Sun Glare Leads to Semi-Truck Crash, Hours-Long Closure on I-8 Near Maricopa

By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent

iSkyNews.com (ISC News) – Published December 21st, 2025

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Sun Glare Leads to Semi-Truck Crash, Hours-Long Closure on I-8 Near Maricopa

MARICOPA, AZ — A moment of sun glare during the evening commute led to a major traffic disruption on Interstate 8 this week, after a semi-truck jackknifed and blocked all eastbound lanes for several hours.

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS), the crash happened just after 5:00 p.m. on December 17, 2025, on I-8 just outside of Maricopa. Investigators say the driver of a commercial motor vehicle reported being blinded by intense sun glare. As he reached up to adjust the sun visor, the truck veered left into the dirt median.

The semi continued through the median and into eastbound lanes, where it ultimately jackknifed and came to rest across the roadway, completely blocking eastbound traffic. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Photo courtesy of AZDPS

The collision required an extensive cleanup and investigation, taking approximately four and a half hours to fully clear the roadway and reopen traffic. The driver was cited for speed not reasonable and prudent under the conditions, AZDPS said.

Troopers are using the incident as a reminder to drivers about the dangers of distraction—especially during times of heavy sun glare.

“Keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times,” AZDPS emphasized. Drivers are urged to adjust sun visors, mirrors, and other vehicle controls before driving or only when safely pulled over.

Authorities stress that even brief distractions can have serious consequences. “It only takes a second for a situation to change,” AZDPS noted.

Motorists traveling through the area were encouraged to remain patient during the closure and to always practice courteous vigilance behind the wheel.

#AZDPS #AZTroopers #CourteousVigilance #DriveSafeAZ #DistractionFreeDriving

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