WASHINGTON COUNTY, AL — A serious collision involving two semi-trucks early Saturday morning led to the closure of southbound U.S. 45 near the 10-mile marker in Washington County for approximately 5-6 hours.

According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the crash occurred around 6:51 a.m. on May 9 when a tractor-trailer owned and operated by Bluestar Services LLC of Hanover Park, Illinois, rear-ended another truck that was slowing in traffic. The impact caused both vehicles to leave the roadway, with significant damage to both rigs and cargo spillage.

One driver was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No fatalities were reported.

Bluestar Services LLC (USDOT 1947663), a dry van and freight transportation company based at 5654 Arlington Dr E, Hanover Park, IL 60133, has been involved in multiple incidents in recent years. The company operates a fleet of around 89 trucks.

Recovery and towing operations were extensive due to the heavy equipment and debris. Sources close to the investigation indicated that towing and recovery costs alone exceeded $900,000. Cleanup crews from multiple counties worked alongside state officials to reopen the highway.

The total estimated claim against Bluestar Services LLC related to this incident and associated damages is reported to be in the range of $15 million, including vehicle damage, cargo loss, medical costs, and business interruption claims from affected parties.

ALEA Troopers remained on scene for several hours investigating the cause. Preliminary reports suggest possible driver fatigue or following too closely as contributing factors. The southbound lane was fully blocked until approximately 1:00 p.m., causing major traffic backups in the area.

This is the latest in a series of high-profile trucking incidents in Alabama this year. Officials remind all commercial drivers to maintain safe following distances, especially on rural highways.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigation.