EMT,Fire fighters/paramedics, doctors,nurses and everyone else that is helping with the accident. My husband and I was in Chippewa Falls, Bloomer, and Blair Wisconsin today and there was fog every where we drove today when we started out this morning around 8am until we got into Illinois and after 8pm tonight. The worst part of driving in the fog was not driving the Interstate with the speed, but the two lane Highways and cannot see in front of you and have two different vehicles pass you with in a few minutes of each other then one make a left turn just hundreds of feet down the road. God Bless all who drive on any road at any time. May we all be wise in our driving! As we are wise and still in up in an accident may God protect each and everyone and Bless all firefighters, EMT, and all other helpers.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2008 at 02:39 AM
Jo you know just as well as the rest of us that too many ppl. talk on cells while driving.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 02:32 AM
This is tragic, and it's more tragic since once again, aside from maybe the people involved in or near the accident itself, nobody ever seems to *learn* from these things and actually change their driving habits in response to people. For the love of all things holy, people, slow down and back off when you've got limited visibility! I see so many people who pay no heed and it just makes me so mad...

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2008 at 02:01 AM
I think every one needs to return to drivers ed. and reread the book... you know.. the one that tells you how to drive. put down your food , drink, cell phone, makeup, ect. and drive. the problem is that we hand out drivers lic. like craker jack prizes. fog and speed caused this crash and it could have been avoided if we knew how to drive. and that means how to drive in bad conditions. if you cant drive in bad conditions. then please say home. if you dont know the laws and rules of the roads plases stay off them. god bless.

Posted by: Dave Location: Chicago on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:51 AM
I was driving to Monona and suddenly traffic came to a halt. Fortunately, I came to a controlled stop as did the cars behind me. No traffic was moving and there was no traffic coming eastbound. I knew there was an accident somewhere ahead, and after sitting for a half hour decided to turn around and head off the highway. I was dumbfounded to see the war zone that I was witnessing as I headed eastbound on I-90 towards Stoughton. Semis in the median and cars crashed all over the place. I had no idea what I had just been in the middle of and began shaking. Although I got yelled at by an emergency vehicle, I continued driving eastbound under 15 mph with my flashers on until I was out of the accident zone. I thank God for his good grace in looking out for me today, and am truly saddenned for those people who were killed and injured on Sunday afternoon. Had I known the full extent of what had happened, I never would have turned around and headed eastbound on I-90.

Posted by: Bob Location: Madison on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:34 AM
Bottom Line...Common Sense should tell you to slow down in foggy conditions. I am not saying to drive 20 MPH, but in dense fog 50 MPH is reasonable. I am not knocking those from IL, but driving to my cottage in Minocqua, it is those from IL that seem to be in a hurry and are only looking out for themselves.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:12 AM
Im a firefighter/paramedic in Southern Wisconsin, I am not saying where. The things that really make me made about car accidents is when Im on a scene and people fly past me like rockets. When you see flashing lights-SLOW DOWN! And try to understand the stress we are under when we are on an accident scene, we try to do our best to get things flowing smooth again. Yes we know its an inconvenience for you when we close the road, but its our safety. When there are that many patients involved, it takes time to move them safely and clear the scene to make it safe for motorist again. When I come to a scene, I dont care who caused the accident, or who was involved. My job is to take care and protect the patients, and thats what I do. I take pride in my job, and I dont think I would choose any other career.

Posted by: JO Location: Janesville on Jan 7, 2008 at 01:09 AM
I would just like to ask a question to the posters who say, "people were talking on their cell phones." If the fog was that demse to keep you from seeing the other car until you were on top of it, how were you able to see someone talking on their cell phone?

Posted by: Josh Location: Brooklyn Park, MN on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:51 AM
I was involved with the group of cars that didn't get in the accident and I have to say I was exteremely lucky that I wasn't. I'm from Minnesota and listen people speed everywhere you go. It was the conditions that caused this accident and speed was a secondary factor. How often do you come to a complete stop on an interstate? Almost never so nobody expected it. I'm just happy I'm alive at the moment because I was about 10 cars away from the major wreck on the the east side of the interstate. My hopes and prayers go out to the families that suffered losses. For those that feel like everyone drives to fast you just have to deal with the fact that everyone does!

Posted by: Ann Location: Minnesota on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:45 AM
Anonymous & Liz: "Something positive...everyone learns something from this and prays for the safety and recovery of everyone in this crash, thats the main focus" That wouldn't be the main focus if people drove responsibly! Positive: (Sarcasim intended) Weekend tourists spend more $ at motel,restraunts waiting for accident to clear. Some spend $ getting car towed & repaired. Some have to spend $ at local hospitals. To bad your state patrol and local cops don't want to collect $ from your "friendly" neighbors who speed and drive carelessly. Just think about what you could do with all that money from the fines!! But that might hurt tourism, right, giving people tickets for speeding. Wouldn't want to do that 'cause then WI wouldn't be a tourist friendly state. Liz:Glad WI provided the excellent oppurtunity for you to allow your 18 yr. to "learn" how to drive in fog(dense @ times).Wouldn't it have been wiser for you to drive-you've got more expericence-don't you? but you had to get hom.

Posted by: Lindsay on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:19 AM
Yes...I may have been a little harsh towards people with Illinois license plates. And of course I am not talking about all of them just the select few. But I was a little emotionally after almost being rear ended twice on my way to work both times it was an Illnois license plate. I sorry that I offended some of you. But I am sure that I am not the only one who wishes that the select few people I am talking about would slow down. Again I am sorry I was not trying to put the blame on anyone I was just hoping that if they were reading it maybe they would think twice before driving like they were.

Posted by: seeker 187 Location: Chicago on Jan 7, 2008 at 12:19 AM
My wife and I and our van load of kids were lucky to be stuck in the traffic, we missed the accident because my daughters burger at Mcdonalds was not plain, that caused us to stop and wait about 10 minutes. We came to a stop just east of the 12/18 exit (mile marker 142) Yes lots of drivers were passing us after we slowed to 55mph and even trucks were flying by. I can only thank God for us and pray for the victims, May we all learn to slow down.

Posted by: Bob Location: Janesville on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:57 PM
The local American Red Cross Badger Chapter responded at approximately 6:00 p.m. Sunday to assist victims and family members in a multiple car pile-up on the Interstate on the east side of Madison. Victims who are not injured have been transported by bus to the Wingate Hotel where food and other assistance will be provided by Badger Chapter volunteers. The food was provided by Culvers! It is nice to see a business step up to the plate when the community is in need. Two thumbs up to Culvers!!!! Slow down and drive safe. Our families need you to be careful!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:52 PM
I completely agree with Covey from Illinois. This is a terrible tragedy and people are judging people on their license plates, how sad. Has anyone ever driven on the beltline? The speed limit is 55 and everyone seems to end up at 75, and those are Wisconsin plated cars, so please there are idiots from every state, we have plenty of our own here in Wisconsin. Yes there are some Illinois people that drive crazy, right next to Wisconsin, Minneosta and any other state in this country. Don't blame our friends from Illinois for everything and focus your thoughts on something positive, that everyone learns something from this and prays for the safety and recovery of everyone in this crash, thats the main focus.

Posted by: Steph Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:50 PM
I was on a Van Galder bus heading to Chicago entering the interstate within minutes after this happened. We ended up in the backed up traffic for over two hours. After the first five ambulances passed us, we knew we were going to be there for a while and by the time our bus was turned around over 2 hours later, we had counted at least 18 ambulances from all of the surrounding communities. I want to mention how impressed I was with the patience and sense of community that seemed to be fostered in our area of the highway. People were incredibly patient and willing to share food and sodas with their neighbors. Our bus driver allowed several of our "neighbors" to board the bus to use the bathroom. We were stuck, but the amazing thing was that I didn't hear a single complaint or gripe from anyone. I think most of us were just grateful at that point that our bus had been running a few minutes late and we weren't in the middle of it. My prayers go out to those who were....

Posted by: Shorty Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:34 PM
It amazes me people say the drivers were driving too fast for conditions... Samantha Young was high on Cocaine, drunk, and came up on a traffic jam on the interstate and going over 100 mph and killed one person, but all the outraged people's voices about driving too fast were silent then! Yes, weather sucks in Wisconsin, any time of the year! Yes, you have to drive defensively if you choose to exercise the privilege to drive! What saddens me most is how with the smart technology we now have in the world, why can't auto manufacturers install automatic headlights for low visibility conditions on every car, for free, as a life saving measure just like a seatbelt, or a roof?

Posted by: Jack Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:27 PM
I think I know who caused the crash. I don't know their names or their plates but I know them by their attitudes. One is James from Madison (above) who wrote: "Barb, it's no surprise that with people such as yourself driving around flashing your lights ... and [driving] slower than the car approaching you that they would end up rear-ending someone. ... stay of the road." The person other forced me off the road on Highway 18. I was suddenly in fog got so dense I couldn't see the car that a moment ago was 100 feet in front of me. I put on my flashers and slowed to below 20 mph. Suddenly there was a blaze of light and screeching tires behind me. Once through the dense fog, the driver passed, forced me off the road, and yelled: "Turn your f#*king flashers off and drive the G' D' speed limit or stay the hell off the road!" I think had I not been using my yellow hazard lights I'd be dead now. My heart goes out to those on the Interstate who were not so lucky.

Posted by: Liz Location: Covey on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:24 PM
Hey Lindsey from Fitchburg! I'm from Illinois, a safe driver and have taught my kids the same. We made it from the U.P. this afternoon... I took my 2 teenagers on an amazing ski trip - just the 3 of us since my husband couldn't make it because of his job. My 18 year old son took over the wheel in Wausau. Please understand that without his level headed driving, we probably wouldn't have made it home. Yes, we are from Illinois, but we also have family waiting for us at home and want to arrive safely. Let's just pray for the victims - leave your prejudice for another time. We help to support your tourism - Wissonsin is a wonderful place that we will return to all 4 seasons... Unfortunately, in the winter it's pretty much a crap shoot.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:21 PM
So your life can change in an instant and this tragedy proves it. Drivers do not realize that what they do affects others on the road. You have to drive defensively because there are always idiots out there that think they are the only ones on the road. Those of you who think you can drive 60 mph or more in these conditions are what causes this kind of pile-up. Also many drivers think that cars with the auto on driving lights are off the hook are mistaken, only the headlights turn on and not their tailights. When freeway driving your tail lights are most important for those coming up behind you. Hopefully those involved and were speeding have learned their lesson. I was also involved in the foggy pile-up on 151 a couple of years ago. It scares the crap out of you. After you're stopped you just wait for what may be coming-luckily for me there wasn't any crashing cars behind us. My respect for the fog has only increased. My thoughts are with all who were involved in today's accident.

Posted by: Jen Location: Sun Prairie on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:20 PM
My thoughts are with those affected by the pileup. I also agree with what many have said here about careless driving during hazardous conditions. I was on I90 late this afternoon just north of the accidents. Visibility was practically zero and so many were driving WAY too fast and without lights. Let this be a lesson to drive appropriately during inclement weather.

Posted by: Jacqueline Location: Lake Mills on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:12 PM
What a horrible, needless tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all of those involved. We drove from Green Bay today and arrived home about 3:00. The fog was horrible the entire way. We too saw many vehicles with no lights, people driving way too fast, and tailgating. We probably averaged about 30-40 mph all the way home. Wisconsin needs to do something about the speeds people are traveling. I have been commuting to Madison every day for the past 15 years on I-94 and the average speed is at least 75, but I see numerous drivers passing and going 85-100 mph (75% of them being young women drivers). We must slow down.

Posted by: Sandy R. Location: LODI on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:10 PM
It saddens me to see how things like pure ignorance, such as this can happen and affect so many others lives, simple because of weather or lights being on or cell phone useage or just plain driving too fast for the conditions. Please remember when driving that it could be the other vehicle to cause such grief, so be completely aware that you do have your vehicle under control at all times. For as you shall see it does save lives too be wise to the roads. Also when not so wise it destroys lives. Thank You to all those who gave thier efforts in the rescue and my heart goes out to all involved, especially those who are scarred for thier lost loved ones for whom they will never get to tell Happy Birthday or I LOVE YOU! because they never got the chance to return to the place they call HOME! MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

Posted by: tara Location: WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:08 PM
I also passed through the area shortly before the accidents. Fog was horrible, people were speeding, talking on cell phones etc. When in that position, if you go to fast, you cant see far enough in front of you to stop, if going too slow you risk getting rear ended by the idiots that dont know how to drive. I tried to keep up with traffic and as soon as I saw someone coming up behind me put on the brakes so they could see my tail lights a litle better. There are idiotic drivers everywhere, only way to stay safe in these conditions is to stay home! If I would have realized how horrible the weather was before I left I would have cancelled my work appointments for sure! Slow down, leave the cell phone go to voice mail, turn your lights on and drive safe!!! My prayers go out to all of the injured, as well as the family of those who were less fortunate to make it out alive. Too all helping at the scene, prayin they stay safe!

Posted by: Kathy Location: Hartford on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:06 PM
Even on sunny days I hate driving on I-90 to get to 12/18 around Madison. You think you're in a NASCR event with cars and semi's. Can't we all just slow down and keep each other safe?

Posted by: Rikki Location: TN on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:03 PM
My husband was blessed by God to be caught between the two accidents. He said that the crews worked diligently and that everyone was responding as quickly as possible under the horrible conditions. He said the fog was so dense that you could not see the cars directly in front of him. He didn't complain about the 7-8 hours that he spent on the interstate today, because he knows that it could have been so much worse! Our prayers go out to the men and women involved in this wreck and to the authorities that have helped the victims!

Posted by: Jill Location: midwest on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:01 PM
if it wasn't foggy, most likely this wouldn't have happened. it really is a combination of driving habits and weather conditions. honestly, contemplating and arguing about what caused the accident is not going to do anything. all we can do is hope and pray that everyone is safe.

Posted by: Ashley Location: Stuck in the accident on Jan 6, 2008 at 11:00 PM
I was just stuck in this accident for 7 hours. My boyfriend and I somehow avoided hitting a semi that suddenly stopped ahead of us. An angel was with us. Luckily, he was driving or else I know I would have hit the semi ahead of us. We were going at a safe speed for conditions, while others were not. I cannot count how many semis passed us on the hwy. and I wonder how many were involved in the crash. This is a terrible tragedy. A preventable tragedy, if everybody would just pay attention. Conditions were terrible. Take that into effect while driving. I wasn't worried about us hitting someone, it's everyone else that we have to worry about. And this accident proves it. I am so thankful for my life right now. We were just behind the 2 semi-collision, and we could have easily been injured or even worse. Please keep all those that were injured in your prayers, as I know we will.

Posted by: dug Location: chicago on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:59 PM
was about 3 min behind the mess after they detored us off the highway they gave no directions on how to get back on the highway via the radio would have been nice. could have gotten joe blow whoever and he could have routed us a way back on to highway. bad traffic management.

Posted by: matt Location: sun prairie on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:55 PM
sarah and katie - what is the point of asking when names will be released? if you are the family of someone injured or killed you will be notified. otherwise, your inquiry is just morbid.

Posted by: jan Location: iowa on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:52 PM
My husb. & I have traveled that stretch of hwy. a few times, usually pulling a 5th wh. camper & boat & we have never failed to see an accident or traffic jam. Rush hr., fog, it doesn't matter. These people drive like they are possessed! My heart goes out to the victims & their fam. We know people from that area & we are very concerned. When will names be released?

Posted by: Shawn Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:52 PM
Its a tragedy, but a preventable tragedy. Weather was a major factor but I feel speed and unattentive driving were the culprits to this accident.

Posted by: Karen& Mike Location: Baraboo on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:47 PM
We are praying for the families of those we have lost, for those that are injured ,for all families involved as well as for all the EM workers.Sounds like it is not going to get better for awhile ..Please be careful out there.

Posted by: Tom Location: Montello on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:44 PM
All these B. S. Comments are probably from stupid speeders who have no regard for the traffic laws what so ever. if you drive on the interstate at all you know that driving 65 mph is a joke, you will get passed by everything but the kitchen sink,with that said all this crap that these people are posting is pretty much CRAP because they were speeding also, I am sorry for the deaths and injury but maybe its a wake up call for other drivers.

Posted by: Pete Location: Janesville, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:39 PM
As many know, this part of the interstate is in a low point where fog can develop quickly. With the cold snow and the unseasonably warm air (as we have had in the last couple of days)-that combined with this low point (geographically speaking) can bring fog on without notice. There is a section of highway in southern California were this happens on a regular basis in the spring and fall. That paticular area has a phenomenon called Valley Fog. The CHP has gone so far as to post officers and signs warning of the fog conditions when they occur. It took almost 40 years and a countless number of lives lost, but in the last 5 years there have been no lives lost due to this type of fog. Just like the fog seen today. Let's not be too quick to criticize the drivers involved in todays accident. I agree that caution and defensive driving should be at the top of the list. Turn off the cell phones. Turn on the lights. Slow down. Truly a formula for survival!

Posted by: Rick Location: sun prairie on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:33 PM
does anyone know what company is towing the vehicles????

Posted by: Kent Location: Fort Atkinson, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:33 PM
My wife and I came through that eastbound section of I 90 just before 2:23. The fog had been bad but this section was really bad. There were cars passing and weaving in and out of traffic who did not even have their headlights on. All after noon within Madison, as we were on the roads, there were cars without their headlights on and going too fast. We were almost hit at Northport and Troy as I made a left turn onto Troy after the green light came on. Two cars cleared the intersection heading east coming toward me, I could see no others and so made my left hand turn. Another east bound car barreled through the intersection crossing behind me, without lights, laying on his horn, just after I cleared the intersection. This fool, like those on I 90 earlier, was driving too fast, without lights so others could not see him, and was upset with others when he could not be seen. Question, “What ever happened to the common sense defensive driving that used to be taught in required Driver Ed?"

Posted by: John Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:32 PM
The fog did not cause this - it was the drivers who have no clue about how to drive in inclement weather conditions. Let's see - very thick fog and wet roads, you would think it would be obvious to slow down but for some morons they just keep on driving at warp speed. Unfortunately others have to pay the price for their carelessness and irresponsibility. 50% of those out there should not even have the privilege to drive - yes privilege, it is not a right. I hope no emergency workers end up getting hurt.

Posted by: Tom Location: Montello on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:26 PM
I never see any state patrol cars on the interstate between madison and portage so no wonder these people die, they only show up when somebody dies then they can't avoid it. I try to drive 65 or below and it is such a joke they try to drive you off the road. WAKE UP state patrol!!!!

Posted by: Rick Location: Sun prairie wi on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:26 PM
who did the towing from this accident???

Posted by: Matthew Location: Monona on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:26 PM
I have been listening to the police scanner since 3PM. I have got to say, I have traveled the interstate almost every weekend since the year 2000 and I have never, ever seen or heard anything like this before. People have been in or stuck between the two accidents since 2:30PM, and they still won't be going anywhere for a while. And all of this has been due to fog! SLOW DOWN AND TURN ON YOUR LIGHTS! Tomorrow morning is not going to be any better and I hope people take note of today's tragedy and drive carefully tomorrow morning. Everyone's thoughts and prayers are with the people involved with this horrible incident. And please don't complain about the response of this incident. It's bad enough to respond to just one big car pile up. But two car pile ups that happen just miles apart. That is just unheard of!

Posted by: Paul Location: Aurora, Il. on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:24 PM
we first learned of this from a Chicago radio station while traveling home from Minn. We were able to exit the expressway and avoid the accident site. Fog was treacherous on the side roads - the worst I've experienced

Posted by: kim Location: reedsburg on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:22 PM
it makes me mad when thing like this happen because so may times when iam on the road in bad weather people with 4 wheel driver and semis think they can drive through any thing. god bless every one . please slow down.

Posted by: Jamie Location: Sun Prairie on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:21 PM
My husband is currently working at UW ER and my mother-in-law is at the Wingate Hotel helping the victims of this crash. My heart goes out to all the people involved, victims and police, fire, ems, the red cross, and everyone else that has chipped in to help. It's wonderful that everyone is pulling together in this time of need. I only wish there was something I could do.

Posted by: Mike Location: Cottage Grove on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:20 PM
THE ACCIDENTS ARE NOT THE CAUSED BY FOG. THE ACCIDENTS ARE CAUSED BY IDIOTS DRIVING TOO FAST!!! WHEN ARE YOU REPORTERS GOING TO REPORT THE FACTS ACCURATELY? WHEN ARE THE LAW ENFORCEMENT PEOPLE GOING TO START DOING THEIR JOB, AND SITE PEOPLE FOR DRIVING TOO FAST FOR CONDITIONS AND INATTENTIVE DRIVING??

Posted by: Stan Location: Waunakee on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:18 PM
Our thanks to all of people on Interstate that are helping those in this accident. Just one question........why don't people at least turn their lights on when driving in these conditions??? Wisconsin should require an intelligent test before you are issue a driver's license.

Posted by: anonymous Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:16 PM
please realize there were lives lost in these accidents and that friends and family do not want to see the videos of the accidents played over and over and the pictures posted

Posted by: John Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:07 PM
Every new report contains the phrase something similar to "there was no warning." The fog rolled in last night (warning 1). There was a fog advisory in effect (waring 2). There was obvious fog in the morning (warning 3). The fog changed density often (warning 4). A terrible tradgety that as completely avoidable. It may take the state patrol closing roads to prevent this from occuring again--if we can't be reasonable people/drivers, we need government intervention to protect us from those unreasonable (driving too fast, driving with no lights on, driving in difficult condidtions with cell phones, etc.)

Posted by: Faisal Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 10:05 PM
I had to go to ORD this morning the fog was real bad in the morning and while coming back I had to sit in jam for about an hour and 30 mins. I did not know the situation is that bad. My heart goes out to the victims and wish speedy recovery for the injures. Thanks nbc15 for the update.

Posted by: Marty Location: Eau Claire on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:59 PM
Drove Milwaukee to Eau Claire today, leaving Milwaukee at about 9:30 and arriving Eau Claire about 3:30--a 6 hour trip, normally about 3:45. I DID slow down and drove to where I could see enough to stop--that is what was taught in driver's ed years ago. Despite that, about 10% of cars passing me had no lights on and I dare say all of them were driving to fast to stop within the area they could see. My thoughts were only to the recent (a year ago?) Interstate 43 pile up in the fog. I new there would be a multi-car incident, I just didn't know where. The state patrol apparently knew too, as they were waiting in the median in many locations along the route. There were patches of fog where the westbound lanes and traffic completely dissappered--there is no way anyone should be driving the speed limit or above in those condiitions, yet I would estimate 80% of the traffic was. Just as with snow and ice, I get off the road to avoid being hit by others.

Posted by: tamala starks Location: oregon wi on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:54 PM
god be with the families of those who were hurt.

Posted by: kari Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:51 PM
I just have to say all accidents are not caused by going to fast, some are caused by going to slow. I love how some think they know before we really have answers as to who, what, and when and who really cares if it was caused by a four wheeler or a semi. Fact is people are hurt and it did happen. Come on people it could happen to any of us we are all human and we all make the wrong decision at times. Lets just pray our friends and family are ok. Maybe thats where our energy should be!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:48 PM
There are still people stuck on the northbound interstate where the 2 semi's collided - I thought the red cross was taking people to a hotel? They've been stranded on the hwy for 7 hours.

Posted by: Lindsay Location: Fitchburg on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:45 PM
I would just like to send my prayers out to all the victims. I missed the crash by 5 minutes on my way to work and I was surprised by the amount of people driving 80 mph. As a majority of them were from Illinois I would just like to say to them that there is no need to drive at those speeds in this kind of weather or ever. Because horrible things like this happen. So I hope next time your in our state you'll drive a little more courteous!!!!

Posted by: Kurt Location: Chicago on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:44 PM
I was there right at the start of this. Luckily, as it came out of nowhere in the fog, we were able to swerve around car parts and other swerving vehicles and made it through. At the time there were only about 7-8 cars involved that we could see, but I knew others would not be as lucky. My heart goes out to all the victims of this awful event.

Posted by: Theresa Location: Poynette on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:43 PM
I drove home from work today on hwy 51 & saw numerous cars without lights on & some people even talking on their cell phones (????) YIKES!!! do people have a death wish or what? Anyway, I did between 35 & 45 MPH & made it from Madison to Poynette in 45 minutes...15 minutes longer than it usually takes me. Imagine....a mere 15 minutes. Made it home safe & sound to cherish the most important people in my life yet another day. Fog advisories are still out through tomorrow am, turn your lights on, slow down, stay off the cell phones until you get to where your going. Maybe say a prayer for the families of the victims of todays accidents instead(?)

Posted by: BOB Location: Janesville on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:41 PM
I was a police officer for 35 years, why don't we have the auto industry doing the same thing that motorcycles are doing and having the headlights come on when the vehicle is running. Headlights are not only for use at night. All I can say to driver's on the interstate is slow down, how much is a life worth. How much is 1o minutes sooner to your home worth. Think first and drive second. All the laws in the world can not stop some driver's from driving stupid.

Posted by: kris Location: sussex on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:39 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those injured and the rescue workers. It's sad that people drive like that sometimes, but trying to place blame and making comments like "wonder if those people were on cell phones" doesn't help right now.

Posted by: Melissa Location: Portage on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:36 PM
I totally agree with all of you that mentioned that there should be laws put into effect mandating the use of headlights in weather like we experienced today. I travelled out and about myself today and could not believe that there were people actually driving without their headlights being on. Let's all think about it and be safe while driving in such conditions. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families that are affected by this horrible accident.

Posted by: Roger Location: SE Minnesota on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:36 PM
I'm sorry to hear of those injured or killed. I often drive this road in a semi and it never fails, I get passed by cars driving over the posted speed limit (most are from Illinois). What caused the accident? Poor visibilty,driving faster than conditions allow, talking on cell's while driving in these conditions, being impatient -cutting in and out of traffic because other vehicles are going slower, not using turn signals or having head/tail lights on! Maybe people should go back for driver education. If people would've been driving for the condions they'd arrived at their destination a little late, instead of still being stuck in an accident, injured or dead! My friend got caught up in the accident and got going again. He ran out of the fog and right back into it. He had slowed down to 55 in the right lane with his flashers on. People were passing him! They didn't learned a thing from what had just happened! IL. plates were the speeders. People from IL. learn to drive safely.

Posted by: Kay Location: Stoughton on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:32 PM
My husband & I were on the East side of Madison earlier today (got home about 1:30)we brought interstate around to the 12 & 18 exit. we we were amazed as some people were in the center lane going very slow, & yet a semi passed us like we were standing still. Our prayers & thoughts go out to all those involved.

Posted by: Patty Location: madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:32 PM
Every please pray for the families and be patients ,the police are doing what they can, BUT WE ARE NOT!! WE ALL DRIVE OVER THE SPEED LIMIT, WE ALL DRIVE THREW YELLOW LIGHTS AND RED, WE ALL RUN STOP SIGNS AND WE ARE VICTIMS OF PEOPLE THAT ARE SO RUDE THAT THEY FLASH THEIR LIGHTS AND BLOW THEIR HORNS BECAUSE SOME OF US TRY AND DO THE SPEED AND WE GET THE DIRTY LOOKS AND THE FINGER, SLOW DOWN!!! SAVE GAS !!! AND SAVE LIVES

Posted by: Sue Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:29 PM
I only had to drive in the city of Madison today and it was very dense fog and MANY idiots without their lights on......this should be a big ticket for "inattentive" driving.

Posted by: citizen Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:26 PM
Unfortunately, studies show that dense fog causes people to drive faster, without being able to judge the speed they're driving. When others around you are driving too fast, you lose your markers for safety...it's tragic to see it end like this; with people dead and so many involved in crashes.

Posted by: Sue Location: Milton, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:22 PM
my prayers go out to the families. Please people SLOW DOWN AND TURN LIGHTS ON. God be with all the people stuck in traffic and also for all the people out helping everyone.

Posted by: Deb Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:21 PM
I drove over 80 miles one way today and visibility was not good. I had my lights on but noticed that there were many others who were driving without lights. It doesn't matter what color your car is, or how big or small it is, turn on your lights and PLEASE slow down! I followed (tried) a semi home that was doing 80 miles per hour at times, luckily he took pity on me and slowed down so I could follow him through some of the thickest fog. Believe me, I am very thankful. I travel Interstate 90 almost every weekend and am always getting passed no matter how fast I drive. My heart goes out to the family members of those injured or killed. You have my deepest sympathy.

Posted by: Bill Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:18 PM
Thank you NBC 15 for your updated coverage. You've put the other Madison news outlets to shame.

Posted by: brian Location: madison, wisco on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:11 PM
talking about people being in a rush to sit on their butts or drive fast to be somewhere is not the issue here. the issue is that these people need our thoughts, prayers, and support from fire/paramedics etc... to help them get through this. everyone learns from their mistakes. nobody is going to learn anything from people verbally breaking people down that are in a crisis situation. take it easy people and hope for the best. it is bad weather and an interstate meeting face to face. these semi drivers are most experienced on this road and having just as hard of a time.

Posted by: Sharon Location: Columbus on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:03 PM
What does it take for people to wake up and turn there lights on and slow down. This is a weather condition that involves everyone on the roads. This is not the Daytona 500, we were on the road earlier this morning, we own a SUV, but it is not an armor car. Its stupid people that think they can speed pass others, how can they see any better then others in the fog. If some semi's were involved, they have to slow down too. Most semi drivers are cautious, but some think they have to make time in order to make money, well if your dead you have just been ERASED like the film. I lived in Illlinois for 53 yrs. and people who are rushing back from WI. are driving beyond 75 miles/hr. I know, I use to be one of them. Now living in WI., I see the idiots going to Ill. If you kill someone your will never live the rest of your life in peace. SLOW DOWN, TURN ON LIGHTS, USE HAZARD SIGNALS, STAY ALIVE, I want too.

Posted by: KATHI Location: BELOIT on Jan 6, 2008 at 09:00 PM
I AM PRAYING for the victims of this horrible crash. I was in the 'traffic jam' right behind it and it was TERRBIBLE!! A BIG thankx to all the emergency personal. I couldn't believe the dense fog and car's driving without their lites on-- we need to think before we get behind the wheel of a car. and the(most out of state driver's) just 'turning around' on the hiway and going against traffic after the accident. just to get moving. THAT WAS VERY SCARY too. Because people were out of their vechiles walking around -- on the hiway. . I'm very stook up but ok, and will contuine to pray for the crash victim's. PLEASE SLOW DOWN!!!

Posted by: Prayers Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:54 PM
Turn on your lights/hazards, slow down, and pay attention. I was out and so many people with no lights on. I had a few tail gate me so I slowed down to 20 mph the thought of being rear ended if I had to stop fast.. I think everyone should have to go throught a saftey raod class every 2 years. Common sense goes a long way. Bless everyone who was involved in the crash. I was blessed by avoiding a black car in the lane sideways. Missed it by a foot. My guardian angel was with me today.

Posted by: Kelly Location: Monticello, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:50 PM
Unfortunately, we have to send prayers out to families whom their loved ones were involved in something that could have been prevented. What is the RUSH? People are always in such a RUSH and put others in jeopardy. WHY? To get home and sit on your butts and complain the HDTV isn't working properly? My hearts go out to everyone involved, and their families. GOD BLESS and please turn on your headlights out there and SLOW DOWN!! Remember, your neices, nephews, Mom's, Dad's, Brothers, Sister's,...and best of all, those children in the cars with their parents driving right next to you or heading towards you in that car.

Posted by: John Location: Oregon. Illinois on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:47 PM
There were lots of support vehicles that came quickly. We counted rescue vehicles from at least 7 municipalities plus 3 Dane county command centers and 2 Metro busses. Police support from the surrounding communities as well plus the Dane County sheriff deputies and State Troopers. Traffic was blocked off and re-directed by State Patrol. The section of road we were on was immediately south of 12/18 and the traffic was directed to turn around and exit I-90 at 12/18. There was a lot of professional help in a short period of time.

Posted by: Emily Location: McFarland on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:43 PM
I can see this accident out my front window!It is horrible seeing all the lights flashing,its a very scarry sight.I am praying for all the people who were involved and their familys.This is a horrible thing.

Posted by: Michelle Location: Raleigh,NC on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:41 PM
My husband and a co-worker were swerved off the road to avoid being hit by a semi which crashed into the back of a PT cruiser. They said there were mutiple crashes in front of them and behind them and that the police told them on the opposite side of the road was a 35 car pile up. He just got pulled out of the snow from where he swerved and they told him it would still be 3 hours for them to travel 20 miles to there hotel. Please pray for the victims and for everyone to get home safely who is caught up in this mess.

Posted by: James Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:32 PM
Well Barb it's no surprise that with people such as yourself driving around flashing your lights on and off and slower than the car approaching you that they wouldn't end up rear-ending someone. If you're unsure of your own driving skills don't be worrying about the people around you stay of the road.

Posted by: Jeff Location: Janesville on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:31 PM
My heart goes out to all involved in this horrible crash. I also was driving on I-90 today and hit the aftermath of traffic back-ups, but luckily was not involved. I also could not believe all the people driving without lights in this dense fog. I drove on I-90 for over 4 hours today, to La Crosse and back, and countless people had no lights on. A big thanks to all emergency personnel involved and my thoughts are with all the families that were involved. I hope most injuries are minor and special thoughts go out to the families of the deceased. Let this be a wake up call to slow down and be safe and respectful of all on our roads!

Posted by: Aimee Location: MN on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:31 PM
I have family sitting in the traffic jam at mile marker 140 heading north towards Madison. They are wondering if anyone knows if they are getting the traffic jam moving yet?

Posted by: carol Location: fort atkinson wi on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:27 PM
As we are praying for the victims and their families lets not forget the emergency personel and their families. Many of these are volunteers or are working overtime to help. May He protect you all......

Posted by: Kathleen Location: Mineral Point on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:20 PM
March before last I almost died in an similar FOGGY accident on 151. Then I ran towards oncoming traffic (on shoulder) waving NO NO NO wildly, they all pulled over, the crashing stopped. I left when police arrived, but later learned the crashes resumed because no one was stopping the oncoming traffic. Above, it says the crashes continued even as emergency workers cleared the injured...etc. WAS ANYONE WARNING THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC??? A few people told me that what I did endangered me. At the time it only occured to me that people needed to be warned. I believe it helped. WHY DON'T THE POLICE DO THAT??? WITH FLASHING LIGHTS, FLARES etc. further and further back into oncoming traffic???

Posted by: Mary Location: Florida on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:17 PM
Thank you for the updated coverage. Our daughter is right in the middle of this mess. Thank God she wasn't hurt. It helps knowing what is going on when you are too far away to do anything.

Posted by: Chris Location: Janesville on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:14 PM
My daughter was in the middle of this situation on her way to work. Thankfully she is alright.My wife is an EMT and went to aid the victims and find our daughter.She was able to aid one young girl until the jaws of life freed her.They just got home and are very shaken up to say the least.Their stories are sobering.Our prayers are with those involved and if your loved ones are reachable let them know you love them.

Posted by: BARBARA Location: DEFOREST on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:14 PM
WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE??I WAS OUT IN THIS FOG AND FLASHED MY LIGHTS AT 12-15 CARS WITH NO LIGHTS ON.HOW CAN YOU STOP QUICKLY AT 55MPH.?? ACCIDENT NO SURPRISE..JUST STUPID PEOPLE.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:13 PM
Is'nt there a way to direct the people(cars) not involved in the accident out of that mess?? They've been stuck there for hours.

Posted by: Holly Location: Shreveport, La on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:03 PM
My husband and co-worker are sitting in the middle of this mess also. He reported it was very foggy and people were driving very fast. He saw a wreck happening a ways in front of him, so he slowed rappidly and drove off the shoulder of the road. His co-worker was in and 18-wheeler behind him and he had to give him room to stop. He reported hearing squeeling brakes and lots of metal crashing for a long time. Thank God they are both OK.. He reports many others hurt and numerous crashes. They have been there since 2:30 or 3 PM and it show no sign of movement. My husbands travels all over the country in his job... His responce to this is, when are people going to slow down and be mindful of others around them... Nothing is so important that people have to drive so fast, especially when weather conditions are so bad. We pray for the injured.

Posted by: Covey Family Location: LaGrange Park, IL on Jan 6, 2008 at 08:01 PM
My two teenage sons (19 & 15) and I were on our way home from a ski trip to the U.P. when we encountered the most horrendous fog just south of Wausau. My older son drove from there to our home outside of Chicago and we couldn't believe how others were driving - weaving, no directionals, speeding up to 80 mph, etc... Thankfully, we were able to exit I90/39 at 94 and go east to Milwaukee just as the state police was out putting up the flares and closing the highway. It was slow going all the way and he actually paced us with a semi traveling right in front of us for the 70 plus miles from Madison to Milwaukee. I honestly didn't think we were going to make it and had it been up to me, we would have stopped for the night. Our prayers go out to all of the accident victims. Please slow down in weather conditions such as this - it's really not that important to get to your destination in a hurry.

Posted by: Brent Schaumburg Location: Batesville, In on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:59 PM
I just wanted to say that NBC15 is giving the most up to date information on this accident. My younger brother his wife, son, and father inlaw were in the middle of this. I was told by my dad that there car was run over by a semi and the rear end was smashed in. I am hearing from phone calls from family that they are all okay except the wife may have a broken leg. Thank the good Lord for that. I want to thank all the emergency services and everyone who is assissting with this terrible tragedy. Thank you for all the updates.

Posted by: douglas Location: columbus wi on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:57 PM
we need to inforce the saftey laws in Wisconsin during bad weather lights should be on at all times i see this alot as a truckdriver i believe saftey first and the families safety i'm a family man a grandparent and i've served my country for 25 years why risk the life or a loved one be safe

Posted by: Catherine Location: Wisconsin on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:55 PM
I too had family on the road today, they luckily made it home safe. But my brother was saying how quite a few were driving with no lights on, tail gating and just plain DRIVING TOO FAST FOR THE CONDITIONS !!! Slow down and be safe !! Thoughts and prayers to all involved and those who lost loved ones.

Posted by: Duncan Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:54 PM
I was in the middle of things. I was advised by a paramedic to cross over and creep south, flashers and high beams on. Lots of emergency vehicles southbound - be careful. I exited on County N south, B west to 51 N then B west to 14 North, 30 mph.

Posted by: patty Location: deforest on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:51 PM
I would like to take this opportunity to also say thanks to all of our rescue people and the police departments. My prayers are with the familys of the deceased and the injured. When you see any rescue personnal this week PLEASE SAY THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP.

Posted by: Bonnie Location: Westfield on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:42 PM
I as well am sorry to hear of this and pray for all people involved in this terrible accident. I drive I 90/94/39 everyday to work and I can not believe how many people do not switch on their lights or talk on the cell phone as they drive. MY LIFE MY FAMILY'S LIFE and YOURS should mean more then a call on a cell phone or leaving your lights off in bad weather. PLEASE PLEASE turn on your lights and if you have to talk on cell pull over and give EVERYONE ON THE ROAD RESPECT.

Posted by: Pam Location: DeForest on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:36 PM
My husband and I went from DeForest to East Towne this morning at 10:00 and it was horrible at that time and there were idiots driving out there on the interstate like 40-50 mph without their lights on! Wake up people and learn how to drive!

Posted by: Raymond Location: Oregon on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:31 PM
The earliest sources of good information on this story have been NBC15's website and Chicago news radio WBBM 780 AM. If anyone can identify a Madison radio station like WBBM, please let me know. WBBM is non-stop news, breaking news, sports, very little talk, traffic and weather together on the 8s, gas prices at :37, headline news every 30 minutes. I'd like to find 24-hour news radio in the Madison area. Is there such a station? Can anyone help?

Posted by: Katie Location: Illinois on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:19 PM
I was on this road at 1pm, the fog was HORIBBLE. We were leaving Wis Dells and from Lake Delton all the way to Janesville it was foggy, and the worst conditions possible. People were driving like the weather was clear and sunny. We were doing 60, and people were weaving in an out of traffic. My other fam members were caught in the traffic jam for over an hour. I pray for those whose loved ones were involved. Please PLEASE drive cautiously, your not only endangering your own life, but mine and my childrens as well.

Posted by: Lisa Location: So Illinois on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:15 PM
My husband has been sitting in the back up for 3 hours trying to get to his motel. I am thankful he was not actually involved in any of the accidents and our prayers our with the victims. I too though have been frustrated trying to find information on the accident. Your station is the only one to be updating. Thank you.

Posted by: katie Location: stoughton. on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:11 PM
When names of the people who died be released?

Posted by: Tammy (& Kirk) Location: Superior, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:10 PM
At this moment, my boyfriend is sitting in the middle of these pile ups feeling helpless and overwhelmed. He says there is a stretch of about 3/4 of a mile that is accident free. Blessed was he that he was able to stop his empty car hauler before rear ending the semi in front of him. He's been stuck there for hours and will be stuck there for many more to come, but we are feeling so blessed at this time. 30 seconds further ahead or 30 seconds behind and he would of been in the middle of one these pile ups. Our hearts and our prayers go out to all the people involved, the injured, the deaceased.

Posted by: RICK Location: MADISON NEAR CASH LOC on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:08 PM
HI WAS THESE CAUSE BY SEMI, OR 4 WHEELS?

Posted by: Tracy Location: Deerfield on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:06 PM
I just want to say that NBC 15 seems to have the best timely online coverage on this. Though I'm supposed to go somewhere in Madison and can't tell if it's still a big mess and if I should cancel, etc. With a major closing of the interstate I would think there would be MORE coverage (like you would do if this were a Tornado). Like updating the "on scene" live comments from the reporter you had out there.

Posted by: beth Location: fitchburg on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:02 PM
i hate hearing about these crashes and then seeing all those drivers out there today without their lights on...turn them on in fog-even during the day!!! be safe and slow down!!!!

Posted by: Laurie Location: Wauwatosa on Jan 6, 2008 at 07:01 PM
We drove from the Dells to Milwaukee today in that awful mess, and time and time again, we were passed like we were standing still, by Illinois drivers who think nothing of the fog, and exceeding the speed limit by at least 15 mph! Would be interesting to know who started the chain of events in this crash!

Posted by: Elesa Location: Marshall on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:55 PM
I just want to applaud all of the volunteers and our police, fire and rescue departments. My children and I were at my parents home visiting. My father has a police scanner and I can say I was truely impressed with what we heard with our officials pulling together for this tragedy. It wasn't just the state patrol but Madison, Marshall, DeForest, Sun Prairie, Edgerton, Deerfield, Monona, Cottage Grove, and the list seemed to go on and on. Paid personnel, volunteers, and off duty personel! THANK YOU! I don't think these people are told enough THANK YOU for being there to help when people are in trouble. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the deceased and the others that were involved in this terrible accident today.

Posted by: Dan Location: McFarland on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:54 PM
Our prayers go out to all the families involved. We have never seen anything like this. We live in a development near the accident. From our front door, we see emergency vehicles all over the place. It appears buses have started taking people from the accident location.

Posted by: Jane Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:31 PM
I understand there is a command center. I really appreciate NBC 15's coverage and wish the whole news conference had been televised. My husband is one of the emergency workers and I'm concerned about everyone's safety, those volunteers who are helping and also the crash victims. Please keep updating your website story!

Posted by: william Location: beloit on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:26 PM
What are the odds that the flash points of these pile-up were using cell phones?

Posted by: Tom Location: Mazomanie on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:25 PM
I hope all the People that where involved in the accident are OK ! Early today I was driving on Hwy 14 and people where driving with out there lights on !! There where places that you could not see anything and these people where passing car's Than they wonder why accident's happen !! Please use your head and slow down and get home to your family's alive !!!!

Posted by: Pat on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:17 PM
Tracy.. You aren't the only one that is concerned about family and this accident. I have family members who are OTR (over the road) drivers that drive around here and in other states. So be be patient. At least you are in contact with them. Just tell them what you know about the accident then add the sports scores.

Posted by: Trevor Location: Conrad on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:14 PM
my heart goes out to all the people that got hurt in the pile up and any other accidents on the highway. I also want to put my heart out to those who are at a stand still stuck on the highway. Be patient.

Posted by: Christa Location: Madison/Sun Prairie on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:14 PM
I live right by the interstate and I see the back up of cars I hope that everybody slows down and takes there time. When are we going to find out more information about the cars that are involved or names. I have friends that drive the interstate and would like to know more information. Thanks NBC15 for keeping us updated I can always trust good news coverage.

Posted by: ronald walker Location: mad on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:14 PM
a map would be helpful

Posted by: Ben Location: Whitewater on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:09 PM
We drove eastbound through that area just moments before the reported time of the crashes. We were terrified by the number of cars and trucks that were driving way too fast, switching lanes quickly, without any directional signals, and also by the number of cars and trucks with no headlights on and all the vehicles and trucks that were tailgating at high speed. The visibility was terrible (dense fog everywhere) and the vast majority of cars were traveling in excess of the speed limit. What a terrible tragedy. The road was not slippery at all.

Posted by: jeff Location: madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:08 PM
I was stuck on the highway for over an hour until we worked up to N. Visability was about 10 yards.

Posted by: D Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 06:05 PM
Another case of someone driving too fast for conditions, unfortuntely it already claimed 1 life

Posted by: ed Location: Wautoma on Jan 6, 2008 at 05:54 PM
If people would slow down (drive 50-55) the chances of this happening would drop dramatically!!!!

Posted by: Justin Location: Rockford, IL on Jan 6, 2008 at 05:51 PM
My sister and her family were involved in the crash. Their being transported on a Madison city bus, but I do not yet know where they are going to be taken to. I've heard from the Madison City Police that some of the victims are congregating at the Wingate Hotel, which is on the SE side of Madison.

Posted by: sarah Location: madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 05:06 PM
do they know when names will be released!?

Posted by: Tracy Location: Madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 04:53 PM
Why is it so difficult to receive news on this story? My family is stuck on the hwy and I cannot tell them anything that is happening except for the stupid NFL playoffs!!!! Thank you to NBC15 for at least reporting something!!!!!!

Posted by: Donovan Location: Portage, WI on Jan 6, 2008 at 04:47 PM
When driving in fog,rain and snow people with automatic lights should turn their light switch on. On some makes of vehicles (GM) the tail lights do not turn on in the daytime only the headlights. For safety all lights should be on in inclement weather conditions.

Posted by: christine Location: madison on Jan 6, 2008 at 04:20 PM
my thought and prayers go out to the family of the deceased and i hope no one else is seriously injured, however with the fog and probably slippery roads this is why you need to be very cautious driving. i am certain that wherever you need to be will be there even if you drive the speed limit. let's be careful out there guys and girls. be safe